SPRINKLER REQUIREMENT PROPOSED IN NEW FIRE CODE

Firefighters with the Maui Fire Prevention Bureau assist contractors, engineers and residents with fire code questions. Photo by Wendy OSHER.

About 50 people showed up for an open house hosted last night by the Maui Fire Department’s Fire Prevention Bureau.  Capt. Val Martin discussed proposed changes to the fire code and answered questions posed by contractors, engineers and residents who are considering new home construction.  The new code has not yet been adopted, but if approved, would require new single family homes to have sprinklers.  According to Martin, nearly 4,000 people a year die in home fires.  The department also distributed free smoke alarms to those in attendance.  On another note, the Maui Fire Department will hold a pinning ceremony this afternoon for the department’s newest Assistant Chief.

(Posted by Wendy OSHER © 2009)