FIRE PREVENTION

The goal of fire prevention is to reduce and prevent loss of life and property resulting from fire.    We strive to accomplish this goal by providing the community with safety measures and services that ensure the public has a safe environment in which to work, shop, live and visit.   Each of our inspectors is assigned a specific area within the Pinellas Park Fire District.  They perform a variety of duties, but primarily focus on the following:

Commercial Inspections: Fire inspections are conducted in a time frame that ensures a reasonable level of fire safety and property protection from the hazards created by fire and explosion. Items fire inspectors look for but not limited to are: exit access, house keeping, proper fire extinguishers, misuse of electrical cords, storage of hazardous materials (e.g. gasoline, oil, pool supplies, etc.), emergency lighting, exit signs, building access, etc.

Construction Plans Review: Plan reviews are done on existing and new occupancies and conditions.  The review covers construction plans, drawings, and specifications for life safety systems, fire protection systems, access, water supply, processes, hazardous materials and other fire and life safety issues. Site & Building Requirements

Fire Investigation: Fire Inspectors are trained in the investigation of fires and explosions.  Their investigations follow the scientific method in determining the origin and cause of these fires and explosions.  Our investigators work closely with Law Enforcement agencies within our fire district in the investigation of possible arson involvement and possible prosecution of arsonists.

Fire Code Enforcement: Fire and Life Safety enforces the Florida Fire Prevention Code, which includes NFPA 1 Uniform Fire Code (FL edition), NFPA 101 Life Safety Code (FL Edition), and over 110 referenced codes and standards.  When violations of these codes are not corrected in a timely manner then a notice to appear is written to the person responsible for the corrections.  Notices for violations within the city limits are before the Special City Master; if within the unincorporated areas of the fire district, then the order to appear is in front of a County Judge.  If the codes violated are a threat to life and property, the order to appear could be with the County Court even if the violation is within the city limits.

FIRE PREVENTION LINKS OF INTEREST Florida Administrative Rules 69A Florida Statute 633 Fire Prevention and Control Florida State Fire Marshal Information on obtaining the Florida Fire Prevention Code National Fire Protection Association