Repeated false fire alarms will be fined $150
The Pocatello Fire Department will start issuing fines starting Oct. 1 to any businesses or households with repeated false fire alarms. This comes after having a faulty fire alarm or smoke detector. Also any alarms constantly going off due to excessive cooking or construction dust.
The fire department says it’s planning to give the fine of $150 after the 3rd time. And after the fifth offense, the fine will double to $300.
However, the fines can only take place if the several false alarms occurred within a six month period.
Fire Chief David Gates says the department is not looking to make money off of this. But this is the only way to prevent fire rescue resources from being wasted on a false alarm.
Statistics say, it costs $200 per hour for fire rescue services to be out on scene. That was in 2014 when the fire department received 337 false alarm calls.
“We understand that life happens and that’s why you’re really given up to 3 in a 6 month period of time. And we’re going to send you a letter on the third one and say hey you’re right there, the next one is going to cost. And you know, hopefully in encourages people to take action so it doesn’t occur,” said Gates.
