KENNEWICK, Wash. – If the Kennewick Fire Department stops by your place of work for an inspection, you don’t need to worry.
The Kennewick Fire Department’s Fire Prevention Division wants to get the word out they could be stopping by to inspect local businesses for fire prevention.
The inspections were halted during COVID-19 when businesses shut down, according to the KFD, but they are back now.
According to KFD’s Sean Granger and Shane Webb, one of its main goals is to conduct proactive commercial business inspections, which ensure the safety of employees and customers.
How often KFD inspects a business is based on what kind of equipment they have and how many people go to the business to either eat or shop.
“Our goal is always to work in partnership with the businesses to ensure their investment is protected against fire incidents,” Granger said. “As well as ensuring members of the community who frequent these businesses are safe.”
According to Granger, they focus on fire prevention, early detection, effective evacuation and a fast response time.
The fire inspectors tell me when they inspect a business they do a thorough inspection. Some things the inspectors look for are:
Operational Emergency LightingFire Extinguishers are mounted properlyAddresses clearly markedFire lanes are clearElectrical Panels have adequate clearanceExits are clearly marked and doors are operationalExits are clear of obstructionsFire impression systems and commercial cooking hoods are inspected every six monthsSprinkler Systems are inspected every yearKeys are kept up today and kept in the emergency key boxZone maps with fire alarm system reset instructions are posted and maintainedProper use of extension cords
“Some of the most common violations are improper use of extension cords,” Webb said. “Inadequate panel clearance for electrical panels. Improper use of space heaters is one we see a lot.”
According to Webb, businesses are allowed two weeks to address any violations found by the KFD before they come back for a follow-up inspection.
KFD wants to partner with businesses. The goal is not to shut down businesses, but to maintain safety for their employees and patrons. You can contact KFD for an inspection by email or phone.
