DIVISION 4. - EXCESSIVE AVOIDABLE FALSE FIRE ALARMS AND MALFUNCTIONS

Sec. 26-34. - Definitions.#

The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this chapter, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:

Avoidable false alarm means the activation of any alarm which results in the response of the fire department and is caused by the negligence or intentional misuse (including such activation caused by heat, smoke or fire) of the system by the owner or his/her/its employees, servants, agents or guests or any other activation including activation caused by heat, smoke or fire.

Avoidable fire alarm malfunction means the activation of any alarm which results in the response of the fire department and such activation is caused by mechanical failure, malfunction, improper installation or lack of proper maintenance; and for any other response for which the fire department personnel are unable to gain access to the premises for any reason, or are unable to determine, after reasonable inquiry, the apparent cause of the alarm activation.

The owner of any premises shall be responsible for any avoidable false alarms and avoidable false alarm malfunctions occurring at those premises. Incidents shall be cumulative for all realty held in that name, and fines for avoidable false alarms and avoidable false alarm malfunctions will be assessed to the owner of the premises according to the Narragansett Fire Department fee schedule.

After three avoidable false alarms or avoidable false alarm malfunctions in one twelve-month period, the owner of the premises will be notified via certified mail that subsequent avoidable false alarms will cause the owner to be assessed fines according to the fine schedule referenced in this section.

(Ch. 1080, § 2, 10-19-2020)