Monday, September 27, 1999
Free smoke detectors douse risks
Norwood offer tied to penalty-free home inspections
BY WALT SCHAEFER
The Cincinnati Enquirer
NORWOOD — The fire department will launch an unusual and risk-free program next month to help protect residents against home fire hazards.
Homeowners who invite fire inspectors into their homes will receive free smoke detectors.
Installation will be provided to residents unable to do the job.
Fire department spokes man Larry Bond said that, to his knowledge, only Cincinnati has offered a similar program.
“We have a lot of seniors, some living alone, folks on fixed incomes. We think these inspections will be helpful and could prevent a tragedy,” said Paul McMullen, a commander of the Norwood fire safety bureau.
Some people may fear being cited for fire code violations after inspections of owner-occupied single-family dwellings, but the law will not permit it, Mr. McMullen said. “If we find a problem, there is nothing we can mandate they do. All we can do is advise the people of the problem.”
Mr. McMullen said fliers offering home inspections were left at single-family residences throughout the city this summer. The response was negligible.
“People just didn't bother to call us back. This gives them an incentive,” Mr. McMullen said. “What we are doing is looking at a new and different way to persuade homeowners to allow an inspection for fire hazards.”
However, Mr. McMullen said, inspections will be cursory.
“We'll look at the fuse box, wiring, walk through the house. We won't tear into anything,” he said.
Given the age of many homes — turn of the century and older — Mr. McMullen said a common problem probably will be in wiring or with unknowing residents using fuses more powerful than the wiring will tolerate.
Inspectors also expect to find problems such as improper storage of combustibles.
Mr. Bond said the inspections will begin Oct. 1 and be offered by appointment with homeowners.
Inspectors will be available Monday through Friday through the month from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and from 7 to 9 p.m.
Call 458-4550 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. weekdays to schedule an inspection.
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