FIA calls for rethink on incoming fire service charging powers
New regulations which will allow UK fire services to charge firms for attending persistent false alarm call outs should be reconsidered, according to the Fire Industry Association (FIA).
The Department of Communities & Local Government has published its latest Fire and Rescue Service Bulletin which includes updates on the Localism Bill, which was given Royal Assent in November.
The bill will give fire authorities the power to charge a commercial property owner if they consistently attend false fire alarms which have been set off by malfunctioning or "misinstalled" warning equipment.
However, fire authorities will still not be able to charge for a number of core functions such as providing emergency medical assistance.
Graham Ellicott, chief executive of the Fire Industry Association ( FIA ), claimed that the new regulations could endanger people's lives.
He said: "The FIA feels very strongly against this as it could well lead to fire alarm systems being switched off in order to avoid being fined, putting lives at risk. It is also not clear who will be responsible for the costs - the Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) or the owner of the building?
"The FIA feels this has not been clearly thought through as, if it is the ARC that has to foot the bill they will start to leave the industry and operate purely in the security industry, which is larger and better regulated."