KENNEWICK, Wash. – The Kennewick Fire Department is considering a new fine system to address the frequent false fire alarms that strain their resources. In 2024, crews responded to 237 commercial fire alarms attributed to improper maintenance or system malfunctions.
Currently, only one truck responds to these alarms unless a fire is confirmed. However, KFD believes this measure is insufficient. They propose a change in city municipal code that would allow the department to fine businesses where fire alarms consistently go off without a fire.
Under the proposed rule, if a faulty fire alarm occurs four times within six months, KFD could issue a $500 fine. The fine would increase by $500 for each subsequent false alarm.
“Our goal is not to try to fine people,” Kennewick Fire Chief Chad Michael said. “So we’re not looking at this as the main generator. It’s really just to make sure that these systems are used, are operating properly.”
KFD stated that nine businesses would have qualified for at least one fine in 2024. The Kennewick Police Department already has a similar program for commercial security systems. After the first accidental alarm, businesses can be fined $50, with each fine increasing by $15.
Council Member Brad Beauchamp supports the fire department’s proposal, stating, “Businesses it sounds like that in violation of $500 penalties. They come there. You’re making your point. I think if we’re giving any penalties in this program, we fail. And I think our fire department is doing that. I think it gives them a little bit more teeth, but there’s probably hope that we never want to do it.”
Councilmembers will vote on the proposal at next week’s meeting on Tuesday. If approved, the change in the municipal code would take effect immediately.
KENNEWICK, Wash. – The Kennewick Fire Department is considering a new fine system to address the frequent false fire alarms that strain their resources. In 2024, crews responded to 237 commercial fire alarms attributed to improper maintenance or system malfunctions. Currently, only one truck responds to these alarms unless a fire is confirmed. However, KFD believes this measure is insufficient. They propose a change in city municipal code that would allow the department to fine businesses where fire alarms consistently go off without a fire. Under the proposed rule, if a faulty fire alarm occurs four times within six months, KFD could issue a $500 fine. The fine would increase by $500 for each subsequent false alarm. “Our goal is not to try to fine people,” a representative said. “So we’re not looking at this as the main generator. It’s really just to make sure that these systems are used, are operating properly.” KFD stated that nine businesses would have qualified for at least one fine in 2024. The Kennewick Police Department already has a similar program for commercial security systems. After the first accidental alarm, businesses can be fined $50, with each fine increasing by $15. Council Member Brad Beauchamp supports the fire department’s proposal, stating, “Businesses it sounds like that in violation of $500 penalties. They come there. You’re making your point. I think if we’re giving any penalties in this program, we fail. And I think our fire department is doing that. I think it gives them a little bit more teeth, but there’s probably hope that we never want to do it.” Councilmembers will vote on the proposal at next week’s meeting on Tuesday. If approved, the change in the municipal code would take effect immediately.
