2024 ANNUAL REPORT - Final

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ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES

Office of the Fire Marshal (continued)

The Common fire and life safety hazards identified during inspections include:

• Malfunctioning fire suppression and detection systems: This includes issues with sprinklers, smoke alarms, and fire alarms. • Inadequate fire safety equipment maintenance: Such as obstructed sprinkler heads, blocked fire department connections, and non-functioning emergency lighting. • Exit obstructions: Including blocked exits, overcrowded conditions, and excessive storage. • Electrical hazards: Such as improper use of extension cords and electrical deficiencies. • Fire hazards: Such as improper use of propane patio heaters indoors and open burning near structures. In addition to regular inspections, Fire Marshals investigate complaints regarding unsafe buildings and excessive vegetation, they work closely with property owners to ensure safety and code compliance. The Office of the Fire Marshal also handles after-hours building inspection requests, except for those originating within the City of Frederick. The Division of Fire and Rescue Services embarked on a county-wide initiative to modernize its Knox Box system in December 2021. This involved a comprehensive field operation, encompassing over 2,500 locations, to replace traditional hard key cylinders with electronic key fob cylinders. All fire and rescue apparatus within Frederick County are now equipped with the Knox Key Secure system. This system enhances security by retaining the master key and granting access only to authorized users with unique PIN codes. The Key Secure system leverages the Knox Connect platform, enabling device programming, user authorization, and the generation of comprehensive audit trail reports that meticulously document all key accesses and box openings.

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