Comments on: Fake Fire Inspector Hits Maryland, DC, and Virginia

By: walfredo velasco lacsam

walfredo velasco lacsam — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 14:27:00 +0000

There also have same incident happened in my location, Philippines, to be specific in the south CALABARZON area, what we call them “Fire Extinguisher Inspector” I can’t disclosed the particular establishment because luck of “Material evidence or video clip preserved” but story told were happen and they was trapped & apprehended. but not tried in court it is just for questioning. . . . Get information of 5W’s and 1H – - – -> find out that the persons are either Fire extinguisher agents/supplier, dropped from the roll and disgruntled fireman in their position/assignment as Fire Engine operator, hoseman, nozzleman, lineman or floor watch/telephone operator.

It is true fire extinguisher equipment is an investment considered expendable property of the business owner.

How can we stop this kind of people posing as true inspector just to pick-up and grab fire extinguisher.

Suggested course of action by the owner:
1. Ask for Mission Oder duly signed by the City/Mun. Fire Marshal
2. Check details information, such as: Rank, Name, date/time, duration period, and establishment address.
3. Ask for Valid ID’s, check expiry date, name/serial number or badge number, and
4. Check the signatories, call the Fire Department concerned if that persons is the right persons mentioned in a Mission Order. indicate sequence numerical.
5. Right away if – - – - found “FAKE INSPECTOR” ask what are their purpose, if they get fire extinguisher, its the the time to call a cops and file administrative/criminal complaint.

By: Archie Koenemund

Archie Koenemund — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:02:51 +0000

While teaching new and refresher courses for Fire Inspectors and other agency inspectors, I included in the training “anyone can get a badge”. Inspectors must have a valid ID and badge in their possesion prior to beginning their inspection duties. We had an incident back in 1998 in NYC where an Supervising Fire Inspector attempted to gain access to the Supreme Court building. He had his badge and inspection forms but, not his FDNY ID and the court officers detained him, confiscated his badge and notified our office. That inspector never went without his ID again. Remember, anyone can get a badge, it’s the valid ID that counts!

By: Daniel O

Daniel O — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 02:01:15 +0000

It is these thieves that pose as policemen and fire officials that make it difficult to earn the public’s trust. It is not the fake fire inspector that will be punished alone, if he is caught, but the actual fire inspectors and fire marshals will feel it through strict laws. In some states, like mine, fire inspectors are required by law to wear a uniform. In my case, I always wear a uniform with shoulder patches, badge and other identifying adornments. I always have picture ID and if someone still doubts my authority, I usually offer a trooper from the local state police or sheriff’s department to verify who I am.

Business owners and commercial property operators and agents need to ask for ID and if in doubt, attempt to verify. And remember, always be leary if you do not see this person wearing some form of official attire and always look at the badge closely.