The House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee unanimously passed legislation authored by Reps. Frank Farry (R-Bucks) and Todd Polinchock (R-Chalfont) that would lower the number of injuries and casualties related to smoke and fire by implementing a smoke detector stipulation.
“Smoke and fire incidents are easily preventable with the right devices, but we see far too often these devices fail and the aftermath is extremely devastating,” Polinchock said. “This legislation reinforces safety devices by requiring an alarm on such devices that sounds when there is an issue with the battery or maintenance of a smoke detector.”
House Bill 860 would require all rental properties in Pennsylvania install 10-year, tamper-resistant smoke alarms when a new occupant takes residence, when a smoke alarm is being replaced or a new alarm is being installed. This would also require that only 10-year, tamper-resistant smoke alarms be sold in Pennsylvania, starting two years after the effective date of the act.
“This situation is not unfamiliar, serving as a volunteer firefighter for over 30 years. We have all heard of fires that could have been prevented or stopped early if there had been a properly working smoke alarm involved,” Farry said. “Our legislation to require 10-year, tamper-resistant smoke alarms, is an easy, effective solution to a potentially dangerous and deadly incident.
“You don’t have to see these incidents firsthand to know how serious the damage is. Thank you to those who understand this and pushed this legislation through committee to prevent future occurrences.”
House Bill 860 now heads to the entire House for consideration.
“I encourage my colleagues to continue supporting this legislation as it enhances public safety and prevents fire-related injuries,” Polinchock said.
