Fire & Life Safety Inspection Program

The Fire and Life Safety Inspection (FLS) program is a major program within the Fire and Life Safety Division with the primary emphasis on keeping Yakima County safe from fire.  Often, business owners and employee’s become accustomed to the their environment and overlook hazards and potential fire risks. As a new set of eyes, inspectors often see conditions not recognized or viewed as a problem.

A key component of the inspection process is education.  Explaining what the potential hazard is and why it is important to make corrections helps create awareness. Many of our inspectors have a fire suppression background and have had the unfortunate experience of responding to fires as a result of Fire Code issues. All occupancy's other than 1 and 2 family dwellings are considered commercial occupancy's and are included in this program.

Fire is Everyone's Fight is the United States Fire Administration focus to create a common awareness that fire prevention involves the efforts of every citizen to reduce fires in the United States.  The Fire Marshal's Office supports that vision and concept.  With everyone doing their part, we can reduce the number of unwanted fires in Yakima County

Blocked Exit in School
Common Code Issues
These inspections address all the requirements of the International Fire Code with respect to public and fire personnel safety. Some of the more common issues found are:
  • Blocked and/or obstructed exits and/or aisles
  • Excessive accumulations of combustible materials
  • Improper storage of combustible and/or flammable liquids
  • Improper use of extension cords/power strips
  • Improperly maintained fire extinguishing systems
  • Lack of fire extinguishing systems or fire extinguishers
  • Non-functioning exit signs and/or emergency lights
  • Overloaded electrical circuits/wiring
  • Poor housekeeping
  • Unsafe practices/storage/processes
The majority of issues found during an inspection are easy to correct. Our goal is to work with you in a manner that creates cooperation and a willing attitude to create and maintain a fire safe environment.

For information on Bin Storage Requirements click here