Fire Department Public Safety Announcement 6/26

Business owners need to be alert to anyone coming to their offices, stores or restaurants offering to service their fire extinguishers, their hood and duct systems over the cooking areas, or perform service to automatic sprinkler systems. There have been reports that some companies have been using high-pressure sales tactics and other methods to convince the business owner to buy their services.

The Santa Barbara City Fire Department does not endorse, recommend or send any fire extinguishing or fire protection service companies to a local business. It is up to the business owner to seek those services when needed. There are several reputable companies in the area that provide those services. Be sure that the service person has proper identification, licensing, and is from the company that is selected by you. Do not permit a service company to provide service that you did not request or that is not required.

Fire extinguishers are required to have a maintenance inspection conducted annually. Kitchen hood and duct systems are required to be serviced every six months. Fire sprinkler systems are required to be serviced every five years.

Anyone with questions or concerns about a recent service call or who has experienced high pressure sales tactics in connection with fire protection services is urged to contact the Santa Barbara City Fire Department at (805) 965-5254.