Public Safety Committee Marks the Close of “Fire Prevention Week” with Favorable Report

Senator James E. Timilty (D-Walpole) and Representative Harold P. Naughton, Jr. (D-Clinton), Chairmen of the General Court’s Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security have honored the work of the National Fire Protection Association (www.nfpa.org) to mark “Fire Prevention Week” with the favorable report of a number of bills that will directly affect Fire Services personnel and fire awareness in the Commonwealth.

H03165

An Act establishing an emergency equipment grant program for firefighters

Bruce  J. Ayers

H03167

An Act relative to automatic sprinklers           

John P Fresolo

S01240 

An Act relative to an increase of fines and penalties for violations of laws relating to fire explosions and fire prevention

James Timilty

S01866 

An Act creating the police fire safety equipment fund

Michael Knapik

Ranging from grant programs for fire safety equipment, closing loopholes that allow dormitories and fraternity houses to go without sprinklers, and updating the fines and penalties associated with those who commit fire-related crimes, these bills will have a lasting effect on fire prevention and awareness for the citizens of the Commonwealth.

“The men and women of our fire departments, whether professional or call/volunteer, deserve the same dedicated effort from us in the Public Safety Committee that they give to our cities and towns every day” said Senator Timilty. “I am glad to be partnering with my colleague Chairman Naughton to put forward these pieces of legislation for Fire Prevention Week, and look forward to our continued work on behalf of those who answer the call.”

“I am pleased that our committee was able to contribute to Fire Prevention Week. The courageous firefighters in the Commonwealth work tirelessly to ensure our safety every day, and it is important that we do our part as well,” said Naughton. “Hopefully our swift action on these fire prevention bills will help our firefights to continue to make great strides in keeping our residents safe.  I look forward to working with Chairman Timilty and the other members to continue to support those who protect us.” 

"Fire prevention is a vital component of public safety," said Sen. Michael Moore (D- Milbury), who serves as Senate Vice Chair of the Committee on Public Safety. “One of our best defenses against the devastation caused by fires is to continue to educate the public on fire prevention awareness."

“It's great to have the opportunity to honor our firefighters and to provide them with additional tools to assist them in their efforts to provide public safety,” said Representative Michael Brady, Vice-Chairman of the Committee on Public Safety.  “Especially during the special occasion of fire safety week..”

The bills will now be referred to their respective House and Senate Clerks for further action.

For more information on Fire Prevention Week please visit www.firepreventionweek.org