Safety Through Proactive Enforcement
The most effective way to fight a fire is to prevent it from starting. The Charlton Fire Department Fire Prevention Division is dedicated to upholding the State Fire Code with a singular mission: to prevent the loss of life and property in our community.
Through rigorous inspections, education, and code enforcement, we work daily to identify potential hazards and ensure that all buildings in Charlton meet the highest standards of safety.
Commercial Safety Inspections
To ensure the safety of employees, customers, and business owners, our division conducts annual fire safety inspections for all commercial businesses within the town. We verify that fire suppression systems are operational, exits are unobstructed, and storage practices comply with the fire code.
In accordance with Massachusetts General Law Chapter 148 and Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code 527 CMR 1.00, commercial permitting and inspections including fire alarm installations and alterations; automatic sprinkler installation plan review; cutting, blasting, and welding; flammable liquids and propane storage; fireworks displays; tank truck inspections; oil, gasoline, and propane tank installation/removal.
The department also conducts yearly inspections of gasoline service stations, industrial, and commercial businesses.
In addition to these services, the fire prevention office coordinates quarterly fire safety inspections of all schools, assisted living facilities, group homes, and nursing homes. The office conducts fire safety inspections of all establishments that serve alcohol.
Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector Inspections
For homeowners, the Fire Prevention Division plays a vital role during the transfer of real estate. We conduct mandatory inspections for home sales to verify compliance before closing, ensuring new owners move into a safe environment.
Residential services include smoke and carbon monoxide detector inspections related to the sale and transfer of properties; installation and removal of oil burners and oil tanks; as well as the installation and removal of above and underground propane tanks.
How to Schedule an Inspection
We operate on a daily scheduling system to maximize efficiency.
Inspection Requirements & Guidelines
All homes are required to have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Specific requirements vary significantly based on when your residence was built or last renovated.
Please identify the year your home was built (or the year of the last major renovation) to determine which code applies to you.
E.A.S. Box
Emergency Access Systems provides both a secure and reliable way for your fire department or personnel to gain access to your building.
To receive an EAS box, follow the steps below: