False Alarm Ordinance Proposed for Exeter, R.I.

Jan. 17, 2005
False calls said to be plaguing volunteer force of small Rhode Island town

A fire alarm ordinance has been proposed for Exeter, R.I., that would include false alarm fees.

According to a report in The (Rhode Island) Standard Times newspaper, the ordinance proposes allowing up to three false alarms in a 12-month period without fine. Fourth and fifth alarms in that 12-month period will be assessed a fine of $100 and sixth and additional false calls will be assessed a fee of $200.

The ordinance was proposed by the town Fire Chief, Scott Kettelle, and recently was moved to a public hearing on Feb. 7. Look for more updates as this story develops, or check with the Exeter Fire Department at (401) 294-6511. The fire department in Exeter is a volunteer-based organization.