Fire Department Issues Inspection Fraud Alert

Several Newport Beach businesses were recently approached by private companies posing as fire inspectors, city officials reported.

The goal of the private companies is to have employees sign for work that the companies are "not licensed nor qualified to perform," and are billed, according to a news release issued by the Newport Beach Fire Department.

NBFD officials said business owners should know all fire inspections in the city are done by Newport Beach Fire Department personnel who wear badges and carry department identification cards.

If you have reason to doubt that an inspection is not being conducted by a member of the Newport Beach Fire Department, call 949-644-3106 to verify. One can always refuse service, and request a Newport Beach Fire Inspector to visit your business.

Safety Tips
• Never sign a blank invoice
• Mark fire extinguishers and record the date of previous service, the number and size extinguishers, and the purchase dates.
• Record the dates of the fire sprinkler, fire alarm, and special fire protection system installations and service.
• Be cautious of service companies that show up without being contacted.
• Educate employees on business owner rights and fraudulent practices.

If think you may have been visited by a phony company for a fire inspection, call the Newport Beach Fire Department's Life Safety Services Division at 949-644-3106