Staff Reports

Photo Courtesy: CVFD
This is an official Chino Valley Fire District Uniform

Chino Valley – The Chino Valley Fire District wants to alert business owners of unsolicited companies claiming to be sent to their businesses by the Fire Marshal, Fire District or a Fire Inspector.  These unsolicited companies claim that they are being sent on behalf of the local fire agency to perform an inspection or survey of the business.  The unsolicited companies target fire protection equipment, systems and other areas related to fire safety.

Fire inspections in Chino and Chino Hills are conducted by Fire District personnel.  All Chino Valley Fire District personnel who perform fire and life safety inspections wear an approved uniform. The uniform has a badge clearly displayed above the left front pocket and a Fire District patch on the left upper sleeve of their uniform shirt.  Businesses are encouraged to request a business card from anyone who claims to be at their business to conduct an inspection or to call the Fire District at (909) 902-5260 to verify an inspection by Fire District personnel.

Below are some precautionary measures that businesses can take:

• Business owners should ask for proof of a proper license before anyone services their fire extinguishers, sprinkler system or alarm system.  Refuse fire protection services if proper identification is not provided. Have fire protection companies leave any parts that have been replaced.
• Ask for identification of anyone requesting to perform any type of inspection.  CVFD personnel carry a Fire District ID card and business cards.
  • Always obtain an estimate for services or work that needs to be performed.
  • Do not pay upfront for any services rendered and do not pay with cash. Never sign a blank invoice.
• Fire extinguishers should be inspected and serviced annually by a licensed technician. Be sure to record the date of the previous service, the quantity and size of your extinguishers, and the purchase dates.
• Record the dates of the fire sprinkler, fire alarm, and special fire protection system installations and services.
• Be cautious of service companies that show up “UNSOLICITED”.
• Educate employees on business owner rights and fraudulent practices. Post this information where your employees have access to it (e.g. at the front desk or employee break room).

If you are in doubt or have any questions, contact the Chino Valley Fire District at (909) 902-5260, or visit our website at www.chinovalleyfire.org.