In accordance with NFPA 1 (Annex F) – Fire Code 2012 Edition, the Pasco Fire Department has established a Hazardous Building Marking System. The Pasco Fire Department SOG Hazardous Building Marking System has been adopted by the PFD and the system is currently in use. The guideline defines and establishes a marking system for buildings and dwellings that are scheduled for demolition and/or condemned by the City of Pasco building department.

Buildings that are scheduled for demolition and/or condemned by the City of Pasco building department shall be identified and marked to indicate the degree of hazard involved. When marking such buildings, the following symbols shall apply: VACANT The building was normally stable at the time of marking VACANT – INTERIOR HAZARDS MAY EXIST Interior operations may be conducted only after examination and with extreme caution VACANT – EXTERIOR OPERATIONS ONLY Enter only for life safety hazards & Interior operations are to be kept to a minimum.

The Marking System Signs are 18” X 18” with reflective white background. Markings (squares & slashes) are 2” reflective yellow. The primary markings shall be made on the address side of the building near the entrance. If deemed advantageous, additional markings shall be made at other places (each side of the building, fire escapes, etc.) The markings should be considered as tentative indicators, as the condition of vacant buildings may be altered dramatically due to vandalism, previous fires, and natural effects such as weather damage, age, etc.

Indications of Occupancy of an apparent vacant building A vacant building should not be considered unoccupied. Vacant buildings may be used as shelter for homeless individuals, etc. Work crews may be inside of the building. Indications of occupancy may include, but are not limited to: Lights in windows Curtains, window shades, plants, etc. Electric extension cords/wires strung into the building from utility poles or adjoining buildings Signs of forced entry Tools, vehicles, bedding, etc.

Buildings that are currently marked are located on the north side of Lewis St. between Tacoma and 2 nd Ave. Both dispatch centers have been advised to include a Hazardous Building notation into the comment section of the MDT’s.

Conclusion: In accordance with PFD SOG Hazardous Building Marking System, section I – Building Marking, Subsection c, which states “When absolutely necessary (such as confirmed life safety problem) to enter the building, adhere to the following: Approval for entry by the Incident commander is required A building safety survey must be conducted before entering the building Interior operations are to be kept to a minimum REMEMBER – YOUR COMPANY MAY BE THE FIRST TO ARRIVE AT THIS FIRE!!!!