During a recent government meeting, officials discussed several key amendments aimed at enhancing public safety and regulating fire hazards.

One significant proposal is the continuation of a local amendment prohibiting open burning under hazardous atmospheric conditions. The amendment specifies that all forms of open burning, including recreational fires, will be banned when the fire danger index reaches high, very high, or extreme levels, as well as during red flag warnings. This aligns with existing recreational fire policies, reinforcing the commitment to fire safety in the community.

Additionally, the meeting addressed proposed changes to regulations concerning open flame devices in Group A occupancies. An amendment was suggested to allow the use of sternal warming cans or similar devices for food warming, adding flexibility to existing regulations while maintaining safety standards.

Another critical topic was the introduction of a new section dedicated to the storage of lithium-ion and lithium-metal batteries. This regulation comes in response to a notable increase in fires linked to these batteries, particularly those that are improperly constructed or damaged. Officials highlighted that larger cities have reported significant incidents related to battery fires, underscoring the need for stringent storage guidelines to mitigate risks.

These discussions reflect a proactive approach to fire safety and public health, aiming to address emerging challenges while ensuring community well-being.