Inspecting garage boxes to prevent fire hazards
On Tuesday, December 9, the municipality of Opsterland carried out a preventive inspection of garage boxes in Opsterland. The aim of the action was to check whether the boxes are being used safely and whether this is in line with the zoning plan. Particular attention was paid to the possible storage of hazardous substances, as this can pose a fire safety risk. In this way, the municipality wants to better guarantee the safety of residents.
Control
During the inspection, 127 garage boxes were checked. No irregularities were found. With these kinds of actions, the municipality aims to prevent dangerous situations, such as fires or explosions. The storage of fireworks or other hazardous substances in particular can pose risks to the owner, local residents, and emergency services.
Importance of the audit
The municipality considers it important to explain why these inspections are necessary. Mayor Andries Bouwman: "It is important to prevent dangerous situations in residential areas and business parks. These inspections give us clear insight into how garage boxes are used. We have seen examples elsewhere in the country where fire hazards have arisen in such boxes. We must prevent this from happening."
Use of tracking dogs
During the inspection, special dogs were deployed that can detect dangerous substances. These dogs can even recognize very small quantities, even if they are well hidden. The use of a sniffer dog allows for faster and more effective inspections, without having to open all garage boxes completely.
Report suspicious situations
Do you suspect that hazardous substances are being stored in a garage? Report this anonymously to Report Crime Anonymously (www.meldmisdaadanoniem.nl) or call 0800–7000.
