Dear Editor:
I am writing to voice my opposition to some changes to the state’s uniform construction code currently being considered by our State legislators, in particular to the change that would allow “wood-frame residential structures of up to three stories including town houses and condos, to be built without sprinkler systems or fire-resistant floors and walls.”
There is no better opportunity to protect the lives and property of our residents from code inadequacy than at the point of construction. I believe lives of both residents and firefighters can be saved with sprinkler systems and fire-resistant floors and walls. Statistics show that most fire-related deaths happen in smaller dwellings with no required sprinklers or fire-resistant building material.
I ask our state legislators that this change especially be deleted from the proposed revisions of the state’s uniform construction code and that all revisions be reconsidered with an eye toward public safety and not toward saving contractors and builders a few dollars. Those few dollars can’t bring back what is lost in a fire, whether it be a home or a life.
Sincerely,
Brian P. Stack
Mayor of Union City