Our department conducts comprehensive fire safety inspections to protect our community and ensure compliance with the Ohio Fire Code. We review all construction and remodeling projects for commercial buildings and perform regular fire safety inspections of local businesses.
Our Inspection Process
- Annual inspections: Each building receives at least one comprehensive fire safety inspection per year
- Code compliance focus: Primary emphasis on Fire Code compliance and safety standards
- Collaborative approach: Our fire inspectors work closely with property owners to address any violations
- Professional guidance: We provide expert assistance to help correct issues efficiently and effectively
Knox Box Rapid Entry System
Commercial/Business Knox Box System
The Howland Fire Department utilizes the Knox Box system to ensure rapid emergency access to buildings when property owners are unavailable.
How It Works:
- Each Knox Box is secured with a master key system controlled exclusively by our fire department
- Eliminates delays waiting for property owners during emergency responses
- Prevents property damage from forced entry
- Reduces liability concerns related to lost or duplicated keys
- Maintains strict key control through our secure retention system
Benefits:
- Faster emergency response times
- Reduced property damage during emergencies
- Enhanced security and accountability
Residential Knox Box Program
We offer a residential Knox Box program available to any township resident for their home. This Knox Box can be secured to your home or hung over any entry door. The residential system provides the same functionality and benefits as our commercial system. Residents are responsible for the cost of the residential Knox Box.
Questions about our residential Knox Box program? Please contact us—we’re here to help answer any questions you may have.
Private Fire Hydrant Maintenance
Property owners with private fire hydrants are required to maintain these critical fire suppression systems in proper working condition.
Requirements:
- Annual testing and maintenance as mandated by Ohio Fire Code Section 507.5.3 and NFPA 25, Chapter 4
- Compliance ensures that hydrants function properly during fire emergencies
- For detailed specifications and standards, visit NFPA.org
Important Notice: The Howland Fire Department must be contacted at 330-856-5022 prior to any work that could affect fire suppression capabilities during required testing and maintenance.
Documentation: Following inspection, the Howland Fire Department must receive a complete test and maintenance report for each private fire hydrant. A private hydrant flow test report form is available on our forms page.
Home Inspections for Foster Families & Daycares
We provide comprehensive fire safety inspections for residents with foster children and licensed daycares. Our thorough inspections evaluate critical fire prevention and safety elements, including:
- Fire escape plans and evacuation procedures
- Regular fire drill practices and documentation
- Fire extinguisher availability, placement, and maintenance
- Additional safety measures specific to your home environment
Schedule an Inspection: Please contact us directly to arrange your foster home or daycare inspection.
Mobile Food Units
All mobile food units operating in Howland Township are required to be inspected and permitted for the calendar year. This safety inspection ensures that mobile food units comply with the Ohio Fire Code and are safe for operation.
Mobile food unit regulations for Ohio can be found on our forms page.
Environmental Research Request
Our department provides documentation assistance for businesses seeking historical records of properties they are looking to develop. This research service requires a fee and submission of an environmental research request form, which can be accessed on our forms page.
Fire Watch Services
A fire watch is a temporary safety measure implemented when deemed necessary by the fire inspector or fire chief. Fire watch may be required when:
- An automatic fire protection system is impaired or out of service
- Overcrowding is expected
- The nature of activities warrants additional safety measures
- Additional safety measures specific to your home environment
Schedule an Inspection: Please contact us directly to arrange your foster home or daycare inspection.
For more information about any of our inspection services, please contact the Howland Fire Department at 330-856-5022.