Prevention
Lakeland Fire Department Prevention Division: Protecting Lives and Property
Preventing fires is just as crucial as extinguishing them. At the Lakeland Fire Department, this philosophy is embodied by the Prevention Division, under the leadership of Fire Marshal David Sutherland.
Ensuring Fire and Life Safety
The Prevention Division works closely with local businesses, architects, and contractors to uphold fire and life safety standards across the Lakeland community.
This includes comprehensive oversight through commercial plans review, inspections, and fire investigations.
Plans Review and Inspections
The division reviews plans for new commercial construction, modifications to existing structures, and new or altered fire protection systems. These reviews ensure compliance with fire codes to safeguard occupants and guarantee adequate access and water supply for firefighting personnel.
Once plans are approved, construction can proceed, with Prevention Division personnel conducting inspections throughout the process. These inspections verify adherence to approved plans, proper installation of fire protection systems, and successful completion of required functionality tests. Inspections also ensure that no unauthorized changes occur during construction and that safety conditions are maintained throughout the project.
Ongoing Fire Safety Compliance
After construction is complete, regular inspections help business owners identify potential fire hazards and maintain compliance with fire and life safety codes. The division is also responsible for permitting and inspecting items such as:
- Tank installations and removals
- Food trucks
- Sparkler sales
- Fireworks displays and pyrotechnics
Additionally, the division follows up on false alarms and complaints and serves on the City of Lakeland’s Development Review Team. Their primary role is to enforce the Florida Fire Prevention Code, ensuring the safety of citizens, business owners, visitors, and emergency responders.
Fire Investigations and Cause Determination
The Prevention Division investigates all fires and fire-related incidents within the department’s response area that involve:
- Suspicious or undetermined origins
- Serious injuries or fatalities
- Significant property loss
Investigations involve a thorough examination and documentation of the fire scene to determine the origin and cause. If arson is suspected, the division collaborates with the Florida Department of Financial Services, Division of Investigative and Forensic Services, Bureau of Fire and Arson Investigations to conduct the criminal investigation. Understanding the cause of fires strengthens prevention efforts and supports the prosecution of unlawful activity.
Dedicated and Skilled Team
The Prevention Division’s team consists of:
- One Fire Marshal
- Seven Fire Inspector/Plans Examiners (all certified Fire Investigators)
- One Office Support Specialist II
Fire Inspectors/Plans Examiners rotate on-call duty to ensure a continuous response to fire-related incidents.
Commitment to Community Safety
The Lakeland Fire Department remains dedicated to reducing the risk of injuries, fatalities, and property damage by partnering with the community, business owners, contractors, and stakeholders. Through education, enforcement, engineering, economic incentives, and emergency response, the Prevention Division works tirelessly to protect the people and property of Lakeland.