VDFP’s State Fire Marshal’s Office Issues Emergency Evacuation Planning and Drills Guidance for Pre K-12 and Colleges and Universities
Guidance includes:
- Emergency evacuation drill requirements
- Lockdown plans
- Planning considerations for safety executing emergency evacuation drill requirements
- Related COVID-19 Q&A
Electronic Review - eReview
The Office of the Fire Marshal is now accepting electronic plan submissions for all plan types. This includes, but is not limited to: All Sprinkler permits, all Fire Alarm permits, all Underground Water Line permits, and all Public Safety and Tent Plans.
Temporary Tent Guidelines for Outdoor Dining and Outdoor Fitness Activities
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors approved emergency rules that will allow restaurants and exercise facilities to reopen outside during the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) emergency. Recognizing that some businesses affected by this ordinance may want to set up temporary tents for the comfort of their guests, the Office of the Marshal has highlighted a few of the fire safety requirements that allow safe use of these tents.
Walk-Through Program Changes
Beginning March 24, 2020, all walk-through plan review submissions must be submitted electronically. Paper submissions will no longer be accepted.
Email Subscriptions
The Office of the Fire Marshal now offers three email subscriptions for fire alarms, sprinklers, and general information.
Archive Plan Viewing Changes
To minimize the potential of COVID-19 transmission, in-person viewing of archived plans is suspended at present. If you meet certain criteria, you may request this information by submitting a FOIA request.
Inspection, Testing and Maintenance (ITM) of Fire Protection Systems
Office of the Fire Marshal Inspectors will no longer be witnessing ITM activities of fire protection systems. These necessary safety items must continue to be maintained in an operational status. Fire inspectors will be confirming the necessary ITM has been done by reviewing contractor’s paperwork to verify system status.