The Long Beach Fire Department is warning the public to be aware of a scam involving the fraudulent service of fire extinguishers. In recent cases, persons claiming to be fire-extinguisher inspectors have charged businesses for work that was not performed. Some have even claimed to be representatives of the fire department or the City of Long Beach, according to Rich Brandt, fire captatin for the Long Beach Fire Department (LBFD).
Fire extinguishers are required to be inspected annually by a state fire marshal-licensed fire extinguisher company, but the LBFD is encouraging people to make sure that inspectors have proper identification and are from a reputable company. The LBFD, which does not service fire extinguishers, has released the following information to assist the public with the matter:
• Private companies do not have the authority to require a business to have any inspections or work performed.
• Companies can refuse any service offered.
• Don’t pay in cash.
• Do not sign a blank invoice or any type of waiver. Know what you are signing.
• Educate employees of the possibility of fraud.
• Call 911 if fraudulent behavior is suspected.
• The companies must:
1. Tell you the name of the company, and produce a business card
2. Describe the work, and provide an estimate prior to any work performed
3. Leave any parts they have replaced
4. Leave a signed invoice
5. Have a California State Fire Marshall Photo ID and a license issued by the California Contractor’s State License Board
6. Have a City of Long Beach Business License
Source: LBFD
