The Woodland Mall is being given till the end of February to fix some fire code violations, or be fined for non-compliance.
“We want to stay ahead of this. Safety is our number one concern,” said Fire Chief Bill Moorman.
The violations were noted during an inspection in November, and the mall management was given 90 days to fix the fire code deficiencies. The fire division personnel has been making regular visits to the mall to ensure that progress is being made on complying with the code.
“This isn’t good for anybody. We got to the point we gave citations,” Moorman said.
“They’re working with us to get it where it should be,” the chief said this afternoon. “I know they are actually working on it right now.”
The mall, at 1234 N. Main St., had three fire code violations:
• The fire detection and alarm system has not been maintained in the mall, including in closed areas of the facility. In addition to inoperable smoke detectors, there are non-functioning pull stations throughout the mall. Moorman pointed out that that alarm system cannot be allowed to lapse just because some portions of the mall are no longer open.
• Fire alarm system is not monitored by an approved supervising station. The mall must have a contract with an alarm company, so if an alarm is activated, the proper emergency responders are contacted.
• Emergency exit lighting throughout the mall is not operating. Several exit signs and the spotlights above them are not working.
Bowling Green Fire Division inspectors visit the mall of a regular basis to make sure the facility complies with the fire code, Moorman said.
