Delaware Code
Subchapter V. False Fire Alarms
§ 6638. Definitions.

As used in this subchapter:

(a) “Alarm Activation Report” means a designated form issued by the State Fire Marshal for use by the Fire Chief indicating the alarm signal was found to be the result of a false alarm.
(b) “Alarm signal” means the activation of a fire alarm signaling system or a fire suppression system that requests a response by a fire department.
(c) “Audible alarm” means any device, bell, horn, or siren which is attached to the interior or exterior of a building, emits a warning signal outside the building and is designed to attract attention when activated by a fire.
(d) “Dispatch center” means a location specifically configured for the primary purpose of providing emergency communications services, public safety answering point services, and dispatch of fire apparatus to emergency situations.
(e) “False alarm” means the activation of a fire alarm signaling system or any audible alarm which results in a response by the fire department and which is not the result of a fire or other emergency.
(1) “False alarm” includes:

a. Negligently or accidentally activated alarm signals; and
b. Alarm signals that are the result of faulty, malfunctioning, or improperly installed or maintained equipment.
(2) “False alarm” does not include:

a. Alarm signals activated by severe weather conditions;
b. Alarm signals activated during the initial 30-day period following new installation; or
c. Alarm signals knowingly activated pursuant to § 1245(1) of Title 11, falsely reporting an incident.
(f) “Fire alarm contractor” means a person or company licensed by the State Fire Marshal's Office and engaged in installing, maintaining, monitoring, altering, or servicing fire alarm signaling or fire suppression systems.
(g) “Fire alarm signaling monitoring company” means a station or building located remote from the protected premises where fire alarm signals from one or more protected premises are received and from where, upon receipt of such signal, a dispatch center is notified.
(h) “Fire alarm signaling system” means an automatic or manual fire alarm or fire suppression system in accordance with the State Fire Prevention Regulations. For the purpose of this legislation, “fire alarm signaling system” does not include typical household single-station smoke detectors in 1- and 2-family dwellings.
(i) “Fire chief” means the fire chief or officer in charge of the responding fire department.
(j) “Monitored system” means the process by which a fire alarm signaling monitoring company receives signals from a fire alarm system and notifies the dispatch center.
(k) “Owner” means any person who owns the premises where the fire alarm signaling system or fire suppression system is installed or the person or persons who lease, operate, occupy, manage the premises, or are bound by the contract for services provided by the fire alarm signaling monitoring company.
(l) “Premises” means any building or structure where a fire alarm signaling system is installed.

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