09-09-1996 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON SEPTEMBER 9, 1996 ( #16) CARBON MONOXIDE ALARM RESPONSE • Moorse reported that there has been an increase in the number of calls regarding carbon monoxide alarms to the Hennepin County dispatcher. The majority of the calls have been false but the ensuing discussions have resulted in the need for cities to determine what response they request when such calls are received. At the present time, the fire department and police respond to such calls. Another suggestion is a response by a patrol officer who will determine if further action is required. This response would be considered a Level III. If there were any medical problems, the fire department would be called and an ambulance possibly dispatched. Kelley questioned the issue of liability. He asked once the police respond, the people are out of their house, what will happen. Moorse said a furnace company is generally called. Kelley clarified that the home is kept vacant until such time as a qualified technician inspects the home. He asked if there were brochures available giving out the information. Moorse said there were not but the newsletter could be a source for such information. Goetten suggested checking with Minnegasco to see if such a brochure was available through them. Callahan asked what happens once agreement is made for a Level III response. Moorse said the direction would be given to the Hennepin County Sheriffs Department, who would show this information as the response level for the City of Orono when dispatching such calls. Callahan voiced concern over a rivalry between the police and fire • departments in regards to differing levels of response. Mound and Wayzata were said to agree to Level III responding. Long Lake has approved a Level I response. Kelley asked if there would be ensuing problems due to these differing opinions. Moorse said the decisions on response would be made at the dispatch level from the city approvals made. Kelley asked if the patrol officers carry detection equipment for carbon monoxide. Moorse said they do not. The fire department does, however. It was said the cost for such equipment is about $300. Jabbour said it would be a good idea for all squads to carry such equipment. Kelley asked Staff to check on the number of calls received. Callahan moved, Jabbour seconded, approve the selection of the Level III response for carbon monoxide alarms in the City of Orono. Staff is also directed to review the demand and benefit of squads having detection devices. Vote: Ayes 4, Nays 0. Jabbour asked Moorse to inform him of the amount of money in the Police Forfeiture Fund. • 14