Fire marshals perform routine inspections of businesses to enforce fire safety codes and ensure public safety, a fact that some scammers have taken advantage of. With tips on how to spot the difference between a real fire marshal and a scammer, here’s reporter Andrew Dieleman…
Scammers who pose as fire marshals will often threaten to fine, or shut down, a business if they do not receive immediate payments to repair fire extinguishers. Don’t fall for the scam. According to County Fire Battalion Chief Scott Tuttle, real fire marshals in the Morongo Basin will be wearing official uniforms, driving official County Fire vehicles, and will have appropriate identification and badges with them. Remember, fire marshals do not make on-site repairs to fire extinguishers or suppression systems and will never ask for money up front. If you believe you have been a victim of this fire marshal scam, contact the Sheriff’s Department at 760-366-4175.
