Warren County Commissioner James Kern calls on local leaders to protect firefighters
Warehouse development poses serious challenges to first responder community
WARREN COUNTY, NJ – Warren County Commissioner James Kern III issued the following statement in response to a training on large enclosed structures by the Warren County Public Safety Department.
On May 18, Warren County fire coordinators provided an in-depth presentation to local fire chiefs on the challenges posed by warehouse development. Topics ranged from sprinkler systems, water supply, manpower, and access points.
“For the past two years, Warren County has been highlighting the challenges created by warehouse development,” Kern said. “While we know zoning and planning is a local issue, the ripple effects of this development are impacting the entire region. These structures pose a serious threat to the safety of our first responders and it’s paramount that municipal leaders hear their concerns and input.”
The Department of Public Safety has complied a list of suggestions for improving ordinances so local planning boards can make sure future development is as safe as possible. This list will be sent to each of the County’s 22 municipalities.
“Our firefighters put their lives at risk each day and we should be doing everything we can to make sure they aren’t put in any further danger by lack of planning. We need to make sure they have appropriate apparatus, adequate water supply, and radios that can communicate between these massive walls. While approval of these warehouses is a local decision, the County will do everything within its power to make sure the emergency services community is fully protected in doing their jobs,” Kern said.
