[LASD] – Numerous businesses have reported that they have been targeted by phony fire inspectors.
Yesterday in the Santa Clarita Valley, a man dressed in a blue uniform with the words “Fire and Safety” printed on the clothing, entered businesses and said he was there to inspect the fire sprinkler system on behalf of the landlord, when in fact the landlord of the property never gave permission or solicited any business services. The man then used information he received in conversation with employees at one business, to move to the next business in an effort to get unsuspecting employees to sign a form authorizing the inspection of their businesses. Weeks later, a bill will then come to the business owner for “work done” or “services rendered.” The bill will have been signed by an unsuspecting employee.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office wants area businesses to know that while local fire department officials do conduct such inspections, they do not charge fees. Before allowing any inspector to enter your business, require the individual to present government-issued identification and a business card. Local fire department officials all have badges, and their uniforms will state the department for which they work. In the Santa Clarita Valley it is the Los Angeles County Fire Department.
If you suspect suspicious activity, immediately contact the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station at 661-255-1121 or the Los Angeles County Fire Department’s Public Affairs Section at (323) 881-2411.
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