Captain Andy Marceau
andym@alpena.mi.us
989-354-1859
Captain Marceau is a certified fire inspector, plan reviewer and a licensed fire code official. He coordinates all of our safety education and outreach initiatives including our cooperative programs with the American Red Cross and MI Prevention. Capt. Marceau was appointed by Governor Whitmer to the State Fire Board, which oversees fire prevention activities across Michigan.
Public education - essential to preventing fires from occurring and educating people on what to do if a fire emergency does occur.
The department conducts open houses and frequently speaks to the general public through service clubs and local schools about fire safety.
Certified by the NFPA, NPQS, and the State of Michigan as a fire inspector, plan reviewer and fire code official.
Plan Review - The CRR Officer works closely with the City Building Official during the ongoing construction of new buildings to review fire safety features.
Fire Investigation - After a fire occurs, the process of origin and cause begins. The CRR Officer and fire/police investigation team conducts an investigation as to the area that the fire started and the cause of the fire. Certified by the State of Michigan as a Fire Investigator.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Fire Code has Alpena adopted?
The International Fire Code 2000 Edition which is updated every three years.
Are there different codes?
Yes- each municipality (city, village, twp, etc.) has the authority to adopt any fire code they choose. For example, the City of Lansing uses the Uniform Fire Code and the State uses NFPA-1 while, Alpena uses the International Fire Code.
What exactly are the fire codes?
The fire codes are a supplement to the Cities building codes. Think of the building code as a 'cookbook' and the fire code would be a recipe. They go hand in hand. The fire codes address specific fire safety features in a building; examples would be how many doors and what size or the placement of fire extinguishers or exit lights.
Are the fire codes law?
The fire codes are ordinances adopted by the City. In some jurisdictions they do carry a criminal penalty, however in Alpena; the City has de-criminalized the fire code. It is a Civil Infraction, not a criminal one.
So what is the penalty for a violation?
The CRR Officer has the authority to issue a citation for the Civil Infraction. These can cost up $500.00 per violation if not corrected. However, the emphasis is on educating the public on fire safety so that everyone wins by building a more fire safe community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, under certain conditions. This would be considered a recreational fire and is allowed provided the fire is no larger than 2 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height. The fire must be at least 15 feet from any combustible building. It must be supervised and should only burn clean, dry wood. It must be only for the preparation of food. For ceremonial fires, such as you see at the high school or a festival, special permits may be obtained through this office. These are given under strict guidelines.
Yes. If you wish to have your building inspected for any reason, contact this office. There is no charge for the inspection.
When businesses are inspected, a copy of the inspection form is left with the owner/manager explaining what safety hazards were found. A time period of ten working days is usually given to correct the problem.
Any questions you have regarding fire safety, open burning, public speaking, or any other problem may be directed to the CRR office at 989.354.1859.
Alpena Firefighter-Paramedics are represented by the International Association of Firefighters Local 623.
