Kidde Recalls Dual-Sensor Smoke Alarms

Kidde is recalling almost 500,000 dual-sensor smoke alarms due to a manufacturing malfunction that can compromise the alarm's ability to detect smoke. Specifically, a yellow cap that was left on during manufacturing can cover one of the two smoke sensors, posing a risk of people not being alerted to a fire in their home. These dual-sensor types of alarms are not used in any of the Montgomery County's Department of Fire and Rescue Service's smoke alarm installation programs.

According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission:

"Consumers should remove the alarm from the wall/ceiling and visually inspect it through the opening on the side of the alarm for the presence of a yellow cap. Consumers should not attempt to take apart the alarm, open the casing, or otherwise remove the yellow cap themselves. If a yellow cap is present, the consumer should immediately contact Kidde to receive instructions and request a free replacement smoke alarm. They should remove and discard the recalled smoke alarm only after they receive and install the replacement alarm. If no yellow cap is present, consumers should reinstall the smoke alarm and no further action is needed."

The recalled models: Kidde PI2010 and Kidde PI9010
Dates affected: September 10, 2016 - October 13, 2017

If a yellow cap is present, owners should immediately contact Kidde to receive a free replacement. They should only remove and discard the recalled smoke alarm after they receive and install their replacement. 

Consumer Contact:
You can reach Kidde at 833-551-7739 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or from 9 a.m.to 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. For more information visit the "Product Safety" section of www.kidde.com. 

DPS Enterprise Fund Stabilization Factor

Following four fee reductions in 2012-2015, including elimination of the 10% automation fee, and holding the reduced rates in 2016-2018, it is necessary to increase fees by 3% in FY2019 to cover increases in DPS costs.  Rates were comprehensively revised, with reductions in many instances, based on costs as of July 1, 2013.  While CPI for these costs is 7% in current dollars, DPS is holding the FY19 adjustment to 3%.

A 3% increase in fees will be applied through the Enterprise Fund Stabilization Factor or "EFSF".   The DPS budget operates as an enterprise fund with fees structured to cover expenses and reserve policy.  The EFSF is designed to adjust base rates to cover changes in expenses which may occur due to inflation or other changes in operating costs. 

The proposed Enterprise Stabilization Factor for FY19 is to be 1.03 which, as stated, is an upward adjustment of 3%.

Design for Life Showcase!

On May 5, 2018, Permitting Services will host the 2nd Annual Design for Showcase for residents and businesses to connect and discuss accessibility home improvements.  This is also an opportunity to learn more about the property tax credit to help pay for making homes  accessible.  The Showcase allows residents to see examples of how homes can be made accessible  for all stages of life from young families with strollers, mobility issues and aging.  Breakout sessions about how the tax credit works will also be held throughout the day.

Last year residents discovered ways to make homes accessible for all types of budgets and projects.  This year's exhibit promises to be even bigger.  Admission is free of charge to register:go to eventbrite.   For information on the Design for Life program go to www.designforlifemc.org .