August 12, 2008 -- Vermont Governor James Douglas credited Vermont fire fighters for their work helping to pass a law in that state mandating the use of photoelectric smoke detectors in homes.

“Our professional fire fighters in Vermont have been steadfast allies to improve our state and make it safer,” the governor said.

Governor Douglas signed the first-in-the-nation law mandating installation of photoelectric smoke detectors on May 29, 2008. A campaign to pass legislation in Vermont began after a fire killed a mother and her four children in Barre, Vermont, in 2005. Investigators with IAFF Barre Local 881 found an ionization detector was to blame.

Following Vermont’s lead, delegates on Monday passed a resolution that said federal and provincial officials should require that all relevant building standards and codes developed in the United States and Canada include a mandate for photoelectric smoke detectors.

“I’m delighted that at your convention you passed a resolution promoting the use of photoelectric smoke detectors,” Governor Douglas said.

“America is very fortunate to have so many dedicated men and women who are ready to take action and put service above self,” he said. “You represent more than just the political interests of fire fighters. You represent the interests of working families,” the governor said.