Complaint Investigation Report

Allegation: Facility fire alarm system is in disrepair

It was alleged that repeated false alarm activations occurred throughout the facility directing residents to exit the building by using stairwells including up to five (5) flights despite the reporting party stating this was not the correct emergency procedure and placed residents at risk.

On 06/09/2026, between the hours of 11:50am -12:00pm, the Department interviewed A1 in regards to the allegation. A1 denied the allegation and stated the last documented fire alarm testing occurred on September 9, 2025. A1 explained the system entered a scheduled test beginning at 10:20am, the fire panel was placed “On Test” at 11:01am - 7:00pm, and maintenance checked smoke detectors and electrical loops during that time. A1 stated the alarms recorded that day were part of scheduled testing, not emergencies, and the facility’s automated system announces alarm events over the intercom with lights and sound.

On 06/09/2026, between the hours of 9:15am - 9:22am, the Department interviewed 8 staff in regards to the allegation. 4 out of 8 staff confirmed the allegation and stated they were aware of false alarms occurring at the facility or had personally responded to false alarm activations. 2 out of 8 staff denied the allegation stated they had not experienced repeated false alarms or had not personally responded to an alarm activation. 2 out of 8 staff did not confirm nor deny the allegation and stated they had heard residents mention false alarms but had not personally responded to an alarm activation.

On 06/09/2026, between the hours of 10:15am - 11:18am, the Department interviewed 9 residents in regards to the allegation. 8 out of 9 residents confirmed the allegation and stated the alarm activates frequently, is loud, occurs during both day and night, and staff do not consistently notify residents when the alarm event has ended. 1 out of 9 residents was aware of the allegation and stated knowing of the alarm activations but did not provide details regarding frequency or staff response.