Thursday, May 18, 2017

New Tool Could Ease Firefighter Risks, Delays at Homes With Solar Panels

(Click on the image for Jodie Fleischer's News4 report)
"Most families that add solar power to their home do it to save on their electric bill or to help the environment, but the News4 I-Team found that technology could cost valuable time in an emergency.
"It changes everything about our strategies and tactics," said Prince George's County Fire Battalion Chief Donny Fletcher.
Firefighters across the D.C. region say they're facing increased danger as more and more homeowners install solar panels.
Risks include electrocution if the home can't be de-energized or a roof collapsing quicker under the weight of the heavy solar panels."