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Within the last month, the Yonkers Fire Department said it has received reports that city businesses have been targets of unauthorized fire extinguisher inspection visits.
Acting as representatives of portable fire extinguisher servicing companies, these scam artists have pressured owners to recharge or replace fire extinguishers that are not required by code to be recharged or replaced, officials said.
Merchants are also being pressured to buy more portable fire extinguishers for their stores than the fire code requires. These extinguishers are then sold at highly inflated prices, officials said.
Fire Commissioner Robert Sweeney said the department does not send private companies to conduct its investigations.
If business owners suspect a scam, they should contact the Yonkers Consumer Protection Bureau at 914-377-3000.
Business owners are also encouraged to review fire codes at this website.
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