FDL Fire Chief Backs Recommendation For Circuit Interrupters In New Homes

Fond du Lac Fire Chief Peter O’Leary backs an updating of electrical codes that would require circuit interrupters in new home construction. He says arc and ground fault circuit interrupters are designed to prevent fire and electrocution. He says they both have very legitimate purposes for why they should be used. He says it would cost $240 to install the circuit interrupters in a $200,000 home, which isn’t much given the protection it would afford. Wisconsin Home Builders Association officials say new homes can be build safely under the existing code. The state’s Department of Safety and Professional Services hasn’t acted yet on a recommendation to require the circuit interrupters in new homes.