10/12/2010 02:36 PM
Business owners in Chicago may be able to install electric security fencing around their premises to protect against intruders if a new law is passed.
According to NBC Chicago, the City Council Finance Committee has prepared legislation that enables firms to use the fencing as a security measure.
Currently, security fencing is only allowed at railroad facilities.
However, the city's fire service has expressed its concern, questioning how it would go about accessing electrified properties in an emergency.
The council responded by saying fire-fighters would be given master keys that would enable them to turn off the power, but fire chiefs are not convinced this measure would properly protect its members.
If the bill is passed, the news provider explained, the electric fences would need to be encircled by a non-electric fence at least eight feet high, with appropriate warning signs in place.
Commenting on the proposal, assistant deputy fire commissioner John McNicholas was quoted by upi.com as saying: "When we are making our move, the last thing we want is to get zapped."
According to NBC Chicago, the City Council Finance Committee has prepared legislation that enables firms to use the fencing as a security measure.
Currently, security fencing is only allowed at railroad facilities.
However, the city's fire service has expressed its concern, questioning how it would go about accessing electrified properties in an emergency.
The council responded by saying fire-fighters would be given master keys that would enable them to turn off the power, but fire chiefs are not convinced this measure would properly protect its members.
If the bill is passed, the news provider explained, the electric fences would need to be encircled by a non-electric fence at least eight feet high, with appropriate warning signs in place.
Commenting on the proposal, assistant deputy fire commissioner John McNicholas was quoted by upi.com as saying: "When we are making our move, the last thing we want is to get zapped."
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