Clearing the Smoke: Understanding Fire Codes Together
Hosted by the Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce & the Vermont Department of Public Safety

📅   Date: Tuesday, November 4
🕓   Time: 6 PM
📍   Location:** Yestermorrow Design/Build School, Waitsfield-

About the Event
Fire safety and code compliance can be challenging to navigate — especially when interpretations vary. The Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce has worked closely with member businesses to share their experiences with state officials, helping to highlight inconsistencies and encourage clearer communication. That outreach has sparked a positive, ongoing dialogue with the Vermont Department of Public Safety – Division of Fire Safety, and this roundtable represents the next step in building an ethos of openness, understanding, and shared commitment to public safety.

Roundtable
An engaging and practical conversation about fire codes, inspections, and best practices for keeping people and properties safe.

Attendees:
Michael Desrochers, Executive Director of the Division of Fire Safety
Landon A Wheeler, Deputy Director of Department of Public Safety-Division of Fire Safety
Benjamin Moffatt, Department of Public Safety

What to Expect
The session will include a brief presentation followed by open Q&A allowing participants to raise real-world questions and concerns. We also plan to record the session for those unable to attend.

Topics will include:

* How and when fire codes apply to different types of businesses
* Common issues that arise during inspections — and how to avoid them
* Code requirements for renovations, remodels, and new builds
* Fire safety expectations for restaurants, inns, and short-term rentals
* How to work collaboratively with inspectors and regulators

Who Should Attend
This session will be especially valuable for:

* Restaurant and lodging owners/managers
* Property managers and short-term rental hosts
* Builders, contractors, and tradespeople
* Anyone operating a business or facility open to the public

Our goal is to ensure that every business in the Mad River Valley — large or small — has the information, access, and confidence they need to keep our community safe.

Registration
Attendance is free, but space is limited to about 15-20 participants to encourage meaningful discussion.
RSVP to reserve your spot.

Hosted By
Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with the Vermont Department of Public Safety – Division of Fire Safety and generously hosted by Yestermorrow Design/Build School.