We are pleased to announce that Cat Fleuriet has been appointed as the new Chairperson of the LLSSA Scholarship Committee. Cat brings energy and a passion for supporting future industry professionals, and we’re excited to see her lead this important program forward.

We also extend our deepest gratitude to Ed Hilderbrandt, who has faithfully served as Scholarship Chairperson for many years. His dedication and leadership helped build a program that has provided meaningful support to students across Louisiana pursuing careers in life safety, security, and related fields. Thank you, Ed, for your years of tireless service and commitment to the association’s mission.

The Scholarship Committee works year-round to raise funds, promote the program, and review applications to award scholarships to deserving individuals with ties to our industry. Learn more about the program here: https://llssa.org/benefits/scholarships

If you’re interested in giving back and helping grow the next generation of professionals, we invite you to join the Scholarship Committee. Your involvement—whether helping fundraise, promote, or review applications—makes a lasting impact. Reach out today to get involved!

Smoke detectors are critical safety devices that require regular upkeep to ensure they function effectively. Cleaning them is a simple yet essential task to keep them performing properly when needed most.

How Often Should You Clean a Smoke Detector?
The frequency with which you clean your smoke detector depends on several factors, but as a general guideline, you should clean your detectors at least twice a year. A good way to remember this is to clean your smoke detectors when you change your clocks for daylight saving time—this ensures you never forget.

Over time, smoke detectors naturally accumulate dust and debris from the air. This is evident in areas with poor ventilation, construction dust, or high levels of indoor pollutants. Moisture in the air can cause dust and other particles to stick to the detector, which can interfere with its function. In these environments, it is recommended to clean your detectors every three to four months.

How Do You Clean a Smoke Detector?
Cleaning a smoke detector is straightforward, but it must be done correctly to avoid damaging the unit. If your smoke detector is mounted high on the ceiling or hard to reach, you’ll want to safely remove it using a Detector Removal Tool. This tool is specifically designed to help you detach smoke detectors from their mounting brackets without risk of damage.

Now, grab an air duster, which quickly removes contaminants and prevents buildup that could affect performance.  The air duster should be gentle yet powerful, ensuring sensitive components inside your detector are cleaned without damage. This helps maintain the sensor’s sensitivity and functionality.  Next, wipe down the exterior of the detector with a soft cloth or microfiber towel to remove any remaining dust and grime. Once cleaned, reinstall and your detector is ready to go.

What Are the Risks of a Dirty Smoke Detector?
Neglecting to clean your smoke detector can have serious consequences, both in terms of performance and safety. A dirty smoke detector is much more likely to fail when you need it the most. Here’s why:

• Reduced Sensitivity: Dust, dirt, and debris can block the sensor and interfere with its ability to detect smoke. This reduces the effectiveness of the alarm, which could delay your response time in the event of a fire.
• False Alarms: A buildup of particles in the detector can also lead to false alarms. Dust or residues might trigger the detector when there’s no real threat, leading to frustration and, in some cases, complacency—causing people to ignore or even disable their detectors.
• Premature Failure: A dirty smoke detector works harder to detect smoke, which can cause internal components to wear out faster. A buildup of grime can reduce the lifespan of the detector, meaning you may have to replace it sooner than necessary.
• Fire Safety Risk: Ultimately, the biggest risk of a dirty smoke detector is that it may fail to alert you in the event of a fire. The peace of mind that comes with knowing your smoke detectors are working properly is invaluable.

Cleaning your smoke detectors regularly is an easy, cost-effective way to ensure your safety equipment continues to work as it should. With the right tools—an air duster for cleaning and a Detector Removal Tool for safe removal—you can keep your detectors functioning at their best.

We are thrilled to announce the appointment of a new Golf Chairperson for LLSSA. Donald McLaren, who has been a dedicated co-chair for the Golf committee, will now take on this vital role following the retirement of Ed Hilderbrand, who served with unwavering commitment for many years. As we transition, we invite professionals interested in making a difference to reach out and explore service opportunities within our organization. Your leadership could help shape the future of LLSSA!

We are thrilled to announce the return of a seasoned leader to the LLSSA Board – Kristin Hebert with Alarm.com. With years of dedicated service and a wealth of experience, our new Chairperson for the Bylaws Committee will guide us through a pivotal time. This is a fantastic opportunity for members to step forward and explore various roles within our board and committees. Your expertise is invaluable to our mission, and we encourage you to reach out to express your interest in contributing to our community. Together, we can drive meaningful change!

Fire detectors are vital components of any building’s safety infrastructure, providing crucial early warnings in the event of a fire. By quickly alerting occupants, these devices facilitate timely evacuations, significantly reducing the risk of injury and loss of life. To ensure optimal performance, regular testing and maintenance are essential for building owners and facility managers. This commitment to reliability is supported by codes such as NFPA 72, which mandates routine inspections of fire alarm systems, and NFPA 25, which governs the inspection and maintenance of water-based fire protection systems. Investing in these measures not only protects lives but also safeguards property and enhances overall safety.

TESTING REQUIREMENTS
In the U.S., various legal requirements dictate the maintenance and testing of fire detectors, with noncompliance potentially resulting in fines or penalties. NFPA 72 specifies that fire alarm systems should be inspected by a qualified professional at least every six months. Additionally, many insurance policies require regular testing and maintenance as a condition of coverage. Failure to meet these obligations could jeopardize claims in the event of a fire and have serious repercussions for responsible parties. By prioritizing regular testing, you gain peace of mind and ensure compliance.

“A functional test of smoke detectors shall be performed at intervals not exceeding six months, or more frequently as required by the manufacturer’s instructions.”
-NFPA 72, 2019, Section 14.4.3.3

PREVENTING FALSE ALARMS
Fire detectors can malfunction over time due to dust, debris, or electrical issues, compromising reliability. Regular testing identifies problems early, ensuring malfunctions are detected during routine checks, not emergencies. Timely maintenance allows for the replacement of faulty detectors, ensuring continuous protection. False alarms can be disruptive and costly. Regular testing verifies detectors are working properly, minimizing false alerts from factors like dust, debris, or insects, especially with improper installation. Disruptions can lead to unnecessary emergency visits and reduce occupants’ responsiveness to genuine alarms. Codes like NFPA 101 emphasize proper installation and maintenance to prevent these issues.

COMPLIANCE WITH MANUFACTURERS
Manufacturers provide specific guidelines for testing and maintaining fire detectors, which are crucial for warranty coverage and performance. Products from reputable
manufacturers, are UL listed and comply with standards like UL 268 for smoke detectors and UL 521 for heat
detectors.

“Functional testing of smoke detectors shall ensure that the detectors properly detect smoke and activate the alarm system. This can be achieved by using an appropriate test device or method as recommended by the manufacturer.” -NFPA 72, 2019, Section 14.4.3.4

PEACE OF MIND
Fire detectors are essential for protecting lives and property, enabling rapid detection, timely evacuations, and effective emergency response. While serious fires are rare, the risk
remains, making regular testing of fire detection systems crucial. Regular testing ensures the system is ready to respond, safeguarding both occupants and assets. Functional tests, as required by industry codes like NFPA 72 and NFPA 25, verify that detectors are functioning properly, preventing false alarms and ensuring the system operates effectively for optimal safety. 

Louisiana House Bill 145 (HB 145), introduced in the 2025 Regular Session, proposes to enhance the state’s construction code retrofitting income tax deduction. This bill is particularly relevant for professionals in the life safety and property protection industry, as it could influence homeowner demand for safety upgrades and retrofitting services.

Under current law, homeowners can claim a tax deduction for voluntarily retrofitting their residences to comply with the State Uniform Construction Code, with the deduction limited to 50% of the incurred costs or $5,000, whichever is less. HB 145 seeks to expand this deduction by including costs associated with bringing homes into compliance with the “fortified home” standards established by the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety. Additionally, the bill proposes to increase the maximum deduction amount from $5,000 to $10,000 per retrofitted residential structure, while maintaining the 50% cost limitation.

For life safety and property protection professionals, the passage of HB 145 could lead to increased homeowner interest in retrofitting projects aimed at enhancing structural resilience against natural disasters. This heightened demand may result in more opportunities for businesses specializing in safety assessments, code compliance upgrades, and installation of protective systems. Professionals should prepare to address inquiries related to the “fortified home” standards and consider offering services that align with these guidelines.

The proposed changes would apply to taxable periods beginning on or after January 1, 2026. Staying informed about the progress of HB 145 and understanding its implications will be crucial for professionals aiming to capitalize on the potential increase in retrofitting activities prompted by the enhanced tax incentives.

Louisiana House Bill 85 (HB 85), introduced by Representative Foy Gadberry during the 2025 Regular Session, proposes significant changes to the state’s construction permitting process, particularly concerning roofing projects. This legislation is poised to impact professionals in the life safety and property protection industries by altering inspection protocols and compliance requirements.

Under HB 85, municipalities and parishes issuing construction permits would be mandated to enforce specific inspection standards for roofing and reroofing activities. For buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings, inspections must adhere to Chapter 15 of the International Building Code, as adopted by the Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code. For one- and two-family dwellings, inspections would follow Chapters 8 and 9 of the International Residential Code. 

Additionally, the bill requires local authorities to provide individual permit data upon request, enhancing transparency and accountability in the permitting process.

For life safety and property protection professionals, these proposed changes underscore the importance of staying informed about evolving building codes and inspection requirements. Companies should review their current practices to ensure alignment with the proposed standards and prepare for potential adjustments in inspection procedures.

Engaging with industry associations and monitoring the progress of HB 85 will be crucial for professionals aiming to maintain compliance and uphold safety standards in their operations.

LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY & CORRECTIONS
PUBLIC SAFETY SERVICES
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL

The Office of State Fire Marshal is pleased to announce that, effective July 1, 2025, we will transition to a fully paperless IMS system. All communications, submissions, and transactions will be conducted electronically through email and our Information Management System (IMS).

Paper applications, supporting documentation, correspondence and paper checks will no longer be accepted. Any items received will be returned and delay processing. We are excited about this positive change, which will allow us to serve you more efficiently and ensure timely delivery of important information.

If you have any questions or need assistance preparing for this transition, please contact the Licensing department at (225)927-4911.
Thank you for your cooperation.

David McClintock, Director of Licensing
Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office
8181 Independence Blvd., Baton Rouge, La 70806
david.mcclintock@la.gov

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of LLSSA member, our colleague and friend, Yvette Bernard on May 10, 2025

CARENCRO ~ Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 17, 2025 at an 11:00 a.m. Liturgy of the Word in Evangeline Memorial Gardens Chapel in Carencro for Yvette Marie Bernard, age 57, who passed away Saturday, May 10, 2025 at Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center.

The Rev. Msgr. Ronald Broussard, pastor of Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church, will officiate at the services.

A native and lifelong resident of Carencro, Yvette, was employed with Cadence Bank, where her exceptional work ethic and generous spirit touched the lives of her coworkers and customers alike. She was the kind of person who could never leave anyone in a bind—always willing to go the extra mile and do so with a smile. Her commitment to her work and her team was just one example of the selfless way she lived her life.

A devoted parishioner of Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church, Yvette lived her faith daily, not only through worship but through the love she showed to everyone she encountered. She had a rare ability to connect with people—she couldn’t go anywhere without being stopped for a conversation, always greeted with warmth and joy.

Yvette had a gift for doing many things well. She found joy in the simple, fulfilling pleasures of life: working outside, cutting grass, even operating heavy equipment—tasks she embraced with enthusiasm. She was also a talented baker, cook, and hair stylist, pouring creativity and care into everything she did. Her talents were many, and her passion for life shone through them all.

Survivors include her husband, Jason Bernard; two sons, Fabian Andre Bernard of Lafayette, and Jacolby Sailele of California; one daughter, Javon Sailele of California; three grandchildren, Zeus Sailele, Zara Sailele, Ryze Sailele; her mother, Evadell George; three brothers, Paul George and his wife, Norma, of Katy, TX, Vincent George of Montana, and Shane George of Carencro; and numerous beloved nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her father, Paul George.

The family requests that visiting hours be observed from 8:30 a.m. Saturday until service time on Saturday.

Melancon Funeral Home, Evangeline Memorial Gardens Chapel, 4117 N. University Ave., Carencro, (337) 896-3232, is in charge of arrangements.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Bernard family during this time. Joe will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing her.