National Fire Safety Enforcement & Modernization Act

Republica Dominicana
Presidential Decree No. 039-DR
Issued by: Future DR President

Subject: National Fire Safety Enforcement & Modernization Act

Effective Immediately

To safeguard the lives and property of all Dominican citizens, modernize fire prevention infrastructure, and guarantee rapid emergency response nationwide, this decree enacts comprehensive reforms for fire safety standards, firehouse expansion, modern firefighting technology, and universal hydrant coverage.

Article 1 – Expansion of Fire Stations

  1. A national audit shall identify regions underserved by fire services.
  2. Construction of at least one new firehouse per municipality is hereby mandated, with priority given to high-density urban zones, tourism corridors, and industrial areas.
  3. All new firehouses shall be:
    • Staffed 24/7
    • Equipped with rapid-response vehicles
    • Linked to the National Fire Response Network (NFRN) for mutual aid

Article 2 – Fire Hydrant Installation Program

  1. The Ministry of Infrastructure & Public Services shall oversee a National Fire Hydrant Installation Plan, requiring:
    • Hydrants placed no more than 250 meters apart in urban zones
    • Hydrant maps publicly accessible online for transparency and emergency planning
    • Mandatory hydrant testing every six months
  2. Municipalities failing to comply shall face federal budget reductions until standards are met.

Article 3 – Modernization of Equipment

  1. All fire departments shall receive new, modern firefighting equipment, including:
    • Fire engines with advanced foam systems
    • Ladder trucks capable of reaching high-rise structures
    • Portable water tanks for rural and remote fires
    • Thermal imaging cameras and drone reconnaissance systems
  2. A dedicated budget shall be allocated annually to replace aging fleet vehicles older than 15 years.

Article 4 – Fire Code Enforcement and Penalties

  1. The National Fire Safety Code (NFSC) shall be updated to reflect modern fire prevention techniques and materials.
  2. All commercial, residential, and tourism properties must:
    • Install smoke detectors and sprinkler systems as required by updated codes
    • Submit to annual fire safety inspections
    • Display visible fire safety certification at entrances
  3. Violations of fire codes will result in:
    • Immediate closure for severe breaches
    • Fines up to RD$5,000,000
    • Criminal prosecution in cases of negligence leading to injury or death

Article 5 – Public Awareness & Training Campaign

  1. A national campaign titled “Dominicana Segura: Fuego No!” shall:
    • Educate citizens on fire prevention
    • Promote emergency preparedness drills in schools and workplaces
    • Train volunteers to assist fire services in times of crisis
  2. Public broadcasters and social media channels shall dedicate airtime to disseminate fire safety knowledge.

From the smallest village to the tallest tower, we will protect our people and build a nation prepared for any fire emergency. The Dominican Republic shall not lose lives, livelihoods, or history to preventable flames. This is a new era of safety, strength, and readiness.

Signed,
President of the Dominican Republic
Date: Day One, Term One