Section 408.APPENDIX I   List of Items for Fire Safety Inspection

The Department shall notify the Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) of the name and address of a group day care home initial licensure applicant. The following list of items shall be inspected by OSFM, or by a supervising agency licensing representative trained by OSFM to conduct fire safety inspections for licensure, license renewal or annual monitoring:

1.         The paths of escape, including doors and escape windows from the home, are kept operable and clear from obstruction (see Section 408.30(b))

2.         Smoke detectors are provided on each level of the home (including basements and second floors even if they are not used for child care) and in any room where children are allowed to nap or sleep (see Section 408.30(a)(4)(A))

3.         Smoke detectors are functioning (detected by pushing the test button) (see Section 408.30(a)(4)(A))

4.         Locks and deadbolts to exterior doors are operable without the use of a key, tool or special knowledge to open the door from inside the home to exit to the outside (see Section 408.30(b)(7))

5.         Occupants shall be able to escape the home without having to activate more than 2 releasing devices (e.g., door knobs, deadbolts, thumb-turn lock) on any door to the outside (see Section 408.30(b)(6))

6.         Bathroom doors shall be able to be opened by staff from outside the room if necessary (see Section 408.30(b)(4))      

7.         Closet doors shall be able to open from inside the closet without the use of a key (see Section 408.30(b)(5))

8.         Paths of escape from the home have operable lighting (light bulbs are in place and functioning) (see Section 408.30(b)(3))

9.         Protective covers for all electrical receptacles are provided in areas occupied by children (see Section 408.30(a)(3))

10.       Heating equipment in spaces occupied by children are separated by partitions, screens or other means to protect children from hot surfaces and open flames (see Section 408.30(a)(8))

11.       Carbon monoxide detectors are installed and operable in areas occupied by children (see Section 408.30(a)(5))

Operating Requirements (renewal and subsequent monitoring visits)

12.       There is a comprehensive written fire emergency response plan in the home (see Section 408.30(q))

13.       There are emergency egress and relocation monthly drills conducted by the caregiver with children participation (see Section 408.30(q)(4))

14.       Monthly basic fire safety inspections of the home are conducted by the caregiver or staff members in the home (see Section 408.30(b)(9))

15.       Daily fire safety inspections are done by the caregiver or staff to ensure that escape paths are clear and exit doors and escape windows are operable (see Section 408.30(b)(10))

16.       Corridors are clear of clothing and personal effects (see Section 408.30(b)(1))

17.       Flammable and combustible artwork and teaching materials attached directly to the walls are limited to no more than 20% of the wall area (see Section 408.30(a)(14))

18.        Caregiver and staff are awake and alert when children are present in the home (see Section 408.35(k))

(Source:  Amended at 34 Ill. Reg. 18411, effective December 15, 2010)