Barrington Countryside Fire Protection District warns of inspection scam

Barrington Countryside Fire Protection District officials say some businesses have been tricked into paying for inspection services by someone improperly claiming to be with the department.

In issuing a community advisory Friday, officials at the Lake Barrington-based department said they first learned about the fire inspector scam after being contacted by unidentified business owners Wednesday. An investigation continues, officials said.

"The (department) conducts annual fire inspections at no charge to businesses, and our inspectors will always be in uniform and carry proper identification," Fire Chief James Kreher said in a statement. "Local business professionals are welcome to contact us any time to verify scheduled fire inspections or confirm visits by on-duty personnel."

Impersonating a firefighter is a felony punishable by up to three years in prison and a $25,000 fine. Kreher said any suspicious activity should be reported to 911.

Barrington Countryside provides fire and emergency medical service to residents in portions of Barrington Hills, South Barrington, Lake Barrington and Inverness. The department also covers sections of unincorporated Cook, Lake and McHenry counties.