install fire detectors in an effort to help reduce fire hazards and protect peoples' lives. The new rules, drafted by the city's Fire Department, require people living in apartments below the fifth floor to install fire alarms. Existing building codes require the installation of fire alarms only for apartments above the 6th floor. City government officials said an average of 828 fires broke out in the city each year during the past decade. An average of 23 people were killed by fire and 107 injured, plus more than NT$100 million of property was damaged each year. In February and March this year, there were already two killed and three injured in fires, with an estimated NT$30 million of property destroyed, they said.
The fire detectors and alarms cost around NT$200 each, but may save both lives and invaluable assets. The officials will also prohibit live fire shows that are gaining in popularity at wedding banquets. Following the approval of the City Council, the new rules will first apply to all newly constructed buildings starting next year. The rules will be gradually extended to old houses and apartment buildings. They are expected to be adopted by local level governments around Taiwan later on.
Taipei normally takes the lead in setting new regulations that are often followed by other city and county officials. The requirement for motorcyclists to wear safety helmets and garbage recycling launched in Taipei are now also enforced in other areas.
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