N.J. Town Seeks to Limit Alcohol in Firehouses Over Insurance Concerns

Firefighters are upset that a northern New Jersey town is seeking to place limits on alcohol in firehouses.

The Lodi Borough Council has introduced an ordinance last week that would require approval for any function in which alcohol is consumed in the town’s three firehouses.

The borough manager would submit the information to the town’s liability insurance carrier, which would determine whether the function would be covered. If not, the fire department would have to obtain its own coverage.

Mayor Marc Shrieks tells The Record newspaper council members are concerned about underage firefighters drinking.

Fire Chief Darren Yuhas says alcohol is stored in a locked area so there’s little risk of underage drinking. A hearing on the ordinance is scheduled for Sept. 18.