New Hampshire Law Limits Homeowner Liability in Fire Calls

A union representing New Hampshire firefighters hopes a new state law will encourage homeowners to call for help if needed during an emergency.

A law that takes effect Jan. 1 would limit the liability a homeowner would have if a firefighter suffered an incidental injury while responding to a call. It was passed in response to a state Supreme Court ruling in favor of a volunteer firefighter who sued a homeowner after being seriously injured from falling on snow and ice in the driveway.

The Professional Fire Fighters of New Hampshire supported the bill. The group’s president, David Lang, said members were concerned that the court decision would have a chilling effect on people’s willingness to call 911.

He said homeowners won’t be protected from purposeful negligence.