CITY TO OFFER FREE HOME SAFETY INSPECTIONS SOON

For the second straight year, the city of Cape Girardeau will offer free home safety inspections.

The city's Inspection Services Division will conduct the inspections during January and February.

Rob Roberts, the city's building supervisor, said the program allows city inspectors to share their expertise with residents at no cost.

"The goal is to help people who are not aware of potential problems," Roberts said.

Thirty-eight residents took advantage of the program early this year. Roberts hopes many more will do so this time around.

Inspections will take between 30 and 40 minutes and include a comprehensive visual examination of both the interiors and exteriors of homes.

If any problems are discovered, inspectors will provide the homeowner with a written report outlining the deficiencies and suggestions for correcting them.

No violations will be issued if problems are found.

Inspectors will look at exterior foundations, electrical systems, plumbing, exits, roofs, chimneys, vents, smoke alarms, mechanical items such as water heaters, the proper storage of combustibles and other aspects of home safety.

"Ensuring the safety, health and welfare of the citizens of Cape Girardeau is the primary focus of this endeavor," Roberts said.

The service is available to any homeowner within the city limits.

However, it does not substitute for inspections required by homeowners who are building or remodeling and require permits.

Residents can call the Inspection Services Division at 334-4466 to schedule a free home inspection.

Inspections will be performed during business hours on weekdays.