Delaware State Fire Commission recognizes Middletown for requiring residential fire sprinklers

Middletown Town Council Meeting. (Left to Right Fire Commissioner Jeffrey Eisenbrey, Fire Commissioner David Majewski, Sr., Mayor Kenneth Branner, Jr, (Town of Middletown) Fire Commissioner Ronald Marvel, Fire Commissioner William Kelly, and Delaware Fire Sprinkler Coalition Chairperson, Paul Eichler.)

The Delaware State Fire Commission has formally honored the Town of Middletown for adopting a new ordinance requiring fire sprinkler systems in all newly built residential homes.

During the ceremony, the Commission formally recognized Middletown’s recent decision to require residential fire sprinklers, proclaiming in honor of the ordinance passed by the Town Council on May 5. The measure mandates automatic fire sprinklers in all new one- and two-story dwellings, as well as townhouses.

The Commission also recognized Paul Eichler, Chairperson of the Delaware Fire Sprinkler Coalition, for his role in supporting the ordinance and his broader efforts in fire safety education.

“We commend the Town of Middletown for taking this life-saving step and thank Chairperson Eichler for his tireless efforts in raising awareness about the importance of residential sprinklers,” said Ron Marvel, Chair of the Delaware State Fire Commission.

Eichler worked closely with Middletown officials to provide technical guidance and public education materials during the ordinance’s development process.

“These measures will protect families, save lives, and reduce the burden on our first responders.”

With the adoption of this policy, Middletown becomes the latest Delaware municipality to require residential fire sprinklers, joining Lewes, Milton, and Newark.