Read more: https://sbcfastlink.org/43gg1se Join John Foley of the Safer Buildings Coalition in conversation with Jim Pauley, President and CEO of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), as they discuss the alarming erosion of safety standards across America. From fire marshals being stripped of authority to communities refusing code updates, this eye-opening discussion reveals how a century of fire safety progress is under threat. Pauley explains NFPA's groundbreaking "Don't Chance Safety" campaign, the critical Pro Codes Act legislation, and why the consensus-based standards development system—one of history's most successful public-private partnerships—needs protection now more than ever. Learn what's at stake and how you can help prevent the next preventable tragedy.

Chapter List:

Introduction & Reverse Renovations Campaign (00:00 - 04:15)

• Welcome and "Reverse Renovations" parody video
• NFPA's creative approach to safety awareness

The Knowledge Gap Crisis (04:15 - 09:15)

• Research revealing public misconceptions about safety codes
• How consensus-based standards actually work
• The power of education in building support

Safety Under Assault (09:15 - 16:05)

• State fire marshals losing authority
• Communities blocking code updates
• Legal threats against stricter safety standards

Lessons from Preventable Tragedies (16:05 - 21:32)

• Triangle Shirtwaist to Ghost Ship: repeated failures
• Why we keep making the same deadly mistakes
• The case for proactive vs. reactive safety

The Pro Codes Act Fight (21:32 - 29:49)

• Bipartisan legislation to protect standards development
• Copyright protection and economic sustainability
• What happens if the system collapses

Call to Action (29:49 - 34:05)

• Immediate steps for citizens and professionals
• Why timing matters for congressional action
• Local elections and their critical importance

Looking Forward with Hope (34:05 - 36:26)

• NFPA Conference 2026 preview
• Growing volunteer participation
• The power of people who care about safety