SPOKANE, Wash. –Skinny lots and high density homes pose unique challenges for firefighters.

The push for this change stems from challenges faced when responding to emergencies in homes with limited access, specifically lots with additional living structures, like “Mother-In-Law Suites.”

Dave Kokot, a former president of the Washington State Fire Marshalls and longtime Spokane resident explained that skinner lots make it more difficult to access homes.

“The lots have gotten skinnier and skinnier to the point where it’s very difficult for us to get back there not only for patients, but also for fire situations,” Kokot said.

Currently, the International Building Code sets the standard gap between buildings at three feet.

However, Kokot says this is insufficient. He propose expanding the

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