I. The fire chief or designee or state or local fire marshal or designee shall have the authority to order occupants to vacate a building, structure, or other premises if the chief or state or local fire marshal or designee determines, based on reasonable information and belief, that the condition of such premises constitutes a clear and imminent danger to the life or safety of occupants or other persons and that protection of life or safety requires vacating the premises. Such an order shall be subject to the procedures of RSA 147:16-a.
   II. The provisions of paragraph I shall not apply to a residence which is occupied by the owner and his or her family, unless the condition of such premises constitutes a clear and imminent danger to the life and health of persons other then the occupant or occupants.
   III. Nothing in this section shall be construed to diminish the authority of the fire officer in charge at the scene of a fire or other emergency under RSA 154:7.
Source. 1998, 318:2, eff. Aug. 25, 1998.