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Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Question of a Fire Department

What should I do when I see or hear an emergency vehicle coming towards me?

You should safely pull to the right side of the road. If you are unable to pull to the side, stop your vehicle and do not move until the emergency vehicle has passed you.

Why do I sometimes see fire trucks or ambulances running with their lights and sirens on and then suddenly they turn them off?

Lights and sirens are only used when responding to an emergency call. If another apparatus reaches the call first, additional apparatus may be canceled or continue to the call in a non-emergency mode.

Why do fire apparatus block more than necessary traffic lanes at auto accident?

It's for the safety of our personnel and our patients. Blocking extra lanes keep our personnel safe when they go back to our apparatus to get more equipment and it helps protect the victims we are trying to stabilize.

Why can't I drive over fire hoses if I need to get somewhere?

Running over a fire hose can damage the hose, the fire truck, interrupt water supply, or injure firefighters. The fire hose and the water it supplies are the lifeline for any firefighter on the other end of it. Losing water can cause serious injury or death.

What should I do if I smell gas in my house?

You should evacuate your family and pets from the house. Call 911 from a safe location or a neighbor's house. Do not call 911 from inside your house. The use of a phone inside your house could ignite the gas.

How do I check my smoke alarm?

Each smoke alarm has a TEST button. Press the TEST button and hold it for a few seconds. If it is working correctly, the alarm will sound and will automatically stop when you release the button. Remember to test your smoke alarm monthly and change the batteries at least once a year. If your smoke alarm is over 10 years old, it needs to be replaced with a new unit.

What do the different colored helmets firefighters wear mean?

Chief officers wear white helmets, Captains and Lieutenants wear red helmets, firefighter wear yellow helmets, and cadets wear green helmets.