Show All Answers

1. I called for an ambulance and a fire engine came with it. Why does a fire truck go on medical calls with the ambulance?

A fire engine is automatically sent anytime an ambulance is requested. All fire department personnel are trained and certified paramedics. Some calls have multiple patients or may be severe enough to require the help of all the emergency personnel on scene. Additionally, our engine is equipped with advanced medical equipment and medications. Should the ambulance be delayed, the engine crew can begin advanced life support treatment while the patient is waiting to be transported.

2. How can I arrange a tour of the fire station?

The Fire Marshal schedules all tours of the facility. Call our offices and ask to speak with the Fire Marshal, 817-491-2301.

3. My child’s birthday is coming up soon. May we have a birthday party at the fire station?

Sorry, we do not allow the use of the fire station for children’s birthday parties. However, a tour can be scheduled for after the party.

4. May I get my blood pressure checked at the fire station?

Yes, we will be glad to check your blood pressure during reasonable times of the day.

5. May I burn brush or trash in the city limits?

In some instances the Fire Marshal may issue a burn permit for burning class “A” combustibles, but only if strict guidelines are met. Call the Fire Marshal’s office, 817-491-2301, for details on obtaining a burn permit.

6. Is it okay to park in a fire lane if I’m only out of my car for a minute?

No, you may not park in a fire lane, even if it’s only for a minute and you have your hazard flashers on. Doing so subjects you to being issued a citation and having to appear before the judge in municipal court. Fire lanes are for the exclusive use of fire, EMS, and police personnel.

7. What is the Citizen’s Fire Academy?

It is a program designed for people who have a genuine desire to learn about the daily life of firefighters, who want to increase fire and life safety awareness, and who wish to increase the awareness of the services provided by the Roanoke Fire Department. Graduates are encouraged to join the Citizens Fire Academy Alumni Association.

8. When and where are the Citizen’s Fire Academy classes conducted?

We host one Citizen’s Fire Academy class a year; usually starting in the late winter. Most classes are held at the fire station; however, two of the classes are held off site. One class is for automobile extrication; and yes, you do get to cut up a car with the Jaws of Life. The other class is for the live firefighting training. Please call the Fire Marshal’s office for more information.

9. Is it true that fire trucks and ambulances can change traffic lights from red to green?

Yes; our emergency vehicles are equipped with devices that can change a traffic light from red to green. This equipment is used during emergency calls to improve our response time to the scene.

10. Does the city have outdoor warning sirens?

Roanoke has six outdoor sirens placed strategically throughout the city.

11. Are the outdoor warning sirens tested to ensure they will work when needed?

Yes; the outdoor warning sirens are tested the first Wednesday of every month at 2:00 p.m. They will not be tested if there is low cloud overcast.

12. I am a diabetic and have to use syringes daily for medication administration. May I bring my used syringes to the fire station for disposal?

Sorry, but no.  We cannot accept used syringes or other medical waste at the fire station.

13. Where can I receive text and phone calls about inclement weather?

Sign up to receive text and phone calls from the Fire Department when there is inclement weather in the area. Click here to sign up!