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FAQ

FAQ

Here are some Frequently asked Questions citizens have asked our department 

Will the Fire Department refill my fire extinguisher?

The Fire Department does not refill fire extinguishers. We even have to have a vendor refill our extinguishers. An approved and licensed vendor can by found in the Yellow Pages.

When an emergency vehicle is approaching that is displaying emergency lights and sirens, what should I do?

Please pull to the right and stop. This will allow fire apparatus or other emergency vehicles adequate and clear lanes to safely and quickly continue its response.

Why does the emergency equipment run with lights and siren, then just turn them off?

On occasion, the fire engine and ambulance will be driving with lights and sirens and then suddenly turn them off--perhaps only to turn into a shopping center parking lot or side street. Be assured that when this happens it means we have received information through our 911 dispatchers that the caller or incident is no longer a dire emergency. It is what we call "being cancelled". Any or all of the apparatus may continue to drive to the call or perhaps some will return to the Fire Station, but we do not do it just to get to the store faster. "We promise"!

Do the personnel on the ambulance fight fires also?

The personnel on the ambulance are also firefighters. We all fight fires and we all respond to medical calls.

What type of fire extinguisher is best for my home?

A multi-purpose fire extinguisher is best for the home. Look for the rating to be at least 2A:10B:C on the label. This extinguisher can be used on any type of fire commonly found in the home. It will often be labeled A-B-C and may be located at many City of Fountain retail establishments.

Can I get my blood pressure checked at the Fire Station?

Yes. We offer this service free at all fire stations in the City of Fountain. Please recognize that our personnel might be absent from the station due to emergency calls, fire inspections, or training activities.

What is the difference between an EMT and Paramedic?

The difference between an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and a Paramedic is a significant amount of education. A Paramedic starts as an EMT Basic then goes through more education and training and can provide a higher level of emergency care including invasive procedures. There are different levels of EMT training: EMT-Basic, EMT-Intermediate, EMT-Paramedic. Each level requires more training and education than the prior. The City of Fountain provides EMT Basic, EMT Intermediate and Paramedic care.

What steps should I take for a child with fire-playing behavior?

Children who play with fire place themselves, their families and their neighborhoods at risk. The City of Fountain Fire Department juvenile fire setter program provides free intervention services to reduce the chances of further fire-play behavior. For additional information, please contact the fire department at 719-382-7800.

Why does the fire truck always respond with the ambulance to calls for medical assistance?

The City of Fountain Fire Department standard response to emergent calls for medical assistance consists of one Paramedic and an EMT in an Advanced Life Support equipped ambulance, and two EMT's in a Pumper Truck. The Paramedic's in the ambulance are responsible for primary care and transportation of the client, while the EMT's in the Pumper provide additional manpower and assistance as required on scene. Because they are often not required during transportation, they are able to return to the Station and are available to respond to other alarms.

Why is my smoke detector making a funny sound (chirping)?

Any time your smoke detector goes off, it's important to pay attention. If it is sounding its loud alarm because it senses the presence of smoke, check your home thoroughly. If you smell smoke and are unable to locate a fire, call 9-1-1 and the City of Fountain Fire Department will send an engine to make sure that a fire isn't smoldering in a hidden area. If you don't smell smoke, the detector may be reacting to the presence of dust, steam or a small insect or spider. Dust and bugs can be removed by a vacuum cleaner. If steam from a nearby shower is affecting your smoke detector regularly, move the detector to a different location. If the detector is just chirping, thumping or buzzing, it probably means that the battery is low. Replace the battery as soon as possible. Without a working battery, a smoke detector cannot do it job and the risk of dying in a fire increases greatly.

Do I need a carbon monoxide detector in my house?

Yes, carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that is produced by incomplete combustion of a hydrocarbon fuel. This could be caused by an improperly operating gas stove, gas water heater, oil or gas furnace, fireplace or kerosene heater. Even a motor vehicle operating in an enclosed space such as a garage could cause carbon monoxide to build up inside your home.

How often should I check my smoke detectors?

Smoke detectors should be checked monthly.

Do my smoke detectors ever need to be replaced?

Smoke detectors have a normal life expectancy of 10 to 15 years. If you are getting false alarms from your detector, it may need to be replaced. When having problems with your detector, always remember to check the battery.

What is the best way to display my address numbers?

Address numbers are very important to emergency responders. Having address numbers visible is not only required, but will help emergency personnel (fire, ambulance, or police) find your house. The numbers should be reflective or a color that contrasts with the house. They should be near a light to help make them visible. Don't place them on the garage door as the door may be raised when the numbers are needed. You should check that the numbers are visible from the street.