FAQs • Hagerstown, MD • CivicEngage

Why do so many fire trucks show up?: During a 9-1-1 call, your 9-1-1 dispatcher receives the information you're providing and begins entering it into a computer. Their computers utilize computer aided dispatch software that is capable of processing the information so a recommendation can be made on what public safety assets to send. The software will recommend which units by location, type and quantity needed by incident type.
It is not uncommon for the software to recommend more units from the onset of the incident. This is a significant benefit to the public in that it gets additional resources to the scene quicker. It also benefits the fire service to improve the safety of the responder's by having more available people earlier in an incident.

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Fire

1. How can I qualify for a free smoke detector?: The Fire Department installs smoke alarms free of charge in any residence located in the city limits. Call (301) 791-2544 between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. to schedule the installation of a smoke detector in the sleeping areas of your residence.

2. Is open burning permitted in city limits?: Yes. It must be a commercial self-contained patio style stove used in accordance with all manufacturer’s specifications and not violating any other fire regulations. See Fire Marshal for more information.

3. When I call for an ambulance, why would a fire truck show up?: When you call 9-1-1 for a medically related call, our job is to provide you the quickest response from the closest qualified personnel. This sometimes mean you'll see an EMT or Paramedic from the City fire department before the ambulance arrives. This is routine for medical conditions that are considered more serious.

4. How do I get a copy of a fire report?: You may obtain a copy of a fire report by filling out a fire report request form. The appropriate payment must accompany your request. The link to the request form is below.
http://md-hagerstown2.civicplus.com/forms.aspx?FID=120 Fire Report Request Form

5. What fire codes are used in the city?: The City of Hagerstown currently uses National Fire Protection Association Codes and Standards, BOCA Fire Prevention Code, and the Maryland State Fire Prevention Codes. See Fire Marshal for more information.

6. How do I anonymously report a tip or file fire/life safety complaint?: Anyone can anonymously report a tip or file a fire/life safety complaint with the Hagerstown Fire Marshal's Office. Anonymous Tip

7. Why do so many fire trucks show up?: During a 9-1-1 call, your 9-1-1 dispatcher receives the information you're providing and begins entering it into a computer. Their computers utilize computer aided dispatch software that is capable of processing the information so a recommendation can be made on what public safety assets to send. The software will recommend which units by location, type and quantity needed by incident type.
It is not uncommon for the software to recommend more units from the onset of the incident. This is a significant benefit to the public in that it gets additional resources to the scene quicker. It also benefits the fire service to improve the safety of the responder's by having more available people earlier in an incident.

8. What information do I need to provide to 9-1-1?: - We will always ask for your address and phone number and confirm it twice. We will also get the calling party's name and what party they are (1st, 2nd, 3rd).
- If it's a fire related call, we ask where the fire is, the status of the occupants and have them leave the structure.
- If it's an EMS call, in case entry we will ask the age, conscious and breathing status. Then, depending on the nature of call, we will ask anywhere from 3-10 more questions relating specifically to the medical emergency they are having. We will also provide them Pre-Arrival Instructions(if deemed appropriate) and we always provide them Post Dispatch Instructions.

Proper car seat installation is imperative for the safety of your child. The Hagerstown Fire department does not install child safety seats.

Meritus Medical Center regularly schedules seat installations by appointment.

http://www.meritushealth.com/Events-Calendar/Event-Details.aspx?Event=21

10. How do I request a station tour?: Fire station tours can be scheduled by phone or by going to the "Request a Service" tab to your left.

11. How do I become a member of the Hagerstown Fire Department?: Please go to the "Join Us" tab to your left to learn about employment and volunteer opportunities with the HFD.