FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to the Albion Joint Fire District FAQ page. We’ve compiled answers to common questions from our community to provide clarity on our services, safety guidelines, and operations.
If you cannot find the answer to your question below, please visit our Contact Us page to reach the appropriate personnel.
Emergency Services
Question: When should I call 911?
- Answer: Call 911 for emergencies only, which are situations involving a perceived threat to life, injury, or property (e.g., a fire, medical emergency, or vehicle accident with injuries). For all other non-emergency inquiries, please use our main contact number listed on the Contact Us page.
Question: Why does a fire engine come when I call for an ambulance/medical emergency?
- Answer: Albion Fire Department does not have an ambulance to transport patients. However, many Albion Joint Fire District firefighters are cross-trained in emergency medical services (EMS). This allows us to provide patient care until an ambulance arrives on scene. We also provide assistance with patient movement and forcible entry to access patients.
Question: What should I do when an emergency vehicle approaches with lights and sirens on?
- Answer: Please safely pull over to the right side of the road and stop. This action provides emergency vehicles with a clear and adequate path to safely and quickly reach the emergency location.
Question: Will I be billed if I call the fire department for an emergency?
- Answer: No, fire suppression and emergency response services provided by the Albion Joint Fire District are funded through property taxes. There is no direct charge for fire department response to an emergency. (Note: Ambulance transport, if applicable, may be billed separately; please check with your health insurance provider for details).
Fire Prevention & Safety
Question: How often should I test my smoke detectors?
- Answer: Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be tested monthly by pressing and holding the test button. Batteries should be changed at least once a year, or immediately if you hear a chirping sound. An easy way to remember is to change them when you change your clocks for Daylight Saving Time. Detectors older than 10 years should be replaced entirely. Many new smoke detectors have “lifetime” batteries that last for the ten-year life of the detector. Please make sure to note the installation and projected expiration dates when installing these units.
Question: What is the best type of fire extinguisher for my home?
- Answer: A multi-purpose (ABC) fire extinguisher is recommended for residential use. Look for a rating of at least 2A:10B:C on the label, which indicates it is suitable for common household fires involving ordinary combustibles (A), flammable liquids (B), and electrical equipment (C).
Question: How do I safely dispose of old paint, oil, or gasoline?
- Answer:
- Latex Paint: Open the can, allow the paint to dry solid, and then place the dried can in your regular trash pickup.
- Oil/Gasoline: These should never be burned or put in the trash. Contact a local auto parts store or oil change facility to see if they accept these materials for proper disposal.
- Fire Extinguishers: The Fire District does not refill extinguishers.
Question: Can I get a permit to burn brush or have a campfire?
- Answer: Open burning (including campfires, generally) is often illegal except under specific permits and regulations within New York State. Please call your town or village office during administrative hours to inquire about local ordinances and specific requirements for obtaining an open-burning permit.
Department Operations
Question: How can I become a volunteer firefighter for the Albion Joint Fire District?
- Answer: We rely on dedicated volunteers to serve our community. Information on requirements, benefits (such as potential property tax abatements), and the application process can be found on our Volunteer Opportunities page, or by contacting the Fire Station directly.
Question: Do firefighters work 24/7, and do they buy their own equipment?
- Answer: Yes, our members are on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Basic protective equipment is provided to members in accordance with their training level. All required tools are provided by the District. Some members choose to purchase specialty tools to supplement those provided.
Question: Can I tour a fire station or get my blood pressure checked?
- Answer: Yes, we welcome community engagement!
- Tours: Station tours can typically be arranged by calling the non-emergency number to schedule an appropriate time.
- Blood Pressure Checks: We offer free blood pressure checks at many community events. Please check our Website’s Public Information Section, or our Facebook page (Albion Fire Department) for upcoming events.