Ames Fire Department

 Frequently Asked Questions  

Here are links to some frequently asked questions regarding home safety. 

1. Do you sell t-shirts?
   
   Yes, we sell t-shirts and sweatshirts.  They are available in sizes M - XXL.  They can be purchased at Fire Station 1, 1300 Burnett Ave.  T-shirts are $12.00 and Sweatshirts are $20.00.  We accept cash only.
    
   
   
2. What is the burning policy in the City of Ames?
   
   There is no burning off yard waste, brush, or garbage allowed.  Click here to read the City of Ames Burning Policy. 
    
3. How can I become an Ames Firefighter?
   
   Go to our Employment Information Page.
    
4. How can I schedule a fire truck or firefighter at my function?
   
   Call Station #1 at (515) 239-5108 and the Administrative Secretary would be happy to check the Fire Department's schedule. 
    
5. Do you offer tours of the fire stations?
   
   Ames Firefighters are more than happy to show you around the stations.  We just ask that, if possible, you call ahead to Station #1 at (515) 239-5108. The Administrative Secretary would be happy to schedule your group.
    
6. Who do I call about a fire extinguisher that doesn't work?
   
   You can take old fire extinguishers to the following locations: Hokel Machine, Iowa Fire Extinguisher, or the City of Ames Resource Recovery. However, yhey only fire extinguishers have been discharged.
    
7. Do you offer fire extinguisher training?
   
   The Ames Fire Department provides fire extinguisher training to service groups, companies, and other organizations.  Call Station #1 at (515) 239-5108 and the on-duty Captain would be happy to schedule a training session with our firefighters.
    
8. When an emergency vehicle is approaching that is displaying emergency lights and sirens, what should I do?
   
   By Iowa law, you are required to pull to the right and stop. This allows fire apparatus adequate and clear lanes to safely continue its response.
    
9. Why do so many fire apparatus respond to simple incidents?
   
   Fire apparatus are dispatched according to information received by the 9-1-1 operator.  A structure fire requires a number of people to do all the assigned tasks.  Firefighting teams are assigned certain responsibilities such as fire suppression, search and rescue, ventilation, salvage, safety, accountability, and rapid intervention teams when firefighters become trapped or injured.  The Ames Fire Department would rather be overcautious when they respond to citizens in need of help.  We are always prepared to deal with the worst that could happen.  Discovering that we need more units once we arrive is often too late.  We have learned that it is better to have to much help than not enough.
    
10. Why do I see fire trucks with full lights and sirens go through a red light at intersections and then, after they go through, they turn off their lights and slow down?
    
    Sometimes several units are dispatched to the same incident.  The first arriving unit can assess the situation and call off the unneeded units.  They are then put back in service and ready for other calls.
     
11. Why do fire trucks respond to motor vehicle accidents?
    
    There are two reasons. First, automobile accidents present other hazards such as potential fire, ruptured fuel tanks, and/or the presence of hazardous materials.  Second, firefighters are trained in extricating (removing) trapped occupants of the vehicle.
     
12. Why do firefighters respond to medical calls?
    
    The Ames Firefighters are trained and certified as Iowa First Responders.  We carry medical equipment on our trucks.  We arrive to assist the paramedics. When we arrive first we are able to begin a patient history, take vitals and size up the scene to transfer the care of the patient quickly.
     
13. How can I get a copy of a fire incident report?
    
    Yes, you may call Fire Station #1 at (515) 239-5108 and ask for the Administrative Secretary.  We will attempt to provide copies of incident reports within two business days.

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