Frequently Asked Questions
Services
- What programs does the NRPFD offer?
The NRFPD offers firefighter and first responder training to those interesting in volunteering for the district. We also provide community education classes on fire safety and counseling for junior fire setters.
- Does the fire district offer CPR and/or First-Aid classes to the public?
At the present time the district only provides CPR and First-Aid training to volunteers and district staff as part of their training and certification.
- Will the fire department inspect my home for fire safety?
The fire department has an on-going fire prevention program that is aimed at reducing the incidences of fire. Commercial buildings are routinely inspected each year. Homeowners can request a fire safety inspection of their home at any time. Contact the Fire Marshal to set up an appointment.
- Does the fire department service fire extinguishers?
The fire department does not service fire extinguishers. There are fire extinguisher companies in the telephone book that have the proper equipment to service them.
Outdoor Burning
- Do I need a permit for outdoor burning?
A permit is required for open fires and burn barrels. Domestic burn permits expire in May of each year and must be renewed annually.
- How much does a burn permit cost?
Domestic burn permits are free.
- How large may my outdoor fire be?
The fire district is only able to provide permits for fires up to 4 feet by 4 feet. For fires larger than 4 feet please contact the Oregon Department of Forestry for a special permit.
- What kinds of things can I burn outdoors?
Wood, paper, brush and leaves may be burned outdoors. Burning of Other materials, such as garbage, plastics, and chemicals is not permitted.
- How do I get a burn permit?
The fastest way to get a permit is to fill out the Burn Permit form on this site. You may also come in to the district administrative office in Cloverdale to fill out an application.
Volunteering
- How do I volunteer?
Individuals interested in volunteering are welcome to come into the district administrative office in Cloverdale to pick up an application.
- Can anyone become a fire fighter?
There are some requirements for becoming a fire fighter, but in general if you can pass simple medical examination and complete an physical agility test you can become a fire figheter.
- Does the district have any resident volunteers?
Beginning in the Fall of 2009 the District has supported a resident volunteer program. This program is open to individuals interesteds in pursuing a career in the emergency response field. Resident volunteers are provided with sleeping quarters and training.
- I don't want to going inside burning houses, but I'd still like to help out. Is that okay?
Yes. The fire district is looking for volunteers to fill a variety of needs. Fire fighting is only one of the things you can do to help out. We are also looking for individuals interested in becoming medical first responders, pumper operators, drivers, and many other roles.
Other Questions
- Why do so many fire trucks respond to simple incidents?
Fire district units are dispatched according to information received by the 9-1-1 operator. The district attempts to respond with sufficient resources to meet the needs of the worst situation that could happen. Discovering that we need more units once we arrive is often too late. We have learned from experience that it is better to have too much help than not enough.
Structure fires require a number of people to do all the assigned tasks almost simultaneously. Firefighting teams are assigned certain responsibilities such as fire extinguishment, search and rescue, ventilation, salvage, safety, accountability and rapid intervention teams. - Why do fire trucks sometimes suddenly turn off their lights and sirens and turn around sometimes?
As explained in the previous answer, in many situations several units are dispatched to the same incident. The first unit may have arrived on the scene, assessed the situation and informed the dispatcher that the situation was under control or that a single unit could handle the emergency. All other responding units were cancelled and put back into service, ready to take another call.
Most likely, when you see an emergency vehicle with red lights and sirens go through an intersection and then slow down and turn the emergency lights off, they have been cancelled from the call to which they were responding.