Q: Sometimes I see fire trucks running lights and sirens, and then they turn them off for no reason. Are you guys just doing that to run red lights?

A: Absolutely not! Because of the unpredictable nature of emergencies, and because we often get very little information when we are called, we assign trucks and personal to handle a serious incident. There are times when the first unit to arrive on the scene of an emergency will find that they are able to deal with the incident on their own or with less help than is on the way. In such cases the units that are not needed are canceled and put in service to respond to other emergencies, even though they were already on the way to this one. That is why you will sometimes see a unit "shut down" to non-emergency status.

Q: Why do I see firefighters shopping at the grocery store?

A: Fire crews work 24-hour days and must supply their own meals while in the firehouse. They stop to purchase food within their assigned area and are always available for emergencies.

Q: Why do so many emergency vehicles respond to every incident?

A: PHFR has a system for determining the appropriate number of people and the urgency of the response for different types of emergencies. We send the amount that may be needed so there will be no delay in providing whatever aid is necessary.

Q: I'd like to arrange a tour of a fire station for a youth group. Is that possible?

A: Yes, we welcome visits to our facilities. However, with the vigorous training schedule, as well as day-to-day emergencies, it can be a challenge to find a time that fits both your schedule and the firefighters. Please call Pleasant Hill Fire during regular business hours to arrange a time to visit. 

Q: Why do firefighters cut holes in the roof of a building on fire?

A: This is called "venting the roof." There are two basic reasons for this practice. Dangerous superheated gases and dark smoke accumulate in a burning building. Unlike the movie versions of fires, it is impossible for firefighters to see in such an environment or for victims to survive. When a hole is made in the roof, and the building is "vented," the smoke and gases escape because heat and smoke rise. It increases the victim's chance for survival and makes it much easier for the firefighters in the building to see. It also reduces the possibilities of backdraft (explosion) and flashover. Another reason for venting the roof is to see how far the fire has progressed. One of the fastest avenues through which fires spread is the attic. Heat and smoke rise into the attic where the fire can move quickly. Firefighters may go ahead of the fire on a roof and cut holes to access the attic to stop the fire from spreading through the attic.

Q: Can the Fire Department fill fire extinguishers?

A:  No. We cannot endorse a company or individual, but we can suggest you look in the metropolitan phone book yellow pages under Fire Extinguishers or Fire Protection Equipment and Supplies for assistance.