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1. Why do so many fire trucks show up on the scene of a fire?

NFPA standards say that a minimum of 17 fire fighters must be on the scene of a structure fire. We ride three on a unit so it takes several units to deliver the number of personnel required. We also MUST operate on a “worst case scenario” basis. That is, we must think that the fire is as bad as it can get. It would take longer to get more people if they were not dispatched with the first alarm.

2. Why do you turn off the electricity at the house when fighting a fire?

We turn off the electricity to prevent the accidental electrocution of our fire fighters and to prevent burned and damaged wiring from starting another fire.

3. Why do you cut holes in the roof at a fire?

Ventilation holes are sometimes cut to release the hot gases from inside the structure. A build-up of fire gases is dangerous to fire fighters because it can suddenly burst into flames in an event known as a flashover. Flashovers kill fire fighters every year and the best way to avoid it is to cut the ventilation holes.

4. Why does a Fire Truck show up when you call for an ambulance?

The fire Department runs the First Responder Program. It only makes sense that if a Fire Apparatus can be there in 3.6 minutes, and an ambulance may take 6 to 10 minutes, the patient has a better chance of survival if the Fire Department responds. Fire Department response is limited to life threatening situations only.

5. How do you schedule a fire station tour?

Call (940) 761-7901 and schedule the tour with our administrative assistants.

6. What type of fire extinguisher should I have in my house?

The department recommends a 2A 10BC fire extinguisher.

7. How do I get my home inspected for fire safety?

Call (940) 761-7901 and schedule your fire safety inspection.

8. What is your average response time?

Due to our carefully planned station relocation project in 2000, our average response time is 3.6 minutes.

9. When will the burn ban be lifted?

The city of Wichita Falls is, by ordinance, always in a burn ban. It is illegal to openly burn inside the city limits of Wichita Falls.

10. Do you have any volunteers on the department?

The Wichita Falls Fire Department is a fully paid department with no volunteer positions.