Are there any costs for Bozeman Fires services for residents of the City of Bozeman?
There are no charges for medical runs and fire runs made by the Bozeman Fire within the city limits. However, cleanup for any unauthorized discharges of hazardous materials will be borne by the owner, operator or other person responsible for the unauthorized discharge at which time the state will get involved.
Can I have a small recreational bon fire at home?
YES Recreational Fires
The Bozeman Fire Department periodically receives questions concerning campfires or recreational fires within the city of Bozeman. Although these types of fires are legal and a permit is not required, there are a few basic rules that need to be followed.
Recreational fires cannot be located within 25 feet of a structure (including decks and fences) or other combustible material unless they are in an approved container designed for this purpose, such as a screened appliance. Even in an approved container, they still must be at least 15 feet from structures. Any condition that could cause a fire to spread within 25 feet of a structure needs to be eliminated before lighting the fire. The fire cannot be more than three feet in diameter and must be two feet or less in height.
All recreational fires must be constantly attended until the fire is extinguished. A fire extinguisher or a garden hose must be available for immediate use. Make sure that the fire is completely extinguished when you are done enjoying it.
Do not burn anything other than a good dry wood. Any recreational fire that will be offensive or objectionable due to smoke or odor emissions is prohibited. What may be enjoyable for you may not be enjoyable for your neighbors. Be a good neighbor and don't use a recreational fire on breezy days that will spread the smoke through the neighborhood.
All open burning is banned when the fire index is at the extreme level and caution should be used when the fire index is at the very high level. To check the current fire index, visit http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/total_forecast/getprod.php?wfo=tfx&pil=FWF&sid=tfx
Does the FD assist in car seat installations?
Yes, Each shift has firefighters that are certified in car seat installation and who can assist in education and installing your car seats correctly. Your welcome to stop by any station although scheduling a time helps ensure someone is available. We also offer a car seat clinic at Bozeman fire station 1 on the second Thursday of each month from 10am to 2pm, your child's safety is important to our firefighters so please stop by for assistance. To schedule a car seat installation please call Fire Station 1 at 406-582-2350 (Mon.-Fri. 8-5) You can also contact Child Care Connections for assistance: Child Care Connections Inc
How do I become a Bozeman fire fighter?
Thank you for your interest in employment with the City of Bozeman Fire Department! The Bozeman Fire Department is a 100% career department and a member of the Montana Firefighter Testing Consortium; therefore, our recruitment and selection of entry-level firefighters is based on the eligibility list created each year from the consortium testing process. More information about the process visit: http://www.montanacareerfirefighterjobs.net/ Again thanks for your interest in the Bozeman Fire Department.
Each of the participating Fire Departments requires the candidates to have a valid driver's license, a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent certification, and to be at least 18 years of age to apply. The City of Bozeman Fire Department also requires “applicants for employment” to be certified as an EMT-Basic with the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians at time of hire.
After the completion of the testing procedure, candidates may be contacted by participating Fire Departments who may require that additional information be provided by each applicant.
The individual Fire Departments may choose to limit the number of candidates invited to participate in their hiring process.
The deadline for the 2010 testing process was February, 2010. The Consortium does not accept late registrations or establish a "waiting list." By March 2010, Candidates who submitted registrations were mailed additional information regarding the 2010 testing process, which was in June, 2010 on the Montana State University Campus in Bozeman, Montana.
For further questions please contact:
Human Resource Dept. City of Bozeman 406-582-2367
The Montana Firefighter Testing Consortium's 2010 testing was held in June of 2010. Next test will be June 2011 with tentative registration late (Nov.) 2010, and closed early (Feb.) 2011
How do I become an EMT?
Bozeman Fire does not offer an Emergency Medical Technician course although locally Montana State University Extension Service offers one. If your not local to Bozeman you should contact your local Community College or Technical College for available classes.
How do I purchase a burn permit?
Permits can now be purchased and activated online at www.burnpermits.mt.gov using a debit/credit card or e-check you can also activate a permit via an automated phone line at 1-877-306-BURN (2876). Permits can still also be purchased at Bozeman Fire Station 1 located at 34 North Rouse Monday-Friday 8-5. If you have questions and would like to speak to a Bozeman Fire official please contact us at 406-582-2350 during normal business hours listed above.
I own a vacant structure that needs to be demolished. Can the Fire Department use it for training?
Possibly. The Fire Department does use vacant structures to conduct training. From a single-family residence to large commercial structures, these buildings provide excellent training opportunities for Firefighters. For more information contact the Bozeman Fire Department Training Division at 406-582-2350.
Is it important to maintain my chimney? YES
"Chimneys really decorate the roofline of a home… and they’re maintenance–free, besides. Right?"
WRONG!
Your chimney–and the flue that lines it–may add architectural interest to your home, but their real function is to carry dangerous fireplace, wood stove or furnace* gases and smoke safely out of your home. A chimney helps your household air stay breathable…just as your windows and your bathroom, attic and kitchen vents do. Unlike those other exhaust points in your home, however, fireplace and wood stove chimneys need a special kind of care.
As you snuggle in front of a cozy fire or bask in the warmth of your wood stove, you are taking part in a ritual of comfort and enjoyment handed down though the centuries. The last thing you are likely to be thinking about is the condition of your chimney. However, if you don’t give some thought to it before you light those winter fires, your enjoyment may be very short-lived. Why? Dirty chimneys can be a fire hazard. Chimney fires can damage structures, destroy homes and injure or kill people.
No One Welcomes a Chimney Fire A chimney fire in action can be impressive. It has been described variously as creating: . loud cracking and popping noise . a lot of dense smoke, and . an intense, hot smellChimney fires can burn explosively – noisy and dramatic enough to be detected by neighbors or people passing by. Flames or dense smoke may shoot from the top of the chimney. Homeowners report being startled by a low rumbling sound that reminds them of a freight train or a low flying airplane. However, those are only the chimney fires you know about. Slow-burning chimney fires don’t get enough air or have fuel to be dramatic or visible. But, the temperatures they reach are very high and can cause as much damage to the chimney structure – and nearby combustible parts of the house – as their more spectacular cousins. With proper chimney system care, chimney fires are entirely preventable.
Creosote & Chimney Fires: What You Must Know Fireplaces and wood stoves are designed to safely contain wood-fuel fires, while providing heat for a home. The chimneys that serve them have the job of expelling the byproducts of combustion – the substances produced when wood burns. These include smoke, water vapor, gases, unburned wood particles, hydrocarbon volatile, tar fog and assorted minerals. As these substances exit the fireplace or wood stove, and flow up into the relatively cooler chimney, condensation occurs. The resulting residue that sticks to the inner walls of the chimney is called creosote. Creosote is black or brown in appearance. It can be crusty and flaky…tar-like, drippy and sticky…or shiny and hardened. Often, all forms will occur in one chimney system. Whatever form it takes, creosote is highly combustible. If it builds up in sufficient quantities – and catches fire inside the chimney flue instead of the firebox of the fireplace or wood stove – the result will be a chimney fire. Although any amount of creosote can burn, sweeps are concerned when creosote builds up in sufficient quantities to sustain a long, hot, destructive chimney fire. Certain conditions encourage the buildup of creosote. Simply put, restricted air supply, unseasoned wood and cooler-than normal chimney temperatures are all factors that can accelerate the buildup of creosote on chimney flue walls. Air supplies on fireplaces may be restricted by closed glass doors or by failure to open the damper wide enough to move heated smoke up the chimney rapidly (the longer the smoke’s "residence time" in the flue, the more likely is it that creosote will form). A wood stove’s air supply can be limited by closing down the stove damper or air inlets too soon and too much, and by improperly using the stovepipe damper to restrict air movement. Burning unseasoned wood – because so much energy is used initially just to drive off the water trapped in the cells of the logs– keeps the resulting smoke cooler, as it moves through the system, than if dried seasoned wood is used. In the case of wood stoves, fully packed loads of wood (that give large cool fires and 8 or 10 hour burn times) also contribute to creosote buildup. Cool flue temperatures speed creosote production, too. Condensation of the unburned byproducts of combustion occurs more rapidly in an exterior chimney, for example, than in a chimney that runs through the center of a house and exposes only the upper reaches of the flue to the elements. How Chimney Fires Hurt Chimneys Masonry Chimneys. When chimney fires occur in masonry chimneys – whether the flues are an older, unlined type or are tile lined to meet current safety codes – the high temperatures at which they burn (around 2000°F) can "melt mortar, crack tiles, cause liners to collapse and damage the outer masonry material". Most often, tiles crack and mortar is displaced, which provides a pathway for flames to reach the combustible wood frame of the house. One chimney fire may not harm a home. A second can burn it down. Pre-fabricated, factory-built, metal chimneys. To be installed in most jurisdictions in the United States, factory built, metal chimneys that are designed to vent wood burning stoves or pre-fabricated metal fireplaces must pass special tests determined by Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL). Most tests require the chimney to withstand flue temperatures up to 2100°F – without sustaining damage. Under chimney fire conditions, damage to these systems still may occur. When pre-fabricated, factory-built metal chimneys are damaged by a chimney fire, they should no longer be used and must be replaced. Special Effects on Wood Stoves Wood stoves are made to contain hot fires. The connector pipes that run from the stove to the chimney are another matter. They cannot withstand the high temperatures produced during a chimney fire and can warp, buckle and even separate from the vibrations created by air turbulence during a fire. If damaged by a chimney fire, they must be replaced. Nine Signs that You’ve Had a Chimney Fire Since chimney fires can occur without anyone being aware of them…and since damage from such fires can endanger a home and its occupants, how do you tell if you’ve experienced a chimney fire? Here are the signs a professional chimney sweep looks for: . "puffy" creosote, with rainbow colored streaks, that has expanded beyond creosote’s normal form. . Warped metal of the damper, metal smoke chamber connector pipe or factory-built metal chimney . Cracked or collapsed flue tiles, or tiles with large chunks missing . Discolored and/or distorted rain cap . Heat-damaged TV antenna attached to the chimney . Creosote flakes and pieces found on the roof or ground . Roofing material damaged from hot creosote . Cracks in exterior masonry . Evidence of smoke escaping through mortar joints of masonry or tile liners If you think a chimney fire has occurred, call a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep for a professional evaluation. If your suspicions are confirmed, a certified sweep will be able to make recommendations about how to bring the system back into compliance with safety standards. Depending on the situation, you might need a few flue tiles replaced, a relining system installed or an entire chimney rebuilt. Each situation is unique and will dictate its own solution. Proper Maintenance Clean chimneys don’t catch fire. Make sure a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep inspects your solid fuel venting system annually, and cleans and repairs it whenever needed. Your sweep may have other maintenance recommendations depending on how you use your fireplace or stove. CSIA recommends that you call on certified chimney sweeps, since they are regularly tested on their understanding of the complexities of chimney and venting system.CSIA & Certified Chimney Sweeps The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) is a non-profit educational foundation that has established the only nationally recognized certification and accreditation program for chimney sweeps in the United States. The program was developed in keeping with the CSIA's commitment to the safety of chimney and venting systems and to the elimination of residential chimney fires, carbon monoxide intrusion and other chimney and vent-related safety hazards. The CSIA devotes its resources to educating the public, chimney service professionals and other fire prevention specialists, and the insurance industry about the prevention and correction of chimney and venting system hazards. Ways to Keep the Fire You Want…from Starting One You Don’t! Chimney fires don’t have to happen. Here are some ways to avoid them. . Use seasoned woods only (dryness is more important than hard wood versus soft wood considerations . Build smaller, hotter fires that burn more completely and produce less smoke . Never burn cardboard boxes, wrapping paper, trash or Christmas trees; these can spark a chimney fire . Install stovepipe thermometers to help monitor flue temperatures where wood stoves are in use, so you can adjust burning practices as needed . Inspect and clean catalytic combustors on a regular basis, where applicable What to Do if You Have a Chimney Fire If you realize a chimney fire is occurring, follow these steps: - Get everyone out of the house, including yourself - Call the fire department.If you can do so without risk to yourself, these additional steps may help save your home. Remember, however, that homes are replaceable, lives are not: - Put a chimney fire extinguisher into the fireplace or wood stove . Close the glass doors on the fireplace . Close the inlets on the wood stove . Use a garden hose to spray down the roof (not the chimney) so the fire won’t spread to the rest of the structure. Once it’s over, call a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep to inspect for damage. Chimney fire damage and repair normally is covered by homeowner insurance policies.
information from: Chimney Safety Institute of America
Is there a conference room available to use?
With the addition of Station 3 located at 1705 Vaquero Lane, (Next to the Dino Park) we now offer a medium sized conference room with seating for upto 18 people. The conference room includes; tables, chairs, white board, projector screen (no projector), sink, vending machines, and bathrooms. To reserve this room please contact the fire department administrative office by calling 406-582-2350 during normal business hours (Mon-Fri. 8-5).
Smoke Detectors
What is the difference between smoke alarms and smoke detectors? Smoke alarms are defined as self-contained, single or multiple-station smoke-sensing devices (used most often in residential applications) that may be wired to operate in conjunction with each other, but are not part of a central system. Smoke detectors are defined as smoke-sensing devices that are not self-contained, but are hooked to a central control system (generally but not exclusively used in commercial buildings).
What is the difference between an ionization alarm and a photoelectric alarm? Ionization smoke alarms contain material that ionizes the air, making an electrical path. When products of combustion enter the device, the molecules attach themselves to the ions. The change in electric current flow triggers the alarm. Photoelectric alarms contain a light source and photocell, which is activated by light. Light from the bulb reflects off the smoke particles and is directed towards the photocell. The photocell is then activated to trigger the alarm. When properly installed and maintained, both types of alarms will save lives.
Where must alarms be installed in an apartment? Apartments are required to have smoke alarms, per the building code, at the time of construction. The minimum requirements are that smoke alarms must be installed outside the sleeping area, such as in a hallway. If the apartment has more than one level a smoke alarm must be installed on each level. Bozeman Fire also recommends adding smoke alarms to each bedroom for additional protection.
Where must alarms be installed in a single family home? Single family dwellings are required to have smoke alarms, per the building code, at the time of construction. The minimum requirements are that smoke alarms must be installed outside the sleeping area, such as in a hallway. If the home has more than one level a smoke alarm must be installed on each level. Bozeman Fire recommends adding smoke alarms to each bedroom for additional protection.
How should smoke alarms be installed? Smoke and deadly gases are hot, so they rise toward the ceiling. That's where alarms should be - on the ceiling at least four inches from the nearest wall or high on a wall, 4 to 12 inches from the ceiling. For more specific information, see the manufacturer's instructions or contact your local fire department for specifics.
Where shouldn't smoke alarms be placed? Smoke alarms should not be installed in kitchens, bathrooms, garages or unheated areas because moisture, frost, cooking vapors and exhaust fumes could cause the unit to sound a false alarm.
I have hard-wired alarms; do they need to have a long-life battery back up? No. Only smoke alarms that are solely battery operated need to have a long-life battery. Bozeman Fire recommends using long-life batteries in all smoke alarms for enhanced reliability.
How do I maintain my smoke alarms? Smoke alarms have a limited life span. Alarms that are older than ten years should be replaced....a manufacture date stamp should be on the back of the alarm. Test smoke alarms monthly as well vacuum your alarms monthly to remove dust and cobwebs. If you have photoelectric alarms, replace the batteries with long-life batteries for enhanced reliability.
What should I look for when purchasing an alarm? Look for an alarm that has a hush feature, a malfunction signal, a loud alarm and if it is solely battery operated, a long-life battery. Only purchase an alarm that has been tested by a independent laboratory such as the Underwriter's Laboratories (it will have a UL® symbol on it).
Proper Disposal of Smoke Alarms
The most common type of smoke alarm is an ionization alarm, which contains a very small amount of Americium 241, a synthetic isotope which emits both alpha and gamma rays. The Americium is shielded by a metal chamber within the plastic casing of the alarm. On your wall, this material poses little threat; however, when an alarm is broken open in an incinerator or a landfill, it can present a health hazard. For this reason, the law requires that all smoke alarms be labeled as containing radioactive content.
There are two ways to dispose of your smoke alarm:
The Fire alarm in my building may sound for long periods and nothing happens
The fire alarm system in your apartment building may not be monitored and may not automatically notify the emergency dispatch center. In case the alarms go off, immediatly leave the building and call 911 from a neighboring building or from your cell phone. Tell the 911 dispatcher your name, the location of the emergency and what the emergency is.
Also, the fire doors in your building are there to save your life. They keep fire in a hallway or another floor from getting into your apartment. Your building’s stairway and your hallway are like chimneys in a fire, the fire will travel from one floor to another unless the fire doors, stairway and hallway doors on your floor are closed. The next time you see a fire door propped open, close it. The life you save may be yours!
What is the ISO rating for Bozeman Fire?
The Bozeman Fire Department recently received word from the Insurance Services Office (ISO) that our Public Protection Classification Program (PPC) rating has changed to 3. On December 1, 2011 this will take affect and residents and businesses will enjoy a significantly improved fire insurance rating and possible change in insurance premiums.
Communities that choose to improve their fire protection based upon the ISO rating schedule will benefit from lower insurance premiums. ISO rates an area on a scale of 1 through 10. An ISO rating of 1 is the best (less than 45 in the country). An ISO rating of 10 is equivalent to not having any fire protection. If a fire department has not been rated by ISO, they have the equivalent of a 10 rating.
The Fire Suppression Rating Schedule (FSRS) is the manual ISO uses in reviewing the fire-fighting capabilities of individual communities. The schedule measures the major elements of a community's fire-suppression system and develops a numerical grading called a Public Protection Classification (PPCTM). Here's how it works:
Fire alarms Ten percent of the overall grading is based on how well the fire department receives fire alarms and dispatches its fire-fighting resources. Our field representatives evaluate the communications center, looking at the number of operators at the center; the telephone service, including the number of telephone lines coming into the center; and the listing of emergency numbers in the telephone book. Field representatives also look at the dispatch circuits and how the center notifies firefighters about the location of the emergency.
Engine companies Fifty percent of the overall grading is based on the number of engine companies and the amount of water a community needs to fight a fire. ISO reviews the distribution of fire companies throughout the area and checks that the fire department tests its pumps regularly and inventories each engine company's nozzles, hoses, breathing apparatus, and other equipment.
ISO also reviews the fire-company records to determine:
type and extent of training provided to fire-company personnel
number of people who participate in training
firefighter response to emergencies
maintenance and testing of the fire department's equipment
Water supply Forty percent of the grading is based on the community's water supply. This part of the survey focuses on whether the community has sufficient water supply for fire suppression beyond daily maximum consumption. ISO surveys all components of the water supply system, including pumps, storage, and filtration. To determine the rate of flow the water mains provide, we observe fire-flow tests at representative locations in the community. Finally, we evaluate the distribution of fire hydrants.
For more information . . . . . . on the Fire Suppression Rating Schedule, contact ISO. You can also call them at 1-800-444-4554.
Who should I contact to arrange a station tour?
Tour Your Local Fire Station!
Tours of your Bozeman fire station are available upon request for all ages although 5 and over is preferred. Station tours last approximately 20-45 minutes and include viewing the firehouse, the fire engine and fire fighting equipment, as well as talking to the firefighters about their job and fire safety.
Why do I occasionally see Firefighters on Bicycles?
The EMS bike team, staffed by 2 firefighters, is part of a progressive program that operates under Bozeman Fire. The bikes allow a quick response to basic and advanced life support needs at larger functions where access of a fire engine co. or ambulance may be difficult. Thanks to Bozeman Lions Club and Owenhouse Ace Hardware for their support of this program and donations of the equipment.