Fire Department

 Fire Department Frequently Asked Questions

How can I schedule a safety talk or building tour for a group?
Please call the Stephenville Fire Department at (709) 643-8376.

When is Fire Prevention Week?
Each year, Fire Prevention Week takes place in early October. During Fire Prevention Week, the Fire Department do several community awareness events.

Do you perform residential home medical oxygen inspections?
Yes, residents can schedule a home medical oxygen inspection by calling the Stephenville Fire Department at (709) 643-8376. For a successful inspection, you will require a request from Western Health stating that you require a home medical oxygen inspection, a minimum 2 ½ pound ABC multi-purpose fire extinguisher, a smoke alarm in the immediate area of the oxygen and a no-smoking sign must be posted. Due to new fire safety codes, a smoke detector is required in all sleeping quarters.

Does the fire department fill swimming pools?
No, emergency response vehicles are not available to fill swimming pools.

Where should I store a fire extinguisher in my home?
Fire extinguishers should be placed in plain view, above the reach of children, near an escape route, and away from stoves and heating appliances.

What is the correct method for using a fire extinguisher?
The PASS method.

• Pulling the pin will allow you to squeeze the handle to discharge the fire extinguisher.

• Aim at the base of the fire – Aiming at the middle of the fire will not put it out. The extinguishing agent will pass through the flames.

• Squeeze the handle – This will release the pressurized extinguishing agent. Sweep from side to side

• Sweep the extinguisher nozzle or hose at the base of the fire, moving carefully from side to side. Continue until the fire is extinguished.

When the fire goes out, keep an eye on the area, and be prepared to repeat the process if the fire re-ignites. Remember, fire extinguishers are designed to put out small fires! Most portable fire extinguishers are designed to last about ten to eighteen seconds. If the fire becomes large, do not attempt to extinguish it. Get out. When exiting, close doors behind you to slow the spread of the fire. Call 9-1-1 from a safe place.

How can I dispose of an expired fire extinguisher?
For information on disposing of expired fire extinguishers, residents should contact such businesses as Newco Metal & Auto Recycling Ltd., SimplexGrinnell, and Total Coverage Fire Protection.

I am looking for more information on smoke alarms. Where do I place smoke alarms in a residential dwelling?
Smoke Alarms are a key part of a home fire escape plan. Fire and smoke can spread quickly, and a working alarm can give you an early warning so you can get out safely. The following safety tips can help keep your home and family safe:

• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom. They should also be outside of each sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement.

• Larger homes may need extra smoke alarms.

• Interconnected alarms are best; when one sounds, they all sound.

• Test smoke alarms monthly.

• Smoke alarms should be on the ceiling or high on a wall.

• People who are hard of hearing or deaf can use special alarms. The alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers.

• Alarms expire and should have a manufacturer's expiration date on them. But generally, they are good for 10 years.

Provincial regulations state that smoke alarms should be in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of the home, including the basement. Smoke alarms should be mounted on the ceiling or high on the wall, following the manufacturer’s instructions for installation. Avoid putting smoke alarms too close to bathrooms, windows, ceiling fans or cooking appliances

What is the expected lifespan of a new smoke alarm?
Most smoke alarms have a life span of 10 years, but some have as little as 5 years. It should be replaced at its expiry date even if it appears to be working fine. Most manufacturers will have the expected life span labelled on the back of the alarm. Remember, smoke alarms need testing. A good time to remember to do this is in the spring and fall with the time change.

When is a carbon monoxide detector required?
A carbon monoxide detector should be installed whenever fuel-burning appliances are used in the home, such as a propane fireplace, wood stove, kerosene heater, water boiler, fuel-fired dryer, etc.