Bunker Gear: This is the protective garment that firefighters use to work when they are close to the fire. It is actually only flame resistant and not fireproof. The gear consists of: helmet, hood, coat, pants, boots, and gloves.
Thermal Imaging Camera: This a is camera that shows heat sources on a screen in different temperatures; this shows a "heat image." With this technology firefighters can find victims in smoky conditions very quickly. Also, it allows firefighters to find hidden fires in walls due to the fire's heat. Firefighters work in smoky conditions at every fire; this technology helps firefighters protect your life and property more effectively. Firefighters across the nation credit thermal imaging technology with saving many lives every year.
Ventilation Fan: This is a high powered fan that blows smoke out of a building so firefighters can see to do their work better as well as reduce smoke damage to the building.
Can Thermal Imaging Cameras "see" into anything? No. These cameras only read heat being radiated from objects that a person could actually see with their naked eye if there was no smoke. Actually, these cameras are especially hindered by water and glass; in fact, when attempting to "see" into a burning room through a window, a firefighter will only see his reflection in the glass.
When should I call the Fire Department? The Weir Volunteer Fire Department is available for any fire-related calls. Any fire that is out of control or is unwanted is reason to call 911. Fire Department personnel is also available to present Fire Prevention programs for children, seniors, and the public at large.
Are there any firefighters on duty at the station? The Weir Fire Department is a volunteer Fire Dpartment. The Fire Chief has an office in the station and is on duty from 8:00a.m. to 5:00p.m. (subject to change) on Monday through Wednesday; the Fire Chief files reports and maintains equipment while available for emergency calls.
What should I do to report a fire? DIAL 911 Clearly state your name, physical address, the emergency situation, and where the situation is located.
Does the Fire Department bill for its services? No. The Fire Department is financed through city taxes.
Why does dialling 911 on my cell phone send me to Crawford County Dispatch? Because Weir is closer to the cell towers in Crawford County than towers in Cherokee County it sends cell calls to Crawford County's 911 system.
How can my family tour the fire station? To schedule station tours contact the Fire Chief at 1-620-396-8472.
What is an ISO rating? This is a rating that insurance companies use to assess the ability of Fire Departments' response to fires; thus, this rating effects the insurance premium on your policy. Fire Departments are rated from 1 to 10 with 1 being best and 10 being worst. For more information check out www.isomitigation.com.
What is a Firefighter I Certification? This is a national standard for a level of firefighting ability; this certification is only achieved after both a written exam and practical exam. There are other levels as well, including but not limited to: Firefighter II, Officer I, Officer II, Instructor I, and Instructor II.
How can I become of firefighter with the Weir Volunteer Fire Department? The Weir Vol. Fire Dept. is always looking for energetic, civic-minded individuals to recruit! A request to be considered should be taken to the Fire Chief through mail, email, or phone. There will be a probationary period with training before becoming a firefighter.
How much does fire equipment cost? Firefighting is an extremely expensive business; just look at the numbers in this list:
Bunker Gear = $1,500 per firefighter
SCBAs = $4,500 each
New Commercial Pumper = $125,000 (base price) plus options and equipment
Thermal Imaging Camera = $8,000 +