Frequently Asked Questions2020-02-11T17:17:00+00:00
Can I get a patch from the Central County Fire Department?2019-11-20T19:20:27+00:00

The Central County Fire Department does not take requests for patches at this time.

How do I schedule a station visit or community service event?2019-11-20T19:20:55+00:00

By calling Fire Department Admin at 650-558-7600

I am having an issue regarding an animal rescue, who should I call?2019-11-20T19:21:22+00:00

Peninsula Humane Society at 650-340-8200

http://www.peninsulahumanesociety.org

Can I dispose of unused medications to the Fire Department?2019-11-20T19:21:51+00:00

No , Medications can be dropped off to the disposal box at the Burlingame Police Department at 1111 Trousdale Drive, Burlingame.

Do I need a CO (carbon monoxide detector)?2019-11-20T19:28:27+00:00

The California Health & Safety Code requires carbon monoxide detectors be installed in all existing family dwelling units since July 1, 2011 and in all other dwelling units by January 1, 2013.

Do you offer CPR and First Aid Classes?2020-04-23T17:22:12+00:00

Yes.  Please visit our CPR/AED page and browse our upcoming classes or call Fire Administration at 650-558-7600.

How can I get my extinguisher serviced?2019-11-20T19:30:15+00:00

The Central County Fire Department does not service fire extinguishers.  Please find a professional fire extinguisher service company in the Yellow Pages under “Fire Extinguisher”

How do I dispose of an old Fire Extinguisher or other household hazardous waste ( like paint, cleaning chemicals, insecticide, etc.)?2019-11-20T19:33:21+00:00

Please call the San Mateo County Household Hazardous Waste Program at (650) 372-6200.

More info at: www.smchealth.org/hhw

How do I draw up an escape plan for my home or business?2019-11-20T19:35:34+00:00

The four steps include:

  • Draw a floor plan of your home
  • Agree on a meeting place
  • Practice your escape plan
  • Make your exit drill realistic

More info can be found at : http://www.nfpa.org

How many smoke detectors should I have and where should they be placed?2019-11-20T19:41:35+00:00

At least one smoke detector on every floor, including the basement, and one in every bedroom.

How often should I check my smoke detectors’ batteries?2019-11-20T19:42:08+00:00

Make sure you change the batteries in your smoke detectors once a year.  An easy way to remember to change your batteries is when you turn your clock back in the fall.  In the meantime, press the button on your smoke detector to make sure it works at least once a month.  If at any time your smoke detector begins to “chirp” consistently, this is a signal that your battery needs to be change.

Does the Central County Fire Department install car seats?2019-11-20T19:42:28+00:00

Yes, by appointment only. Appointments can be scheduled by calling Fire Department Admin at 650-558-7600.

Is there a difference between a fire engine and fire truck?2019-11-20T19:42:46+00:00

Yes.  A fire engine has a hose, a water tank, a pump, and a small assortment of ladders.  A fire truck usually does not have a pump, hose, or water tank, but has a tall ladder fixed to the truck and over 100 feet of portable ladders along with additional equipment.

What are your hours of operation?2019-11-20T19:43:08+00:00

Fire Stations are always open for service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. The Administrative offices are open from 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday through Thursday, and on Friday 8:00am to Noon.

What are the fees charged by the fire department?2019-11-20T19:44:20+00:00

For a list of fees please visit our fees schedule

Do you have a volunteer or intern program?2020-11-20T00:28:50+00:00

Yes, send resumes to internprogram@ccfd.org

How do I report a broken or leaking fire hydrant?2019-11-20T19:45:19+00:00

Contact California Water Service at (650) 558-7800.

What is the best type of fire extinguisher for home use?2019-11-20T19:45:36+00:00

Look for a multi-purpose extinguisher.  The rating label will have an ABC rating.  This extinguisher can be used on most household fires.

What should I do if I smell smoke, smell a chemical release, or witness a medical emergency?2019-11-20T19:45:52+00:00

Call 911

What are some steps I can take to protect my family or property from the ravages of fire?2019-11-20T19:46:43+00:00
  1. Install smoke detectors inside each bedroom, in the corridor or hallway area serving the bedrooms, and at the top of each stairwell, if your residence is not already so equipped.
  2. Regularly test your smoke detector(s) to ensure their proper operability.
  3. Install a 2A/10BC portable fire extinguisher to combat small fires involving ordinary combustibles, flammable/combustible liquids, and energized electrical equipment. The preferable location to mount portable fire extinguishers is on a wall, 3.5 to 5 feet above the surface of the floor, near an exit or escape route.
  4. Clear combustible vegetation 30 feet to 100 feet away from your residence or to the property line, whichever is closest.
  5. Develop and practice an emergency escape plan involving all the occupants of your residence.
  6. Ensure that ordinary and/or special fire hazards don’t exist on your property.
I’m selling my house what am I required to do?2019-11-20T19:47:07+00:00

As the seller of a property at a minimum you should have the following complete prior to transfer of property:

  • At least one smoke alarm at each level/story located outside the bedrooms is required. The CCFD recommends one smoke alarm each level/story, one every bedroom, and interconnected so when one alarms they all sound an alarm.
  • Carbon monoxide detectors are required in every home which uses gas appliances (ie: heater, water heater, dryer, etc.) and should be located outside sleeping areas. Check with the building department of your city to verify exact requirements.
  • Chimney’s that can burn solid fuel shall be equipped with spark arrestors.
Can I have a fire pit in my back yard?2019-11-20T19:47:55+00:00

Portable outdoor fireplaces equipped with flame screens are permissible in backyards of single family dwellings without restriction. In multiple family dwellings, portable outdoor fireplaces equipped with flame screens shall not be utilized within 15 feet of structures or combustible material.

Please see our Fire Pit Requirements

I want to buy a fire extinguisher for my house, what type should I get?2019-11-20T19:48:16+00:00

A five pound (5lb.) extinguisher rated at a minimum of 2A10BC is sufficient.

I have to buy a fire extinguisher for my business what type should I get and how many?2019-11-20T19:48:34+00:00

Provide one (5lb) extinguisher, classification of 2A10BC minimum, for every 3,000 square feet of area.

…where should I put them?2019-11-20T19:48:52+00:00

As required by the Fire Chief, extinguisher(s) shall be mounted upright between 30-60 inches above floor at the point(s) of egress, serviced annually with current service tag attached.

My fire sprinkler is due for service, how can I get this done?2019-11-20T19:49:12+00:00

Commercial and large residential fire sprinklers require servicing every five years. Service has to be conducted by a contractor licensed by the Office of the California State Fire Marshal. When shopping for a contractor, request to see proof of current license.

Where can I use fireworks locally?2019-11-20T19:49:28+00:00

Fireworks are not permitted in communities served by the Central County Fire Department. We suggest you check the local papers for firework displays held throughout the Bay Area.

How Do I Apply For A Position With CCFD?2019-11-23T01:12:33+00:00

CCFD will post the job openings on CalOpps, our website, and social media. CCFD uses the Firefighter Candidate-Testing Center (FCTC) to establish an eligibility list.  Candidates must meet the minimum requirements for the position and be on the FCTC eligibility list. CCFD will send out invitations to eligible candidates after determining the minimum passing score of the FCTC written exam.

How Long Will I Remain On The Eligibility List2019-11-23T01:13:11+00:00

Individuals that move through the process to the Chief’s interview will be put on an eligibility list. The list will last 12-24 months at the Chief’s discretion.

How Will I Know If I’m Being Considered?2019-11-23T01:14:11+00:00

Candidates being considered for the position will be notified by email and/or mail.

Can I Do Station Visits While Preparing For My Interview?2019-11-23T01:15:15+00:00

Once candidates are notified they are advancing in the process, they are provided the rules and regulations of station visits.  We encourage candidates to visit stations, but please understand that crews are not always going to be available due to operational needs.

What Is The Screening Process?2019-11-23T01:16:31+00:00

Our screening process is explained under our minimum requirement information.

What Is Considered An Accredited Academy?2019-11-23T01:17:04+00:00

Click here to view all the Accredited Academies in the state

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