Frequently Asked Questions
Blue address signs are everywhere, where can I order one?
Forms for the blue address signs are available at the Business Office, 10020 SW Bank Rd. or you may download an order form by going to Public Information.
Where can I get my blood pressure checked?
Firefighters at 10020 SW Bank Rd would be happy to check your blood pressure between the hours of 8 am and 5 pm, if they are in the station.
Where can I take a CPR/First Aid Course?
VIFR offers many classes throughout the year. Contact the business office, 206.463.2405 or check for updates go to Public Information.
Where can I get my fire extinguisher tested or refilled?
Two times a year a representative will visit the station, for a small fee they will advise on whether an extinguisher should be filled, replaced or need further testing. Also available will be other preventive safety equipment for sale. Please check with the business office 206.463.2405 or website for their next scheduled visit.
Where can I get a copy of my fire report?
Call or visit VIFR’s business office, Monday thru Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm or go to public request to print a form.
Does Vashon Island Fire & Rescue accept volunteers?
The heart and soul of Vashon Island Fire & Rescue is our volunteer firefighting force. There are some basic eligibility requirements that must be met to volunteer. Some of these include: being 18 years of age, passing a drug screening test, meeting department physical fitness criteria, and performing satisfactorily in on-going training and responding to emergencies within the District.
To obtain an application, please contact Susan Wolf, 206.463.2405 or email swolf.@vifr.org.
Do you have a Youth (Explorer) Volunteer program?VIFR Explorer Post #2134, if you are between the ages of 15-21, and interested in the fire service, the VIFR Explorer Program is for you! For more information contact Karen Powers at 206.567.4531.
I am pregnant; do I need to register with the fire department?
No, unless it is a high-risk pregnancy. We will then take the information and pass it on to our dispatch center. When dispatch receives a call at that address the information will be noted and passed on.
How do I obtain a Priority/Preferential loading form for the ferries?
These forms are available to medical personnel only, (ie) Doctors, midwives, etc. The medical clinics on Vashon have the forms and will handle this procedure for their patients.
For individuals who either live or work on Vashon and do not have an on-island doctor, their doctor may receive a form from Washington State Ferries, 206.464.6400. This form will be mailed or faxed only to the doctor, it will not be sent to the patient.
Does VIFR get cats out of trees/telephone poles/off of roofs?
No, put an open can of tuna at the bottom of the tree/pole and wait for the cat to get down on its own.
We would like to rent the Firefighters' Association Building?
Contact Laura 206.463.7913, or email mae1331@comcast.net.
Do I need a burn permit?
YES, burn permits are required for all outdoor burning. To apply for a burn permit go to Burn Permits or stop by the business office M-F. Land Clearing Burn permits are only available from the business office.
How do I find out if there is a burn ban in effect?Outdoor burning and wood stove use are regulated by the King County Fire Marshal and Puget Sound Clean Air. Call Vashon Island Fire & Rescue’s burn line, 206.463.9495 or go to Burn Permits for updated information.
What is the Districts insurance classification?
Class 6 with “tanker credit” – on any structure or structured threatened bire, we automatically respond our tankers to shuttle water, if necessary to provide an uninterrupted supply of water. This would be very similar to having a hydrant in front of the fire. VIFR has four tankers (tenders), they range from 3000 to 3500 gallons and are stationed at different stations on the island.
How do I contact the King County Fire Marshal?
Website: www.metrokc.gov
Email: john.klopfenstein@metrokc.gov
Phone: 206.296.6675
Address: King County DDES - Fire Marshal
900 Oakdale Ave SW
Renton, WA 98055-1219
For more information, click on Public Information and Links.
Where can I find out more about family and personal prepardness?
Go to the following internet link:
http://emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_prepare_year.shtml
Why must you use lights and sirens?
Lights and sirens are necessary for the emergency vehicles to move quickly and safely through traffic. Emergency lights
are frequently left flashing at the scene by the first responders in order to provide direction to other responding personnel. If the call is determined to be less urgent, responders may travel in a non-emergency mode, moving with normal traffic.
Why do emergency apparatus use their red lights then turn them off? Are they just in a hurry to go somewhere?
Apparatus responding to calls are frequently cancelled, or the first arriving unit determines that the call is not an emergency and tells the units to respond in a non-emergency mode. Emergency lights and sirens are used when responding to a call, or if an apparatus creates a potential traffic hazard.
When an emergency vehicle is approaching while I’m driving,
should I always pull over to the right and stop?
State law and common sense dictate that vehicles yield to emergency vehicles that are operating with emergency lights and siren. Emergency vehicle drivers are taught to pass on the left, whenever possible.
When safe, slow down, pull over to the right and stop. However, there are circumstances where that may not be possible. Simply stay put until the emergency vehicle goes around. If you are blocking the route of the emergency vehicle and unable to pull ahead and over into a clear area, use your turn signal to indicate your intentions and proceed at a safe speed. Never slam on the brakes and stop in the middle of the road. If an emergency vehicle is approaching from the opposite direction, pull over and stop.
Do not tailgate, or follow a responding apparatus closely. Not only is this illegal, but run the risk of a collision, other vehicles maybe pulling back onto the roadway.
If I was trapped in a fire, would the fire department be able to rescue me?
This all depends on the individual and the fire protection features of the building. Relying on the expertise and resources of the firefighters to save you in a fire is risky at best. The best rescue is self rescue. Install smoke detectors and check them monthly. Have a fire escape plan that includes 2-ways out of each room/home and practice it! Learn what to do in the event of a fire, never reenter a burning building. Stay calm and do not panic. If trapped and know the fire department is on scene, make noise by
yelling, opening a window and dropping something out, or call
9-1-1 and inform the dispatcher of your location. Keep smoke and gases out of a room, stuff bedding or towels under the door. Do not hide under a bed or table. Stay near a window or doorway. Firefighters are taught to search under windows and doorways during rescue searches.
Why must so many people respond to my emergency?
The first responders are trained emergency technicians or first reponder who, because of their close proximity, usually arrive first and are able to render aid until the paramedics arrive. They then provide support to the paramedics while they care for the patient. This provides the quickest response possible and enough personnel to efficiently provide care and manage the scene. Think of it as an emergency room that makes house calls!
West Nile virus is it here in Washington?
YES, the West Nile Virus is circulating in mosquitoes and birds in King County and could infect people this summer and fall. The best way to protect yourself is by eliminating their breeding habitat and avoid being bitten. To learn more call the West Nile Virus hotline at 206.205.3883 or visit www.metrokc.gov/health/westnile.
Following an emergency or disaster, what should I do if I am unable to meet my basic needs?
Request help from the American Red Cross, Salvation Army and other charitable organizations. These agencies typically help individuals and families with necessities - such as food, medical assistance, shelter, cleanup, transportation and clothing. Emergency assistance through voluntary agencies is available to everyone affected by a disaster without regard to citizenship or other status.
