FAQs • Russellville, AR • CivicEngage

Why do I see fire trucks go down the street with lights and sirens, then suddenly turn lights and sirens off and slow down?: Often several fire trucks are initially dispatched to an emergency incident. When a fire truck "shuts down" it's emergency response, most likely what has happened is the situation has been downgraded. The first unit may have arrived on scene, surveyed the situation, and informed the dispatcher that the situation is under control. At this time all other responding units are notified to disregard the call and are cancelled en route. Immediately slowing down, decreases the risk of a traffic accident.

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Fire Department

1. How do I obtain a fire report?: You can obtain a fire report by calling the Fire Administration Office at 479-968-2332 and speaking with the administrative assistant. A report will be prepared for you at a cost of $10.

2. How do I schedule a fire truck or firefighter at a function or a special event?: To schedule a truck or personnel for a function or event you can contact the fire administration office at 479-968-2332. You will be directed to the right person who will set up the schedule with you. All inquiries should be made no later than 2 weeks prior to the scheduled event.

3. How do I schedule a station tour?: To schedule a station tour you can contact the fire administration office at 479-968-2332. You will be directed to the right person who will set up the schedule with you or will contact you. All inquiries should be made no later than 2 weeks prior to the scheduled tour.

4. Will you check my blood pressure?: All Russellville firefighters are EMTs or Paramedics. You can go by any fire station and ask to have your blood pressure checked. If there is no one at the station, they will return shortly. Remember, high blood pressure is the silent killer.

5. Why do so many fire trucks respond to an emergency incident?: Fire units are dispatched by 911 according to the information they receive. When responding to a call such as a house fire, it must be assumed that the incident is serious. It is always easier to turn back incoming help, than it is to call for it when you need it and then have to wait on it. For the Russellville Fire Department, the first arriving engine company will "size-up" the scene. If they report that they can handle the incident themselves, they will then cancel other incoming units. An inadequate response could be detrimental to loss of life and property. This loss could be to you or your family.

6. I called for an ambulance, why did I also get a fire truck?: The fire truck and ambulance work together. The strategic placement of fire stations allows the closest engine company to quickly respond when a citizen is in need. Since firefighters are medically trained, it is sensible to send them on critical calls when time is a factor and quick attention is needed.

7. Is it necessary for fire trucks to block the street at an emergency incident?: During an emergency, streets may be blocked for a number of reasons including for the protection of the public, fire personnel and equipment, and victims. Fire trucks may be strategically placed at the emergency scene to access the emergency and protect the work area. Many firefighters and police officers have been struck and killed due to negligent drivers or unprotected scenes. It may also be necessary to lay fire hose across a street, whereas, vehicle traffic could damage the water supply and place firefighters and fire victims in danger.

8. Why do I see fire trucks go down the street with lights and sirens, then suddenly turn lights and sirens off and slow down?: Often several fire trucks are initially dispatched to an emergency incident. When a fire truck "shuts down" it's emergency response, most likely what has happened is the situation has been downgraded. The first unit may have arrived on scene, surveyed the situation, and informed the dispatcher that the situation is under control. At this time all other responding units are notified to disregard the call and are cancelled en route. Immediately slowing down, decreases the risk of a traffic accident.