Why do firefighters come to my business and get information?

This question has 2 answers. 

1: to become familiar with the layout, hazards, features, etc in the event of a fire, and
2: as part of the NCRRS, we have criteria we have to meet, referred to as Pre-Incident Surveys or Pre-plans. The information gathered is entered onto a "Data Sheet," and we also do a drawing of the area to show hazards, features, water supply, etc. This information is updated at least twice a year (or as needed - business change, contact information, etc) and is only used by Fire Department personnel via our mobile data computers. This information is obtained two ways: phone updates and site visits. During phone updates, CFD personnel identify themselves, give a contact number the business owner can contact for verification, and obtain specific site updates and contact information over the phone. If there are any structural changes (additions/demolitions), a site visit is required to update the drawing. During site visits, CFD personnel are required to be in a departmental uniform. If at any time a person states that they are with the fire department and are not in uniform and/or cannot show you their ID, contact 911 and request law enforcement. 

Note: Pre-incident surveys are only conducted at businesses and these "surveys" are not fire inspections. However, any life safety hazards or obvious violations are forwarded to the Fire Marshal. At no time will a firefighter request to "preplan" your private dwelling (residence).

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1. Why do fire trucks sometimes travel with their lights and siren on, and then all of a sudden turn them off?
2. My fire alarm went off and I contacted my alarm company and told them everything was OK and not to send the Fire Department and they still showed up, why?
3. Can I be fined for false fire alarms? What constitutes a false alarm?
4. Where can I get a copy of a fire report and is there a fee?
5. What do I do after a fire?
6. Can I burn my yard debris or trash in my yard?
7. I tried calling the non-emergency number but no one answered, why?
8. When I called 911, the person kept asking me a bunch of questions and all I needed was a fire truck. Why don’t they just send the fire truck?
9. What are the work hours of fire department personnel?
10. Aren’t firefighters wasting water when they open up a hydrant and just let it run? Why do they do that?
11. Why do firefighters come to my business and get information?
12. Is there a law that requires other vehicles to move out of the way for emergency vehicles?
13. Are fire trucks able to change traffic lights to green?
14. Why are fire trucks taken to the grocery store or restaurants?
15. How much does the gear and equipment the firefighters carry weigh?
16. How do I schedule a fire truck to come to my school, daycare, or other event?
17. Do the fire stations have a fire pole? If not, Why?
18. Do the fire trucks have water in them?
19. Does the fire department have a volunteer, junior or explorer program?