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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many stations does Western Lane Fire and EMS Authority have?

A: There are seven active fire stations and one logistics warehouse station for Siuslaw Valley Fire and one ambulance station for Western Lane Ambulance District:

• Station #1 is our Central Station at 2625 Highway 101
• Station #2 is our Ambulance station at 410 9th Street
• Station #3 is our Old Town Station located at 243 Laurel Street
• Station #4 is our Sutton Station located at 88973 Sutton Road
• Station #5 is our Canary Station located at 06955 Canary Road
• Station #6 is our North Fork Station located at 09181 North Fork Road
• Station #7 is our Logistics Warehouse located at 3251 Oak Street
• Station #8 is our Clear Lake Station located at 83345 Clear Lake Road

Q: Is burning allowed within the City of Florence?

A: By City Ordinance, there is no brush burning within the City Limits, exception are warming or a cooking fire using dry split wood in a firepit.

Q: Is brush burning allowed outside the City of Florence?

A: Yes, but it is during non-fire season and is regulated by both the Lane Regional Air Protection Agency and the Oregon Department of Forestry. If you wish to burn your yard clippings (no household trash, tires, etc.), you must call the 24-hour Outdoor Burning Advisory line at 541-997-1757 and apply for a burn permit on this site.

Q: Is a campfire (warming or cooking) allowed on the beaches?

A: Yes, small, in wet sand away from driftwood with split wood and regulated by ODF during fire season.

Q. Is there someone that can assist with problems with our smoke alarm?

A. Yes, call for the Fire Marshal at 541-997-3212.

Q: Are our fire stations staffed by career firefighters 24 hours a day?

A: We staff our Central Fire Station (on Hwy 101) 24/7 and augment with volunteer firefighters as needed.

Q: What do the career firefighters do during their work day while they are waiting for an emergency call?

A: Our career firefighters move from station to station and perform the majority of fire station and apparatus maintenance, hopefully saving the taxpayers money in maintenance costs.

Q: How do you become a volunteer firefighter?

A: It is best to stop by our Central Fire Station on 2625 Hwy 101 during normal working hours and pick up an application package. There is also an application that can be downloaded from this website.

Q: What is the process to become a volunteer firefighter?

A: There are several steps before one can be considered a firefighter:

•  An interview is scheduled with a Chief Training Officer
• After a successful interview, a criminal background, drug test, and DMV report is done
• A list of potential volunteers is established
• Volunteers attend an entry-level volunteer firefighter academy which takes place at least once a year
• Upon completion of the entry level academy, volunteer firefighters are assigned to the appropriate fire station and can then go out on all calls and participate in the weekly drill programs that provide training to meet national standards

Q: What are the participation requirements of a volunteer firefighter?

A: Our requirements are the same as the State of Oregon; sixty (60) hours annually.

Q: What radio frequencies does Siuslaw Valley Fire use?

A: To receive our radio frequency, program your scanner to 155.265.

Q: What should one do if they are concerned about their child’s relationship with fire?

A: You should call the Central Station at 541-997-3212 and ask for the fire marshal for information on Juvenile Fire Setting Counseling.

Q. Does the fire district service fire extinguishers?

A: No, there are local companies that service fire extinguishers in the phone book.

Q. Does the fire district perform C.P.R. classes?

A. CPR classes are provided by Western Lane Ambulance District on the 2nd Saturday of the month at the central fire station training room; to pre-register, call 541-997-9614.

Q. Does the fire district perform any disaster preparation classes?

A: Yes, call the Fire Department at 541-997-3212 to be put on the list for CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) training, Are You Ready training, or Map Your Neighborhood training.

HOME FIRE SAFETY

Electrical Fires

Home computers, big screen TVs, game players, DVD players, answering machines, printers, surround-sound entertainment centers -just a few of the new electronic devices found in homes throughout Oregon. Each year, Oregonians are adding more and more electrical appliances, which is great if your home can handle it. But what if it can’t? Short circuits, overloaded outlets and other forms of electrical failure can start a fire. Below are some tips on how to lessen the possibility of an electrical fire in your home.

Safety Tips

• Check electrical cords for signs of cracking and fraying. Replace cords showing signs of wear.
• Avoid using extension cords. If you must use an extension cord, use one that is the appropriate size for the appliance.
• Don’t cover electrical cords with rugs, carpets, furniture or other materials. Don’t drape electrical cords over hooks or nails.
• Avoid overloading circuits. In the kitchen, for example, plug appliances like toasters and coffee makers into separate outlets.
• If any electrical appliance smokes or smells, unplug it immediately. Don’t use it again until it’s been checked and repaired.
• Use only the right size fuses in your fuse box.
• If an appliance has a three-prong plug, use it only in a three slot outlet.
• If you experience frequent problems with dimming lights and blown fuses, have a licensed electrician check the wiring.

Apartment Fire Safety

Fire Inspection Tips

Fire Inspection Tips for Apartment Managers and Owners

This document is designed as a general fire prevention guide for apartment managers and owners. It covers areas of the Oregon Uniform Fire Code, statutes and state building code that apply to apartments. Some local areas may have additional requirements for apartments. Contact your local fire department for more information.

Fire Alarm and Sprinkler Systems

Apartment managers and/or owners are responsible for maintaining, testing and arranging for inspection of fire alarm and sprinkler systems. Manufacturer’s instructions should be used as a guideline for testing and maintenance. Apartment managers and/or owners are also responsible for keeping records of testing, maintenance and inspection of fire alarm and sprinkler systems. Records should be kept readily accessible.

Single Station Smoke Alarms

Effective January 1, 2002, all ionization smoke alarms must have a “hush feature” which allows the occupant to silence it for a period of not more than 15 minutes. All solely battery powered ionization smoke alarms must have a ten-year battery. If the ionization alarms are 110 v (hard-wired) and include a battery back-up feature, they are not required to have a ten-year battery. Photoelectric smoke alarms do not need to meet these requirements. Apartments are required to have smoke alarms as per the building code at the time of construction. However, there are minimum requirements for all buildings. The minimum requirements are that smoke alarms must be installed outside the sleeping area, such as in a hallway. If the apartment has more than one level, a smoke alarm must be installed on each level. The Office of State Fire Marshal recommends adding smoke alarms in each bedroom for additional protection. A smoke alarm should not be installed in kitchens, bathroom, garages or unheated areas because moisture, frost, cooking vapors and exhaust fumes could cause the unit to sound a false alarm. Smoke and deadly gases are hot, so they rise toward the ceiling. Smoke alarms should be placed on the ceiling at least four inches from the nearest wall or high on a wall, four to 12 inches from the ceiling. Contact your local fire department for more specific information. The manager and tenant upon initial occupancy must test smoke alarms. After the initial testing, it is up to the tenant to maintain the alarm(s).

Exiting

Exit doors should be accessible at all times. Corridors and other escape routes need to be kept clear. Nothing should be stored in exit ways or under stairs.

Portable Fire Extinguishers

Portable fire extinguishers, when required, shall be installed in common areas and in plain view, in an accessible spot near escape routes. Travel distance to extinguishers shall be no more than 75 feet. Install extinguishers so that the top is no more than five feet above the floor. They shall be easy to reach and remove, and placed where they will not be damaged. Fire extinguishers need to be inspected regularly and periodically hydrostatically tested according to manufacturer’s instructions.

Extension cords

Extension cords shall not be used as permanent wiring. They should only be used with portable appliances and plugged directly into an approved receptacle, power tap or multi-plug adapter. All extension cords need to be in good condition without splices, deterioration or damage. They should be grounded when servicing grounded appliances. Extension cords should not be affixed to structures, extend through walls, ceilings, and floors or under doors or floor coverings. They should not be exposed to environmental or physical damage.

Laundry rooms

Laundry rooms need to be clean. Lint traps and vents should be cleaned regularly to prevent the accumulation of lint.

Switchboards and Panelboards

Make sure there is clear access to switchboards and panelboards; 30 inches of clearance is required.

Miscellaneous

Attics and boiler rooms shall not be used to store combustible items. Encourage all residents to have a fire escape plan and to practice it regularly. A good escape plan will list two ways out, show a meeting place and list emergency phone numbers.

Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal

A Division of Oregon State Police

4760 Portland Road NE
Salem, Oregon 97305

(503) 378-3473

Oregon State Fire Marshal Website

Winter Heating

Keep chimneys and fireplaces clean to avoid fires during winter heating

When winter season is here and more cold days on the way, Acting Oregon State Fire Marshal Randy Simpson reminds Oregonians any time is a good time to have chimneys, fireplaces and woodstoves inspected and cleaned. From 2003 through 2007 in Oregon there were 1,227 fireplace or woodstove-caused fires resulting in four deaths and nine injuries. During this same period there have been 1,368 electrical-caused fires with many related to portable heaters and other home heating equipment.

“Keeping your family warm should never result in tragedy, says Simpson.” If you haven’t already had your chimney, fireplace or woodstove inspected this season, don’t put it off until next year. Also, if you use portable room heaters make sure to give them space and keep them away from combustible materials.”

Oregonians can keep themselves safe by following these additional safety tips:

• Have chimneys, flues, fireplaces and woodstoves inspected and cleaned each year by a qualified chimney sweep. Ask them to check for creosote deposits, soot build-up and physical damage.
• Always use a fireplace screen. Make sure the screen is made of sturdy metal or heat-tempered glass to prevent sparks from escaping.
• Keep a clutter-free environment. Store kindling, fire logs and wood at least three feet from any heat source.
• Dispose of ashes in a metal container and place the container outdoors at least three feet from anything flammable. Ashes may retain heat for days after they appear out.
• When using portable heaters make sure they have an automatic tip-over switch and a high temperature limit switch. The tip-over switch turns the heater off if it’s knocked over. The high temperature limit switch regulates the heat, preventing the heater from getting too hot.
• Give heaters space. Put at least 36 inches of space between the heater and combustibles such as furniture, curtains, papers and people.
• Check the cord on portable electric heaters. If the cord gets hot or is frayed or cracked, have the heater serviced.
• Never use extension cords with portable electric heaters. It can overload the circuit and cause a fire.
• Unplug heaters when not in use and before going to bed.
• Be aware of electric baseboard or wall heaters. These heaters are thermostatically controlled and turn on without warning when temperatures drop. Keep combustibles at least three feet from these heaters as well.
• If using a propane-fueled heater, or other appliance make sure it is designed for indoor use. Follow all manufacturer’s instructions and make sure it is properly vented.
• Do not use any barbecue indoors.
• If you smell gas, do not operate any switches, appliances or thermostats. A spark from one of these could ignite the gas vapor. Get everyone outside and away from the building. Shut off the gas supply. Call your propane supplier from a neighbor’s phone.
• Only use kerosene heaters outdoors as they may emit poisonous fumes.
• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, outside each sleeping area and inside each bedroom.
• Test smoke alarms monthly.
• Vacuum regularly to remove dust and cobwebs.
• Never disconnect or remove smoke alarm batteries for other uses.
• Make a home escape plan and practice it with your whole family at least twice a year.

Smoke Alarms

As the rest of the nation chimes Change your clock; change your battery, Oregon smoke alarm law sings a different tune. Oregon Revised Statute 497.297 requires battery operated ionization-only alarms sold in Oregon to have a hush feature and a ten-year battery. Exempt from Oregon’s unique law are photoelectric only and combination photoelectric-ionization alarms with 9-volt batteries. Some styles of wireless and interconnected alarms are also exempt.

The Oregon Life Safety Team is working with the public to clarify Oregon’s complex law and the variety of alarms available. They are assisting retailers selling smoke alarms to ensure they sell alarms fitting Oregon law. They are also educating citizens on how to make sure they have a working smoke alarm and what to do when the alarm sounds.

“Forty percent of residential fire fatalities occur in homes without working smoke alarms,” explains State Fire Marshal Nancy Orr. “While we may set our clocks to spring forward and fall back, please check your smoke alarms monthly to ensure they are working.”

Our recommends all homes have working smoke alarms in hallways outside bedrooms, on every level and in every bedroom.

Citizens surviving recent fires in Boring, Salem, Clackamas and Charleston all attribute the early warning from working smoke alarms as their lifesaver. Local smoke alarm programs, many supported by citizens working with the fire departments, are contributing to these success stories. Firefighters, often accompanied by community members, canvass communities to ensure:

• Every residence has a working smoke alarm in the right place,
• Households know how to test alarms, and
• Everyone knows what to do to when there is a fire.

Oregonians die in fires when there is no working smoke alarm. Working smoke alarms increase chances of survival by 50 percent. For more information:

https://www.oregon.gov/OOHS/SFM/Smoke_Alarms_Home.shtml

Open Burning City Ordinance

Trash burning is not allowed within city limits. For more information call the Outdoor Burn Advisory line outside the city limits 997-1757.

LRAPA – (Lane Regional Air Protection Agency) for commercial, industrial, demolition or bond fires, please call 541-736-1056 (Toll Free 1-877-285-7272) to obtain burn permit.

BURNING REQUIREMENTS

• Attend the fire at all times
• Follow the daily start and stop burn times given on the Outdoor Burn Advisory recording
• Burn only dry, loosely stacked debris, free of dirt, rocks and other non-combustible materials
• Have water and tools available for controlling or extinguishing the fire

MATERIALS PROHIBITED FROM BEING BURNED INCLUDE

Garbage, Plastics, Wire Insulation, Asbestos Containing Material, Automobile Parts, Asphalt, Petroleum By-Products, Tires, Petroleum Treated Materials, Rubber Products, Animal Remains, Animal or Vegetable Matter Related to any Food Service or Preparation, or any other Material which normally omits Dense Smoke, Noxious Odors or Hazardous Air Contaminates.

Florence City Code Title 5

Amended by Ord. No 3, Series 2005

Section 5-4-1 DEFINITION

No person shall kindle, maintain or allow to be maintained, an outdoor fire, bonfire, rubbish fire, or garbage fire; nor shall any person kindle, maintain or allow to be maintained a fire for the purpose of burning grass, hay, straw, tree limbs and trimmings; nor shall any person maintain or allow to be maintained a fire for land clearing operation or commercial burning; nor shall any person, maintain or allow to be maintained any other type of open burning with the following exceptions:

A. Outdoor recreation fire used for cooking with fire in a fireplace, barbecue set; or an outdoor fire ring or pit fueled with cut and split firewood.

B. Recreation fire in an approved campsite in fire pits provided and fueled with cut and split firewood.

C. Fire set and maintained for fire fighting training or training fire protection personnel.

D. In cases of fire hazard that cannot in the judgment of the fire department be removed or disposed of in any other practical manner, a fire may be allowed by written permit only. Said permit is to be issued by the fire department.

Section 5-4-2 PENALTIES

A. Proceedings for violating of Section 5-4-1 of this Chapter shall be civil in nature, and a violation thereof shall be punishable by a fine not to exceed five hundred dollars. ($500.00)

B. Any person who shall violate any other provisions of this Chapter shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction thereof shall be punished by a fine not to exceed five hundred dollars ($500.00) or by imprisonment for not more that six (6) months, or both such fine and imprisonment. (Ord. 9, Series 1985.)

Outdoor Fire Safety