FAQ's

FQQ's About Calls

Why does a fire truck come when you call for an ambulance?

Because firefighters can and do get there first, and time is critical in a medical emergency. Many of the LeClaire firefighters are cross-trained in Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and all are CPR certified. What does that mean to you, a citizen phoning 911? When you dial 911 for a medical emergency, you can expect a LeClaire fire truck, a LeClaire police officer and a MEDIC Ambulance to respond. The expertise that they bring is truly lifesaving.

What other responsibilities do firefighters have other than fighting fires?

The LeClaire Fire Department is one of the busiest all volunteer departments in Scott County. Besides responding to fire and medical calls we also respond to hazardous materials releases, fire alarms and other calls for public assistance such as carbon monoxide alerts. Another large responsibility is the Mississippi River where we perform river rescues and help with disabled watercraft. Firefighters also spend much of their time maintaining equipment and training for all types of emergency responses.

Why do some of the members come in their private vehicles to a call?

Since all of our members are volunteers we do not stay at the station, so we are all responding from our homes or place of employment. If a member is going to be driving by the call location on the way to the station, it makes the most sense to go directly to the call and render aid as quickly as possible while other members are going to the station to pick up a fire truck. All of our medical personal carry a “jump bag” with basic medical equipment. Other times a member may not be available at the beginning of a call but then drives to the scene to assist the members already on scene, especially at large fire scenes.

Why do you block traffic lanes at auto accidents, sometimes more lanes than appear necessary?

We block traffic lanes for the safety of our personnel and our patients. Blocking extra lanes keep our personnel safe when they go back to our apparatus to get more equipment and help protect the victim we are trying to stabilize. Over 25 firefighters are killed or injured each year while working at incidents on streets and highways.

Why should I not drive over a firehose?

Firefighters are very concerned about running over firehoses because the hose can be damaged and any firefighter at the end of a nozzle will have the water interrupted and possibly cause injuries or death. Any hose that is driven over without protection has to be taken out of service and tested and if the damage is bad enough it must be thrown away.

General FAQ's

Why do I need to keep weeds and bushes away from fire hydrants on my
property?

Weeds and bushes should be kept three feet from fire hydrants for visibility and accessibility.

Can you get my cat out of a tree?

The Fire Department does not assist in rescuing animals. Citizens may contact Animal Control. The telephone number is (563) 388-6655.

What if I smell Gas in my home?

You will need to get out of the house and then call 9-1-1 for the Fire Department from outside of the house or from a neighbor’s house. The use of a phone could cause the gas to ignite if you called from inside the house.

What should I do when I see or hear an emergency vehicle coming towards me when I’m driving?

When it is safe to do so, you should pull over to the right and stop until all emergency vehicles have safely passed. If you are stopped at a red light and an emergency vehicle is approaching, you may safely move out of the way through the intersection if necessary. 

Does the Fire Department fill fire extinguishers?

The LeClaire Fire Department is not equipped to fill fire extinguishers. However, you can find local fire extinguisher businesses in the yellow pages to refill them.

How do I sign up for a CPR class?

Contact MEDIC EMS at 563-323-6806 www.medicems.com

Will the fire department bring a truck to our birthday party or block party?

Sorry but no. Again we are volunteers and it is difficult to ask a member to give up even more time away from their families to perform events like this.

FAQ's About Alarms and Detectors

My smoke detector is chirping, what does that mean?

Most modern smoke detectors will chirp to alert you the batteries are low, you should replace the batteries and test your smoke detector. Smoke detectors can be purchased at any hardware or large commercial department store.

How often should I change the batteries in my smoke detectors?

We recommend you change the batteries in your smoke detectors every 6 months, an easy way to remember is to change batteries when you reset your clock for daylight savings time.

Why Should My Home Have Smoke Alarms?

In the event of a fire, a smoke alarm can save your life and those of your loved ones. They are a very important means of preventing house and apartment fire fatalities by providing an early warning signal–so you and your family can escape. Smoke alarms are one of the best safety devices you can buy and install to protect yourself, your family, and your home.

Where Do I Put Smoke Alarms?

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement. Many fatal fires begin late at night or in the early morning. For extra safety, install smoke alarms both inside and outside sleeping areas. Since smoke and many deadly gases rise, installing your smoke alarms at the proper level will provide you with the earliest warning possible. Always follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

Where Would I Get Smoke Alarms?

Many hardware, home supply, or general merchandise stores carry smoke alarms.

Are Smoke Alarms Hard to Install?

If your smoke alarms are hard wired, that is wired into the electrical system, you will need to have a qualified electrician do the initial installation or install replacements. For battery powered smoke alarms, all you will need for installation is a screw driver. Some brands are self adhesive and will easily stick to the wall or ceiling where they are placed.

What if the Alarm Goes Off While I’m Cooking?

Then it’s doing its job. Do not disable your smoke alarm if it alarms due to cooking or other non-fire causes. You may not remember to put the batteries back in the alarm after cooking. Instead clear the air by waving a towel near the alarm, leaving the batteries in place. The alarm may need to be moved to a new location. Some of the newer models have a “hush” button that silences nuisance alarms.

How Long will my Smoke Alarm Last?

Most alarms installed today have a life span of about 8-10 years. After this time, the entire unit should be replaced. It is a good idea to write the date of purchase with a marker on the inside of your alarm so you will know when to replace it. Some of the newer alarms already have the purchase date written inside. In any event, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for replacement.

Anything Else I Should Know About Smoke Alarms?

Some smoke alarms are considered to be “hard-wired.” This means they are connected to the household electrical system and may or may not have battery backup. It’s important to test every smoke alarm monthly and replace the batteries with new ones at least once a year