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How can I become a Fire Fighter in St. Joseph?
Please contact Human Resources for further information at 271-4670 or click HERE.
What programs are available from the Fire Department? Click Here
Does the Fire Department get cats (or other pets) out of trees?
No, they do not. You might contact the Humane Society at 232-6955 for assistance.
Does the Fire Department fill swimming pools for residents?
No, they do not. The pool owner is responsible for filling their swimming pool. You may contact the Missouri American Water Company for information on filling a swimming pool 816-233-7851.
When are the burning periods?
There are two periods - one in the Spring and one in the Fall. The dates are determined by a request from the Health Department to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The Missouri DNR then grants the request for a three-week period in the spring and in the fall. The Fire Department is only responsible for enforcing the open burning rules and regulations.
Open burning guidelines:
- Burning for yard waste of residential properties only
- Burning shall be allowed between 10:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
- All fires must be in an upright cylindrical metal container with a volume equal to no more than 55 gallons. Containers must be located at least fifteen (15) feet away from any building. Only one burn container per residence is allowed.
- All fires shall be monitored from a point on the property where the fire is located, by a person capable of containing a fire, should containment become necessary.
- ONLY dry yard waste such as leaves, brush and logs grown on the property can be burned. NO trash, paper, lumber or building debris may be burned.
- Fire-fighting material, including but not limited to, a garden hose or a container of water sufficient to contain any fire started shall be at the site of the fire.
Does the Fire Department fill air cylinders for breathing apparatus?
The St. Joseph Fire Department will fill air cylinders for volunteer Fire Departments and industrial customers only. The cost is $3.00 per cylinder for industrial customers. Volunteer Fire Departments are not charged.
Does the Fire Department repair breathing apparatus?
We do not repair breathing apparatus for anyone other than ourselves.
Does the Fire Department loan fire hose for private use?
No. Some exceptions may be made for non-profit group use. For inquiries, please call 816-271-4603.
What code does the City of St Joseph Fire Department use?
The 2006 edition of the International Fire Code and referenced standards found in Chapter 45.
The Fire Department has been inspecting my building for many years and has never mentioned a violation in the past. Why are they indicating a violation this time?
Fire codes are updated regularly. Some of the things that cause changes in these codes may be a newer type of construction, a new construction method or maybe an event that occurred where people were injured. Whatever the reason, when the codes are updated, it is necessary to inspect your facility under the most current code. This may result in a change from the previous year in your inspection.
When I need a permit, whom do I call for an inspection?
Call the Fire Prevention Division. 271-4623 or 271-4604 to arrange a time for a Fire Inspector to come out and inspect.
What is a KNOX Box?
A Knox Box is a secure rapid entry system for emergency services. It is a secure box containing master keys and information about contact persons, materials on the property or and special information that will aid the emergency service.
Can I purchase a rapid entry key system (Knox Box) for my business?
Yes, you can pick up a form at Fire Department Headquarters 401 S. 7th. Once the form is filled out you mail it in with your payment. When you receive your Knox Box, a Fire Inspector will help you find the best location for installation at your address. After the box is properly installed, a Fire Truck with the master key to the Knox Box will come and place your Master keys into the box and lock it.
Can I cook on my wood deck or concrete patio?
It is not recommended you place grills on wooden decks. If you do you must take measures to keep any burning ash or grease from falling onto the deck. The only people who can cook on their deck or patios are those living in single family houses or duplexes. Even then, it is a good idea to be sure the device is away from the house or overhanging structure. Keep children and pets away from the grill. Stay with the device while it is hot or a flame is present. If you live in a multi family residence, our fire code prohibits using these devices within 10 feet of combustible decks, fences, walls or balconies. An example would be apartment homes or town homes with more than two connected together.
My building has a sprinkler system. Are there things I should do to maintain the system?
If you own the building, you are required to see that the system is tested annually by a reputable contracted agency and the documentation of this test should be kept on file for the fire department to view in accordance with International Fire Code chapter 9. If there is a system in your building it must be in operational condition at all times. If you are a tenant or owner-occupant, there are other things you can do to be sure your system is ready in case it is needed. Never paint a sprinkler head. Each sprinkler head is designed to cover a certain amount of area in your building so before you build walls or large shelving units or stack storage to the ceiling, check with your fire inspector to be sure what you do won’t prevent the sprinkler head from doing it’s job. Also, never hang anything from a sprinkler head.
On TV, when a sprinkler head begins to spray water, they all do. Is this how my sprinklers will work?
No, most sprinkler systems with a few exceptions, (and those are found only in heavy industry situations), are designed to activate only where the fire is. The heat from the fire activates the sprinkler head closest too it. If the fire is large enough it may activate more than one head in the area but it will not activate every head on an entire floor.
My building has a fire alarm system. Are there things I should do to maintain the system?
If you own the building, you are responsible to see that the system is tested annually by a reputable contracted agency and the documentation of this test should be kept on file for the fire department to view. Also, it would help if someone who is likely to be in the building on a daily basis knows where the alarm panel is located. If you are a tenant or owner-occupant, there are other things you can do to be sure your system is ready in case it is needed. Never paint a detector surface. Each detector is designed to cover a certain amount of area in your building so before you build walls or large shelving units or stack storage to the ceiling, check with your fire inspector to be sure what you do won’t prevent the detector from doing it’s job. Also, never hang anything from a detector.
Our alarm system keeps having false alarms. The alarm goes off but no fire is found. Can’t we do something about this?
Fire alarms seldom malfunction. Usually, if they are sounding, there is a reason. Sensing devices may need cleaning or replacement. Other reasons causing alarm activation may be as simple as a bag of popcorn that overcooked in a microwave, a co-worker smoking in an area where they shouldn’t be, or dust from re-modeling. In all of cases, even though big flames were not shooting from the building and hoses were not needed to put the fire out, the system was doing its job of alerting everyone in the building to a possible danger of a fire. If your system activates, immediately leave the building and do not re-enter until the proper authority investigated the alarm and gives the all clear to enter the building. Take every fire alarm seriously, follow your established evacuation plan, leave the building until someone of authority (building maintenance, security, the fire department, etc.) tell you it is safe to return.
We never have fire drills at work. Isn’t there something that requires this?
There are no laws that require a business to have a fire drill but it is a good idea. The fire department does not have to be present for you to have a drill. All you need to do is contact the alarm company and be sure you have someone on site that can re-set the alarm system. We also strongly suggest you discuss this with the other tenants in your building beforehand. If you would like the fire department to come and observe, contact Fire Prevention at 271-4623 or 271-4604.
I have a smoke detector in my house that is making a sound but there is no fire. What makes it do this?
First you need to know if it is battery operated, electric or electric with a battery back up. If it is battery operated it is probably making a chirping sound which more than likely means it needs a new battery. If it is electric, there may be a problem with its power supply or possibly the smoke detector is too old. The average life of a smoke detector is 10 years. If it is electric with a battery back up it could be any of the above problems. Another thing you may try is giving it a good cleaning with the vacuum. Sometimes dust gets in them. All smoke detectors should be cleaned and checked once a month. For more information on smoke detectors contact Fire Prevention at 271-4623 or 271-4604.
I’ve heard quite a lot about carbon monoxide. Could I have this in my house and do I need a carbon monoxide detector?
There are many things that give off carbon monoxide. They include gas appliances such as furnaces, water heaters and stoves. Fuel burning space heaters and wood burning fireplaces can give off carbon monoxide. Even warming up your car or barbecuing in your garage can fill your house with carbon monoxide. The problem is that it is an odorless, colorless gas so until you begin to see symptoms, you don know it’s there. People experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning feel like they have a flue that came on suddenly. This also affects small pets and even plants. Carbon monoxide detectors will sense excessive levels of the gas early and warn you to leave. If your family is having symptoms or your detector is sounding an alarm, call 9-1-1 and the fire department will respond. We can take readings and provide medical help. Sometimes we can shut off the source of the problem but you will need to call out a technician to check the appliance and make repairs. For more information on carbon monoxide and detectors Contact Fire Prevention at 271-4623 or 271-4604.
Can I burn brush or yard waste in St. Joseph?
There is a limited amount of burning that is allowed in St Joseph. Included in the list are burning for land clearing, recreational fires, warming fires for construction crews and ceremonial fires. In addition to those already mentioned the city applies to the state Department of Natural Resources twice a year for a period of open burning. For more specific information on burning regulations or requirements Please contact Fire Prevention at 271-4623 or 271-4604.
How can I get a fire truck to come to my event?
Contact Jayne Roberts at 271-4603 for assistance with scheduling public education programs such as fire truck visits, fire station visits and other public education programs. Please call at least 2 weeks prior to your event. Large events or events that require a longer time of involvement may require more than 2 weeks notice.
Can I ride on a fire truck?
With special permission and waivers you can ride as permitted by the Fire Chief. For further information you can call 271-4603.
Where can I get my fire extinguisher serviced?
Look in the telephone book yellow pages under “Fire Extinguishers” for a listing.
What can I do about my child who is setting fires?
We offer an education and support program (FIRE SMART)for youth firesetters and their parents. For more information contact Fire Prevention at 271-4623 or 271-4604 or click HERE
I don’t think the fire lanes around our building are marked correctly. How can I find out?
Contact Fire Prevention at 271-4623 or 271-4604 and we will make an appointment to inspect your building to make sure.
People completely disregard the fire lanes in my building. What can I do about it?
The St Joseph Fire and Police Departments can both write fire lane violation citations. You can report this either to the Fire Department or the Police Department at 271-4777.
If during an inspection a violation is found how long do I have to fix it?
For a routine (non-life threatening) violation we usually grant 10 business days for correction. If a life threatening violation is found we require it to be corrected immediately. If a violation cannot be corrected in the amount of time given then we will work with the owner/occupant to ensure compliance as quickly as possible.
Are those little fire holders with the screen covers you see in home improvement stores legal in St. Joseph?
The fire pits, chimeneas, etc. sold at home improvement stores are legal for use inside the City limits. They are considered to be appliances used for recreational fires.
Would it be okay to build a fire pit, say out of brick? I want to build a place to sit around a fire but I'm not sure if it's allowed.
You may build a fire pit out of brick. The rules for recreational fires and open burning are listed below, taken from the 2006 International Fire Code, adopted by City Code Section 16-31:
SECTION 307
OPEN BURNING AND RECREATIONAL FIRES
- 307.1 General. A person shall not kindle or maintain or authorize to be kindled or maintained any open burning unless conducted and approved in accordance with this section.
- 307.1.1 Prohibited open burning. Open burning that is offensive or objectionable because of smoke or odor emissions or when atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make such fires hazardous shall be prohibited.
- 307.2 Permit required. A permit shall be obtained from the fire code official in accordance with Section 105.6 prior to kindling a fire for recognized silvicultural or range or wildlife management practices, prevention or control of disease or pests, or a bonfire. Application for such approval shall only be presented by and permits issued to the owner of the land upon which the fire is to be kindled.
- 307.2.1 Authorization. Where required by state or local law or regulations, open burning shall only be permitted with prior approval from the state or local air and water quality management authority, provided that all conditions specified in the authorization are followed.
- 307.3 Extinguishment authority. The fire code official is authorized to order the extinguishment by the permit holder, another person responsible or the fire department of open burning that creates or adds to a hazardous or objectionable situation.
- 307.4 Location. The location for open burning shall not be less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from any structure, and provisions shall be made to prevent the fire from spreading to within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of any structure.
Exceptions:- Fires in approved containers that are not less than 15 feet (4572 mm) from a structure.
- The minimum required distance from a structure shall be 25 feet (7620 mm) where the pile size is 3 feet (914 mm) or less in diameter and 2 feet (610 mm) or less in height.
- 307.4.1 Bonfires. A bonfire shall not be conducted within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of a structure or combustible material unless the fire is contained in a barbecue pit. Conditions which could cause a fire to spread within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of a structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition.
- 307.4.2 Recreational fires. Recreational fires shall not be conducted within 25 feet (7620 mm) of a structure or combustible material. Conditions which could cause a fire to spread within 25 feet (7620 mm) of a structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition.
- 307.5 Attendance. Open burning, bonfires or recreational fires shall be constantly attended until the fire is extinguished. A minimum of one portable fire extinguisher complying with Section 906 with a minimum 4-A rating or other approved on-site fire-extinguishing equipment, such as dirt, sand, water barrel, garden hose or water truck, shall be available for immediate utilization.
