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1. Why did a fire truck respond first when I called for an ambulance?

The Plainview Fire / EMS Department is a dual department. This means all of our personnel are trained and certified in both fire and EMS. We routinely send a fire truck to assist our ambulances since each ambulance only has two personnel. This allows at least four personnel on the scene to help with treatment, lifting, and loading of the patient. Secondly, there are many times that a fire truck is closer than an ambulance. This will shorten the time that it takes to get trained medical care.

2. Why does the Fire Department use water by flowing fire hydrants?

Flowing of hydrants is a vital function and is required by the Insurance Service Organization (ISO). The ISO sets the classification of our Fire Department and determines homeowner’s insurance rates. Flushing the hydrants allows us to verify that each hydrant has sufficient water pressure to provide adequate fire suppression flow for that area. It allows us to detect and repair any deficiencies in the water system, before it is needed for a fire. In addition, the flow allows us to flush out any debris or other substances that are in the water lines. This prevents any debris from entering our fire engine pumps and causing damage or disabling the fire engine during a fire.

3. I have seen ambulances and fire trucks that seem to be aimlessly wandering around town or just driving around. This seems to be a waste of taxpayers' money. Can you explain what is going on?

This is a very good question that could have many answers. First of all, we constantly have new employees at the Fire Department. As part of their initial and on-going training, they are required to learn how to safely operate the ambulances and fire units. The best way to accomplish this is to allow them to operate these vehicles under direct supervision of a more experienced firefighter.

Secondly, the firefighter may be learning a particular part of town by driving that area to familiarize themselves with the streets, dips, curves, etc.

Thirdly, we perform periodic checks of fire hydrants throughout town. This includes driving by the hydrants to check for damages, paint condition, location, etc. However, all units are available for immediate response to an emergency if needed.

4. I see ambulances and fire trucks at various businesses about town. Can you explain?

One of our responsibilities is to perform pre-fire plans and safety surveys for our local businesses. We routinely go out to businesses and look over their buildings to familiarize ourselves with the layouts and to make recommendations to help prevent fires and safety issues. When we perform these tasks, the firefighters will drive the emergency units that they are assigned to. Again, the units and personnel are all available for immediate response if needed.