Why does a fire truck respond when I call for a medical emergency?
Firefighters are certified first responders, emergency medical technicians or paramedics. The Johnson City Fire Department has fire stations located in central locations throughout the city. This coverage allows firefighters to get on scene quickly when minutes count.
Why do firefighters break out windows and cut holes in my roof during a fire?
Firefighters ventilate smoke and dangerous gases for victim safety and rescuer visibility. This allows firefighters to get inside the building to find and extinguish the fire, thereby reducing property damage. This also reduces the chances of a possible backdraft explosion or flashover.
Why do you block so many lanes at motor vehicle accidents?
We block traffic lanes to protect our patients and our personnel. Firefighters need room to work in a safe area in order to effectively treat patients.
Why can't I drive over the fire hoses?
Running over a fire hose can damage the hose and interrupt the water supply. The fire hose and the water it supplies are the lifeline for any firefighter on the other end of it. Losing water can cause serious injury or death.
Why do firefighters keep weeds and bushes away from fire hydrants?
Firefighters keep weeds and bushes 4 feet from fire hydrants for visibility and accessibility. Please do not plant next to the hydrant.
How do you get a smoke detector from the Fire Department?
Click here for information on obtaining a smoke detector. Also, you can visit any fire station to request one or call 423-975-2840.
Can I burn leaves and brush on my property?
Open burns are prohibited in the city limits. Brush and leaf pickup is provided by the city.
Why do firefighters shop at the local grocery stores?
Firefighters work 24-hour shifts and must supply their own food. They combine their money to purchase food to cook or to buy their meals.
Why does my water look muddy when firefighters turn fire hydrants on?
We turn on fire hydrants to ensure they are operating properly and to check the amount of water available. We turn the hydrants on slowly in an attempt to not stir up the sediment that is in the pipes, but at times that does happen and the water coming out of your faucet can be brown in color.
Where can I pick up a fire report if I need a copy?
Copies of incident reports can be obtained by completing the City of Johnson City Public Records Request Form here.
What do firefighters do when not responding to calls?
Firefighters have numerous duties and responsibilities including:
• Station and truck cleaning
• Truck and equipment maintenance/testing
• Drills and training classes
• Pre-planning for local businesses
• Public education classes
• And since they work 24-hour shifts, they also have to cook, eat, shower, etc
How can I set up a public education event?
Contact the Administrative Office at 423-975-2840 to schedule an event. Please have the following information ready:
• Name of the event
• Date, time, location
• Contact name and phone number
What should I do if a fire hydrant is leaking or has been damaged?
Contact the Water and Sewer Services Department at 423-461-1645 during business hours or 423-461-1643 after 5 p.m. and on weekends. You may also contact the Fire Department at 423-975-2840.
Do you do car seat inspections and installations?
Yes, the Johnson City Fire Department has several car seat technicians available to help. Please call 423-975-2840 for more information.
Can I get a blood pressure check at the stations?
If firefighters are at the station, they can give you a blood pressure reading. If you are experiencing a medical problem, we recommend you call 911.
Is there a specific code requirement on construction projects for an electrical shutoff box?
Yes, the City requires a specific brand due to the key being specific for the Johnson City Fire Department to access the electrical shutoff box. Each city uses a specific brand in this type of entry access for fire departments. The City currently uses Knox Box brand.
How can I schedule the fire department for a public event?
Scheduling a public education event can be requested by completing the request form here.
