FAQs • Lima, OH • CivicEngage

Why does a fire truck respond when we call for an ambulance?: When you call for an ambulance, the 911 Operator will attempt to determine the type and severity of the emergency. In some cases, the medical situations are serious enough that more manpower is necessary to provide proper care to the patient. Fire Stations are located in the north end, downtown and south end of the city. In many cases, a fire truck can respond to and initiate vital emergency care before an ambulance arrives.

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Lima Fire Department

1. What is the best kind of fire extinguisher for my house?: A-B-C extinguisher can be used on any type of fire commonly found in the home. Remember, fires can spread quickly and the fire department should be called anytime there is a fire or suspicion of a fire so that we can make sure the situation in the safest possible manner.

2. Why are there fire apparatus parked at the grocery store?: Because shifts are 24 hours, Lima Fire function much like a family and eat meals together every day. The City of Lima does not provide meals while on duty. Each shift collects money every morning that then are used to shop for daily meals. While at the store, firefighters are on duty and still are required to response to emergencies. They will leave food if necessary.

3. Why does a fire truck respond when we call for an ambulance?: When you call for an ambulance, the 911 Operator will attempt to determine the type and severity of the emergency. In some cases, the medical situations are serious enough that more manpower is necessary to provide proper care to the patient. Fire Stations are located in the north end, downtown and south end of the city. In many cases, a fire truck can respond to and initiate vital emergency care before an ambulance arrives.

4. Can I burn trash at my house?: No, you cannot burn trash, yard waste or left over construction materials, however, you can have a small recreational fire as long as it meets specific guidelines. This link “open burning guideline” will explain what you can and cannot burn and how to burn it. A quick overview:
• Must burn seasoned firewood (dry), no leaves.
• No larger than three (3) feet in diameter and two (2) feet tall.
• Must be attended by an adult at all times.
• Fire can be no closer than 25 feet to the nearest structure.
• An extinguishing agent (garden hose, fire extinguisher) must be easily accessible.
A fire official can order the fire to be extinguished even if it meets these guidelines if it is determined to be a nuisance or danger. High winds, excessive smoke or smoke blowing into a neighbor’s window are some examples.

5. Why do you send a fire truck with three or four firefighters to check fire hydrants?: Whenever the department has extra manpower, we will send a single firefighter in a pickup truck to check fire hydrants. However, due to safety issues and the need to maintain company integrity, we are required to have a minimum of three firefighters on each Engine Company and two firefighters on a Rescue or Medic Crew. Each station has a set number of hydrants that must be checked each Spring and Fall. In order to accomplish this task, we are required when staffing levels are low enough, to send out the entire crew. Please be aware that these crews are “in service” at all times and will respond to emergencies.

6. I am interested in becoming a Lima Firefighter. How do I apply?: All hiring is done through the Lima Civil Service Board. In order to be considered for employment you must first fill out an application with the Lima Civil Service Board. Notices will be published in the local newspaper and posted at various locations when applications are being accepted. The due date for applications to be turned in will be posted along with the location, date and time of the Civil Service Test. All necessary qualifications you must meet will also be listed. Currently, you must be between the age of 18 and 31 at the time of appointment. If you pass the written portion of the test, you will be scheduled for an oral interview with members of the Civil Service Board. A final score is tabulated and you are placed on a Civil Service list. This list, which is good for one year and usually extended one year, is forwarded to the Chief of the Lima Fire Department. When positions are ready to be filled, applicants are called in for interviews with LFD personnel. You will have to pass a background check, a medical physical, a physical agility test and possible further interviews before a final selection is made.

7. How do I request a tour of the Fire Station?: Tours are available by calling (419) 221-5160 or by filling out a "tour request form"

8. Do you fill swimming pools?: We are sorry, but the Lima Fire Department does not fill swimming pools.