FAQs • Boerne, TX • CivicEngage

Why is a fire engine sent when I call an ambulance?: A fire engine is often sent as a first-responder when an ambulance is assigned to an unconscious or unresponsive person, or when there is a major accident. Also, if the main ambulance unit is on another call and the response time of the second unit would create a delayed response, the Fire Department will respond. Fire personnel are trained and carry basic life support equipment as well as automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) for cardiac defibrillation. The purpose of the first-responder is to provide basic life support until the ambulance arrives.

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Fire Department

1. Why do I see fire trucks from different departments responding to the same incident?: The Boerne Fire Department has mutual aid agreements with Alamo Springs, Comfort, Leon Springs, Sisterdale, Waring, and Bergheim fire departments. If any of the departments need assistance during an incident, the closest department will be called to assist them with apparatus, manpower, and other needs.

2. What is the best type of fire extinguisher for my house?: A multi-purpose fire extinguisher is best for the home. Look for the rating to be at least 2A:IOB:C, found on the label. This extinguisher can be used on any type of fire commonly occurring in the home. It will often be labeled “ABC.” You can also check the phone book yellow pages and have an extinguisher company come to your home and make recommendations.

3. What equipment or apparatus does the Fire Department have?: The Boerne Fire Department has multiple apparatuses available. We have two swift water rescue boats, four brush trucks, two command units, four engine trucks, three rescue/tender trucks, one ladder truck and a utility task vehicle.

4. Why is a fire engine sent when I call an ambulance?: A fire engine is often sent as a first-responder when an ambulance is assigned to an unconscious or unresponsive person, or when there is a major accident. Also, if the main ambulance unit is on another call and the response time of the second unit would create a delayed response, the Fire Department will respond. Fire personnel are trained and carry basic life support equipment as well as automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) for cardiac defibrillation. The purpose of the first-responder is to provide basic life support until the ambulance arrives.

5. How do I obtain a copy of an incident report?: The Boerne Fire Department creates an incident report for every call we respond to. To obtain a copy of the report, call the Fire Department at (830) 249-3644. Please have the date and address of the incident. Reports are usually entered into our system within 48 business hours after the incident occurs. Fees for incident reports start at $5 and go up depending on the length of the report. Reports can be mailed, faxed, or picked up at the station.

6. How do I know if there is a burn ban in effect?: If you live inside the city limits of Boerne there is no burning allowed. If you are outside the city limits, you are allowed to burn as long as there is not a burn ban in effect. To find out the status of the burn ban call dispatch at (830) 249-8645. Even when a burn ban is not in effect we ask that you call dispatch to let them know the address / area that you will be burning at. Although our website should be updated in regards to the status of the burn ban, it is always wise to call dispatch to verify the information and to let them know you will be burning.

7. Who do I contact in case of an emergency?: For emergencies, dial 9-1-1. If you have an alarm system, your alarm company will need to contact the Communications Department at (830) 249-8645 to get an alternate emergency contact number. For general questions the Fire Department is normally available Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, at (830) 249-3644.

8. What is the mailing address for the Fire Department?: Any correspondence can be mailed to:
Boerne Fire Department
726 N. Main
Boerne, TX 78006

9. Does the fire station give tours?: Yes. Please contact us at (830) 249-3644 to find a time when personnel are available for a tour. It is best to have several dates in mind when you call.

10. Why is it necessary to post my street number?: Emergency vehicles may need to find your home quickly should an emergency occur. It is difficult to find a home or business with address numbers that are not clearly posted. House numbers should be at least four inches tall and should be visible up to 150 feet from all angles. Numbers should be in a contrasting color to the color scheme of the building, gate, or door. Be sure the numbers can be seen at night and that vegetation growth is not covering the numbers.

11. Should I have a smoke detector in my home?: Yes. It is a proven fact that smoke detectors save lives. Smoke detectors are the best early warning sign for a potential fire in your home. If you live in an apartment or rental home the law requires smoke detectors to be installed by the owner, but it is your responsibility to maintain them, such as changing the batteries twice a year.

12. Is the Boerne Fire Department a paid or volunteer department?: The Boerne Fire Department has both paid personnel and volunteer members and is considered a combination department.