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1. How can a citizen test or recharge fire extinguishers?

Refer to the Yellow Pages under "fire extinguishers" there are several local companies who can help you with this. For more information, please call the Fire Department at 360-293-1925.

2. How can someone become a paid firefighter?

The Anacortes Fire Department maintains a career staff of 28 firefighters at the ranks of Firefighter, Lieutenant, and Chief Officer. The majority are also certified as Paramedics. There are a few EMT positions in the department. All applications and initial testing for full time positions are done through Public Safety Testing. For more information, please call the Fire Department at 360-293-1925.

3. How does the new Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone service work with the emergency 911 service?

Several service providers offer Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service to their customers. This service is attractive to people because they can now have voice service using their Internet Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) connection, and no longer need a dedicated telephone line to make phone calls. They also are provided with long distance service at no charge. Check with your service provider to determine if they have a correct address for you, and whether you will be connected to the correct Dispatch Center. For more information, please call the Fire Department at 360-293-1925.

4. How should I report a fire?

Dial 911 to report a fire. If the phone system is down, report fires at the nearest fire station. The Headquarters Station is at 1016 13th Street; the Norman Brown Station is at 5209 Sunset Avenue; and Station 3 is at 9029 Molly Lane, Suite A. For more information, please call the Fire Department at 360-293-1925.

5. How do I make a complaint if I suspect someone is conducting an illegal burn?

Call 911.

6. Is the use of fireworks permitted within the City of Anacortes?

An Ordinance passed effective January 1, 2005, prohibits the use of all fireworks within the city limits except for approved, licensed public displays. Here is the link for to the new ordinance. For more information, please call the Fire Department at 360-293-1925.

7. How do you dispose of unexploded fireworks or expired flares?

Unexploded fireworks should be brought to the Anacortes Police Department. Expired flares may be taken to City of Anacortes Public Works Department at 2201 37th Street, Anacortes.

For more information, please call the Fire Department at 360-293-1925.

8. What are the current burn regulations?

Within the City of Anacortes, you may burn only recreational fires using firewood. You will need a permit issued by the Fire Department. Firewood is defined as natural vegetation no less than two inches in diameter. The fire needs to be contained in an open fire pit or approved wood burning BBQ no larger than two by three feet (2 feet by 3 feet). Permits issued are valid for an entire year from the date issued, but are subject to suspension during burn bans. Burn permits can be obtained in person during regular business hours at the main fire station on 13th Street or you may complete a permit application online. There is no charge for burn permits.  Charcoal and propane BBQs do not require a permit. For more information, please call the Fire Department at 360-293-1925.

9. What are the regulations regarding the use of BBQs?

For BBQs used to burn firewood, they must be approved for that purpose and you must have a recreational burn permit. For other open flame BBQs, if you live in a multi-family building of three or more attached units, you may use them on decks or balconies only if there is an overhead sprinkler present. For other type residences, open flame BBQs must be at least 15 feet from any structure, and should never be used on wooden decks or porches. For regulations on the use of BBQs in the marine environment, see the link to the burn regulations on our public safety page. For more information, please call the Fire Department at 360-293-1925.

10. Who does safety testing on children's car seats?

Island Hospital has a Car Seat Clinic on the 4th Thursday of each even month.(February, April, etc.) from 1:00 to 4:00 PM. It is advertised in the Hospital’s "Heart Beats" publication.

11. Is it true that the fire department issues free bicycle helmets?

The Fire Department conducts an injury prevention program to provide bicycle helmets free of charge to children. The intent is to provide helmets to those who could not normally afford them. Children need to be accompanied by an adult, and should go to the Headquarters Fire Station at 1016 13th Street during regular business hours. Depending on available supply, they will be properly fitted by one of the Firefighter/Paramedics. For more information on bike helmet safety, visit Helmets.org. For more information, please call the Fire Department at 360-293-1925.