Question 1

If I have a non-emergency fire question, what number should I call?

Accepted Answer

Please call (248) 969-9483 for non-emergencies.

Question 2

How can I get a copy of my Fire/EMS run, and is there a cost to that?

Accepted Answer

The Oxford Fire Department follows The Medical Records Access Act, Public Act 47 of 2004, MCL section 333.26269.  Patients or their authorized representatives may request a copy of all or part of their medical records.

There is no charge for Oxford residents requesting their own personal records.  The fee scale found in The Medical Records Access Act, Public Act 47 of 2004, MCL section 333.26269 applies to all other document requests (legal representatives and non-residence).

Question 3

Does the fire department provide smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the Oxford Fire Department offers smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms at no cost.  If you do not have smoke alarms or carbon monoxide detectors, or they are over 10 years old, please contact the Oxford Fire Department or visit our Smoke Alarm Program page.  We will set up an appointment to come out and install them in your home at your convenience.  Supplies may be limited, and are only available when in stock.

Question 4

How often should I check or replace my smoke detectors?

Accepted Answer

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), smoke detectors should be tested monthly, and the batteries should be replaced at least once a year, or as soon as the low battery signal sounds. It is also recommended to replace the smoke detector itself every 10 years.

Here's a simple routine for smoke detector maintenance:

Test the alarm monthly by pressing the test button.

Replace batteries at least once a year or as soon as the low battery signal sounds.

Clean the smoke detector regularly to keep it free of dust and cobwebs that can interfere with its operation.

Replace the smoke detector every 10 years or as recommended by the manufacturer.

Question 5

Does the fire department offer crutches, walkers, wheelchairs and other assistance devices?

Accepted Answer

The Oxford Fire Department offers multiple assistance devices that are available to be checked out at no charge.  Due to a first come first serve basis, there are no guarantees that devices are available.

Question 6

What is a Knox Box and how do I obtain one?

Accepted Answer

Knox boxes are commercial lock boxes for businesses.  All businesses in Oxford are required to have one mounted to the front side of their business, with keys to the business inside the box.  The fire department has a master Knox key that is locked in the department apparatus to use in case of an emergency.

Question 7

Why is it important to sleep with my door closed?

Accepted Answer

Research and tests have proven that sleeping with your bedroom door closed greatly increase your chance of survival if there is a fire.  The door will provide a barrier and help keep the hot gases and smoke out of your bedroom.  This will allow you time to wake up and escape.  You should make it a part of your nightly bedtime routine.  Close before you doze.

For more information, visit closeyourdoor.org

Question 8

Does the fire department offer home safety inspections?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the Oxford Fire Department can come and perform a home safety inspection. Please call or email to schedule your inspection.  For more safety information, please see our safety checklist available below.

Question 9

Does the fire department offer station tours?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the Oxford Fire Department does offer station tours.  Call the station at (248) 969-9483 or visit our scheduling page to schedule a tour of the station and all of the apparatuses.  We also offer fire safety lectures with fun activities geared toward any age group.

Question 10

Does the department offer a birthday drive by?

Accepted Answer

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the department would offer a birthday drive-by regularly.  With an increase in call volume and a decrease in staffing, the department cannot guarantee a birthday drive-by, as it is not a priority.  That decision is left to the command officer for the day and is based on the availability of department personnel. For more information, please contact the fire department.

Question 11

Does the fire department offer free CPR classes?

Accepted Answer

The Oxford Fire Department offers a Family and Friends CPR course at a cost of $30.  This course teaches the basics of infant, child, and adult CPR and AED use.  This course does not come with a certification, it is for those just looking for the knowledge.

The fire department also provides Certified CPR courses at additional costs. Please see the CPR/First Aid Training page for more information.

Question 12

Does the fire department offer car seat installations?

Accepted Answer

The Oxford Fire Department has a certified car seat technician who can help parents and caregivers ensure that their car seats are installed correctly.  This service is offered to residents and non-residents free of charge.

Call the Oxford Fire Department or visit our Car Seat Installation Program page to set up an appointment. For more information, check the website of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for a list of certified technicians in your area: www.nhtsa.gov/equipment.

Question 13

How long should I keep my child rear facing in the car?

Accepted Answer

According to current guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), infants should ride rear-facing in a car seat until they are at least 2 years old or until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by the car seat's manufacturer. Keeping children rear-facing as long as possible provides the best protection for their head, neck, and spine in the event of a crash.

Some convertible car seats are designed to accommodate rear-facing children up to 40 pounds or more, so it is important to check the car seat manual to see if your child meets the manufacturer's guidelines for rear-facing. Additionally, the AAP recommends that children should continue to use a car seat, booster seat, or seat belt (as appropriate for their size and weight) until they are properly restrained in a seat belt that fits them properly, typically when they are between 8 and 12 years old.

Question 14

Can I still use my car seat after it has been in a car accident?

Accepted Answer

No, it is not recommended to use a car seat after it has been in an accident.  The child restraints may be compromised and have stress fractures that are not seen on the surface.

Question 15

Where can I dispose of old medications?

Accepted Answer

Old or unused medications can pose a safety risk if they are not properly disposed of. Here are some options for getting rid of old medications:

Drug Take-Back Programs: Many local and state law enforcement agencies, as well as some pharmacies, participate in drug take-back programs that provide a safe and convenient way to dispose of old medications. You can search for a drug take-back program near you by visiting the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration's website.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Sites: Some communities have household hazardous waste collection sites where you can bring old medications for safe disposal. Contact your local government to find out if there is a collection site in your area.

Mail-Back Programs: Some pharmacies and medical waste disposal companies offer mail-back programs for the safe disposal of old medications. You can contact a medical waste disposal company to find out if they offer this service.

If you are unable to use one of the above options, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) provides guidelines for how to dispose of medications at home:

Mix the medication with an unappealing substance such as cat litter or coffee grounds.

Put the mixture in a sealable plastic bag.

Throw the bag in the trash.

Remove any personal information from the prescription label to protect your identity and privacy.

It's important to follow these guidelines to keep old medications out of the hands of others and protect the environment from the potential harm of improper disposal.

Question 16

What are the rules for general burning and campfires?

Accepted Answer

General Burning Permits: Issued for property over one acre in size.  General Burning season for brush is October 1st through April 30th.  All general Burning must be extinguished by dark.

Campfire Permits: Issued for property (outside of the village) under one acre in size or with lakefront open acreage and are valid year-round for recreational purposes.  They are limited in size to 4ft in diameter x 2ft in height.  Attended campfires are permitted after dark.

Enclosed Fireplace Permits: In the Village of Oxford, permits are issued for the use of an enclosed fireplace or chimenea only.  There is no general burning or campfire burning within the Village of Oxford limits per village ordinance.

Burning of leaves is prohibited at any time.

Burning of any material other than tree cutting and brush is prohibited.

Do not use gasoline, kerosene, fuel oil, or any other flammable or combustible liquid to start your fire.

All fires must be tended by an adult.  No unattended burning allowed.

You must provide adequate fire control measures.

Burning must be located at least 50ft from any structure or lot line and must not be under overhead wires.

You are responsible for any damage that fire may cause.

No burning in winds over 15mph.  The fire department reserves the right to suspend all burning during windy conditions.

For more information, please visit our Burn Permits page.

Question 17

How can I obtain a burn permit?

Accepted Answer

Please visit our Burn Permit page for more information.

Question 18

Does the fire department offer fire extinguisher courses?

Accepted Answer

The Oxford Fire Department offers a free fire extinguisher course.  This course provides hands-on training on how to properly use a fire extinguisher in the event of a fire. The training usually covers the types of fire extinguishers available, how to identify the type of fire, and how to effectively use an extinguisher to put out the fire.

To schedule a training course, please visit our Fire Extinguisher Training page.

Question 19

How long is my home fire extinguisher good for?

Accepted Answer

The lifespan of a fire extinguisher depends on several factors, including the type of extinguisher, its manufacturer, and how well it has been maintained. However, as a general rule, most fire extinguishers have a lifespan of about 12 years. It's important to check the manufacturer's instructions or label for the specific service life of your fire extinguisher.

In addition to its age, other factors, such as corrosion, damage, or exposure to extreme temperatures, can affect the functionality of a fire extinguisher. If a fire extinguisher has been used, exposed to high heat, or dropped, it should be replaced immediately, regardless of its age.

To ensure that your fire extinguisher is ready when you need it, it's important to inspect it regularly and have it professionally serviced if necessary. If you have any doubts about the condition or lifespan of your fire extinguisher, it's best to replace it.

Question 20

What is a vial of life, and how can I get one?

Accepted Answer

A "Vial of Life" is a small plastic container that contains important personal and medical information that can be kept in a person's home and easily accessed by emergency responders in the event of an emergency. The information is usually written on a form and kept in the vial in the person's refrigerator, where it can be easily seen by emergency personnel.

The purpose of a Vial of Life is to provide emergency responders with important information about a person's medical history, allergies, medications, and other important details that could be critical in an emergency.

Contact the Oxford Fire Department to receive a vial of life for you or a loved one free of charge.

Question 21

How do I safely operate a generator?

Accepted Answer

To safely operate a generator, you should follow these guidelines:

Read the manual: Before operating a generator, make sure to read the owner's manual thoroughly. The manual will provide important safety information, operating instructions, and maintenance guidelines.

Place the generator in a well-ventilated area: Generators release carbon monoxide, an odorless, toxic gas. Never use a generator indoors or in an attached garage. Make sure to place the generator in a well-ventilated area, away from doors, windows, and vents that can allow carbon monoxide to enter the home.

Keep it dry: Do not use a generator in wet conditions, as this can increase the risk of electrical shock and fire.

Connect appliances safely: Connect appliances to the generator using heavy-duty extension cords that are rated for outdoor use. Make sure that the generator is not overloaded, as this can cause damage to the generator and appliances.

Turn off before refueling: Always turn off the generator and allow it to cool down before refueling. Fuel spilled on a hot engine can cause a fire.

Store fuel safely: Store gasoline and other fuels in approved containers and in a well-ventilated area, away from heat sources and flames.

Maintain the generator: Regularly perform maintenance on the generator, such as changing the oil, checking the air filter, and cleaning the spark plug.

By following these guidelines, you can safely operate a generator and minimize the risk of accidents and injury.

Question 22

How do I safely operate a space heater?

Accepted Answer

To safely operate a space heater, you should follow these guidelines:

Read the manual: Before using a space heater, make sure to read the owner's manual thoroughly. The manual will provide important safety information, operating instructions, and maintenance guidelines.

Place the heater on a level surface: Make sure the space heater is on a level surface that is free from clutter and flammable materials.

Keep it away from flammable materials: Keep the space heater at least three feet away from flammable materials, such as curtains, bedding, paper, and furniture.

Use a heater with an automatic shut-off feature: Choose a space heater with an automatic shut-off feature in case of tipping over or overheating.

Do not use an extension cord: Do not use an extension cord with a space heater. Instead, make sure the heater is close to an electrical outlet.

Turn it off when leaving the room: Turn off the space heater when you leave the room or go to bed.

Inspect the heater regularly: Regularly inspect the space heater for frayed cords or broken plugs, which can pose a fire hazard.

By following these guidelines, you can safely operate a space heater and minimize the risk of accidents and injury. It is important to always use caution and follow the manufacturer's recommendations when using any type of heating equipment.

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