Dispatching a Fire Call

The Call Taker enters the fire call information into the computer where it flashes on the Fire Dispatcher's computer screen. The Fire Dispatcher can instantly view the location and nature of the call. The location is verified and the proper zone card is selected. The zone card contains the street name and block numbers along with cross streets and subdivision names. The fire zone section contains various alarm modes and fire apparatus required for each. Example: Woods fire - single station response, House fire - initial station and mutual aid response, Commercial building fire - 1st alarm response (multiple fire departments).

The Fire Dispatcher then selects up the siren and pagers for those fire departments needed and transmits the call over the radio. The exact location and type of fire is given, including any hazards or vital safety information. The fire dispatcher also assigns a radio channel to work the fire call on. When specifically required or requested, the dispatcher also obtains assistance from law enforcement, ems, arson, forestry, power companies, and gas companies.