Sedro-Woolley Fire Department Homepage

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the City of Sedro-Woolley have a disaster plan?
The City of Sedro-Woolley has officially adopted Skagit County's plan. The disaster plan is available on their website at: www.skagitcounty.net/dem

Why does a fire engine and an ambulance go to every call?
-In Skagit County, the fire department is almost always dispatched to a medical call with an ambulance. That's because there are times when the ambulance crew needs extra help. In addition, many of the firefighters are first responders or emergency medical technicians (EMT's). This insures that medical care is begun immediately after the fire department arrives, and continues until the ambulance takes over patient care.

Can I get my blood pressure checked at the fire station?
-Yes, M-F 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. There is no charge.

Do I need a burn permit to burn in the city limits? Where do I get one?
-As of January 1, 2001, it is illegal to burn anything inside the city limits of Sedro-Woolley or its Urban Growth Area. The only exception is recreational burns, such as campfires. This is state law, and as such the city is required to enforce it. You can download map by clicking here.

Why do the stoplights change when a fire engine goes by?
-One of the most dangerous things that we must deal with in the fire department is not fires, but driving to calls. This is where a major portion of injuries and deaths occur. To help cut down on accidents and traffic congestion, most ambulances and fire engines in Skagit County have a device called Opticom. This is a strobe light like device that is mounted on the top of the fire truck, near the light bar. When activated, this light triggers the stoplights to green in the direction of travel. This allows traffic to move smoothly and minimizes the chances of an accident.

Why do I have to stay 500' behind a fire engine?
-Because we frequently need to stop suddenly, and if you're to close there could be an accident.

Do you give tours of your station to groups or organizations?
-Yes. Please call 855-2252 for more information.

When can I shoot off fireworks?
-Only on July 4 from 9:00 AM until 11:00 PM. It is illegal to set off fireworks any other time.

What should I do if I see a fire engine on the street or highway?
-It doesn't matter if the engine is behind or in front of you. Simply slow to a stop and go to the your right shoulder of the road. That way we have the extra room on the road for passing motorists.
-If your in an intersection please simply stay put. We will drive around you, into the oncoming traffic, if necessary.

Can I run over a hose that's across the street?
-No, please do not run over a hose that's across the street. In addition to disrupting the water supply to our fire engine, running over a hose can also seriously damage our equipment. Please approach the nearest firefighter and ask for assistance. They will be happy to help get over the hose without damaging anything.

Who do I call to do fire inspections?
-Call 855-2252 M-F from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm to schedule and appointment. There is no charge.

Can women join the Sedro Woolley Fire Department?
-Yes! We want all types of volunteers. Women are welcome to volunteer alongside any other firefighter.