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Why do you send a fire engine when I called for an ambulance?
The Franklin Fire Department operates the emergency ambulance services, with all of our staff having some degree of emergency medical training, most certified at the paramedic level. During a medical emergency minutes, in fact seconds count! The response of the closest emergency vehicle to your emergency brings trained firefighter EMT's and paramedics to your home within minutes. Emergency life saving equipment such as oxygen, semi-automatic defibrillator and other medical equipment are carried on the fire engine for use by these trained firefighters. Additional staff on a fire engine also provides rapid assistance in cases it is necessary to have extra trained personnel to assist in moving stretchers through buildings, particularly when stairways or slippery conditions are encountered. This helps to reduce to department
personnel handling unwieldy stretchers and heavy patients. It is also necessary to have more than two people perform certain treatments such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation and other advanced life support functions while moving a patient. At traffic accidents the fire engine personnel assist in keeping the area safe if there are fuel spills, and help in extricating the person from the wreckage.
Why do I need to get a smoke detector inspection and where do I place them?
According to Massachusetts State Law (Chap. 148 Sec 26F) all buildings or structures occupied in whole or in part for residential purposes upon the sale or transfer, shall be equipped by the seller with approved smoke detectors/ MGL Chap.148 sec. 26F. An operating smoke detector is required on every habitable level, including the basement. Finished attic spaces also need smoke detector coverage. In homes with floor space exceeding 1,200 square feet per floor, a second detector will be required. To schedule a smoke detector inspection please call the business number at (508) 528-2323. Certificates are valid for 60 days after the date of issue.
Do I have to remove my underground home heating oil tank?
No. Current State law does not require the homeowner to remove an underground storage tank for home heating oil. Tanks must be removed if they have been identified as leaking or if they have not been used in the previous 24 months. The oil can only be used for heating the building and domestic hot water. If the tank supplies fuel for other equipment such as an emergency generator, other guidelines become effective. The tank can remain in place but must meet requirements for corrosion protection and annual testing for leaks. However, if you are selling your home, you must remove the tank prior to obtaining a Smoke Detector and Carbon Monoxide Detector Compliance Certificate.
What can I do with my old propane tanks for the barbecue grill? Will the Town's rubbish removal contractor take them?
NO!
The Propane cylinders still have product in them and should be disposed of properly. If you wish to dispose of a propane cylinder you must first insure that it is empty, then remove the control valve and rinse the tank with water. Once this is complete, you may bring the cylinder to the transfer station on Beaver Street.
How do I arrange a Tour of the Fire Station?
A tour of any fire station can be arranged by calling our business telephone number (508) 528-2323. Our SAFE Officer, Bob Donovan is responsible for public education and can arrange for your tour.
How do I arrange to use the Conference room at the King Street Fire Station?
When not in use, the conference room may be use for non-profit Franklin based community groups and organizations. Department functions and operations are the primary use for and shall be given first preference in the use of conference space. Scheduling of department conference space can be arranged through the department’s Dispatch Office at (508) 528-2323. The department retains the right to cancel any non-department function should a scheduling conflict arise between an external agency and department function. In the event the department must cancel a reservation for space, every effort will be made to notify the agency. The room is available Monday-Friday evenings and must be vacated by 9:00 pm. No food or drink is allowed.
Can I get my fire extinguisher recharged at the Fire Station?
No, the fire department does not have the capacity to recharge fire extinguishers. According to Massachusetts General Law, we are no permitted to recommend the services of companies to perform services. Therefore, if you need a fire extinguisher recharged, we recommend you consul the business directory in your telephone book for fire extinguisher companies.
How often should I check my smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector to see if it is working?
We recommend that you test your detectors on a monthly basis. You can do this with most detectors by pressing the test button for a few seconds. This is also a good time to discuss and review your home fire exit plan with those who live with you.
When can I get a permit to burn brush?
Open burning is regulated by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, with the open burning season conducted from January 15th through May 1st of each year. To obtain a burning permit you must visit our Headquarters Building located at 40 West Central Street. Once you obtain your permit, you may burn any day during the season, between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm. There are restrictions on what is permissible to burn.
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