Frequently Asked Questions

• How can I volunteer?
• Is the First West Chester Fire Company or WCFD Paid?
• Are there always people at the Firehouse?
• Does the fire department sell or refill fire extinguishers?
• How can I obtain a copy of an incident report?
• Does the fire company fill swimming pools?
• Do I need a permit to burn on my property?
• Does the fire company pump water out of basements?
• Does the fire company hang banners?
• Do I get a bill if the fire company comes to my house?
• What do the flashing blue lights mean?
• Does the fire company accept community service?

• You can obtain information on volunteering by going to the 'Volunteer Today!' section of the website.

• No.  All three fire companies are 100% volunteer 24 hours a days, 7 days a week.

Are there always people at the Firehouse?

• Because we are 100% volunteer we all have regular full time jobs or go to school.  There is normally people at the station during the day, but at night we go home to sleep.

Does the fire department sell or recharge fire extinguishers?

• No, we do not sell fire extinguishers.  Most house hold extinguishers are single use, meaning once they are used the cannot be recharged.

How can I obtain a copy of an incident report?

• Report requests can be submitted via the West Chester Fire Department website.

Does the fire company fill swimming pools?

• No, we do not fill swimming pools.  You can contact a private pool filling company.

Do I need a permit to burn on my property?

• Different municipalities have different requirements.  For more information click HERE.

Does the fire company pump water out of basements?

• We will pump out basements on a case by case basis depending on the availability of the crews and equipment.

Does the fire company hang banners?

• Yes, we do hang banners.  You must first obtain a permit from the Borough of West Chester.

Do I get a bill if the fire company comes to my house?

• The West Chester Fire Department does not bill for putting out fires.  However, the Borough of West Chester fines after 2 false automatic fire alarms per year.

What do the flashing blue-lights mean?

• The flashing blue-lights are used by volunteer firefighters to warn others on the road they are responding to the firehouse for a fire.  If you see these lights please pull to the right and stop.  Remember, we could be responding to help someone you love!

Does the fire company accept community service?

• The First West Chester Fire Company accepts community service on a case by case, as needed basis.  The Trustees coordinate community service and can be contacted by calling the station or by email.