FAQs

Why do your fire trucks use lights and sirens, even in the middle of the night when there is no traffic?: The purpose of emergency warning equipment is to let drivers and pedestrians know that an emergency vehicle is on the way to an emergency. By Iowa state law, we do have certain privileges extended to us. Those being, to carefully proceed through controlled intersections and travel against the designated flow of traffic. These privileges have rules that the legislation and department policy put on the drivers of these emergency vehicles. The main rule is that we cannot do these things unless there are lights flashing and sirens going. Even in the middle of the night.

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Fire Department

1. How can I get a smoke detector from the Fire Department? Will you change the batteries?: The City of Indianola Fire Department purchases and/or receives donations of a limited number of smoke alarms for distribution to City of Indianola residents who may otherwise not be able to afford them (see above section for more information). If you can afford a smoke alarm but have a question or concern regarding installation of your own smoke alarm, please contact the office of deputy chief at 515-961-9405.

2. Why do your fire trucks use lights and sirens, even in the middle of the night when there is no traffic?: The purpose of emergency warning equipment is to let drivers and pedestrians know that an emergency vehicle is on the way to an emergency. By Iowa state law, we do have certain privileges extended to us. Those being, to carefully proceed through controlled intersections and travel against the designated flow of traffic. These privileges have rules that the legislation and department policy put on the drivers of these emergency vehicles. The main rule is that we cannot do these things unless there are lights flashing and sirens going. Even in the middle of the night.

3. Why do you send so many fire vehicles to a fire, especially a small fire?: Each fire truck only carries two firefighters and it is necessary to have enough firefighters on the scene of an incident. There are a number of specialized roles that firefighters undertake at the scene of a fire, and firefighting is a very labor-intensive activity. If you get behind because there are not enough firefighters on the call, it is more difficult to extinguish a fire quickly.

4. Why are the sirens going off?: When inclement weather is in the area sirens will go off. Sirens are maintained by the Warren County Emergency Management office. Sign up to be notified of siren alerts by clicking this link.