Q. Sometimes I see fire hydrants that have been opened and running water for no apparent reason.  Why?

A. Because water stored in the hydrant system contains chemicals and sediment that need to be flushed.  The need for this procedure overrides any water usage restrictions and is controlled by the City of Hickory.  For more information you can contact the Hickory Water Department at 828.323.7427.  Information about Catawba County water restrictions can be found at http://www.hickorygov.com/waterrestrictions/index.html.

 Q. I am purchasing fire insurance.  What do I need to know about this districts fire rating?

A. The North Carolina Department of Insurance rates each district based on certain criteria.  SFTFR has made it a priority to receive the best rating possible for a residential district.  Our district has a rating of 6.  For more information about this subject you may visit http://www.ncdoi.com/OSFM/RI/ri_home.asp.

 Q. Do volunteers get paid for their service to the community?

A. No, volunteers do not get paid per se; however their equipment and training are paid for by the department, and when a volunteer reaches the age of 55 with 20 years of service they are eligible for retirement benefits.

 Q. How much does it cost for one volunteer?

A. To provide each volunteer with standard training and equipment the cost is around $2,500 per year.

 Q. How many volunteers are on the department?

A. Over 50.

 Q. What about paid staff?

A. SFTFR currently employees 16 firefighters including the Chief.  For the first time in the history of the department we are able to provide our district members with 24 hour coverage 365 days per year.

 Q. How does the department get money?

A. The department's budget is supplied primarily by tax money collected from property owners in the district.  We are also fortunate to receive financial support from local businesses and district residents through fundraisers and straight donations.

 Q. How do I become a volunteer firefighter?

A. Becoming a volunteer firefighter is a rewarding decision but one that should not be made without consideration. Many hours of training must be accomplished and certificates awarded by the State Fire Marshal's Office.  Physical fitness is also a requirement as well as the ability work under stressful conditions.  To start the process you must first submit an application for a volunteer position.

For more information about fire fighting certificates you can visit http://www.ncdoi.com/OSFM/. 

 Q. What if I don't want to fight fires, can I still volunteer?

A. Yes, as a matter of fact the majority of calls for service for our district are either trauma incidents such as motor vehicle collisions or medical emergencies and we can always use medically trained personnel to respond to these calls.

 Q. What are the requirements for this type of volunteer position?

A. Like fire fighting there are certification requirements that need to be met before a person can administer medical treatment as a volunteer.  For information regarding EMT certifications you can visit http://www.ncems.org/. 

If you have a question you would like answered you can email the department’s public information officer at PIO@SFTFR.NET.