Verdigris Fire Department - Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will the Fire Department refill my fire extinguisher?

The Fire Department does not fill fire extinguishers. We even use a license vendor to refill our own extinguishers. There are several approved and licensed vendors that do this job which can be found in the Yellow Pages.

2. When an emergency vehicle is approaching that is displaying emergency lights and sirens, what should I do?

Safely pull over to the right and stop. This allows fire trucks or other emergency vehicles enough road space to safely and quickly continue its response to an emergency scene. Remember, emergency vehicles with lights and sirens running always have the right-of-way at an intersection, regardless of the color of the light.

3. I have seen emergency vehicles drive with lights and sirens, and then just turn them off. Why does this happen?

In many instances, multiple emergency vehicles respond to the same emergency. This is to ensure that enough personnel are available to handle whatever emergency might be found. Many times, after a crew has arrived on scene and evaluated an incident, the commanding officer will cancel other responding units if no additional personnel is needed. Usually, when you see emergency vehicles turn off their lights and sirens and turn around, it is because of this very reason.

4. Can I burn brush piles in the Verdigris Fire District?

Yes, open burning is permitted assuming there is no state burn ban and the weather is favorable for burning. For this reason, we ask that you please contact our dispatch before starting any controlled burns. You will be asked for the location of the controlled burn as well as your name and a contact number you can be reached at. Also, be aware that it against State and Federal laws to burn certain types of materials. If you are not sure, please ask as the penalties for violating these laws can be serious.

5. Why do fire trucks respond to emergency medical calls?

In addition to fighting fires, our firefighters are trained as Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and First Responders. Our mission is to protect life and minimize any bodily injury to all persons. Because of our stations geographic location, we can respond quickly to a medical emergency and begin emergency medical treatment or life saving techniques such as CPR. All of our rescue units are also equipped with Automated External Defibrillators (AED’s). The Verdigris Fire Department does not provide ambulance transport services. Our medics work to protect the community and assist local ambulance providers.

6. I need an EMT to cover a special event.

In select cases where large amounts of people will be attending an event being held within the district, the department may offer this service free of charge. Examples include High School football games and other large community events. If your event is not a large-scale event but you would still like an EMT to attend to provide basic first aid services, you may contact our department on Monday-Friday from 8AM to 5PM. Hourly rates may apply and payment requirement will be left to the event planner and individual EMT attending.

7. How do I become a Fire Fighter for Verdigris?

To apply for the Verdigris Fire Department, you must be at least 18 years of age. You must have completed an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) course or be able to do so within the first year of service. Applicants will be contacted by phone before a department training course begins. The initial hiring process is contingent upon passing an interview with the fire board.

All accepted applicants will be required to go through an initial department training course and pass a written and practical exam prior to responding to any emergencies. Applicant’s will also be required to pass the State of Oklahoma Firefighter I exam before making any interior fire attacks.

You may stop by our department office on to fill out an application on Monday thru Friday between 8:00AM and 5:00PM.

8. Can I do a ride-along in the fire truck while responding to an emergency?

Sorry, we currently do not allow ride-alongs in any of our apparatus.

9. Can you fill my swimming pool?

We do not fill swimming pools.

10. How do I arrange for a fire safety presentation for my group?

Please contact our office on Monday through Friday between 8:00AM and 5:00PM to schedule a fire safety presentation.

If your question was not answered on this page, go to our "Contact" page and send it to us.

We will work to answer your question as promptly as possible.