How do I get a copy of a Fire Report or Emergency Medical Records?

Submit a request in writing with the pertinent information i.e. Date, time, nature of call, location etc. with a check made out to the “Town of Topsfield” for $5.00.

Can I have my child’s birthday party at the fire station?

Yes, just call the FD a few days ahead of time and ask for the officer in charge. He or she will work with you to set up a date and time for your childs party.   

Why do firefighters have to break windows and cut holes in roof?

At times during firefighting operations, it is necessary to ventilate the building to remove heat, smoke and other byproducts of combustion.  Typically, this process causes less damage to the building then letting the heat and fire build up.  It allows us to put the fire out quicker with less damage from smoke, heat and water to the rest of the building.

Why is it necessary to have a fire dept. pumper or pick up respond with the rescue truck and an ambulance?

The Town of Topsfield is a call Fire Department supplemented by four full time firefighters and a Chief.  The pumper or pick up maybe carrying needed personnel or equipment depending upon staffing patterns.

Why when I call 911 I sometimes see a Fire Department vehicle from another town answering my call?

All our resources could be at an emergency or multiple emergencies and out of town fire depts. are covering our fire station for the next emergency.  Also we have mutual aid agreements with our surrounding communities who are actually closer than our Department is.  It is not uncommon that a Middleton Fire Engine will reach Coppermine Road before a Topsfield Engine or that a Hamilton Engine might be on Asbury Street first.

When can I burn trash and brush?

Brush is only allowed to be burned in Massachusetts from January 15^th to April 30^th.  Trash is never allowed to be burnt.

How can I check my smoke detectors?

Smoke detectors should be tested monthly by pushing the test button or by following the manufacture recommendation for testing the device. All smoke detector batteries should be changed twice a year once in the spring and once in the fall when you change your clocks. If you have a monitored alarm system, please notify your alarm company before testing your devices.

Can I get my blood pressure checked for free at the fire dept.?

Yes! Come by anytime no appointment needed. 

How can I get my fire extinguisher refilled or checked?

You can bring your extinguisher by the Fire Department and the Fire Department will check it for you.  If it needs to be refilled or serviced we will make arraignments to have a company pick up and drop off your extinguisher at the fire station all fees from the fire extinguisher company will be billed to you directly.

My smoke detector is chirping is it detecting smoke?

If your detector is chirping it is most likely telling you that your battery needs to be replaced. Replace the battery and if this works you have fixed the problem. If it continues to chirp then it may need to be replaced.  Always when your smoke detector alerts you rule out any indications of smoke or fire.

How many smoke detectors do I need in my house?

Go to the Smoke Detector section of this web page for a description of detector locations, or call the Fire Department for more information.

What is the best type of fire extinguisher for my home?

A 2.5 lb. or 5 lb. ABC “Multi-Purpose Dry Chemical” extinguisher is best. This type of extinguisher is rated to extinguish all types of fires that may develop with in your home or car.

Why did I see so many fire trucks at my house when I burned some toast?

When a fire alarm is received, we must plan for the worst case, a building fire, until personnel can get to your house and determine the actual cause for the alarm.

Will the fire dept. check the location of my smoke detectors?

Yes! Just call the fire dept to set up an appointment. 

What do I have to do to bring my children to the fire station to see the fire trucks?

Just show up at the door, as long as we are here and not out on a call we will make it possible for the little ones to drive the trucks.

Is it necessary for the fire dept. pickup truck to be at a firefighter’s home each night?

The Topsfield Fire Station is not manned at night and therefore the three Captains rotate bringing that vehicle home at night.  That allows that person to make a more rapid assessment of the emergency situation, begin treatment and call for additional resources as needed.