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1. Why may a fire truck and police officer come when I call for an ambulance?

All fire apparatus are Advanced Life Support (ALS) equipped and staffed at a minimum level of an EMT. In the instance that all four ambulances are busy with other medical calls or may be too far away to respond within the average 3 ½ minute response time an engine or fire truck is dispatched to respond. 

Police officers may respond to ambulance calls depending on the nature of the call. Police officers often respond to assist with scene safety or to assist if additional manpower is needed.

2. Why are fire trucks used to block lanes on the highway when there is an emergency?

This is done for everyone’s safety. By blocking the lanes, all individuals involved are able to work more diligently to clear the incident and provide assistance quicker.

3. How do I report a leaking or broken fire hydrant?

If it is a public fire hydrant, please call City of Great Bend Water Department at 620-793-4150. If it is a private fire hydrant, the property owner is responsible for all repairs. It is advised that they contact a licensed plumber.

4. Can I schedule a visit to the fire station?

Yes, station tours can be scheduled by contacting us at 620-793-4140. See our Community page for more information on station tours and other community involvement activities.

5. Does the Fire Department inspect child car seats?

No, special training is required in order to install child car seats and none of our firefighters are certified. 

The Great Bend Police Department does have individuals trained to install car seats. The Police Department can be contacted at 620-793-4120.

6. What are the requirements to become a firefighter/EMT with the Great Bend Fire Department?

A full list of requirements can be found under our Employment page.

7. Can the Great Bend Fire Department unlock my car if I leave the keys inside?

The Great Bend Fire Department will only gain entry to your vehicle if there is a child or pet inside the vehicle.

8. Does the Fire Department fill private pools with water?

No we do not.

9. Can the Fire Department come out and change the batteries in my smoke detector?

Yes, if the smoke alarm is too high for the resident to reach, if the resident is disabled or elderly or if they are unable to climb on a ladder to replace the batteries contact Station #1 at 620-793-4140 to schedule a time.

10. Does the Fire Department provide both fire and ambulance service?

Yes, all fire personnel are also trained to a minimum level of an EMT. This allows all firefighter/EMS staff to provide both fire and EMS care as situations may require.