Press releases

Edina Fire Department reminds residents to call 9-1-1 during fires

Edina, Minn., Jan. 28, 2010 – A routine fire call has prompted the Edina Fire Department to issue a reminder to residents and businesses on the importance of calling 9-1-1 during a fire.
 
Shortly after 7 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 11, the Edina Fire Department responded to an alarm sounding at an apartment complex on the 5300 block of Vernon Avenue. Fire crews arrived and discovered a small fire burning in the building’s lower-level trash room. The fire was quickly extinguished
 
When investigating the blaze, Edina Fire Marshal Tom Jenson was surprised to learn that one of the building’s residents had seen the fire, but did not call 9-1-1. The individual assumed that since the building’s alarm was sounding, the Fire Department was already on its way.
 
While many fire alarms are monitored and automatically notify the Fire Department once sounded, not all do. Jenson says a 9-1-1 call ensures that the fire has been reported and first responders are on their way. 
 
In addition, the Edina Fire Department also responds to hundreds of false alarms each year. To help maintain resources for a true emergency, four fire personnel are typically dispatched on a straight alarm call. However, when an alarm is coupled with a 9-1-1 call, crews know in advance that the alarm is real, allowing the Department to dispatch additional resources and personnel. It also provides them the opportunity to notify neighboring departments in case mutual aid is needed.
 
“Always call 9-1-1 if you come upon a fire,” said Jenson. “We would rather receive 50 calls than none at all. The sooner a fire is reported, the sooner we can send the appropriate number of trucks and crews to extinguish it.”
 
Jenson also urges residents to use a building’s fire alarm manual pull station (if present) if they discover a fire. This will automatically sound the building’s alarm and give residents a chance to evacuate.
 
For more information, visit www.CityofEdina.com/Fire or call the Edina Fire Department at 952-826-0378.