Question 1

How do I join the Fire Department?

Accepted Answer

You can follow this link and fill out an application. Or stop by any of our three stations and pick up an application.

Question 2

What do I do if I smell gas in my house?

Accepted Answer

You will need to immediately exit your home and call 9-1-1 from a mobile device or a neighbors house. The use of a phone in the home could cause the gas to ignite if used inside the house with a gas leak.

Question 3

What do I do if I see or hear an Emergency Vehicle come towards me while driving?

Accepted Answer

When it is safe to do so, pull over to the right ride of the road and stop until all emergency vehicles have safely passed. If you cannot safely maneuver to the right side of the road simply stop and stay still until the emergency vehicles can safely go around you. 
​
​

Question 4

Does the fire department fill fire extinguishers?

Accepted Answer

Summerfield is not equipped to fill or charge fire extinguishers at this time. However, you can perform a quick Google search for your  local fire extinguisher business, or find them in the Yellow Pages.

Question 5

I just moved to Summerfield and notice there are no fire hydrants. What happens if my house catches on fire?

Accepted Answer

Summerfield does not have any fire hydrants. We practice what is called rural water operations if your house catches on fire. We have tankers at each of our three stations that bring water to your home if it is on fire. Once one tanker runs out of water they must go to a designated water point (ponds, lake, or creeks) and fill up then return to continue supplying water.

Question 6

Why do we see Fire Department Crews at the store while on-duty?

Accepted Answer

Full-time crews work a 24 hours shift, they must prepare and eat most meals at the station. At times they eat together as a group. Once most of their daily duties are complete a crew and one of the fire trucks will make a quick trip to the store to purchase meals for the shift, which is paid for out of the firefighters own pocket. All crews must remain in service and available to respond to emergencies, even while out to the grocery store.

Question 7

Why do I have two line items for fire department taxes?

Accepted Answer

Summerfield was founded in 1951, when the general statute permitted tax rates of only $0.10 or less. Later, in the 1960s and 1970s, other departments in Guilford County were established, coinciding with a change in the statute that allowed these departments a tax rate of $0.15 or less. As volunteer numbers have diminished, the need for more paid staff has increased, leading to higher operational costs. To support these departments, Guilford County enables the creation of Individual Fire Department Service Districts, allowing them to exceed the $0.10 limit. In practice, this results in a single tax rate of $0.131. While it may seem complex, this structure is essential for maintaining efficient operations and ensuring the safety of Summerfield's residents.

Frequently asked questions