Fire/Marine Safety Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

Q.  How do I contact the Fire Department for a fire or medical emergency?

A.  Dial 911. This is a free call on all cellular and coin operated phones. The dispatcher will automatically know the address and phone number from which you are calling (except cellular calls). However, they may ask for additional clarification from you concerning the emergency. It is important to remember to remain calm when speaking to the dispatcher.

Q.  What do I do if there is a fire in my home?    
A.  Make sure everyone is out of the home and dial 911. Never re-enter the home to rescue property or pets.

Q.  What do I do if there is an earthquake?  
A.  Check your home for gas or water leaks and shut off the utilities, if necessary. For earthquake preparedness information, click here or call our Public Education Line at 633-2815.

Q.  Why do fire trucks respond with or in place of ambulances?     
A.  In most cases, an engine company is dispatched in addition to the paramedic unit. The engine company’s crew is able to provide lifesaving treatment if they arrive first.

Q.  Is there a charge for paramedic service for Encinitas residents?     
A.  No. The City of Encinitas does not charge for transportation in an ambulance since each property owner in Encinitas pays an annual subscription fee of $18.76 to cover ambulance transportation costs.

Q.  What other services does the Fire Department offer? 
A.  The Encinitas Fire Department offers a wide array of public safety education and prevention programs, such as classroom fire safety presentations and demonstrations, low-cost CPR classes, disaster preparedness training and home fire safety inspections. To participate in these programs please call our Public Education Line at 633-2815.

Q.  I sometimes see a fire truck parked near businesses, but there are no signs of a fire. What are they doing? 
A.  Engine companies conduct a comprehensive fire inspection of all businesses on a regular basis.

Q.  Are fireworks permitted in Encinitas?    
A.  All fireworks are prohibited in the City of Encinitas.

Q.  Where can I dispose of used motor oil, household cleaners, paint, etc.  
A.  For information on where you can dispose of your household hazardous waste materials please contact the Household Hazardous Waste Hotline at 800-444-4244.

Q.  How do I have the gas turned off or on in my home?  
A.  In an emergency, dial 911.  For non-emergencies, call San Diego Gas and Electric at 1-800-411-SDGE (7343).

Q.  Who do I call if I find a pet stuck in a tree or on a telephone pole?  
A.  Contact County Animal Control at 438-2312

Q.  How can I safeguard my home against fires?
A.  The best prevention is installing smoke detectors throughout your home. Also check your home for overloaded electrical circuits, damaged electrical cords, and other obvious fire hazards. For a free home safety inspection, please call the Encinitas Fire Department at 633-2800.

Q.  What number do I call for information on CPR classes? 
A.  Call the Department’s Public Education Line at 633-2815.

Q.  How do I schedule an inspection? 
A.  To schedule an inspection please contact Fire Prevention & Planning at 633-2820.

Q.  How do I get a fire permit?  
A.  Contact Fire Prevention & Planning at 633-2820.

Q.  How do I get a copy of a fire investigation report? 
A.  Call Fire Prevention & Planning at 633-2820.

Q.  How can I schedule a fire truck or firefighter for a special event or function?  
A.  Our staff frequently visits pre-schools, elementary schools, and non-profit events. To request a safety presentation or equipment "show and tell", please call the Public Education Line at 633-2815.

Q.  Who do I call if I have problems with bees?  
A.  The Encinitas Fire Department does not remove bees unless there is an imminent danger to an individual. To have bees removed, consult your Yellow Pages under "Beekeepers" and contact a licensed beekeeper that will safely remove the bees.

Q.  Who do I call to get sandbags?  
A.  The Encinitas Fire Department has a limited number of sandbags to provide residents during periods of heavy rain and flooding. Residents can purchase sandbags from local businesses, such as Home Depot and Grangetto’s Farm and Garden Supply in Encinitas. You may also check the Yellow Pages under "Rock", or "Sand and Gravel" for additional suppliers. Please call these stores directly for the latest information on availability, price and current location.

Q.  How can I become a firefighter?  
A.  The Encinitas Fire Department currently recruits candidates for the position of firefighter/paramedic from an eligibility list established by Palomar College. If you are interested in becoming a firefighter/paramedic with the Encinitas Fire Department and have received all your required certifications, please contact Palomar College at (760) 744-1150, extension 2760, so that your name may be placed on an eligibility list. For a list of job openings with the Encinitas Fire Department please click here or call the City’s Job Line at 633-2726.