Frequently Asked Questions

I called for an ambulance, why did the Fire Department show up as well?

In order to better serve our residents, we have chosen to be a part of the Hamilton County First Responder Program. Within this program, our firefighters are trained as Emergency Medical Responders, Emergency Medical Technicians, Advanced Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics. We respond to all emergency requests for an ambulance within our response district and even to special requests in non-emergency situations. Everyone who is an EMT or Paramedic is trained to the exact level of State and National Certifications as the personnel on the ambulance. The EMRs are trained in all Basic Life Support skills including medical, trauma and hazardous material type situations. The equipment we carry on the Rescue Vehicle is set by the State of Tennessee EMS Office and is capable of Basic Life Support stabilization of patients until arrival of an ambulance. Our First Responder vehicles are equipped with an AED. This machine is capable of automatically converting a lethal heart arrhythmia to a life supporting rhythm.

I want to burn some brush, is it legal to burn brush or trash in Hamilton County?

Open burning is regulated by the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Air Pollution Control Board. There is a seasonal burn ban from May1-September 30 every year. If you are interested in burning brush in Hamilton County during legal burn season, local ordinances require that residents obtain a burn permit. Call 423-478-0337 or visit www.apcb.org for specific burn laws and more details.

Can I have a fire pit/camp fire during the summer?

Yes, recreational fires are legal year round in Hamilton County unless a total burn ban is in place due to extreme dry weather. These fires when not in pits should: burn clean, untreated wood, and is limited to a size of 3 feet by 2 feet – anything else is considered a violation. These fires should be tended to at all times.

I am interested in having the fire department participate in a public education or public relations event. How can I get that scheduled?

If your organization is interested in having DBVFD participate in a public education or public relations event, contact us here or phone 423-842-9370 us with some information and contact information. Someone with our Fire Prevention Division will contact you as soon as possible!

How does the department raise the funds required to operate?

Dallas Bay Fire & Rescue receives a small operational allotment from Hamilton County but the bulk of the operational budget comes from donations in the community. Due to expenses for operations such as fuel, equipment, supplies, repairs, and maintenance, we find it necessary to respectfully ask for a tax deductible (501c3) payment of $70 per year or $35 semi-annually. WE DO NOT SOLICIT BY TELEPHONE. Pay Online Here or Send your check or money order to:
Dallas Bay VFD
P. O. Box 577
Hixson, TN 37343

Services provided by Dallas Bay Fire & Rescue are Emergency Services, and will be provided to you regardless of payment status.

How can I become a member?

If you are interested in applying for membership, visit our Join Our Team Page

What is required of a member?

Must attend training session once per week. These are offered on Monday nights beginning at 7 p.m., and again on Friday mornings at 9 a.m. Training is held at Station 2 at 1950 McConnell School Lane.

Must be at least 18 years of age to be an active Firefighter or 21 years of age to qualify as a Driver Operator.
Must have a valid State of Tennessee Drivers License.
Must pass a criminal background check.

We offer an Explorer program sanctioned by the Boy Scouts of America that allows you to participate in non-hazardous roles beginning at the age of 14. Dallas Bay promotes values, community service, and good moral character through this program. We enforce school attendance and academic performance requirements. All explorers are required to turn-in quarterly grade and attendance reporting showing C-average or better to the Explorer Coordinator.

Will DBVFD fill my swimming pool?

Unfortunately, we cannot fill private or public swimming pools. The local water company charges fees for the water they provide and our agreement does not permit us to use hydrant water for any other purpose than fire extinguishment. Reach out to your water company for further details.

What’s DBVFD ISO rating?

Dallas Bay Fire & Rescue is rated ISO 2.