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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the fire district tax?
A: The Oakland Mapleville Fire District tax rate for 2022 is $2.21 per $1,000 of the Town of Burrillville property tax assessment dated 12/31/2021.
Q: Why is there a fire tax?
A: Neither the Town of Burrillville nor the State of Rhode Island subsidizes the Oakland Mapleville Fire District in any way. The running of the district is fully funded by the fire tax, third party rescue billing, grants, and donations.
Q: When does the Oakland Mapleville Fire District Operating Committee meet?
A: The Annual Meeting, when elections are held and the budget and tax rate are voted on, is held the third Wednesday in September. Monthly Operating Committee meetings are held on the fourth Wednesday of each month at 7:00 pm.
Q: Where can I get a copy of the bylaws?
A: An electronic version is available on this website – click here.
Q: Can I make a financial contribution?
A: Financial contributions are always welcomed. You can be sure that your donation will be used to improve our district and the services that we provide to the community. Please contact us for further information.
Q: How do I dispose of dangerous chemicals or prescriptions?
A: To dispose of chemicals contact the Burrillville Department of Public Works at (401) 568-4440. For prescriptions contact the Burrillville Police Department at (401) 568-6255; they have a MedReturn Drug Collection Unit on site. Items not accepted at the MedReturn are: Hydrogen Peroxide, Inhalers, Aerosol Cans, Needles/Sharps and Thermometers. For any of these we suggest you view the RI Department of Health website for instructions: http://www.health.ri.gov/healthrisks/householdmedicalwaste/.
Q: How do I get a copy of a fire or rescue report?
A: A report can be obtained by contacting the Fire Chief at joseph.bertholic@omfd.necoxmail.com or (401) 568-5720 for a $15 fee. A Medical Records Release Authorization must be provided if the report is not your own. Please present a valid photo ID when picking up the report in person.
Q: What if I cannot tell the rescue crew what medications I am taking when they arrive at my home?
A: Keep a medicine bottle in your refrigerator with a list of all your medications, the doses and how many times a day you take them. An emergency responder will always look there for your information.
Q: Why can’t I have a choice of which hospital I will be taken to?
A: According to RI Department of Health Protocol we are to transport to the nearest appropriate facility (usually Landmark). This is not only advantageous to the patient in getting fast treatment, but we must also minimize the transport time so we can get back to covering the Oakland Mapleville Fire District. The next emergency may be seconds away and minutes can be critical. However, after a patient is stabilized and cared for they may be able to arrange transport to the hospital of their choice.
Q: Does the Oakland Mapleville Fire Department do free blood pressure checks?
A: Any fire station will be happy to check your blood pressure, granted they are in the fire station and not on a call or in training. If you have an emergency, please call 911.
Q: What is the best kind of fire extinguisher for my home?
A: A multi-purpose fire extinguisher is best for the home. Look for the rating to be at least 2A 10B C or (A-B-C) on the label. It is recommended that an extinguisher be installed in the kitchen and the garage.
Q: How do I check my smoke detector?
A: Every smoke detector has a test button, usually in the center of the detector. Press the test button and hold it for a few seconds. If it is working correctly, the alarm will sound and will automatically stop when you release the button. Remember to test your smoke detector monthly and change the batteries TWICE a year. Good tip to use: when you turn your clocks ahead in the spring or back in the fall, change your smoke detector batteries.
Q: When an emergency vehicle is approaching that is displaying emergency lights and sirens, what should I do?
A: According to RI law, you are required to pull to the right and stop regardless of what lane you are in, allowing an apparatus adequate and clear lanes to safely and quickly continue its response. This simple maneuver can result in seconds saved and can translate into a huge difference for someone who is having a medical emergency or is experiencing a fire.
Q: Can I schedule a tour of the station for my organization?
A: Absolutely. Please contact the fire station at (401) 568-5720.
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