RCFD

USER FEES

UNDERSTANDING FIRE DEPARTMENT USER FEES

The Richland Fire Department’s Board of Directors has implemented a user fee for fire department responses. This fee contributes to the fire department’s annual operating budget. According to the department’s bylaws, the cost of responding to fire calls is billed to the municipality where the incident occurs. Currently, all municipalities pass this bill on to the responsible party associated with the incident.

It’s important to note that the possibility of receiving a bill for the fire department’s response should not deter anyone from seeking assistance when needed. Safety and prompt action always take precedence over financial considerations. If you require help, don’t hesitate to contact us for assistance.

  1. EMS Lift Assist ($200.00):
    • EMS Lift Assist calls are billed to the EMS agency that requested assistance from the RCFD for their patient.
  2. False Alarms ($300.00):
    • False Alarms are generated by automated fire detection systems.
    • The first alarm per calendar year is not billed.
    • Subsequent alarms are billed at the listed rate.
  3. Duty Crew Response ($600.00 per hour for all hours):
    • Duty crew responses typically involve auto accidents.
    • The fire department assists in cleanup, provides traffic control, ensures scene safety, and removes trapped individuals from automobiles.
    • Duty crew responses may also include rescues where the department’s UTV (utility task vehicle) transports an injured party.
    • Additionally, fire responses that are downgraded due to the fire being out upon the department’s arrival fall under this category.
  4. Full Response:
    • First hour: $800.00
    • Additional hours: $600.00 per hour
    • This category includes structure fires, vehicle fires, and grass fires.
  5. Consumable Supplies:
    • Billed at actual cost.
    • These items include materials used to contain spills (such as oil dry) or assist in suppressing fires (such as foam).
  6. Rented Equipment:
    • If the fire department requires specialized rental equipment (e.g., a backhoe to tear down a structure for fire suppression), the rental cost is billed along with the fire call.
    • Often, insurance agents preauthorize this expense based on the property’s policy where the incident occurs.

Remember, prompt assistance is crucial during emergencies, and the fees associated with fire department responses should not deter anyone from seeking help when needed. Safety always comes first!