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1. How high do the fire department ladders reach?

 Approximately 6 stories for aerial ladders, and 7 stories for the aerial platforms.  It is dependent on how close the apparatus can get to the building, and if there is underground parking that will restrict fire apparatus due to their weight. The Rahway Fire Department has an Emergency One platform tower.  At a maximum angle of 80 degrees, it has 95 feet reach.  At an angle of 60 degrees, it has a reach of 84 feet.

2. How long should emergency power last?

 It is dependent on the building and how the emergency power is supplied.  Many newer buildings have emergency generators which will give continuous uninterrupted lighting in stairwells, hallways and other buildings will have battery-operated systems which provide lighting for a defined time period.  Under the Building Code, emergency power must last long enough for occupants to safely leave the building. (one hour)

3. Why can’t I use the elevators during a fire alarm?

• Elevators could become a smoke shaft during a fire.
• The power could fail to leave you trapped in the elevator car.
• The door could open at the fire floor exposing you to extreme heat and smoke.
• Firefighters need the elevator to transport manpower and equipment to the upper floors as quickly as possible.

4. How often does the fire alarm system in the building get tested?

Automatic and manual fire alarm systems and each of their components are tested annually.  In addition, fire drills are mandated more frequently within certain user groups.

• In daycares, fire drills are held at least once a month.
• Our schools conduct a minimum of six drills within a three-month period.
• Dormitories are required to have fire drills twice annually.

5. Is the fire alarm system connected directly to the fire stations?

No.  Some buildings are monitored by private companies, which will notify the Fire Department when the fire alarm is activated.  It is important for people to call 9-1-1 from the building and not assume that someone else has advised the Fire Department.

6. "I saw pictures of that terrible fire in another community."

Fire is an equalizer.  It has no respect for age, sex, or economic status in any given community.  There are some basic safety rules which can greatly lessen the chance of being part of an unwanted statistic.  If you wish further assistance or information, please call our Fire Prevention Bureau at 732-827-2133.

7. What are the usual causes of fire in a high-rise?

Fires in high-rise apartments are caused the same as in any other dwelling – smoking, cooking accidents, electrical and arson.

8. Why is the exit to the roof allowed to be locked?

Doors or hatches from a stairwell leading to the roof of the building are not considered to be fire exits under the fire code.  Exit from a building is considered to be down and to the outside.  These doors are locked mostly from the standpoint of building liability and security.

9. If I am not physically capable of using the stairs, what should I do?

 If your building has a “fire safety plan” in effect, ask to have your name and address placed on the “persons requiring assistance” page.  This page is checked by the Senior Fire Officer at the scene in the event of a fire in the building.

In the event of an alarm or fire in the building and you are trapped:

• Stay in your unit.
• Seal wet towels around your door or duct tape to keep smoke out.
• Call 9-1-1 and give the dispatcher your exact location (apartment #, etc.).  Signal rescuers from your balcony or window.

10. Why can’t the doors to the stairwells be left open for better ventilation?

These doors protect the stairwell from the spread of smoke, heat and hot gases so that they can be used to safely evacuate people from the building.  A door, which is wedged open, would allow the smoke to fill the stairwell as well as the upper floors of the building, putting the occupants at risk.

11. Do you still have rescue window stickers to indicate a child’s bedroom?

Yes, but a sticker is no substitute for a home fire escape plan.  We encourage everyone to plan their own escape in advance and to practice it regularly.  However, if you should choose to use a sticker, the best placement is any child’s room window located above the ground level.

12. How do I dispose of hazardous materials such as old paint cans, flammable liquids, etc?

The City of Rahway sponsors disposal days seasonably. For information, Email Mike Smalling at Solid Waste & Recycling or call (732) 827-2159.

Union County also sponsors disposal days. For information call (908) 654-9889.

13. How close should my drapes come to an electric baseboard heater?

The rule of thumb is not closer than 2 inches.  Many manufacturers of heaters have recommended distances to be observed when using their products.  Always consult the manufacturers.