Frequently Asked Questions

How many people are employed by the Riverside Fire Department?
When fully staffed there are 26 employees in the Riverside Fire Division.  This includes 12 Fire personnel, 12 Reserve Firefighters, an Assistant Fire Marshall, and a Fire Division Chief.

How many firefighters are on duty every day?
There are from 3 to 4 firefighters on duty for each 24-hour shift. There are additional personnel on duty in leadership and administrative roles during normal business hours.

How many fire stations does Riverside have?
Riverside has one fire station staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Why did another fire department respond to my house or place of employment?
The Riverside Fire Department participates in mutual aid agreements with many of the surrounding communities. This enables local fire departments to help each other out when one is busy with other calls or needs more resources then they currently have available.

Why are windows broken or holes cut in roofs during fire fighting operations?
As a fire burns, it moves upward then outward. Breaking the windows and/or cutting holes in the roof allows smoke and heat to escape the structure. This ventilation enables firefighters to operate safely and efficiently. An unventilated structure can have heat build up to the point that even firefighter protective gear is inadequate for protection. Additionally, it is common for unventilated structures to have zero visibility due to smoke buildup. Ventilation also limits the spread of fire and smoke, thus reducing damage.

Can I have a recreational fire in my back yard?
Yes, you can have a recreational fire in your back yard. Make sure you have 25 feet clearance away from any combustibles such as dry grass or you home. Have some type of extinguishing agent close at hand (Example a water hose or a bucket of sand). By following these things will allow you to have a proper recreation fire.  Please contact Assistant Fire Marshal Keith Payne at 372-9211 or fireprevention [at] riversidemo [dot] com (by email )for any questions.

Does the Riverside Fire Department provide both fire and emergency medical response?
Yes, the fire department responds to all fire, rescue, and emergency medical incidents in the city. We also have mutual aid agreements with  Gladstone, South Platte and North Kansas City, where they respond in our community and we respond in their community when requested.

Can I bring my family or small group in for a tour of a fire station?
Absolutely, we welcome visitors. If possible, we ask that you schedule your visit in advance by contacting our business office at 372-9211 or fireprevention [at] riversidemo [dot] com (by email).