FAQs

Are smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors required in my home?: Yes, in Wisconsin, owners of all new and existing one and two family homes must install working smoke detectors and owners of all single-family and multi-unit dwellings must install carbon monoxide detectors. At least one detector is needed on every occupied level of the home. Basements and any finished attic spaces must also have working smoke detectors. A smoke detector must be installed within six feet of any sleeping room, at the head of each open stairway and at the door of any enclosed stairway. We recommend that you also place a working detector in every bedroom, especially if you sleep with the door closed.

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Fire Department

1. Can I open burn in the city?: Outdoor fires for the purpose of cooking, ceremonies and recreation will be permitted with the prior approval of the Fire Department. Please call 763-7842 for approval.

2. How do I become a volunteer for the Fire Department?: Interested individuals 18 years or older may pick up an application at the Fire Station (165 W. Washington Street) to apply for volunteer positions.

3. How do I get my business inspected for fire safety?: Call (262) 763-7842 to schedule a safety inspection with the Fire Inspector.

4. Why do you turn off the electricity at the house when fighting a fire?: We turn off the electricity to prevent the accidental electrocution of our fire fighters and to prevent burned and damaged wiring from starting another fire.

5. Why do you cut holes in the roof at a fire?: Ventilation holes are sometimes cut to release the hot gases from inside the structure. A build-up of fire gases is dangerous to fire fighters because it can suddenly burst into flames in an event known as a flashover. Flashovers kill fire fighters every year and the best way to avoid it is to cut the ventilation holes.

6. Are smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors required in my home?: Yes, in Wisconsin, owners of all new and existing one and two family homes must install working smoke detectors and owners of all single-family and multi-unit dwellings must install carbon monoxide detectors. At least one detector is needed on every occupied level of the home. Basements and any finished attic spaces must also have working smoke detectors. A smoke detector must be installed within six feet of any sleeping room, at the head of each open stairway and at the door of any enclosed stairway. We recommend that you also place a working detector in every bedroom, especially if you sleep with the door closed.