Fire Department

Mission Statement

As first responders to emergencies and non-emergencies, Bluefield Fire Department strives to protect the lives and property of our citizens, and visitors. Bluefield Fire Department protects the lives and property through response to fires, motor vehicle collisions, hazardous materials incidents, carbon monoxide emergencies, medical emergencies, weather related emergencies, and various other incidents.

Core Values of the Department

Service

The department will answer the call to protect and serve the citizens and visitors of Bluefield.

Courage

Each member, through training and education should be enabled to perform the duties required in difficult and dangerous situations.

Safety

The members of Bluefield Fire Department will strive to keep its members and our citizens safe through training, education, prevention, and response to emergencies.

Honor

Fire Fighting requires an enormous commitment to perform the Department’s tasks personally and professionally. It requires great character and pride in the department. Every action we perform reflects on its members and the city.

Dedication

Each member must be dedicated to the mission and understand the commitment and sacrifice that could be asked.

Business Inspection

The Bluefield Fire Department requires the following information in writing prior to a new business opening in the City of Bluefield:

Location of business
Type of business to be conducted
Plans or drawings (If there are no plans or drawings, upon the business owner's request, the department will visit the site to provide guidance)

Once the above information is received by the Fire Department, an inspection will be conducted by Fire Department personnel. Inspections will vary depending on the type of business.

The department currently has three NFPA certified fire inspectors.

B.F.D performs annual pre-plans of current businesses inside of the city according to NFPA 1620. The standard provides criteria for developing pre incident plans to help fire fighters effectively manage emergencies so as to maximize protection for occupants, responding personnel, property, and the environment.

Contact the Bluefield Fire Department at 304-327-2401 x 8650 or email at cbailey@bluewv.org for more information concerning fire department inspections for your business.

Community Service

The Bluefield Firefighters participate in a variety of different charitable activities all year long. You can find us at any major function inside the city and on the outskirts as well. From working at the various Expos at the Brushfork Armory, Lemonade day, spring and fall festivals, local parades and other community events. You will find us out in the community giving back. We do fire safety and fire prevention all year long; with fire prevention week being in October, we visit all the local schools. We pass out smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire prevention material while supplies last. Towards the end of the year we participate in toy drives, coat drives, and food drives at vital times of the year. The department also assists wherever natural wherever requested.

Schedule a Firefighter

City of Bluefield fire fighters are available to make presentations to schools, civic organzations, clubs, churches, and other groups on a variety of topics. To schedule a presentation, please email the department at cbailey@bluewv.org or call 304-327-2401 x 8650.

Tips from Bluefield Fire Department

When cooking in the kitchen, stay in the room. Especially if you are grilling, broiling, or frying your food.
When using a space heater, keep any objects around it at least three feet away. Make sure to turn off the space heater if you leave the room or go to sleep.
If you have any electrical cords that have cracked cords, broken plugs, or damaged parts, you should replace the cord.
Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of your home, especially inside bedrooms. The alarms should be tested every month.
Have a "Home Escape Plan," and practice it twice a year.
Have smokers go outside to smoke. Keep sturdy ashtrays for smokers that won't tip over easily.
Be careful with candles. You should keep anything around a candle at least one foot away. Never leave a candle burning if you leave the room or go to sleep.

Web Links

Bluefield Professional Local 347

Division of Forestry

State Fire Marshal's Office

What should I do if I receive a notice of violation?

Contact the Code Enforcement Officer who signed the notice. The officer will be happy to assist you in resolving the situation.
What happens after I report a code violation?

A code enforcement officer will investigate the alleged violation(s). Pictures and a notice are sent to the property owner after investigation. Please note investigations are prioritized due to level of urgency and case load. The property owner is given seven days to make corrections. Extensions may be granted to property owners in special circumstances. If corrections are not made, a summons to the Municipal Court is issued. The matter is then handled by the municipal court judge.
How do I report a code violation?

To report a code violation, click here.
Why do I have to maintain the sidewalk and the grassy area between the sidewalk and the street adjacent to my property?

Sidewalks are maintained by the adjacent property owners per the City Code of Ordinances Chapter 34. Maintenance of the portion of the public right-of-way, between the sidewalk and the edge of the street (often known as the parkway), is the responsibility of the owner of the adjacent property. This includes mowing the grass, edging, trimming shrubs and keeping the area free of trash and debris.
Who is responsible for code violations on a rental property?

Ultimate responsibility falls to the property owner to ensure the rental property is maintained and meets code requirements. It is recommended that tenants include a property maintenance schedule and responsibilities within their lease.
How do I get the City of Bluefield to pick up a large pile of debris or trash?

The City of Bluefield offers special trash pick-up service on demand. Please call 304-327-2401 for service. Additional fees may be incurred.
How many animals can I own if I live in the city limits?

Residents are allowed to own three animals per City Code of Ordinances Chapter 4. All dogs must be tagged with the City of Bluefield. Dogs tags can be obtained at the Municipal Building.
Will the City of Bluefield take care of my wildlife problem?

Wildlife issues are to be handled by licensed agencies and the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. Please contact one of the following should you need assistance: West Virginia Division of Natural Resources: 304-558-2771 RAD: 304-887-2221 Professional Wildlife Removal: 304-306-7050
Does the City of Bluefield have a leash law?

The City Code of Ordinances Chapter 4 states that "no person shall allow any dog owned by him or in his custody to run at large within the city. The term "running at large" means allowing a dog to leave the property limits of property owned, leased or occupied by its owner without restraint. The term "restraint" means being secured by a leash or lead, or being under the control of a responsible person and obedient to that person's command."
Who is responsible for sidewalk repairs?

The adjoining property owner is responsible for sidewalk repairs.
Who is responsible for tree, shrub, and brush trimming in the right of way?

The adjoining property owner has the responsibility of maintaining the trees, shrubs, and brush in the right of way, including damage caused by trees, shrubs, or brush removal if fallen.