Fire Prevention / Investigation

The Fire Prevention and Investigation Division will participate in code enforcement, fire cause determination, and fire inspection.

Space Heater Safety Tips

  • Keep all space heaters at least 3 feet away from household combustibles.
  • Use space heaters only as a supplementary source of heat. These devices are not intended to replace the home's heating system.
  • Do not use extension cords with space heaters.
  • Inspect the heater's cord periodically to look for frayed wire or damaged insulation. Do not use a space heater with a damaged cord.
  • Check periodically for a secure plug/outlet fit. If the plug becomes very hot, the outlet may need to be replaced by a qualified technician. This could be the sign of a potential home wiring issue.
  • Heaters should be placed on a flat, level surface. Do not place heaters on furniture since they may fall and become damaged or break parts in the heater.
  • Unless the heater is designed for use outdoors or in bathrooms, do not use in damp, wet areas.
  • Look for the UL Mark on your electric heater. This means representative samples of the appliance have met UL's stringent safety standards.
  • If you have a liquid-fueled space heater, use only the fuel recommended by the manufacturer. The wrong fuel could burn hotter than the equipment was designed for and cause a serious fire.
  • When refueling, turn off the heater and let it cool down completely before adding fuel. Wipe away any spills promptly.
  • Before you buy a kerosene heater, check with your local fire department to ensure that it is legal.

Fire Place Safety

  • Get an annual chimney check. Have chimneys inspected annually, and cleaned as necessary, by a qualified professional chimney service technician. This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys.
  • Keep it clear. Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney.
  • Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney.
  • Choose the right fuel. For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces, choose well seasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location. Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove.
  • Build it right. Place firewood or fire logs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate. To start the fire, use kindling or a commercial fire lighter. Never use flammable liquids.
  • Keep the hearth area clear. Combustible material too close to the fireplace, or to a wood stove, could easily catch fire. Keep furniture at least 36" away from the hearth.
  • Use a fireplace screen. Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring.
  • Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall. When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time, remember to check your batteries.
  • Never leave a fire unattended. Before turning in for the evening, be sure that the fire is fully extinguished. Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces.

Investigation

Responsibilities of the City of Jacksonville's Fire Marshall's Office

Fire / Explosive Investigations

The Fire Marshal's office conducts fire/explosive investigations within the city limits of Jacksonville. We have five investigators that are certified in fire/arson and explosive post blast investigations. In the case of a large scene investigation we have the capability of calling the ATF Task Force to assist and also the Arkansas State Fire Marshal's office. Both groups can provide us with the needed tools, manpower and assistance to our scene investigations.

Fire Safety Inspections

We conduct several different types of fire safety inspections in the City of Jacksonville. We conduct inspections of commercial businesses, public buildings, and residential dwellings (upon request). We also conduct inspections of day cares, foster, schools, and group homes.

Fireworks display Inspections & Fireworks Violations

Each year during the fireworks season our office conducts fire inspections of all the fireworks displays in the City of Jacksonville to ensure that they meet fire code compliance. We also handle fireworks complaints and violations during this season.

Outdoor Burning

Our office handles calls and complaints on out door burning. At times we respond to sites for inspection before the outdoor burning is conducted and we also respond to complaints of improper outdoor burning. We work with the ADEQ, (Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality) concerning outdoor burning violations and complaints in the City of Jacksonville.

Plans Review

The Fire Marshal's office is also responsible for the review of building plans on all new construction and alterations to existing buildings to insure compliance with the Arkansas State Fire Code.