Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Fire Department  FAQ

How many firefighters serve the City of Dumas?
The Dumas Fire Department employs 16 full-time firefighters; 5 firefighters on each of the three shifts with a Fire Chief to lead and manage the department. In addition, the DFD maintains a roster of up to 30 "on-call" volunteer firefighters who supplement the department as the need arises. For more information on becoming a volunteer, visit our Volunteer Firefighter Information Page.
What training is required for full-time firefighter?
All firefighters employed at the Dumas Fire Department must be Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) Basic Structure Fire Suppression (Firefighter I/II) and Hazardous Materials Technician certified. 
Additionally, firefighters must be a minimum of Texas Department of State Health Services (TDSHS) Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT-B). 

Many of the firefighters in Dumas have additional certifications in various disciplines including:
  • Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting
  • Fire and Emergency Services Instructor
  • Fire Investigator
  • Arson Investigator 
  • Life and Fire Safety Code Inspector
  • Wildland Fire Protection
  • Driver / Operator (Pumper/Aerial) 
  • Incident Safety Officer 
  •  Fire Officer 
  • Plans Examiner
  • Fire and Life Safety Educator

For more information on current opportunities with the City of Dumas, visit our employment information page. 
For more information on the certification requirements with the Texas Commission on Fire Protection, please visit the TCFP Certification Page.
For more information on the certification requirements with the Texas Department of State Health Services, please visit TDSHS Certification and Licensing.
What are the requirements to become a volunteer firefighter?
To be eligible, applicants must:
  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Have a good work history
  • Maintain a valid TX driver's license
  • Have a high school diploma or GED
  • Poses vision correctable to 20/20
  • Complete a criminal history check
  • Complete our entrance agility examination
  • Complete the interview process
  • Become Firefighter Introductory Certified within 1 year*
  • Obtain a Class B exempt TX driver's license
  • Pursue certification as an EMT-B within 2 years
*Volunteer firefighters must complete 72 hours of training prior to entering a burning structure.

To learn more about becoming a volunteer firefighter, visit our Volunteer Firefighter Information Page.
Why do firefighters use fire trucks for non-emergency purposes while they are on duty?
While there are a number of acceptable reasons for fire apparatus to be used for non-emergency purposes; the most common reasons will fall into the categories below:

  • Fire and Life Safety Inspections
  • Company Inspections / New Construction
  • Department Training
  • Public Education
  • Fire Hydrant Testing
  • Fleet Maintenance
  • Brief personal errands per City Policy
  • Meals
For any questions or concerns related to the use of City or Fire Department vehicles, please contact Chief Ron Pray at 806-935-6435 or rpray@dumastx.gov.
Why does the fire department respond when I call 911 for a medical or health related incident?
Firefighters are trained to provide basic emergency medical treatment and respond to all calls involving life-threatening symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, chest pains, and severe bleeding. Firefighters will initiate treatment to stabilize patients, provide information to the paramedics, and remain on scene to assist with treatment as needed. 
Does the Dumas Fire Department provide smoke alarms to residents? 
Yes!  A properly functioning alarm greatly improves your chances of escaping a fire in your home.  The Dumas Fire Department, in partnership with the American Red Cross, is happy to supply homeowners with a smoke alarm, including the installation.   We will also conduct a brief home safety survey to answer any questions you might have.  

Unfortunately, we are not able to provide smoke alarms for rental properties. This is the statutory responsibility of the property owner/landlord, but we will be happy to help search for a resolution if you do not have a smoke alarm. 

For more information, fill out this Smoke Alarm Request Form which will be sent to the Smoke Alarm Program Manager, Firefighter Kelly Davis. 
Can you check my blood pressure at the fire station?
If for any reason you feel that your health or well-being might be at risk, call 911 immediately.  

Yes!  Members of the Dumas Fire Department are happy to check your blood pressure and pulse oximetry (blood oxygen saturation) at the fire station.  For service, ring the doorbell at the main entrance located at 106 N. Bliss Avenue, and a member will be with you shortly.  Remember, members may not always be at the fire station, call 911 if you have any health concerns.
How many fire stations do we have?
The City of Dumas has a single fire station, located at 106 N. Bliss Avenue, that serves the City of Dumas and the majority of Moore County with 12 fire apparatus.  To see more about our fire apparatus, click here. 
We also have a drill field on South Maddox which houses a new training center and storage of our fire safety trailers and related equipment. 
The cities of Sunray and Cactus both have small response districts in the northern portions of Moore County and are served by their respective volunteer departments.
How can I schedule a station tour or site visit for our organization, class, or group?
While we are in the process of moving to an online scheduling experience, organizations wishing to request a station tour, field trip, class visit, or a similar event are required to contact the Dumas Fire Department at 806-935-6435 and speak with an officer on duty.  

More information will be added to this section before the end of 2020!