FAQs • Colby • CivicEngage

How many smoke detectors do I need for my house or apartment?: Kansas law requires every single family residence shall have at least one smoke detector on every story of the dwelling unit. The Colby Fire Department suggests at least one smoke detector per story and sleeping area.

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Fire Department

1. How do I obtain a burn permit?: The Colby Fire Department does not have a permit process at this time. However, we do ask that anyone wishing to control burn debris or yard/crop waste call ahead of the burn and inform the fire department of the time and location of the controlled burn and a contact name and number. This allows us to communicate the information with the Dispatch office and avoid unnecessary responses by law enforcement and fire resources

2. How does my club or organization arrange a tour of the fire station?: Simply call the Fire Department at (785) 460-4454 to schedule a tour of the station.

3. How many fire extinguishers should I have in an apartment or house?: One fire extinguisher for a house or apartment will usually be sufficient. We recommend installing fire extinguishers in a pathway to or near an outside exit.

4. How often should I change the batteries in my smoke detectors?: Batteries in smoke detectors should be changed twice per year. The Fire Department suggests changing batteries when you change the clocks in your house from Central Standard Time to Daylight Savings Time each April and October. “Change your clocks, Change your batteries".

5. Where is the Colby Fire Department located?: The Colby Fire Department is located at 1125 S. Country Club Dr.

6. Why does my smoke detector make a short chirping sound every few minutes?: Smoke detectors are designed to emit a "CHIRP" every few minutes when the battery is low. This is a warning that the battery should be replaced immediately.

7. How many smoke detectors do I need for my house or apartment?: Kansas law requires every single family residence shall have at least one smoke detector on every story of the dwelling unit. The Colby Fire Department suggests at least one smoke detector per story and sleeping area.

8. My Carbon Monoxide detector is showing alarm, but I cannot see any problem. What should I do?: Call 911 to report carbon monoxide alarms. Leave the house until it has been checked for the presence of carbon monoxide. Unlike smoke, carbon monoxide is both colorless and odorless making it impossible to detect with the senses. The Department of Fire Services is equipped with carbon monoxide meters and can check your home for the presence of carbon monoxide.
Common sources of carbon monoxide include cars running in an attached garage, defective appliances and defective appliance vents.