Outdoor Fires
Yes, under certain conditions. The State of Ohio requires a permit from the local fire official for any open burning. Only materials that grow on your property (e.g., tree limbs, brush) are allowed to be burned. Hambden Fire Department provides free single-day burn permits if the following conditions are met:
- The fire size can be controlled and extinguished with available equipment (e.g., garden hose).
- An adult monitors the fire and extinguishes it completely before leaving.
- The fire is at least 1,000 feet from any neighbor’s structure.
- There is a significant distance (recommended 1,000 feet) between the fire and other structures.
- Smoke does not directly affect neighbors.
The department may deny permits due to weather conditions or other concerns. To obtain a permit, call 440-285-3329 on the day you’d like to burn, between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
Medical and Safety Services
Yes. Stop by the station during daytime hours or call 440-285-3329 to set up a time.
Yes, we offer CPR classes to groups in Hambden. The best way to request a class is by filling out our online CPR class request form. For individual certification, please call 440-285-3329 to inquire about upcoming classes.
Hambden primarily transports to Geauga Hospital but can take patients to Hillcrest Hospital if requested and stable. For critical emergencies requiring Cleveland hospitals, patients are transported to Geauga Hospital first and then transferred via ambulance or helicopter.
For medical emergencies or serious injuries, call a rescue squad. Minor injuries or stable conditions may be transported via personal vehicle to keep ambulances available for emergencies. When in doubt, call 911.
Fire Safety and Equipment
Green reflective address signs are available at the station for $10, including numbers for both sides. These can be mounted horizontally or vertically. Order your signs here or call 440-285-3329 or stop by the station.
It’s recommended to have one on every level and in each sleeping area. If cost is a concern, Hambden Fire Department provides detectors free of charge. You can request a smoke alarm by filling out the online smoke alarm request form or call 440-285-3329 for assistance.
These are essential for homes with fuel-burning appliances or attached garages. Place one near sleeping areas and sources of carbon monoxide. If the alarm sounds, call 911 for assistance. You can request a carbon monoxide alarm by filling out the online carbon monoxide alarm request form or call 440-285-3329 for assistance.
Fire Department Operations
Hambden Fire Department operates one station with the following apparatus:
- 2 engines
- 2 tankers
- 2 rescue squads (ambulances)
- A jeep, a pickup truck, a Chief’s car, and a Ford Explorer chase car
For structure fires, the first engine and both tankers respond to the scene, while the second engine secures a water source. Mutual aid systems bring additional resources as needed.
Hambden Fire Department was the first in Ohio to require all members to complete 240-hour firefighter training, exceeding state standards for volunteer firefighters.
Yes. Hambden has over 20 EMTs and 8 paramedics, with 3 more in training. Both rescue squads are fully equipped for paramedic-level care.
Community Involvement
Yes! You can request a fire truck visit for your event or schedule a station tour by filling out our online request form. This is the quickest and easiest way to submit your request. Alternatively, you can call 440-285-3329 for more information.
Hambden Fire Department Explorers is a program for teens aged 14–18 interested in careers in fire or emergency medical services. Affiliated with the Boy Scouts of America, it’s open to boys and girls. For more information, visit the Explorers page here or call 440-285-3329.
Annual fundraisers include:
- Rib roast in May
- Fall clambakes
- Christmas tree sales after Thanksgiving
- Memorial Day pancake breakfast
- Easter Egg Hunt
- Hambden picnic
Yes, residents may borrow tables and chairs when available. Requests should be made early by calling 440-285-3329. Donations are appreciated.
Employment and Volunteering
Yes. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, pass a physical, and complete basic fire training provided at no cost. EMT and paramedic training is also covered after firefighter training.
Members must attend at least 10% of emergency calls (about 4 per month) and complete 24 hours of department training per year.
Other Common Questions
Hambden Fire Department is a private, non-profit organization funded primarily by voter-approved fire levies, fundraisers, and grants.
Yes, Ohio law requires drivers to pull as far to the right as possible and stop until emergency vehicles have passed.
The Geauga County Sheriff’s Department monitors 911 lines and dispatches calls to Hambden Fire Department via pagers.