A main duty of the Fire Department is to safeguard life and property from the hazards of fire. In a proactive attempt to ensure the safety of structures, the Rock Island Fire Department conducts fire inspections of all commercial properties and all apartment buildings with three or more dwelling units.
The Fire Inspection Bureau consists of the Fire Marshal and three shift inspectors who perform fire inspections and conduct fire prevention classes throughout the City of Rock Island. The Office of the Fire Marshal also responds to all structure fires, multiple alarms and any fires considered suspicious. Inspections are conducted by on-duty personnel and are coordinated through the Office of the Fire Marshal.
The City of Rock Island has adopted the 2000 edition of the International Fire Code. If a fire code violation is found during inspection, an order of correction is issued to correct the problem and a re-inspection date is scheduled to guarantee compliance. The Office of the Fire Marshal maintains an inspection file for each business and apartment that is inspected.
Fire Inspection Frequently Asked Questions:
We had a fire in our home/ business and the insurance company wants a copy of the fire report. How do I get it?
A copy of the fire report can be available Monday thru Friday, 8am to 4pm at the Central Fire Station. To more quickly assist you, you may also call ahead at (309) 732-2800 and talk to the fire department secretary and the report can be prepared for you.
I am opening a business and need to know the occupancy load for my building.
If you need to know the occupancy for a particular structure, contact the Office of the Fire Marshal at 309-732-2800 Monday thru Friday, 8am to 4pm.
Will the fire department check my gas heating appliances if I am not sure they are working correctly?
If you think you have a possible gas leak from an appliance, the Rock Island Fire Department will respond. Remember to call from a phone that is not located inside the residence with the leaking appliance. If you are not sure that the appliance is working correctly, please contact MidAmerican Energy at 1-800-799-4443 for further assistance.
If I am renting a house or apartment, who is responsible for installing and maintaining a smoke detector?
If you are currently renting a house or apartment, the landlord is responsible for installing the smoke detector. Once the smoke detector is installed, the tenant is responsible for maintaining the detector (e.g. batteries, ensuring the device is dust-free).
Does my landlord have to supply my home or apartment with fire extinguishers?
No. The landlord does not have to supply your residence with fire extinguishers. However, if the landlord provides them by choice, then he or she is responsible for their maintenance.
I noticed that the tag on my fire extinguisher is expired. Will the fire department come out and service the extinguisher?
The Rock Island Fire Department does not service fire extinguishers. Please consult the phone book under “Fire Protection Equipment and Supplies” for service.