Frequently Asked Questions
When should I dial “911”?
The 911 system was designed to provide a universal, easy-to-remember number for people to reach police, fire or emergency medical assistance from any phone in any location. An emergency is any situation that requires immediate assistance from the Police or Fire Department.
If you think you might need 911, dial 911.
What should I do if my smoke alarm is sounding?
If your smoke alarm is sounding, call 911.
Can I receive medical treatment at the fire station?
If you need any medical treatment or evaluation, please call 911. Despite the station being staffed 24/7, there is a very real possibility that all personnel will be out of the station, responding to other emergency calls.
Does the Brewster Fire Department offer routine blood pressure checks?
Yes. Residents and visitors are welcome to visit the fire station and receive a blood pressure check during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:00pm). If you are not feeling well, please dial 911.
Does the Brewster Fire Department offer station tours?
Yes. Residents and visitors are welcome to visit the fire station and receive a fire station tour during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:00pm) provided personnel are not responding to emergency calls. Feel free to call the station to verify that staff are available. For large groups (10 or more individuals), please contact the Fire Prevention Officer to arrange a scheduled visit.
Does the Brewster Fire Department offer classes to the community?
Yes. The Brewster Fire Department offers a variety of classes to the community, including CPR, Stop the Bleed and a Citizens Fire Academy. Please see the Town Calendar for a schedule of upcoming programs.
When is Open Burning season?
Open Burning season in the State of Massachusetts begins January 15th and ends May 1st. A permit from the Fire Department is required. For more information on Open Burning in Brewster, visit the Open Burning webpage.
May I have a bonfire on the beach?
Fires of any kind are not allowed on public or State-owned beaches in the Town of Brewster. The Massachusetts Fire Safety Code (527 CMR 1.00) and Massachusetts General Law both address open fires. Permits are not necessary for cooking fires that occur on private property under these regulations. For this reason, “Beach Fire Permits” will no longer be issued by the Brewster Fire Department. Click here for more information.
Are fire pits and chimineas legal in Brewster?
Fire pits and chimineas are allowed in the Town of Brewster for cooking purposes, as outlined in Massachusetts General Law Chapter 48, Section 13 and Massachusetts 310 CMR 7.00: Air Pollution Control. The Fire Department has the authority to remedy conditions which may be deemed harmful (e.g., excessive smoke, enhanced fire danger, burning of construction materials, garbage).
Where can I dispose of expired/unused medications?
The Brewster Police Department has a medication collection point in the front lobby of the police station. Please call the Police Department for additional information (508-896-7011).
Can I dispose of medical sharps at the fire department?
Yes. Residents and visitors are welcome to visit the fire station and dispose of medical sharps during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:00pm). Sharps containers and the sharps collection point are located in the main lobby of the station.
How do I dispose of marine flares?
Expired marine flares are collected by the Brewster Fire Department and disposed of safely through a partnership with Barnstable County. Flares may be dropped off at the fire station during regular business hours, Monday-Friday 8:00am-4:00pm.
Where can I dispose of an expired fire extinguisher?
An expired fire extinguisher can be disposed of at the Brewster Recycling Center. Residents and visitors are encouraged to check with the Brewster Department of Public Works to confirm hours of operation.
Are fireworks legal in Brewster?
According to the Massachusetts Fireworks Law – MGL Chapter 148 S. 39 – it is illegal for private citizens to use, possess, or sell fireworks in Massachusetts, or to purchase them legally elsewhere and then transport them into the state. The Brewster Fire Department will accept unused fireworks for safe disposal during regular business hours, Monday-Friday 8:00am-4:00pm.
Does the fire department need to inspect a home before a sale is finalized?
Yes. Massachusetts General Law Chapter 48, Section 26F / 26F ½ requires the issuance of a Certificate of Compliance from the fire department prior to the sale or transfer of a residential dwelling, building or structure. The 26F / 26F ½ Certificate of Compliance ensures adherence to smoke and CO alarm requirements in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. For more information on smoke/CO alarms, visit the Fire Prevention page.
Can the Brewster Fire Department ambulance transport me to a doctor’s office or local urgent care / medical Center?
No. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health / Office of Emergency Services only allows Brewster Fire Department to transport to approved hospital emergency departments.