Emergency Response - FIRE
Useppa Island Fire Rescue - Overview
Useppa Island Fire Rescue (UIFR), is committed to providing the highest level of service through their training, execution and partnerships.
UIFR response, tactics and treatment are outlined through a complete set of policies and guidelines. Our SOP's / SOG's, combined with the Lee County wide policies are designed specifically for the administrative functions and operational needs to facilitate our firefighters and protect the Useppa community.
UIFR is a Combination Fire Department:
- Full-Time / paid professional
- Part-Time / paid professional
- Volunteer (does not supplement minimum staffing)
Community Risk Reduction
Reducing risk and fire prevention is the primary focus for UIFR. UIFR success predicates on the knowledge, skills and abilities of each member and the support of the community at large.
Fire Prevention is knowledge, knowledge is power for the firefighter, knowledge is comfort for the homeowner/visitor!
UIFR implements core community programs upon request:
- Pre-Plan - Home Inspections
- Knox Box Purchase & Installation
- Sprinkler System Checks
- Extinguisher Checks & Training
Our programs provide a means to educate and facilitate our firefighters to offer the most effective, professional service when called upon.
In case of a fire, UIFR has partnership with the Lee County Sheriff’s office and the State of Florida office of the Fire Marshal to investigate suspicious incidents. The Florida State Fire Marshal is dedicated to protecting life, property and the environment from the devastation of fire.
Please visit their website: https://www.myfloridacfo.com/division/sfm/
Fire Suppression & Rescue
UIFR recognizes we cannot prevent all incidents through education and prevention. In addition, Useppa being a bridgeless barrier island presents formidable challenges with regards to suppression and rescue.
To ensure our safety and protect your life and property:
- UIFR F/T & P/T staff are certified professional firefighters
- Routine checks on all apparatus and equipment are required to ensure they are fully functional and operational when needed.
- Daily Training on water supply, fire tactics and rescue
- Partnerships and communication with our neighboring agencies, Upper Captiva, Matlacha/Pine Island & Lee County, Lee County MERT marine response.
Firefighting is performed under hazardous and adverse conditions. House fires, boat fires, dock fires and brush fires are all possibilities caused by accident, fuels, electrical, weather or the unknown!
The use of sound judgment and the ability to make decisions during these stressful or emergency circumstances are required and mandate the implementation of our skills and abilities.
