Frequently Asked Questions
EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE IS NOT AVAILABLE THROUGH THIS WEBSITE, if you have an emergency, find the closest phone and dial 9-1-1.
An emergency is any situation that requires immediate assistance from the police, fire department, or ambulance. Examples are: a fire, a crime, a car crash, a medical emergency.
IMPORTANAT: If you’re not sure whether the situation is a true emergency, officials recommend calling 911 and letting the call-taker determine whether you need emergency help.
Other Important and Emergency Numbers
- Non-Emergency Line: (406) 657-8200
- Poison control: 1-800-222-1222, or Text: POISON to 7979797
- Animal poison control: 1-888-426-4435
- Crime Stoppers Anonymous Reporting: (406) 245-6660
- Billings Fire Department: (406) 657-8423
- Billings Police Department: (406) 657-8460
Download our worksheet to add additional important numbers to keep you and your family safe.
CLICK A QUESTION FOR INFORMATION:
- How do I dispose of my fire extinguisher?
- How can I get a fire alarm installed?
- How do I get a job with the Billings Fire Department?
- Are fireworks legal within city limits of Billings?
- Where is my neighborhood fire station?
- How do I arrange a station tour?
- Why did a fire engine respond when I called for an ambulance?
- When do I need a burn permit and how do I get one?
If rechargeable, you may contact any business that performs maintenance on fire extinguishers. You may also dispose the canister in the garbage after discharging contents completely.
Contact the the American Red Cross for information at 1-800-272-6668, or visit Home Fire Campaign for more information.
The Billings Fire Department is a member of the Montana Firefighters Testing Consortium (MFTC). Only applicants who have successfully tested through the MFTC are considered for hire. Successful completion of the testing process is not an offer of employment. After the completion of the testing procedure, candidates may be contacted by the participating Fire Department who may require additional information be provided by each applicant. View our Employment page for additional information.
Fireworks are illegal in the Billings city limits. You are encouraged to enjoy the local public fireworks displays during Independence Day. For those people who choose to use fireworks, be sure to follow these important safety tips.
Visit our Fire Department Maps webpage for information on fire station locations, public safety maps, and Insurance Service Office ratings.
Unfortunately, due to the Department's COVID-19 precautions, station tours are not held right now. Please contact the Fire Prevention Bureau for any Public Education details at (406) 237-6262 .
Open burning is generally prohibited within the City limits. If you plan on burning, a permit is required. To apply for a permit if you live within the City limits, please call the Fire Prevention Bureau at (406) 237-6262. If you live in Yellowstone County,to apply for a permit call the Yellowstone County Emergency & General Services Department at (406) 256-2775.
Services the Billings Fire Department does NOT offer:
- We do not remove cats from trees.
- We do not provide, check, or install child safety seats.
- We do not book/hold birthday parties at our stations or in your home.
- We do not fill swimming pools with water.
- We do not service fire extinguishers.