Public Safety

1. Who would I call for information on Neighborhood Watch?
2. How often should I replace my smoke alarms?
3. Where can I get a fire extinguisher?
4. Where can disabled residents get information on how to be better prepared for emergencies?
5. Can I burn leaves on my own property?
6. Does Pittsfield Charter Township have a Humane Society or Animal Control Officer?
7. I get charged if my Fire Alarm goes off but there is no fire?
8. How do I get a copy of a fire report?
9. What is a Knox Box?
10. What kind of work schedule do firefighters work?

1. Who would I call for information on Neighborhood Watch?
   Information on Neighborhood Watch can be obtained by contacting the Public Safety Coordinator at (734) 822-4959.
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2. How often should I replace my smoke alarms?
   Smoke alarms should be tested every month and batteries replaced at least once a year or as needed. All alarms that are more than 10 years old should be replaced.
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3. Where can I get a fire extinguisher?
   In rental units the landlord supplies fire extinguishers as set forth in Section PM-705.4 of the Pittsfield Charter Township Code of Ordinances. Homeowners can purchase fire extinguishers at local area fire protection retailers. Most department and home improvement stores also carry them.
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4. Where can disabled residents get information on how to be better prepared for emergencies?
   Information on preparing for emergencies (including a checklist for people with mobility problems) is available through the Washtenaw Chapter of the American Red Cross. They are located at 2729 Packard Road, in Ann Arbor, and can be reached by phone at (734) 971-5300.
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5. Can I burn leaves on my own property?
   Pittsfield Charter Township Ordinance No. 205 bans outdoor open burning except in areas zoned AG (agricultural district). In these areas open burning is allowable with notification to the Fire Department. Other types of open burning such as for recreational purposes do not require prior notification, although the fire marshal reserves the right to prohibit any open burning during a fire alert, warning, or when atmospheric or local conditions make such burning hazardous.
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6. Does Pittsfield Charter Township have a Humane Society or Animal Control Officer?
   No. Animal complaints should be directed to the Department of Public Safety at 6227 W. Michigan Avenue, or by calling (734) 822-4911.
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7. Will I get charged if my Fire Alarm goes off but there is no fire?
   You may find the answer to this question in the False Alarm Ordinance #233
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8. How do I get a copy of a fire report?
   You may contact our Records Bureau at (734) 822-4930.
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9. What is a Knox Box?
   A Knox Box is a way for firefighters to gain entry to buildings without causing damage. During a fire alarm when no obvious signs of fire are apparent, firefighters can gain access to buildings to check whether an alarm is false or there is a problem. The advantage is there is no unnecessary damage caused by firefighters during a false alarm. You may contact Fire Marshal William Moffett at 734-822-4964 with any questions.
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10. What kind of work schedule do firefighters work?
    Our Fire Chief and Fire Marshal work a 40 hour week while our other full-time staff work 24 hour shifts. The 24 hour staff works 3 out of 5 days then are off for 4 days. An example would be a firefighter would work – Monday, Wednesday and Friday and then be off until the following Wednesday . For more information on our personnel check out our Personnel page.
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