Still Alarm

Term from Firefighting industry explained for recruiters

A Still Alarm is a term used in firefighting to describe a non-emergency call or a routine response that doesn't require sirens or lights. These are typically smaller incidents that need attention but aren't immediately life-threatening. The word "still" historically comes from when fire stations would receive these calls quietly, without sounding their loud bells. Today, firefighters respond to Still Alarms for situations like smoke investigations, minor fires, automatic alarms, or other non-urgent calls that still require professional firefighter response.

Examples in Resumes

Responded to over 200 Still Alarm calls annually, maintaining quick response times

Trained junior firefighters in proper Still Alarm response procedures

Developed efficient protocols for handling Still Alarm situations

Typical job title: "Firefighters"

Also try searching for:

Fire Officer Fire Engineer Fire Lieutenant Fire Captain Emergency Responder Fire Service Professional

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you improve the department's Still Alarm response procedures?

Expected Answer: A senior firefighter should discuss efficiency improvements, resource management, training programs for junior staff, and ways to balance Still Alarm responses with maintaining readiness for major emergencies.

Q: Describe a challenging Still Alarm situation you managed and what you learned from it.

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership skills, decision-making ability, and how they used their experience to handle a routine call that became complex.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors do you consider when responding to a Still Alarm?

Expected Answer: Should explain assessment of situation, resource allocation, communication protocols, and safety considerations even in non-emergency situations.

Q: How do you prioritize between a Still Alarm and other incoming calls?

Expected Answer: Should discuss decision-making process, resource management, and ability to assess emergency levels and respond appropriately.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the difference between a Still Alarm and an emergency response?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic differences in urgency levels, response protocols, and equipment usage between routine and emergency calls.

Q: What basic procedures do you follow when responding to a Still Alarm?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of standard operating procedures, basic safety protocols, and communication requirements for routine calls.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic firefighting procedures
  • Understanding of Still Alarm protocols
  • Equipment maintenance
  • Radio communication basics

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced response techniques
  • Team coordination
  • Situation assessment
  • Training newer firefighters

Senior (5+ years)

  • Leadership in response situations
  • Department procedure development
  • Resource management
  • Strategic planning and training

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Inability to distinguish between emergency and non-emergency situations
  • Poor communication skills
  • Lack of basic firefighting certifications
  • No understanding of standard operating procedures