Frequently Asked Questions

How do I become a member of the Newport Fire Department?

The Newport Fire Department conducts tests for prospective firefighters every two (2) years. The testing process consists of a written test, a physical ability test, a complete physical examination, an oral board and a psychological test.

Candidates are ranked by their performance. Candidates must be eighteen (18) years of age, possess a valid Rhode Island driver’s license and have a high school diploma or GED.

To receive notification as to when the next test is being held, please contact the Human Resources office at (401) 846-9600 x351 or email mcoury@cityofnewport.com.

I am selling my house and I need a smoke detector inspection. Who do I call?

Call the Fire Prevention office at (401) 845-5922 or you may email fire prevention Capt. Kevin Garcia at kjgarcia@cityofnewport.com.

The Fire Prevention Captain will schedule an inspection date and answer any questions that you may have.

I have had a fire and need a fire report. How do I get this report?

To obtain a fire report please send a written request, including the property address and date of the fire, a self-addressed stamped envelope and a check for $5.00 made out to the City of Newport to:

Fire Prevention
Newport Fire Department
21 West Marlborough Street
Newport RI 02840

A report may also be picked up in person at the above address. If you need more information please contact Fire Marshal Wayne Clark at (401) 845-5913 or email the Fire Prevention officer at wclark@cityofnewport.com.

How do I obtain a rescue report?

To obtain a rescue report, contact Captain Peter Kirwin at (401) 845-5914 or email at pkirwin@cityofnewport.com.

Reports will be provided to an individual, with proper identification, or to another party who has a signed release form. A $5.00 fee is required for each report.

I have fire safety systems in my building. How often do they need to be tested?

Fire alarm systems with twenty-four (24) devices or less must be tested annually. Those with more than twenty-four (24) devices must have twenty-five percent (25%) of the devices tested quarterly.

Fire suppression systems (Ansul type systems over cooking areas) must be tested twice a year.

Beginning 1/1/2004 sprinkler systems must be tested annually for the Fire Department’s records and maintained in accordance with NFPA pamphlet 25.

Please contact the Superintendent of Fire Alarms Captain Chris Mahoney at (401) 845-5919 or email cmahoney@cityofnewport.com for more information.

The general assembly has passed a new fire bill that has been signed by the governor. When will all the new changes in the Fire Code take effect?

There are many aspects to this bill. The first part of the new law is effective 1/1/2004.

There is still much coordination to be done between the fire departments and the Office of the State Fire Marshal before all requirements are clarified.

The fire department will post more information on these changes to the fire codes as soon as they become available.

Why am I being billed for Emergency Medical Services?

The Newport Fire Department is pleased to offer emergency medical and transport services to Newport's citizens and visitors. This service is not supported fully through taxes. Direct costs are a reimbursable service, payable through insurance, by those who require its use. Citizens of Newport who do not have insurance coverage will not be billed.

The City has billed for these services for over a decade. On May 1, 2005, the City contracted with Comstar, Inc. of Rawley, MA to perform billing services on behalf of its ambulance service. As a result, patients may occasionally be contacted directly in order for Comstar to properly submit insurance claims. If you should have any questions or concerns, please contact either Peter Kirwin by phone (845-5914) or by email at pkirwin@cityofnewport.com or Elizabeth Sceppa by phone (845-5392) or by email at esceppa@cityofnewport.com.