Frequently Asked Questions:***

1. What is the Tennessee Fire Incident Reporting System (TFIRS)?
   
   TFIRS (pronounced 'TEE-FURS') is an incident-based data collection system that provides annual computerized databases of fire incidents, with data classified according to a standard format. Participating departments fill out incident and casualty reports as fires occur. Property use and fire cause are reported for each fire. Additional data such as extent of flame spread and performance of detectors and sprinklers is collected for structure fires. Critical management data such as response time, number of personnel responding, and number and type of equipment responding are also collected. Departments forward the completed incidents to the Division via paper forms, computer diskettes, or the Internet. After the incident data is validated and aggregated from across the state, feedback reports are generated with both state and local statistics. They provide us with statewide and local profiles of the fire problem in Tennessee. We can analyze when, where and how fires occur, who is most at risk from fire, and the general impact of fire on the citizens of our state.
   
   Periodically, the combined statewide data is sent to the U. S. Fire Administration to be included in the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) www.nfirs.fema.gov national database. The latest version of TFIRS, version 5.0, is based on NFIRS 5.0, released in January 1999. TFIRS 5.0 expands the collection of data beyond fires to include the full range of fire department activity. Unlike earlier versions of TFIRS/NFIRS, version 5 is computer-based not paper-based, so data must be entered into a computer before submission to the state. The Division distributes a basic NFIRS 5.0 microcomputer application free to fire departments. Tennessee fire departments are strongly encouraged to participate in the TFIRS program and may receive more information by e-mailing TFIRS Coordinator Dennis Mulder dennis.mulder@tn.gov or by calling (615) 532-5753.
   
   
2. What type of public fire safety and prevention education materials are available and how can I order them?
   
   We stock limited quantities of brochures and other printed materials on subjects such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, residential sprinkler systems, hotel/motel fire safety and general tips for fire safety. In addition, we have numerous video tapes available for loan to fire departments and community groups. These tapes cover a range of topics from residential to industrial fire safety. Please contact our office at (615) 741-2981 if you need assistance.
   
   
3. How do I become certified as a fire and/or building code inspector?
   
   As of July 1, 1994, Tennessee Code Annotated 68-120-113, requires all persons who enforce provisions of the applicable building or fire codes, while employed by a city or county, to be certified by the State Fire Marshal's Office. An applicant for this certification must show proof of successful completion of a recognized and acceptable training course and/or exam which tests their knowledge and skills of building or fire inspection. Additional information and an application may be obtained by contacting us at (615) 741-2981.
   
   
4. What is Operation Fireline?
   
   Operation Fireline is a program established by the National Volunteer Fire Council to aid in the recruitment of volunteer fire, rescue and emergency medical personnel. Anyone calling the national hotline number 1-800-FIRE-LINE (1-800-347-3546) will be connected to a central contact point in their state. In Tennessee this is the State Fire Marshal's Office. Their name and address will be forwarded to the volunteer units in their area as a potential new member.

***Visit the new Tennessee Fire Department Online Resource Center for more detailed information!***

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