Fire Department
Overview
The City of Prichard Fire-Rescue Department provides fire suppression, emergency response, and public safety support for the City of Prichard. Our goal is simple: protect life and property through fast response, prevention, and community education.
What we help with
Residents commonly reach us for:
- Structure and vehicle fires
- Emergency response and hazard situations
- Community safety support and public education
- General guidance on fire safety and prevention
Duties of the Mayor
- Emergency: Call 911 for any immediate threat to life, fire, smoke, gas odor, serious medical emergency, or active hazard.
- Non-emergency City assistance: Use Prichard 3-1-1 for general City help and service requests.
Fire stations
Prichard Fire-Rescue operates from the stations below (addresses listed for reference):
Station 1: 303 W Turner Rd
Station 2: 3638 W Main St
Station 3: 4442 Highpoint Blvd
Station 4: 949 Saint Stephens Rd
Outdoor burning and burn permits
Outdoor burning rules can vary by location and conditions. In Alabama, the Alabama Forestry Commission issues burn permits for certain types and sizes of burns, and permits can be requested by phone or online.
If you are unsure whether you need a permit or whether burning is allowed, check the state guidance first and follow any local restrictions.
Quick links
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Stations and coverage
Fire safety tips
FAQs
Contact the department
Burn permits (state resource)
Chief Rodrick D. Shoots Sr
Welcome to the City of Prichard Fire Rescue Department. My name is Fire Chief Rodrick D. Shoots Sr., and it is an honor to serve my hometown of Prichard, Alabama. As Fire Chief, I oversee the day-to-day operations of our department and remain committed to protecting and serving the citizens of Prichard through strong leadership, preparedness, and community-focused service.
I began my fire service career in 1994 with the Mobile Fire Rescue Department. Over the years, I advanced through the ranks, earning promotions to Fire Service Inspector in 2002 and Fire Service Captain in 2012. I served as a Fire Service Captain and Acting District Chief until 2022, before accepting the position of Fire Chief for the City of Prichard in May 2023. In the first ten months of my appointment, Prichard Fire Rescue became the second-largest fire department in Mobile County.
I hold an Associate’s Degree in Legal Research, a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice, and a Master’s Degree in Health Education from the University of South Alabama. I have also served as President of the Progressive Black Firefighters of Mobile since 2000 and have earned numerous fire service certifications throughout my career. Public service has always been my calling, and I take pride in supporting equal opportunity for all firefighters while working to make a meaningful impact across our community.
I am also a proud Desert Storm veteran. My commitment to duty was strengthened through military service and has guided my approach to public safety and leadership. In 2021, I became the first recipient of the “Serving Those Who Serve” award for assisting fellow veterans in the Mobile area. In 2004, I was selected to serve on the City of Mobile Transitional Team due to my respected knowledge and involvement in the community. In 2006, I received the Mayor’s Crystal Ball Award for implementing the online permit portal for the Mobile Fire Prevention/Inspection Bureau.
Outside of my professional responsibilities, I enjoy coaching youth football and spending time with family and friends. Thank you for visiting our page and for your continued support of the Prichard Fire Rescue Department.
Stations & Coverage
Prichard Fire Rescue provides fire and emergency response coverage across the City of Prichard. Our stations are positioned to support timely response throughout the community and to serve as neighborhood resources for fire safety information.
Station Locations
Station addresses are listed below for reference. (For emergencies, always call 911.)
Station 1: 303 W Turner Rd
Station 2: 3638 W Main St
Station 3: 4442 Highpoint Blvd
Station 4: 949 Saint Stephens Rd
What “Coverage” Means
Coverage refers to the areas our stations serve during emergency response. While a station may be the closest to you, units may respond from a different station depending on call volume, availability, and the type of emergency. This allows us to send the closest available help as quickly as possible.
When to Call
- Emergency: Call 911 for fires, smoke, gas odors, serious medical emergencies, or any immediate threat to life or property.
Non-emergency questions: Contact the department during normal business hours for general information, community requests, and safety guidance.
Community Support
Prichard Fire Rescue supports community safety through prevention and outreach. If your neighborhood group, school, or organization would like fire safety information or a department visit, please contact us through the Contact tab to request assistance.
Services & Programs
Prichard Fire Rescue supports public safety through emergency response, prevention, and community education. The information below highlights common service areas residents and businesses may need. For any emergency, always call 911.
Fire Prevention and Safety
- General fire safety guidance and prevention information.
- Safety reminders for common hazards (smoke alarms, escape planning, and seasonal safety).
Fire Inspections and Permits
Fire inspections and permits are coordinated through the City’s inspection and permitting process. Requirements and scheduling may vary depending on the request. Use the Contact Information tab to reach the appropriate office for current details.
Emergency Preparedness
- Recommendations for having a home escape plan and practicing it with your household.
- Guidance on staying informed during severe weather or emergency events.
Smoke Alarm and Safety Education
Fire safety education may be available for schools, neighborhood groups, and community organizations based on scheduling and staffing. Use the Contact Information tab to submit a non-emergency request.
Important Reminder
- Emergency: Call 911.
- Non-emergency requests: Use the department contact information listed on this page.
Fire Prevention & Safety
Fire prevention starts at home. Small steps like working smoke alarms, safe cooking habits, and having an escape plan can help reduce emergencies and keep families safer. The guidance below is general prevention and safety information.
Smoke Alarms
- Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home.
- Test alarms regularly and replace batteries as needed (or follow the manufacturer guidance for sealed units).
- Replace smoke alarms when they reach the end of their service life.
Home Escape Plan
- Create a home escape plan with two ways out of each room if possible.
- Choose a meeting place outside and practice the plan with everyone in the household.
- If there is smoke, stay low and get out—do not go back inside.
Cooking Safety
- Stay in the kitchen while cooking, especially when frying, grilling, or broiling.
- Keep items that can burn (towels, paper, curtains) away from the stove.
- If a small grease fire starts in a pan, turn off the heat and carefully cover it with a lid if it is safe to do so—do not use water.
Heating & Electrical Safety
- Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn and never leave them unattended.
- Do not overload outlets or power strips. Replace damaged cords.
- Use extension cords temporarily, not as permanent wiring.
Outdoor Burning
- Outdoor burning rules can vary by conditions and location. Make sure burning is allowed before you burn.
- Keep water and a shovel nearby, and never leave a fire unattended.
- If smoke becomes a hazard or the fire grows beyond control, call 911 immediately.
When to Call
- Emergency: Call 911 for fire, smoke, gas odor, or any immediate threat to life or property.
- Non-emergency questions: Use the Contact Information tab to reach the department during normal business hours.
Permits & Inspections
The City of Prichard lists fire inspections and permits as part of the City’s resident services. Requirements can vary depending on the type of work and the location of the property. If you are unsure what is needed for your request, contact the City/department office listed on this page for guidance.
Common Reasons You May Need an Inspection or Permit
- Opening a new business or changing how an existing space is used
- Renovations or improvements that may affect fire and life safety
- Special events that may need safety review (based on scope and staffing)
- Other requests where a fire-safety inspection is required by policy or code
What to Have Ready
- Property address and contact information
- Brief description of the request (what you are doing and when)
- Any available plans, drawings, or supporting documents (if applicable)
- Access information for the site (gate codes, point of contact, etc.)
What to Expect
- Submit your request or call for guidance on the correct process.
- Schedule the inspection (or plan review, if required).
- Complete the inspection. If corrections are needed, you may be asked to make updates and schedule a reinspection.
- Once requirements are met, the City can close out the request based on the applicable process.
State and Other Requirements
Some work may also involve state-level licensing or permitting requirements (for example, certain fire protection systems or other regulated activities). If additional approvals are required, the City will advise you on the appropriate next steps.
Important Reminder
- Emergency: Call 911.
- Non-emergency: Use the Contact Information tab for questions, scheduling, and guidance.
Records Requests
Use the forms below to request fire-related records from the City of Prichard. Please provide as much detail as possible so we can locate the correct record. For emergencies, call 911.
Important: Some records may be restricted or require verification before release. If additional information is needed, you will be contacted.
Fire Incident Report Request
Use this form to request a basic fire incident report (when available). Include the address, date, and any report number you may have.
Fire Investigation Report Request
Use this form to request a fire investigation report (when available). Some investigation records may have limitations depending on the status of the case.
EMS / Medical Record Request
Use this form if you are requesting an EMS/medical-related record. These records are often restricted and may require proof of authorization (for example, patient or legal representative).
If authorization is required, you may be contacted with next steps.
Inspection Records Request
Use this form to request fire inspection-related documentation for a property or business (when available). Provide the address and the approximate inspection date(s), if known.
Permit Records Request
Use this form to request fire permit-related documentation (when applicable). If you are unsure whether your request is a fire permit or another city permit, submit the request with details and we will route it if needed.
Fire Alarm / False Alarm Documentation Request
Use this form to request documentation related to fire alarm activity (when available). Include the address, date range, and any supporting information you have.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are common questions we receive. If you do not see your question listed, use the Contact Information tab to reach the department for non-emergency assistance.
When should I call 911?
Call 911 for any emergency such as fire, smoke in a building, a strong gas odor, a serious medical emergency, or any immediate threat to life or property.
What number should I use for non-emergencies?
For non-emergency questions or requests, use the department contact information listed on this page during normal business hours. If you need general City assistance, use Prichard 3-1-1.
Do I need a permit to burn outdoors?
Outdoor burning rules can vary by location and conditions. If you are planning to burn, make sure burning is allowed and follow all local and state requirements. If you are unsure, contact the City/department office for guidance before you burn.
How do I request a fire inspection or permit?
Fire inspections and permits are part of the City’s inspection/permit process. Contact the City/department office listed on this page to confirm what is needed and to schedule or submit your request.
How do I request a fire report or other records?
Use the Records Requests tab to submit a request. Provide the address, date/time (if known), and the type of record you need. Some records may be restricted or may require verification before release.
Can you help with smoke alarms?
If you have questions about smoke alarm placement, testing, or replacement, contact the department for guidance. If programs are available at the time of your request, staff will advise you on next steps.
Can the fire department visit my school or community group?
Safety presentations and community outreach may be available based on staffing and scheduling. Use the Contact Information tab to submit a non-emergency request with your preferred dates and details.
What should I do if I smell smoke or gas but don’t see fire?
Treat strong smoke or gas odors as a potential emergency. Get to a safe location and call 911. Do not try to locate the source yourself if there is any risk.
What should I do if a fire hydrant is leaking or damaged?
If a hydrant is actively leaking or creating a hazard, call 911. For non-emergency issues, report it through Prichard 3-1-1 or the City contact methods listed on the website.
What happens if my business has repeated false alarms?
False alarm policies and any related fees or requirements are handled through the City’s process. If your property is experiencing repeat alarms, contact the City/department office for guidance on next steps to reduce false activations.
Note: Information on this page is general guidance. Requirements and processes can vary depending on the situation.
Contact Information
If you need immediate assistance for a fire, smoke, gas odor, or any urgent situation, call 911.
For non-emergency questions, records requests, and general assistance, use the information below or send a message using the form.
Emergency
- Emergency: 911
Non-Emergency
- Main Office / Administration:
- Email:
- Office Hours:
Mailing / Physical Address
.
Send a Message
Use the form below for non-emergency messages. Please do not use this form to report an emergency.
General City Assistance
- Prichard 3-1-1: Use for general City service requests and assistance.