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Fire Department - Carbon Monoxide

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1. What is carbon monoxide (CO)?

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, and toxic gas. Because it is impossible to see, taste, or smell the toxic fumes, CO can kill you before you are aware that it is in your home. At lower levels of exposure, CO causes mild effects that are often mistaken for the flu. These symptoms include headaches, dizziness, disorientation, nausea, and fatigue. The effects of CO exposure can vary greatly from person to person depending on age, overall health, and the concentration and length of exposure.

2. Where does carbon monoxide come from?

CO gas can come from several sources: gas fire appliances, charcoal and gas grills, wood burning furnaces or fireplaces, and motor vehicles. Anything that burns fuel creates CO. Usually the CO is either outside, vented to the atmosphere, goes up a chimney, or outside through a range hood or fan.

3. Who is at risk?

Everyone is at risk of CO poisoning. Medical experts believe that unborn babies, infants, children, senior citizens, and people with heart or lung problems are at an even greater risk for CO poisoning.

4. What actions do I take if my carbon monoxide detector goes off?

If no one is feeling ill:

• Silence the alarm.
• Turn off all appliances and sources of combustion (i.e. gas furnace, fireplace, gas dryer, hot water heater, etc.)
• Call the Fire Department (911) to investigate the source of the possible CO buildup.

If illness is a factor:

• Evacuate all occupants immediately.
• Determine how many occupants are ill and determine their symptoms.
• Call the Fire Department (911) and when relaying information to the dispatcher, include the number of people feeling ill.
• Do not re-enter the home without the approval of a Fire Department representative.

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Fire Department - Hydrant Flushing

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1. How often does the Fire Department perform hydrant maintenance?

The Department maintains hydrants twice a year. Once in the spring and again in the fall.

2. How do I know when maintenance will occur?

The Fire Department posts signs on fire hydrants near the intersections of the areas to be flushed. This is usually done at least three days in advance.

3. Why is my water discolored?

Due to the fire hydrant flushing, residents may experience a temporary discoloration of water which is due to the unsettling of rust and sediment in the water main.

4. What should I do about the discolored water?

Run the cold water for 5 to 10 minutes; this should clear up the water. Do not run the hot water; this pulls the sediment into the hot water tank.

5. My clothes have become discolored from the rust. What should I do?

Do not dry the clothes. The clothes should be re-washed with a rust removing additive. Additive can be obtained from the Fire Department.

6. Is the water safe to drink?

Yes. If the water was unsafe for any reason, a boil alert would be issued.

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Fire Department - Smoke Detectors

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1. Why should my home have smoke alarms?

In the event of a fire, a smoke alarm can save your life and those of your loved ones. They are a very important means of preventing house and apartment fire fatalities by providing an early warning signal, so you and your family can escape. Smoke alarms are one of the best safety devices you can buy and install to protect yourself, your family, and your home.

2. What types of smoke alarms are available?

There are many different brands of smoke alarms available on the market but they fall under two basic types: ionization and photoelectric.

Ionization alarms sound more quickly when a flaming, fast moving fire occurs. Photoelectric alarms are quicker at sensing smoldering, smoky fires. There are also combination smoke alarms that combine ionization and photoelectric into one unit, called dual sensor smoke alarms.

Because both ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms are better at detecting distinctly different yet potentially fatal fires, and because homeowners cannot predict what type of fire might start in a home, the United States Fire Administration (USFA) recommends the installation of both ionization and photoelectric or dual sensor smoke alarms.

In addition to the basic types of alarms, there are alarms made to meet the needs of people with hearing disabilities. These alarms may use strobe lights that flash and/or vibrate to assist in alerting those who are unable to hear standard smoke alarms when they sound.

3. Okay, where do I put them?

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement. Many fatal fires begin late at night or in the early morning. For extra safety, install smoke alarms both inside and outside sleeping areas. Since smoke and many deadly gases rise, installing your smoke alarms at the proper level will provide you with the earliest warning possible. Always follow the manufacturer's installation instructions.

4. Where would I get smoke alarms?

Many hardware, home supply, or general merchandise stores carry smoke alarms. If you cannot afford a smoke detector, The Wickliffe Fire Department offers one free detector per household. Call 440-943-1212, or contact us, for more information.

5. Are smoke alarms hard to install?

If your smoke alarms are hard wired, that is wired into the electrical system, you will need to have a qualified electrician do the initial installation or install replacements. For battery powered smoke alarms, all you will need for installation is a screw driver. Some brands are self adhesive and will easily stick to the wall or ceiling where they are placed. For all smoke alarm installations, be sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions because there are differences between the various brands. If you are uncomfortable standing on a ladder, ask a relative or friend for help. If no one can help you install the detector, The Wickliffe Fire Department will be happy to do so. Contact us to set up an appointment.

6. How often should I change the batteries?

• Replace the batteries when you adjust the clocks for daylight savings time, in the spring and fall.
• If your smoke alarm starts making a "chirping" noise, replace the batteries and reset it.
• If you cannot replace your own smoke detector batteries because of physical limitations, or you don't like to work on ladders, contact us. We'd be happy to install your batteries.

7. How do I keep my smoke alarm working?

If you have a smoke alarm with batteries:

• Smoke Alarms powered by long-lasting batteries are designed so that the entire unit is replaced according to manufacturer's instructions.
• In standard type battery powered smoke alarms, the batteries need to be replaced at least once per year and the whole unit should be replaced every 8 to 10 years.
• In hard-wired, battery back up smoke alarms, the batteries need to be checked monthly, and replaced at least once per year. The entire unit should be replaced every 8 to 10 years.

8. What if the alarm goes off while I’m cooking?

Then it's doing its job. Do not disable your smoke alarm if it alarms due to cooking or other non-fire causes. You may not remember to put the batteries back in the alarm after cooking. Instead clear the air by waving a towel near the alarm, leaving the batteries in place. The alarm may need to be moved to a new location. Some of the newer models have a "hush" button that silences nuisance alarms.

9. How long will my smoke alarm last?

Most alarms installed today have a life span of about 8 to 10 years. After this time, the entire unit should be replaced. It is a good idea to write the date of purchase with a marker on the inside of your alarm so you will know when to replace it. Some of the newer alarms already have the purchase date written inside. In any event, always follow the manufacturer's instructions for replacement.

10. Anything else I should know?

Some smoke alarms are considered to be "hard-wired." This means they are connected to the household electrical system and may or may not have battery backup. It's important to test every smoke alarm monthly and replace the batteries with new ones at least once a year.

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Home - FAQs

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1. How do I pay my city water bill?

Answer goes here...

2. How do I get a new trash can lid?

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3. How do I apply for a job with the City?

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4. My trash didn't get picked up, what should I do now?

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5. How do I get a garage sale permit?

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6. How can I see the agenda for an upcoming City Council or Board meeting?

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Police Department

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1. How do I get an impounded vehicle released?

If your vehicle was impounded by police (meaning it was towed by law and not by your request) you will need to obtain a “tow release” from the police department.

1. The owner of the vehicle must pick up the tow release.
2. Tow releases are obtained at the Wickliffe Police Department, 28730 Ridge Road, Wickliffe, OH 
3. Bring with you: 
   1. Valid driver’s license
   2. Vehicle proof of ownership (vehicle title or memorandum title)
4. After you receive the tow release, you may proceed to 3S Towing located at 29090 Anderson, Wickliffe; 440-347-9560. 
   1. Hours of operation: Monday through Friday 8 am to 6:30 pm, Saturday 8 am to 4:30 pm
   2. Cost of tow is $90 and $15 per day for storage
   3. Motorcycle tows $150; motorcycle indoor storage $25 per day
   4. All tows and storage fees must be paid in cash
5. You will be required to pay the tow bill and any fees associated with the tow. All fees are set by 3S Towing.
6. If your vehicle was towed for unpaid parking tickets, delinquent parking tickets must be paid in full before your vehicle will be released.

2. What are the rules for parking in Wickliffe?

City Ordinance 351.01-99 provides for the regulation of parking enforcement. 

There is no parking:

• From 2 am to 5 am
• Where signs prohibit
• On sidewalk, curb, or street lawn
• Handicap Only ($100 fine, after 48 hours $150 fine)
• Fire lane (City Ordinance 1511.03)
• On hydrant side of street
• On Euclid Avenue
• On posted private property

3. What are the fines for parking violations?

Fines for parking violations are $10 if paid within 48 hours. Fine increases to $15 after 48 hours. Handicap parking violations are $100; increases to $150 after 48 hours.  Parking fines must be paid with cash, check or money order. If paying by check or money order, please include the citation number on the check or money order to ensure proper payment of your parking ticket.

Multiple parking citations can result in your vehicle being impounded and subject to towing fees.

4. Can I park on the street all night?

No, parking on the street is not permitted between the hours of 2 am to 5 am. Limited permission may be granted for driveway work, construction, a disabled vehicle, etc. by calling the police dispatcher at 440-943-1234. Be sure to have the following information available when requesting permission: type of vehicle, license plate, and location. 

5. How do I file a police report?

The Wickliffe Police Department is open twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

• If you are a victim of a crime or are involved in an accident that occurred in the city limits of Wickliffe, contact the Wickliffe Police Department at 440-943-1234.
• If you live within the city limits of Wickliffe, an officer can respond to your residence to take the report or you may come into the station.
• If you live outside of the city limits but the crime occurred in Wickliffe, you will need to respond to the Wickliffe Police Department for a report to be completed.
• If you are having an emergency, dial 911.

6. Who is the city prosecutor and how do I get ahold of her?

Sara Fagnilli is the city prosecutor. You can email Sara Fagnilli with any questions or concerns. 

7. What time is curfew for minors?

The police department strictly enforces the curfew laws. If your child is detained past curfew, as outlined below, then they will be in violation of the curfew law. This simply means that your child shall not be beyond the property line of their residential property between the hours specified below unless accompanied by their parent or guardian.

No minor (under the age of eighteen) shall be in or upon any street, highway, park, alley or other public place without a parent or guardian between the hours of: 

• 11 pm on any Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday until 6 am of the following day;
• 12:01 am until 6 am on any Saturday or Sunday

See Ordinance 509.09 for more information.

8. What are the hours for lawn cutting and other related noises?

The City of Wickliffe has a noise ordinance that prohibits the operation of any tools or equipment that creates a sound disturbing to others between the hours of 9:30 pm and 7 am during the week and before 8:30 am on Sunday. Keep in mind, it is also a violation to load or unload equipment in such a manner that the activity creates unreasonable noise. Violations constitute a minor misdemeanor.

This does not apply to snow plows, emergency situations, or activity engaged by the City of Wickliffe.

See Ordinance 509.12 for more information.

9. There is an injured animal in my yard. Can the police department help?

In most cases, as with dogs at large, we cannot trap animals. If the animal poses a risk to people, such as a sick raccoon or skunk, an officer may destroy the animal in a humane manner. Otherwise, a local pest control company can be called to assist you.

10. Are dogs allowed to run loose in the neighborhood or the city parks?

No owner of any animal shall permit their animal to run at large upon any public place or premises of another. Owners of animals running at large are subject to a minor misdemeanor citation. A misdemeanor of the fourth degree can result for each subsequent offense.

All dogs in the parks must be restrained by a leash and under a person’s control at all times. Dogs are permitted on the park walkways, paths and sidewalks only.

For more information, see Ordinance Chapter 505 Animals and Ordinance 951.12 Animal Control.

11. I found a lost dog. What should I do?

The Wickliffe Police Department makes every effort to reunite lost dogs with their owners. Dogs wearing a dog tag are most likely to be returned to their homes.

1. All dogs over the age of 3 months must be registered and display a registration tag. By keeping up-to-date information on file with the Lake County Dog Warden’s Office, it allows us to contact you in the event your pet is found.
2. During business hours (Monday through Friday, 8 to 4:30 pm and Saturday, 8 to noon) citizens should contact the Lake County Dog Warden’s Office directly at 440-350-2640 to report a found or stray dog. 
3. After hours, you may contact the police department for additional assistance at 440-943-1234. For safety and health reasons, the officers cannot transport the animals.
4. Officers will respond to aggressive or threatening dog complaints on an emergency basis. The police department does not have the resources to catch any animals. If a dog at large is vicious or has injured anyone, we will contact the Lake County Dog Warden. 

12. My neighbor’s dog barks early in the morning and their kids play basketball in the driveway until late at night. What are the permitted times for these activities?

There are no specific times addressed by ordinance. We recommend that you contact the police non-emergency number, 440-943-1234, while the problem is actively occurring.  A police officer will respond to assess the situation and to speak with the involved parties. Repeated/excessive complaints can result in a minor misdemeanor to the owner of the barking dog.

See Noise Ordinance 509.12 or Barking or Howling Animals Ordinance 505.09 for more information.

13. Should I call the police department to let them know my electricity or cable is out or when the sewer backs up during a storm?

Please do not call the Emergency Dispatchers; the use of 911 is only to report a crime in progress, or a fire, or if an ambulance is needed. Contact your service provider directly to report any disruptions in your service:

Non-emergency utilities:

• Illuminating Company Customer Service to report outages: 888-544-4877
• AT&T Customer Service: 800-288-2020
• Lake County Department of Utilities (Sewer): 440-350-2070
• Spectrum Customer Service: 855-855-4575 or to ask “Am I in an outage” 833-267-6094
• Wickliffe City Hall / questions about city services: 440-943-7100, Monday through Friday, 8 to 4 pm

14. How do I request a copy of an accident or incident report?

All records of the Wickliffe Police Department are public, unless they are specifically exempt from disclosure under the Ohio Revised Code and are available for inspection and copying in accordance with the Ohio Public Records Act. 

Your request can be filled by coming to the police station and completing a record request form. Requests for records or viewing records may be made during regular business hours (Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4 pm).

15. Where do I call to report a suspected drug house?

Call the Wickliffe Police Department Detective Bureau at 440-943-1234. You do not have to leave your name and number. Please have as much information as possible including vehicle descriptions, license plates, the address, time/day of most activity and where they make transactions (side door, parking lot, etc.). You can also direct/private message us on Facebook. If there is a crime in progress, report it to 911.

16. How do I register a surveillance camera?

The Wickliffe Police Department is partnering with the Lake County SCRAM (Security Camera Registration And Mapping) Program to assist in the investigation of crimes. The police department has had a list of business and residential surveillance systems for years and having access to those systems has helped solve many crimes. The county wide SCRAM program makes accessing that list easier. Participants are entered into the system and plotted on a county map. Officers can then instantly see where cameras are located and who to contact to request access. Participation is voluntary, and participants may withdraw from the program anytime. Visit the SCRAM Page to learn more.

17. Where can I get my fingerprints taken for an employment background check?

Many public and private employers require background checks. State law mandates that schools, day care centers, health care facilities, and others require such checks as part of the hiring process. Visit the Attorney General’s website for locations near you.

The police department handles criminal fingerprinting only.

18. Can you tell me if I have an active warrant?

You can search for active warrants on the Willoughby Municipal Court website. 

19. I have a compliment or concern about a police department employee.

The Wickliffe Police Department strives to provide quality service to the community. We work daily to demonstrate our commitment to fair and impartial law enforcement that respects individual dignity and rights. It our policy to receive and investigate any complaints related to police services or enforcement. 

When a member of our department provides outstanding service, we want to hear from you, and when we fall short of our goals, we want to know that too.

Compliments: We appreciate hearing stories about the good work of the Wickliffe Police Department. If you want to share a story or just say thanks, feel free send a letter to the police department.

Concerns / Complaints:  Members of the police department handle a variety of calls and have numerous contacts with the public. In some cases, individuals may feel that a member of the police department has not followed correct WPD policy and procedures. If so, they can come to the police department and ask to speak to the supervisor on duty.

The supervisor on duty will attempt to resolve the problem informally or through a formal internal investigation. If the complainant wishes to file a formal complaint, the supervisor will assist the complainant in filling out the proper paperwork. 

To File a Confidential Complaint:

• File in person at the police department or by phone 440-943-1234.
• Complaints are filed and forwarded to the Patrol Commander who will investigate the complaint or assign it to a supervisor for investigation.
• Complaint investigations will be completed within 60 days.
• You are not required to give your name; however, by providing your name, you make it more likely that we can conduct the most thorough investigation possible.

NOTE: It is a violation of the Ohio Revised to knowingly file a complaint against a peace officer that alleges the peace officer engaged in misconduct in the performance of the officer’s duties if the person knows the allegation is false. Making a false allegation is a misdemeanor of the first degree and is punishable by a fine up to $1,000 and by incarceration of up to 180 days. (ORC 2921.15)

20. We will be going on vacation and would like a house check. Is that possible?

We recommend that you notify the police department if you would like your house checked while you are on vacation, for a death in the family, transfer of ownership, etc. It is the policy of the Wickliffe Police Department to conduct “House Checks” of unoccupied homes in the city upon the request of the owner to protect and minimize thefts and burglaries and to identify any unusual occurrences. 

Visit the Vacation House Watch page for more information or you may call the police dispatcher at 440-943-1234 and request a house check. Be sure to provide information on the dates needed, any vehicles on the premises, a contact name/keyholder, and any other pertinent information. A trusted neighbor or family member should also be made aware of your plans.

21. What are the child safety seat tips and laws?

Ohio law requires that children under 8 years old must be properly restrained in a booster seat or other appropriate car seat unless they are 4 foot 9 inches or taller. 

• Infants must be in rear-facing seats until age 1 year and 20 pounds. (However, the American Academy of Pediatrics encourages parents to keep children in rear-facing seats until age 2.)
• Children must be in forward-facing car seats until age 4 and 40 pounds. 
• Children must remain in booster seats until age 8 years of age or 4 feet 9 inches tall.
• Children ages 8 to 15 year old must use a child safety seat or seat belt.

Fines will range from a minimum of $25 to a maximum of $75 per occurrence. A booster seat can be purchased for as little at $15. Keep your child safe. Be sure to follow your seat manufacturer’s specific instructions for weight limits and proper use. Don’t wait for a ticket!

More information can be found on the Ohio Department of Health website.

22. Does the police or fire department personnel install child car seats?

No. Contact Lake Heath to schedule an appointment to have your car seat checked or installed. Lake Health’s Certified Car Seat Technician installs over 700 seats annually for many parents, grandparents and caregivers. Call 440-724-7404 (cell) or 440-354-1048 (voice mail) or email Stacy Lyles.

23. How do I obtain a bike license?

All persons residing in the City of Wickliffe are required to license their bicycles. Applications and bicycle licenses can be obtained from the Wickliffe Police Department. The cost of the license is $1. You will need the serial number, which is stamped into the metal on the underside of the frame, the make and model of the bike for the license. Bicycle and owner information is kept on file at the police department to help find the owners of recovered bicycles. 

See Ordinance Chapter 374 for more information on Bicycle Licensing.

24. I just felt a small earthquake tremor, what should I do?

There is no need to do anything. You can go online to the 24-hour earthquake reporting website to report your experience or tune in to your local media station for updates. If you have an emergency as a result of a natural disaster which requires a police officer, fire truck or ambulance, dial 911.

25. Who do I call to report a malfunctioning traffic signal?

Call the Service Department at 440-943-7125.

26. What time are the fireworks?

The City of Wickliffe no longer displays fireworks on the fourth of July. Check your local newspaper for locations and times for fireworks in neighboring communities.  

27. Where can I drop off old prescription medications?

You can dispose of unwanted drugs safely at the following collection sites in Lake County. Remove personal information on the pharmacy label, otherwise leave in the original container.

• Eastlake Police Department
• Lake County Sheriff’s Office
• Lakeland Community College Police Department
• Madison Police Department
• Mentor Police Department
• Willoughby Hills Police Department
• Willoughby Police Department

28. Where is the police department located?

The Wickliffe Police Department is located at 28730 Ridge Road in Coulby Park. The drive into park includes the police station, City Hall, which is located in Coulby Mansion, and the Aquatic Center. 

29. Are consumer grade fireworks permitted in Wickliffe?

Although fireworks possession is now legal, it is illegal to discharge/ignite fireworks in the City of Wickliffe.

30. What is the penalty for shooting off fireworks?

It is a minor misdemeanor for the first offense and fourth-degree misdemeanor on each subsequent offense.