The Parkersburg Fire Department works to protect lives and property of more than 35,000 residents. It is comprised of over 60 career firefighters and nearly five fire stations. It also responds to vehicle extrication, water, search and rescue and emergency medical service. The department utilizes a fleet of towers, engines and reserve and rescue vehicles. The Parkersburg Fire Department offers various fire prevention and safety information and issues open air burning permits. It inspects and installs smoke detectors and provides the copies of fire reports. The department is located in Parkersburg, W.Va.