At Liberty Township Volunteer Fire Department, we believe transparency and community connection go hand in hand. This FAQ page was created to answer some of the most common questions we receive—from how to get involved and what we respond to, to how we’re funded and how you can support us. Don’t see your question here? No problem—reach out to us directly and we’ll be happy to help.
Fire Reports & Public Records
How Can I Obtain an Official Fire Report?
Fire reports can be obtained by sending a request to info@libertyfd.org after completing an identity and consent release form. The purpose is to ensure only authorized requester’s gain access to information that may contain personally identifiable information. A fire report fee of $20 must be received prior to the release of information.
Liberty Township Volunteer Fire Department
C/O: Corporation Treasurer, Fire Report Fee
P.O. Box 2123
Chesterton, Indiana 46304
Why Does It Appear Information Is Missing From My Fire Report?
Confidential or investigatory records related to fire investigations may be withheld pursuant to Indiana Code § 5-14-3-4(b)(1). Information that is confidential by law, such as personal data, medical records may also be exempt from disclosure.
How Long Does It Take to Receive My Fire Report?
Once your request has been submitted with payment and the Treasurer has acknowledged payment, the fire report will be processed and sent accordingly. Generally, fire reports are sent out within 5-7 business days but can take longer.
Please note, our staff are our volunteers. We make every effort to get requests processed as soon as possible. Delays in processing can include but are not limited to volunteers on leave, working other time sensitive projects, responding to emergencies, responding to duplicate requests by the same sender. Sending duplicate requests only slows down our ability to respond timely and efficiently.
How Can I Obtain Records Such as Fire Inspections or Violations?
Under Indiana’s Access to Public Records Act (APRA) (Indiana Code § 5-14-3), public agencies – including fire departments are actors of the government, and as such, are required by law to have open records. LTVFD is fully committed to upholding the publics’ trust to ensure access under the Access to Public Records Act.
All record requests must be submitted in writing. Placing a request in writing ensures that the requestor and the department will have documentation regarding what specific records are sought. The Secretary will send a response acknowledging receipt of a public records request within seven (7) days.
Once the review of the requested records is complete, Indiana law permits the cost recovery of copying expenses of ($.10) per page I.C. § 5-14-3-8(d)(1). Should the requestor choose to receive copies of the records, he or she must send a cashier’s check, money order, or company check for the full amount due payable to:
Liberty Township Volunteer Fire Department
C/O: Corporation Treasurer, APRA Request Fee
P.O. Box 2123
Chesterton, Indiana 46304
Documents will not be released until payment is received.
Please note, our staff are our volunteers. We make every effort to get requests processed as soon as possible. Delays in processing can include but are not limited to volunteers on leave, working other time sensitive projects, responding to emergencies, responding to duplicate requests by the same sender. Sending duplicate requests only slows down our ability to respond timely and efficiently.
Service Area & Emergency Response
Who Does Liberty Township Volunteer Fire Department Provide Service To?
LTVFD provides fire and emergency services to unincorporated Liberty and Jackson Township in Porter County. This includes areas between State Road 149 to Laporte County Line Road, areas from Long Lake – to areas north near the municipal limits of Chesterton. Your zip code does not define who your fire department may necessarily be. LTVFD has service areas that include Chesterton, Valparaiso, and Westville in its response area.
Why Is Another Fire Department Responding to My Call?
Sometimes we may be handling other calls in our area, shortage of volunteers, or more personnel are needed due to a complex incident. Another fire department may be temporarily covering the area while our crews are busy. Fire departments work together to ensure fast, effective emergency response – regardless of borders.
Do you respond to medical emergencies or just fires?
Great question. We respond to a wide range of emergencies—including fires, motor vehicle accidents, hazardous materials incidents and yes, medical calls. Our members are trained to handle many types of emergencies.
About Our Department
Is Liberty Township Volunteer Fire Department Entirely Volunteer?
Yes! We are proud to be a 100% volunteer fire department. Our members dedicate their time and talents to protecting the community—without pay—because they care deeply about the people who live here.
Are Firefighters Always on Station?
LTVFD is a volunteer organization. Volunteers may be responding from their homes, place of work, or may be in the general area to respond. Although not required, our volunteers may be on station from time to time completing duties or providing on station coverage.
Where Does Liberty Township Volunteer Fire Department Receive Its Funding?
LTVFD is an independent organization that receives its funding primarily from contractual agreements from Liberty and Jackson township. Its second source of funding comes from generous donations and contributions made by our community residents to help maintain and support operations.
Support & Community Involvement
How can I Support the Fire Department if I’m not Able to Volunteer?
There are many ways to support us, from making a donation to attending community events or helping spread fire safety information. Every bit of support helps us serve Liberty Township better.
Fire Hydrants & Public Utilities
Who Maintains the Fire Hydrants?
For issues other than fire code violations within LTVFD’s service area, contact Indiana American Water Company. Visit IAW Emergency Report or call 1-800-272-1325.
Safety & Public Awareness
What Should I Do If I See a Vehicle Behind Me With Flashing Blue Lights?
Members of volunteer fire departments are permitted to display flashing blue lights on their privately owned vehicles when responding to the scene of an emergency or to the fire station. To aid in their response, when safe to do so, pull to the right side of the road and allow the vehicle to safely pass.
What is a KNOXBOX and why would I need one?
A KNOXBOX is a secure, wall-mounted lock box that holds keys to your home or business, allowing Liberty Township Volunteer Fire Department personnel to gain rapid access during emergencies without causing damage. It helps save time during a response and protects your property by eliminating the need to forcibly enter.
Who can access my KNOXBOX?
Only authorized emergency responders from the Liberty Township Volunteer Fire Department have access to your KNOXBOX using a secure master key. The system is designed to keep your keys safe and accessible only when needed in an emergency.
What types of KNOXBOX products are available?
There are KNOXBOX options for both residential and commercial use. Common products include:
- KNOX HomeBox: For single-family residences
- KNOXBOX 3200 Series: For commercial buildings and gated properties
- Gate and Key Switches: For controlled access points
How do I order a KNOXBOX?
Orders are placed directly through the official KNOX website using their eApproval process. Be sure to select Liberty Twp Vol Fire Dept – Chesterton, IN as your local agency to ensure you’re purchasing the correct, approved product. A full step-by-step guide is available on our KNOXBOX page.
Is a KNOXBOX required by law?
In some cases—particularly for commercial buildings, gated communities, or properties with fire alarm systems—installation may be required by local ordinance or fire code. For residential use, it is typically optional but highly recommended for faster emergency response.
Fire Safety & Prevention
How Often Should I Inspect and Clean My Fireplace?
It’s recommended to have a certified chimney sweep or professional inspect the fireplace, flue, and chimney at least once a year or more often if you burn a lot of wood (especially softwoods like pine that produce more creosote).
This also includes gas fireplaces. Dormant gas fireplaces (off-season) have the potential to become blocked by birds or animals nesting.
Can I Burn Yard Waste Such as Sticks and Leaves?
Items such as yard waste are not permitted to be burned within Porter County, only recreational fires or cooking fires are permitted utilizing clean wood (no treated or painted lumber).
Recreational or ceremonial fires must be done during safe weather conditions, not during high winds. Fire must be attended until completely extinguished, and adequate fire suppression equipment present.
Visit Indiana Department of Environmental Management at IDEM: Open Burning: Home for more information.
Download a short version here of IDEMs’ Open Burning Regulations for Porter County.