The Fire Department has the primary task of providing adequate fire protection and fire extinguishment capability, initiating life rescue, rendering emergency medical assistance, controlling hazardous material situations, and providing related emergency services. The Fire Department has the responsibility for the administration and enforcement of the fire prevention code and the housing code, and for promoting fire prevention activities designed to reduce the incidence and probability of fire. The Charter of the City of Mount Vernon imposes upon the Fire Department the following major functions: The saving of lives and property The suppression and control of fires Providing related emergency services