Address Signs & Placards

Help Us Find You When Every Second Counts

Clear, visible address numbers save lives. In an emergency, the faster we can locate your home, the quicker we can provide help. Don't let hard-to-find addresses delay critical care.

The Island Challenge

Orcas Island's rural setting creates unique challenges:

  • Long, winding driveways hidden by vegetation

  • Dark winter nights with limited street lighting

  • Power outages that eliminate porch lights

  • Multiple buildings on single properties

  • Seasonal foliage that obscures signs

What Makes a Good Address Sign

Visibility Requirements

  • Reflective materials that shine in headlights

  • Large, bold numbers (minimum 4 inches tall)

  • High contrast - white numbers on green or blue background

  • Clean, simple fonts - no decorative lettering

Proper Placement

  • At the road where driveways meet public roads

  • Both sides of the sign for two-way visibility

  • Appropriate height - 3 to 5 feet above ground

  • Clear of obstructions - trim vegetation regularly

  • Sturdy mounting to withstand island weather

Free Address Signs Available

The Orcas Island Volunteer Firefighter and EMT Association provides reflective address signs at no charge to island residents. Donations are appreciated, but not required.

What We Provide

  • Reflective signs with white numbers

  • Professional quality materials built for Pacific Northwest weather

  • Standard residential size appropriate for most properties

  • Easy installation (hardware not included)

How to Get Yours

Contact us to request your free address sign:

  • Phone: (360) 376-2331

  • Email: info@orcasfire.org

  • In person: Eastsound Fire Station, 45 Lavender Lane

Pickup: Signs can be picked up at the station during business hours.

Special Situations

Long Driveways

  • Consider additional signs at driveway turns

  • Use reflective markers to guide emergency vehicles

  • Keep driveways wide enough for fire trucks (20 feet minimum recommended)

  • Mark alternative access routes if available

Multiple Buildings

  • Main house should have primary address at road

  • Secondary buildings (guest houses, shops) should be clearly marked

  • Use letters or numbers to distinguish buildings (A, B, C or 1, 2, 3)

Waterfront Properties

  • Post signs visible from water for marine emergencies

  • Include dock or beach access markers

  • Consider multiple access points for different emergency types

Installation Tips

Do it right the first time:

  • Use galvanized hardware to prevent rust

  • Mount securely - island winds are strong

  • Check twice yearly and clean as needed

  • Replace when fading - reflectivity decreases over time

It's the Law for Commercial Buildings (And Good Sense for All Properties)

San Juan County requires visible address posting for all commercial structures. Beyond legal compliance, good address signs:

  • Speed emergency response to your property

  • Help delivery services find you

  • Assist visiting friends and family

  • Increase property value with professional appearance

Don't Wait for an Emergency

Order your free reflective address sign today. It's a simple step that could make the difference between a good outcome and a tragedy.

Remember: We can't help if we can't find you. Make sure your address is clearly visible from the road, day or night.

Questions?

Contact Orcas Island Fire & Rescue:

  • Phone: (360) 376-2331

  • Email: info@orcasfire.org

  • Visit: 45 Lavender Lane, Eastsound

  • Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

Your safety is our priority. Let us help you help us help you.