Fire Department. Welcome to the web pages of the Redwood City Fire Department proudly serving the cities of Redwood City and San Carlos. Here youâll find information about the services we provide to our communities, including fire prevention, operations, communications, emergency services, paramedic services, and more. Visit the links to the left for information on how we work to protect life and property throughout the communities of Redwood City and San Carlos.
Red Imported Fire Ant (Solenopsis invicta) The red imported fire ant (RIFA) is a small reddish brown ant from South America . There are six known species of fire ants (Solenopsis spp.) in the United States, three of which are found in Arizona. These three species are the southern fire ant (S. xyloni), and two species of desert fire ant (S. aurea and S. amblychila).
In early spring or late winter people often encounter these large black ants in homes. These big ants are different than the more common small, brown nuisance ants that plague kitchens. The big ants are called carpenter ants (Camponotus spp.) and unlike their smaller cousins, nest above ground in cavities. Nest building and cavity expansion by these large, powerful ants can cause damage if nests occur in our homes. Most of the ants you find in homes are small, less than 1/4, and brown.