Deadheading Captain reported difficulties in opening the main cabin door. Deadheading Captain also reported contacting CFR when it was apparent that there was a need for them to be at the aircraft in case a fire broke out.

Narrative

Arriving home from a week long pairing on a Company deadhead; a CRJ 900. Flight Attendant could not open the main entry door; it would not unlock. Ramp agents were also unable after entering the aircraft from a ladder on the opposite side of the aircraft. After approximately 10 minutes they decided to close up the aircraft and move it 20 feet because they thought the uneven pavement was causing the problem. I made a call and asked to be connected with the airfield crash; fire and rescue (CFR); they handed me over to the airport authority police. I explained the situation and they said they would send them to Gate XX. The reason I called to follow up on CFR is because up to this point there was no sign of them and no one seem to realize the potential disaster this would have become if a fire had broke out on board. This was also a fully loaded aircraft with at least one wheel chair bound individual and numerous elderly people. After my call; I made my way to the front and asked to speak with the Captain. I introduced myself and explained to him the call I'd made. He was very appreciative and agreed to follow up on CFR. He; his First Officer and two flight attendants were very apologetic and agreed that if a fire occurred it would be nearly impossible to get everyone out safely. To everyone's relief; the door was finally opened approximately 25 minutes later; but at no time did I ever witness CFR from the windows of the aircraft. It is possible that they were quietly standing by out of site; I hope that was the case. It was quite apparent that the ramp personnel; maintenance personnel and even the crew; did not initially realize the gravity of the situation. Certainly most of the passengers on the aircraft had no idea the potential danger they were subject to. I would really like to know how often this type of situation has occurred in the past. It's very possible that these incidents aren't even tracked and more than likely won't be until a tragedy occurs. I will be following up on this and I will be happy to answer any questions. Let's keep an unsafe situation like this from becoming a tragedy.