2024 Annual Report

Board of Trustees

Board President/Trustee

John Brudnak

Board Treasurer/Trustee

Jayne Schirmacher

Board Secretary/Trustee

Beth Damas Kaspar

As elected officials, the Board of Trustees are the Executives of our District. Trustees meet a minimum of once each month to approve, discuss and direct the Fire Chief in the administration of the District.

Through the direction of the Board President and the Board of Trustees, the Orland Fire Protection District staff is held accountable to the Board of Trustees for delivering the highest quality of services to our residents.

The accomplishments of our District in 2024 were the direct result of our Board’s dedication to the Orland Fire Protection District’s mission of serving our residents.

Legal Counsel

Attorney Megan Roche Steigauf

James J. Roche & Associates Hinsdale, IL

Board of Trustees

2025 Meeting Dates

January 28, 2025

February 25, 2025

March 25, 2025

April 22, 2025

May 27, 2025

June 24, 2025

July 22, 2025

August 26, 2025

September 23, 2025

October 28, 2025

November 18, 2025

December 16, 2025

Trustee Tina Zekich

Trustee Angela Greenfield

Board of Fire Commissioners

Fire Commissioner

Matthew Rafferty

Fire Commissioner

Brian O’Neill

Fire Commissioner

The Board of Fire Commissioners are appointed by the Board of Trustees. The function of this Board is to conduct the testing of new Firefighter candidates, promotional processes and potential discipline process.

Legal Counsel

Attorney Eric Stach DelGaldo Law Group, LLC Berwyn, IL

Board of Fire Commissioners

2025 Meeting Dates

January 6, 2025

February 3, 2025

March 3, 2025

April 7, 2025

May 5, 2025

June 2, 2025

July 7, 2025

August 4, 2025

September 8, 2025

October 6, 2025

November 3, 2025

December 1, 2025

Donald Jeffers

Command Staff

Fire Chief /Administrator

Michael Schofield was appointed by and is held accountable to the Board of Trustees. He serves as the Chief Executive Officer and is the highest-ranking Officer in the Fire District. He is responsible for aligning the entire Fire District with the vision of the Board of Trustees.

Command Staff: (L to R) Black Shift B/C

William Leddin, Deputy Chief Nicholas Cinquepalmi, Fire Chief Michael Schofield, Gold Shift B/C Nickolas Tufts, Administrative Chief John Purtill and Operations Chief Erick Johnson (Not pictured Red Shift B/C James Hynes).

Deputy Chief

Nicholas Cinquepalmi was appointed by and is held accountable to the Board of Trustees. He serves as the Deputy Chief and as Acting Fire Chief in the Fire Chief’s absence. The Deputy Chief oversees the work of the Administrative and Operations Chiefs, which includes: Training, EMS, Special Ops, Dispatch, Risk Reduction & Life Safety, Physical Resources and Technical Resources Division.

Command Staff

Administrative Chief John Purtill manages the Orland Fire Protection District’s Administrative Services, which include: Fire Prevention, Dispatch, Information Technology and Officer Development.

Shift Battalion Chiefs

Operations Chief Erick Johnson manages the Orland Fire Protection District’s Operational Services, which include: Suppression, Emergency Medical Services, Specialty Teams and Training.

Shift Battalion Chiefs are responsible for a shift of Firefighter/Paramedics. Each monitors and manages the day-to-day operations of our six fire stations on his shift. Each station has one Shift Lieutenant who reports directly to the Battalion Chief.

Battalion Chief

Shift 1— Black Shift

Shift 2 Red Shift

Battalion Chief

Shift 3 Gold Shift

William Leddin

Battalion Chief James Hynes

Nickolas Tufts

Message from the Fire Chief

Dear Board of Trustees, Fire Commissioners & Residents of the Orland Fire Protection District:

I have always been humbled to serve the residents of the Orland Fire Protection District as a Firefighter, Paramedic, and Fire Chief. This will be my last year-end report as I will be retiring this May after 48 great years with the Orland Fire Protection District. I have had the honor to work under every Board of Trustee member from the first Board to the current board, and under every Fire Chief in the history of the Orland Fire Protection District.

I started in 1977 as a Cadet. The department and the area were very different. Station 1 was just built and opened in the fall of 1974, moving from the fire station the Firefighters built themselves on Beacon Avenue. We had one fire station and were mostly a volunteer fire district. Most of the area was farms and the Orland Square Mall had just opened. We had so many dedicated Volunteers that built the foundation of this great department. Several went on to become full-time Firefighters here in Orland. I cannot say enough about the Volunteer Firefighters that I worked with and those that came before me. Orland Volunteers were some of the first EMT’s and Paramedics in Illinois doing all this while working their full-time jobs and responding to calls as Volunteers.

When I look at what the fire district is today, I think of those who came before me and what would they think of the organization we built on their foundation of hard work and dedication to the community. From a single Cadillac ambulance to the state-of-the-art Paramedic units of today, we certainly have come a long way. From Volunteers to a daily staffing of 30 Firefighter/Paramedics responding out of six fire stations.

We pride ourselves on providing the best service possible to our Residents and in an emergency, to be there in 4-6 minutes. This is all done through providing top tier training to our personnel, state-of-the art lifesaving equipment, and proper staffing.

Orland is an ISO1 fire district and internationally accredited through the Center for Public Safety Excellence. We are one of only 123 fire departments nationwide to receive both certifications. We have also received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) and the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from GFOA. All this is possible through the dedication of our people.

Message from the Fire Chief

2024 continued to be a busy year for the fire district with the growth of medical facilities in Orland. We anticipate this to continue, as additional facilities are planned in the future. The west side of our district still has active farmland and will eventually be developed over the next 10-20 years. The future is bright for our fire district.

We pride ourselves on being the best. Every fire vehicle is ALS, meaning we carry paramedic equipment and can respond to medically calls and treat patients until an ambulance shows up. We have more ALS units available to respond to medical emergencies than any other department in the region.

Having our own regional training site gives us the opportunity to train our personnel to the highest standards in the fire service. With our regional Fleet Maintenance Center, we do not wait days or weeks for equipment to be repaired. We have top level mechanics who keep our fleet in great working order in a timely manner. Our regional 911 Center provides state-of-the-art computer aided dispatching to our emergencies. Orland Fire Protection provides outstanding services to its residents. No other fire district can match what we provide.

All these accomplishments came on the back of those who came before us. I cannot express my gratitude enough to those people. I have been humbled to serve as Fire Chief and I know the Chief that comes in after me will continue to build on the foundation and make Orland Fire even greater than it is today.

I wish to thank the Board of Trustees for supporting me in the direction I have taken the organization over the last ten years.

Respectfully ,

Retired OFPD Chief Robert Buihs presenting Chief Michael Schofield his helmet at his Swearing in Ceremony on 3/1/15

Administrative Staff

Support Services/Communications

Fleet Maintenance

John Cihocki Fleet Maintenance Supervisor

Scott Landgraf Fire Apparatus Technician

Jeff Bennett Fire Apparatus Technician

Orland Central Dispatch

Communications Shift Supervisor

Communications Shift Supervisor

Quality Assurance Analyst (Part

Bryce Landgraf Apprentice Fire Mechanic

Suzanne Dietz Ryan Ellis Jon Hultman

Gayle Enright

Joe McGrath Dawn Neehouse Dana Roman

Gina Cortez Director of Dispatch Operations

Kimberly Coffou

Candis South

Patrick Goy

Gabrielle Carbonara

Desiree Breese

Steven Jackson

Kristine Wessel

Logan Maske

Jon Hultman

Melissa Colnar Jake Cranston

Morgann Hayes

Memorials

In Memory of Battalion Chief William Bonnar, Sr.

February 25, 2024, was the 26th anniversary of the Line-of-Duty Death of Battalion Chief William Bonnar Sr.

Rest in Peace Retired

Lieutenant Keith Buhs

It is with heavy hearts and profound sorrow that the Orland Fire Protection District announces the passing of one of our own, a valiant Firefighter who fought not only to protect those in danger, but also battled courageously against cancer.

In Memory of Lieutenant Raymond Marquardt , Sr.

September 14, 2024, was the 15th anniversary of Lieutenant Raymond Marquardt, Sr.’s death due to a line of duty illness.

Keith Buhs pictured bottom row second from left with many current and retired Chiefs

Memorials

9/11 Terrorist Attacks

The 9/11 terrorist attacks killed 2,977 people and changed the world as we knew it. The OFPD Honor Guard held it’s annual bell ceremony the morning of 9/11/24 to honor and remember those First Responders and all who lost their lives. Never Forget

Years of Service

Congratulations and thank you to the following employees who celebrated milestone anniversaries in 2024:

Sworn Personnel

Lt. Justin Dublin Lt. Matt Giermala

Eng. Jim Logan

Eng. Matt Hoover

Lt. Mark Hogan

Eng. Marty Majda Lt. Brian Paliga Lt. Jason Postma Lt. Steve Prohaska FF Kory Tuburan

Years of Service

Non-Sworn Personnel

Congratulations and thank you to the following employees who celebrated milestone anniversaries in 2024:

FF A. Kaskadden FF Orlando Lopez FF Brian Nanak Eng. Sergio Navarro Eng. Mike Pericht FF Eric Petravich

FF Jim Schultz FF Justin Shanklin

FF Jason Smith FF Brandon Toth

District News

Comfort Bears for Pediatric Ambulance Patients Donation

Thanks to Kay Jewelers in North Riverside Mall, we received a generous donation of stuffed animal bears for children riding in our ambulance to the hospital. These cuddly companions can comfort and support our little patients during a scary time. These bears are purchased during the holiday season to raise money for the Saint Jude Children’s Hospital. Thank you for making a big difference in their journey to feeling better!

On Tuesday, 2/27/24, EMS Coordinator Lieutenant Josh Girdick did a Pulse Point Respond Presentation to Board President John Brudnak, OFPD Admin Staff and ABC 7 Reporter Stephanie Wade and Team. PulsePoint Respond is a Smartphone app designed to support public safety agencies working to improve cardiac arrest survival rates through improved bystander performance and active citizenship. PulsePoint Respond empowers everyday citizens to provide lifesaving assistance to victims of sudden cardiac arrest nearby.

Pulse Point Respond Presentation

District News

Retiree Luncheon

Thanks to all our OFPD Retirees who came out for a luncheon at the OFPD on Thursday, September 19th. Chiefs Schofield and Cinquepalmi presented some commendations/awards and retiree hardware. Chief Schofield stressed that it was because of these individuals' hard work during their career at the OFPD, that has made it the wonderful fire district it is today. Good food and conversation was enjoyed by all and it was great seeing everyone who could make it!

Home Depot Safety Days

Thanks to Home Depot Orland Park for hosting the Orland Fire Protection District at its annual Safety Day. The children got to make their very own firetruck compliments of Home Depot and receive a helmet and fun bag of OFPD items from our Life & Safety Educator Betsy Dine. They loved seeing

2024 Unit Commendations

On February 20, 2024, Orland Fire Paramedics were dispatched for a patient in cardiac arrest. Upon arrival, the patient was found pulseless and not breathing. Orland Fire crews immediately began high performance CPR and cardiac monitoring. It was determined that the patient was experiencing ventricular fibrillation. The patient was rapidly defibrillated and additional ALS care was provided which included IO cannulation, medication therapy, and medication assisted intubation. Regular rhythm checks revealed the patient to be in PEA following defibrillation, and after approximately 17 minutes of CPR and ALS care, the patient regained a palpable pulse, and ROSC was confirmed. A 12 lead EKG was performed and showed the patient was experiencing an abnormal EKG. While the patient was enroute to Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital, the patient lost their pulse, and CPR and medication therapy was reinitiated. Upon their arrival at the Emergency Room, the patient had once again regained a pulse and ROSC was confirmed. Care of the patient was transferred to the Emergency Room staff at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital for ongoing treatment. On March 12th, 2024, the patient was discharged from the hospital with a CPC of 1.

Crew Members: Michael Dorencz, John Nagel, Steven Prohaska, Mathew Hoover, Darren Hall, Daniel Ritchie, Brian Myhre, Brandyn Maher, Nickolas Tufts

On April 7, 2024, Orland Fire Paramedics were dispatched for a patient having difficulty breathing. Upon arrival, the patient was found lying in bed with staff on scene ventilating the patient through their tracheotomy. The patient’s vitals were taken, and ALS care was initiated. As ventilating the patient became progressively more difficult, the patient became unresponsive, and the patient’s EKG converted to asystole on the monitor. Orland Fire crews immediately began high performance CPR, established IO access, and provided fluids. After approximately 3 minutes of CPR and ALS care, the patient regained a palpable pulse, and ROSC was confirmed. A 12 lead EKG was performed and showed the patient was in sinus tachycardia. In addition, the patient’s tracheotomy tube was removed and a cricothyrotomy was successfully performed and confirmed with lung sounds, and both EtCO2 and SpO2 readings. The patient became more responsive following the procedure and was transported to Silver Cross Hospital for ongoing treatment. The patient was later discharged from the hospital with a CPC of 3.

Crew Members: Anthony Kaskadden, Nicholas Perez, Eric Zielinski, James Strzechowski, Bryan Kluever, Daniel Ritchie, Brian Myhre, Brandyn Maher, Nickolas Tufts

On July 20, 2024, Orland Fire Paramedics were dispatched for a patient in cardiac arrest. Upon arrival, the patient was found lying on the floor in the bathroom, the patient was pulseless and not breathing. High performance CPR and ALS care was initiated, and the patient’s EKG on the cardiac monitor showed asystole. ALS care included advanced airway procedures, IO access, IV fluids, and medications. After 3 rounds of CPR and ALS care, the patient regained a palpable pulse, and ROSC was confirmed. The patient started becoming more responsive and sedation was initiated to protect the patient’s airway. The patient was transported to Silver Cross Hospital for ongoing treatment and was discharged on July 25, 2024 from Silver Cross hospital with a CPC of 1.

Crew Members: Sebastian Matoniak, Chris Locus, Mike Siefert, Travis Herrin, Maxwell Janik, Matthew Giermala, Matthew Hoover, Michael Dorencz, Nickolas Tufts

2024 Unit Commendations

On September 2, 2024, Orland Fire Paramedics were dispatched for a patient choking. While enroute, dispatch informed the responding crews that police officers on scene are advising that the patient does not have a pulse and that they are initiating CPR. Upon the arrival of Orland paramedics, they took over CPR and utilized Magill forceps and the king vision to clear the patient’s airway of a large piece of steak. At this time the patient was still pulseless and not breathing. CPR was continued and ALS care was initiated with the cardiac monitor showing the patient was in PEA. After several rounds of CPR, ventilation, and IV access, paramedics noted a carotid pulse with the patient starting to breath on their own. After achieving ROSC, the patient was sedated and intubated, and began to experience improving color, blood pressure, and spo2. The patient was transported to Palos Hospital for ongoing treatment and was discharged on 9/10/2024 from the hospital with a CPC of 1.

Crew Members: Gabriel Ramirez, Brian Thompson, Marc DeSardi, James Karp, Kevin Frawley, Marty Majda, Brian Knights, D/C Nicholas Cinquepalmi

On September 14, 2024, Orland Firefighter James Karp experienced a major cardiac event while on duty. Jim and his crew were doing their morning training routine when he began to feel faint. At this point of the drill, Jim was in full firefighting gear and wearing an air pack. This is when Jim fell to the ground in cardiac arrest. The other firefighters on his crew quickly recognized the seriousness of the situation and went to work. They began stripping his gear off and started immediate CPR. The cardiac monitor was turned on at 07:57:28, the pads were placed at 07:58:05, and a defib shock was delivered at 07:58:30. Another two minutes of CPR was provided, and it was confirmed that ROSC was achieved. Jim progressively became more alert following ROSC to the point that he was alert and oriented upon his arrival at Palos Hospital in Ambulance 5. After initial exploratory procedures, Jim underwent quadruple bypass surgery two days later and was discharged from the hospital on September 20th, 2024, with a CPC of 1.

Crew Members: Michael Pacella, Jake McCleary, Carl Jones, Jon Kendra, Brian Knights, Kevin Frawley, Nickolas Tufts

On December 29, 2024, Orland Fire paramedics were dispatched for a patient having difficulty breathing. Upon arrival, Orland Fire paramedics began providing ALS care that included IV access and CPAP. The patient relayed to paramedics that they had been experiencing difficulty breathing for about 3 days and that it has been getting progressively worse. While being moved to the ambulance, the patients SPO2 reading became extremely low and it was decided to consciously sedate the patient and intubate them. Following intubation, the patient’s heart rate dropped to 25 on the EKG monitor and the patient was found to be without a pulse. CPR was initiated, and after approximately 4-5 minutes of CPR, ROSC was achieved. The patient was transported to Palos Hospital for ongoing treatment and was discharged from the hospital on January 8, 2025 with a CPC of 3.

Crew Members: Sebastian Matoniak, John Rochford, Dan Ritchie, Matthew Hoover, Andrew Hiller

Awards Night

On Wednesday, July 17, 2024, the Orland Fire District held an Awards Night. There were many awards to distribute, including: Milestone Years of Service, Unit Commendations awarded to crews for lifesaving EMS calls, and Fire/EMS Academy Instructor awards. Congrats to all!

Citizen Awards & Unit Commendation

On Tuesday evening, 2/27/28 at the OFPD BOT Meeting, EMS Coordinator Lieutenant Josh Girdick and cardiac arrest survivor Mr. Don Torgerson, presented the William Bonnar, Sr. Life Saving Award, the Excellence in Dispatching Award, and several Unit Commendations.

Members of the Orland Police Department and Orland Fire Protection District respond to numerous calls for service that have a positive impact on the residents of the Orland community. One such call occurred on November 30th, 2023, involving Mr. Don Torgerson. At around 1 pm on that day, Dispatch received a 911 call for an individual who passed out at Huntington Bank located at 14701 LaGrange Rd. During the 911 call, Dispatcher Logan Maske was able to recognize and determine that Mr. Torgerson was in cardiac arrest and upgraded the alarm which brought additional resources to the scene. Officer Sean Murphy of the Orland Park Police Department was the first to arrive on scene and began providing CPR to Mr. Torgerson. Upon their arrival, personnel from the Orland Fire Protection District took over CPR and began providing Advanced Life Support care which included ventilations, EKG monitoring, defibrillation, medications, and intubation. After 22 minutes of continuous CPR, medications, and 7 defibrillations, Mr. Torgerson experienced a return of spontaneous circulation and had a pulse. At that time, he was transported to Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital for additional care and treatment.

• Officer Sean Murphy was presented with the William Bonnar, Sr. Life Saving Award

• Dispatcher Logan Maske was presented with the Excellence in Dispatching Award; and

• The following members with Unit Commendations: L, Ramirez, AJ Hiller, C. Murray, J. McCleary, B. Buenzow, S. McDonald, B. Steele, and J. Hynes

Mr. Torgerson has made a wonderful recovery and expressed his deep gratitude to the Team that saved his life, stating that he has a lot more years with all his family, including, his 7 year old son who was one of his many loved ones at the presentation.

OFPD By the Numbers

“Top Ten T’s” – Risk Assessment and Response Cycle

Providing the optimum protection levels and proactive Standards of Cover for the entire District depends on the Risk Assessment, and it is imperative to outweigh the RESPONSE TO THE RISK. A simple way to understand the reason and rationale that the District responds to incidents can be described in the chart below as the basis of how a Risk Assessment becomes a Response Plan. These steps are broken down into a flowchart formula:

OFPD By the Numbers

The performance of emergency responders is often measured by the time it takes personnel to arrive on the scene of the emergency call –“Call to Arrival”. Many steps take place prior to the arrival of a Firefighter/Rescue/Hazmat specialist or Paramedic at your side. The steps include call processing time in the Dispatch Center, notification to the appropriate fire station, crews gearing up and mounting apparatus, response of apparatus from fire station to scene, arrival of personnel and assembling of equipment, and then intervention.

Orland Fire District uses a national guideline as our benchmark of performance. The benchmark (NFPA 1710) is used throughout the country to measure performance of career fire departments.

For 90% of all emergency incidents, NFPA 1710 requires four-person companies* on fire apparatus responding in a timely-manner “first due” to all Fires, Rescue, Hazmat, and EMS calls with a variable Effective Response Forces (ERF) “balance of alarm” following shortly behind.

NFPA 1710 Response Guidelines:

BENCHMARK (GOAL) TIMES:

The fire departent shall establish a performance objective of not less than 90% for the achievement of each response time objective.

DISPATCH One-minute (60 sec)

TURNOUT One-minute (60 sec) for EMS; one-minute, twenty seconds (80 sec) for all others

TRAVEL Four-minutes (240 sec) or less for the arrival of the first-due company

*Note: All Orland Fire Companies and Ambulances are Paramedic/Advanced Life Support [ALS] equipped.

TRAVEL (ERF) Eight-minutes (480 sec) or less travel time for the deployment of an Effective Response Force [ERF] i.e.- 15+ firefighters for a moderate risk structure fire, or 5 paramedics for an EMS incident, etc.

ERF personnel numbers requirement vary on the type of incident & risk/response model

TOTAL RESPONSE TIME – Call To Arrival (CTA)

FIRST DUE

Six-minutes (360 sec) for EMS, Six-minute, twenty seconds (380 sec) for other incidents ERF/BALANCE OF ALARM

Ten-minutes (600 sec) for EMS, or Ten-minute, twenty seconds (620 sec) for other types

Response time is a measure of how quickly we can respond to your emergency. Our goal is to be on the scene of an ambulance call in under 6 minutes and a fire call in under 6:20 minutes for 90% of all incidents

PERFORMANCE

The Orland Fire District has continued to see an increase in the number of incidents to which it responds over the past 10 years. Incident volume has increased 49% from 2013 to 2023.

OFPD By the Numbers

OFPD By the Numbers

The density charts below depict the locations of Fire, EMS and other incidents throughout the District. Areas shaded in yellow and red represent an increase in call volume in that area of the District. The red shaded areas had the greatest number of emergency calls during the past year.

Apparatus Staffing

Why Do We Send an Ambulance and a Fire Truck to Medical Emergencies

The Orland Fire Protection District utilizes a Computer-Aided Dispatch system that identifies the closest available unit in order to respond as quickly as possible to each emergency. All of our units are staffed with Paramedics and equipped to provide Advanced Life Support. This flexibility on response provides the best medical care to those in need.

The dynamic response platform may result in a fire truck arriving before or in conjunction with an ambulance for medical emergencies. Regardless who arrives first, the combination of units brings up to five Paramedics to each emergency. If the emergency does not warrant all of the Paramedics, the extra Paramedics return, leaving the appropriate amount of help needed to address the situation.

Currently the Orland Fire Protection District staffs a minimum of five ambulance crews, four engine companies and two truck companies daily, all staffed by Paramedics with Advanced Life Support equipment.

Ambulance

Apparatus

Service Provided

• Staffed by 2 Paramedics

• Advanced Life Support

• 12 Lead Cardiac Monitor

Primary Function

• Provide Advanced Life Support medical service

• Life saving medications

• Transportation to hospital

Fire Truck

• Staffed by 3 Firefighter/ Paramedics

• Advanced Life Support

• Carries Manpower

• Ladders, Fire Pump, Water, Tools

• Rescues

• Ventilation

• Support the Fire Engine Crew

• Vehicle Extrication

Fire Engine

• Staffed by 3 Firefighter/ Paramedics

• Advanced Life Support

• Carries Manpower

• Fire Pump, Hose, Water, Tools

• Extinguish the fire

• Vehicle Extrication

• Advanced Life Support

Significant Incidents

Incident In-District

1/7/2024 (Microwave fire) Brookdale 16051 La Grange

1/21/2024 (Refrigeration Leak)-Jewel 9350 159th Street

2/5/2024 (Stove Fire ) 9935 El Cameno real

2/18/2024 (Car into building) Sport Clips 9239 159th Street

2/20/2024 (Box alarm house fire) Holly Court

3/6/2024 (Gasoline Spill) 9300 159th Street

3/15/2024

3/18/2024 (MVA with Car Fire) 8900 Sunrise Lane

4/6/2024 PIN-In Auto Accident 143rd and Harlem

4/14/2024

4/19/2024 (Drowning) 15400 block of West Ave

4/21/2024

4/22/2024 (Full Still Structure fire) 39 Orland Square Drive

4/23/2024 PIN-In Auto Accident 161st and LaGrange

4/28/2024

Out of District

(2nd-alarm Fire) 4300 Dewey Ave Matteson

(House Fire) 13900 Elm Street NW Homer

(Mutiple shooting patients) 5900 159th Street Oak Forest

(Full Still Structure Fire) 13800 Sandstone NW Homer

4/29/2024 (Full Still Structure Fire) 14100 Bell Road NW Homer

5/20/2024 (Structure Fire) 16100 Oak Park Ave Tinley Park

5/21/2024 (Box Alarm Structure Fire) 8900 W 147th Street

5/28/2024

6/19/2024 (MVA Car vs METRA Train) 159th and 104th Ave

6/15/2024. Pin-in Auto Accident- 179th and Southwest Highway

6/20/2024 (MVA Rollover 135th and Harlem)

6/20/2024 Second Alarm Structure Fire 66 Orland Square Drive

6/27/2024

6/28/2024 Pin-In auto accident– car in light pole

7/8/2024

7/20/2024 (Structure Fire) 14400 Block of Woodland Ave

7/24/2024 (Full Still Structure fire) 16500 Block of Lee Ave

8/7/2024 (Structure Fire) 8900 Oakdale Court

8/10/2024 (Structure Fire) 10500 Block of Illinois Court

8/23/2024

9/5/2024 (Full Still Structure fire) 14300 Claridge Court

9/8/2024

9/11/2027 Pin-In Auto Accident -171st and 94th Ave

9/13/2024

9/19/2024

9/23/2024 (Pediatric Full arrest) 16400 of Morgan Lane

9/24/2024 (Gasoline Leak) Haz Mat response 167th and La

10/17/2024

10/23/2024 (Box Alarm Brush Fire) 16500 Haven Ave

10/28/2024 (Rollover Pin-IN MVA)-Wheeler and 94th Ave

11/22/2024 Multiple cars on fire -1 Orland Park Place.

12/4/2024

12/26/2024 Multiple Vehicle extrication 147th and Harlem

12/31/2024 (Structure Fire) 15600 Scotsglen Rd

(Full Still Structure Fire) 10700 Mary Lane -Mokena

(Full Still Structure Fire) 8000 Block of Kircaldy -Palos

(Full Still Structure Fire) 5700 Albert Drive -Oak Forest

(Structure Fire) 1700 Block of 66th Court

(Structure Fire) 16100 Block of Bormet Drive -Tinley Park

(Structure Fire) 17500 of Bormet Drive-Tinley Park

(Garage Fire) 7700 of 167th St-Tinley Park

(Water Rescue/Recovery) 22800 Richton Rd-Richton Park

(2nd Alarm building fire) 1000 Cedar Road -New Lenox

(Box Alarm Apartment Fire) 5700 W 128th St (Crestwood)

Significant Incidents

Fire at Brookdale Senior Living

On Sunday, January 7, 2024, a fire at Brookdale Senior Living in Orland Park Sunday morning left one person injured and led to a precautionary evacuation of residents while crews worked to put out the fire. The Orland Fire Protection District responded to the Brookdale Senior Assisted Living home, 16051 La Grange Road, at 7:41 a.m. An automatic alarm went off in the facility and the fire was found in one room on the second floor of the three-story building. Fire crews located the resident and found a chair on fire in the living room. The resident was safely evacuated from the unit and was taken as a precaution to Silver Cross Hospital.

Car into Sports Clips in Orland Hills

The Orland Fire Protection District (OFPD) responded to a reported accident on Sunday, February 18, 2024 at 2 pm involving an auto that crashed into a Sports Clips in the Walmart Shopping Center off of 159th Street. Upon arrival, OFPD Fire Rescue crews found a car that had driven completely through the building’s south-facing wall striking numerous occupants who were in the establishment. The driver of the vehicle then backed out of the structure and struck numerous parked cars in the parking lot. OFPD emergency First Responders treated a total of eight patients, including the driver of the vehicle. Two patients were transported to Silver Cross Hospital, one patient to Palos Northwestern Hospital, and one patient to Christ Hospital. No injuries were believed to be life-threatening. Four additional patients were treated at the scene, including employees, and all refused transport to the hospital. There was extensive damage to Sports Clips and minor damage to the adjacent tenant space. The accident was being investigated by the Orland Hills Police Department.

House Fire on Holly Court

On February 20, 2024 at 3:35 a.m. a house fire was reported in the 14700 block of Holly Court in Orland Park. The fire was brought under control after about 20 minutes, but not before one firefighter was injured and taken to Silver Cross Hospital, where he was treated and later released. Upon arrival, initial fire companies were met with heavy fire throughout the first and second floors of the two-story residence. The fire had also spread to the exterior of home. Orland Firefighters performed an aggressive exterior fire attack, quickly deploying multiple hand lines in addition to a deck gun and aerial pipe. Firefighters remained on the scene after the fire was struck to manage hot spots and flare-ups at the property. Residents of the home and neighboring homes were safely evacuated prior to OFPD Fire Fighters arrival and by the Orland Park Police Department. A thorough fire Investigation was being performed by the Orland Park Police Department, the Orland Fire Protection District, and the Illinois State Fire Marshal.

Fire at Orland Park Restaurant

On April 22, 2024, Orland Fire Protection District Firefighters responded to a fire at the Al Bahaar Restaurant, 39 Orland Square Drive. At first, restaurant owners suspected the fire alarm was triggered by a malfunction, but as Firefighters inspected the restaurant to reset the fire alarm, they detected a burning smell and a fire was discovered inside the wall of the restaurant. The fire response was then upgraded to bring in additional units from Orland Fire, Palos Heights, Palos Park, Tinley Park and other surrounding fire districts and departments. Firefighters moved quickly to open the wall exposing heavy smoke and flames, which were rapidly extinguished, preventing the fire from spreading further and causing more damage. The diligence of the initial fire company is commendable, given their actions saved a potential total loss by locating a hidden fire within a wall that could have spread to the unprotected attic area and destroyed this building. No one was injured.

Significant Incidents

House Fire in the 8900 Block of 147th Street

On Tuesday, May 20, 2024 Orland Fire Protection District was called at 4:47 p.m. for a garage fire in the 8900 block of 147h Street. Multiple 911 calls reported the fire in the single family home. When crews arrived, the fire had extended from the garage, spreading them into the second-floor attic and bedroom. An SUV in the driveway was also in flames. Strong winds helped spread the fire quickly. Initial reports by first responders indicated someone may have been still in the house. A rapid primary searched revealed the occupants had evacuated prior to first responders' arrivals. Multiple fire crews from the Orland Fire District arrived on the scene and assisted with fire control, search and rescue, and overhaul of the structure. The fire was quickly brought under control. No one was injured, and an Orland Park home is uninhabitable. A full still alarm was called to provide additional manpower and equipment to the scene and to backfill Orland stations. A box alarm was activated for additional resources because of air temperatures exceeding 90 degrees and additional rehab activities. Other departments providing coverage and manpower were Palos Fire, Tinley Fire, Palos Heights, Lemont Fire, North Palos, Homer Fire, Evergreen Park, Crestwood, Oak Forest.

Metra Train Strikes Car

On June 19, 2024, the OFPD received a call of a Metra train striking an occupied vehicle while heading toward Orland Park Wednesday evening. According to Metra officials, SWS train No. 823 struck a vehicle near 153rd Street a short time before 7:42 p.m. All victims were safely extricated and transported to Silver Cross Hospital in good condition.

Full Still Structure Fire 16500 Block of Lee Avenue

The Orland Fire District received a call on Tuesday night, July 23, 2024, from a homeowner in the 16500 Block of Lee Avenue in unincorporated Orland Township who reported he suspected his property may have been struck by lightning. He reported experiencing some electrical issues during the apparent strike to a modem and other electronics in the home and that he felt that his house shake, but there were no other signs of trouble. The homeowner said he had walked through the house to check all the rooms but did not see anything out of the ordinary. He said he also checked the attic but didn’t notice any damage. The Orland Fire Protection District sent fire trucks to the home immediately to do an inspection to ensure the safety of the homeowner and the home. Shortly after, the homeowner called 911 again at 10:42 PM and reported he had started to smell a heavy odor of smoke. The response was quickly upgraded to a report structure fire. OFPD Firefighters arrived on the scene in minutes and found heavy smoke coming from the eves in the back of the house. The alarm was elevated to a full still to bring in additional Orland companies as well as mutual aid resources. Upon entering the house heavy fire was found in the attic and it was venting out the roof and eves. Companies made an aggressive attack with two handlines and an aerial ladder was placed in service in the rear of the home.Water from the aerial ladder helped bring the fire under control quickly and aid in fire control of the two-story home. A rapid primary search revealed the house was unoccupied and the owner and his dog had escaped the fire. Extensive overhaul was needed and crews were able to tarp belongings preventing further damage from water.

House Fire in the 8900 Block of Oakdale Court

The Orland Fire District responded to a reported garage fire located in the 8900 block of Oakdale Court in Orland Park on Wednesday August 7, 2024 at at 4:51 pm. Multiple 911 calls were received for a reported garage fire. Companies arrived on the scene and found heavy fire coming from the garage of a single family home. The fire had already extended from the garage and was spreading quickly into the second floor attic and bedroom. Fire companies arriving on the scene made a blitz attack on the fire deploying two pre connects and one 2 ½ hose line to quickly bring the fire under control. Crews deployed an additional handline to extinguish a fence between the garage and the exposure house to the West. Initial reports did not indicate whether the home was occupied or not. There were no occupants present when crews arrived at the house.

Significant Incidents

Crews forced entry to the front door and performed a rapid primary searched that revealed the house was unoccupied. The occupants escaped through a rear door and were later found down the street by police. The fire was quickly brought under control and multiple fire crews from the Orland Fire District arrived on the scene and assisted with with fire control, search and rescue, and overhaul of the structure. A full still alarm was called to provide additional manpower and equipment to the scene and to back fill Orland stations. There were no civilian injuries but one fire fighter was treated and transported for heat exhaustion at a local hospital. The fire fighter was later released. Other departments providing coverage and manpower were Palos Fire, Tinley Fire, Palos Heights, Lemont Fire, North Palos, Homer Fire, Mokena, and other area agencies.

Townhome Fire in the 10500 Block of Illinois Court

The Orland Fire Protection District responded at 6:51 pm to reports of smoke coming out of the eves of a four unit townhome in the 10500 block of Illinois Court in the Eagle Ridge subdivision on Saturday August 10, 2024. The caller was unsure if anyone was home. The caller reported seeing smoke through a window in the structure, while Orland Fire Protection District companies were responding. The alarm was escalated to a structure fire response after Orland Fire units arrived on the scene. They were met with smoke coming out of the eves. Fire crews found the house locked and were unsure if anyone was in the structure. Crews forced entry and performed a search but found the homeowner was not home. Fire crews forced entry to the residence to the North Unit that was attached to the fire unit and found smoke in the structure. A quick search found the elderly occupant asleep in a bedroom. The senior was safely removed from the structure. Crews deployed hand lines through the front and through the garage. An additional alarm was called for additional manpower and for coverage do to multiple others calls within the Orland Fire District. There were no injuries as a result of the fire. Two of the four unit townhomes damaged by smoke and fire are not habitable due to fire and smoke. Other departments providing coverage or manpower were Palos Fire, Lemont, Homer, North Palos, Tinley Park, Oak Forest, and other agencies.

House Fire in the 8900 Block of 147th Street

At approximately 2pm on Thursday, September 5th, 2024, the Orland Fire Protection District responded to a fire in the single-family home on the 14300 block of South Claridge Court. On Arrival crews were faced with a fire in a second-floor bedroom. The fire was quickly brought under control. No one was injured. Residents self-rescued prior to the arrival of fire personnel. Orland Fire was assisted by Palos, Palos Heights and Tinley Park Fire Departments. The cause of the fire was under Investigation by the Orland Fire Protection District Cause & Origin Team.

Grass Fire Near Orland Hills Community Center

On October 23, 2024, Emergency crews were called to the scene of a brush fire that broke out in a field near a community center in the south suburbs on Wednesday afternoon. The blaze broke out in a field near the Orland Hills Community Center, in the 16500 block of Haven Avenue in Orland Hills, near Lake Lorin. According to officials from the Village of Orland Hills, a maintenance worker was outside performing routine work behind the recreation center when his machinery inadvertently sparked the fire. Crews from the Orland Fire Department and several other neighboring departments were called to the scene and began working to contain the fire within the wetlands. City officials said the crews were eventually able to contain the blaze and prevent it from causing any damage to property in the area.

Mutual Aid

Orland Fire Protection District provides mutual aid to and receives mutual aid from other fire departments. Along with handling incidents within our own jurisdiction, Orland Fire is regularly requested to assist surrounding agencies with their incidents. The request may be to cover a fire station for subsequent incidents or to assist with personnel and equipment on the scene. A single incident can be taxing to the resources of any fire department, which has resulted in mutual-aid agreements pre-arranging the assistance prior to an incident and specifying who responds with what personnel, apparatus and equipment. The Orland Fire Protection District is a member of MABAS (Mutual Aid Box Alarm System) Division 19.

Orland Fire Protection District respondedtoarecordnumber of calls in 2024, with the majority of the calls involving ambulance care and transport. OFPD continues to lead the way in cutting-edge EMS training and equipment. In addition to health-related assistance, Orland Fire aided multiple neighboring towns as they experienced fires and large-scale accidents.

Orland Fire remains committed to working on improving response times and strives to maintain the most current education system for itsFirefightersandParamedics, in order to give the residents in the Orland Fire Protection District the best service possible.

Fire Investigations

Lieutenant Matt Johnson

Fire Investigations

The Orland Fire Cause and Origin Team has the responsibility to investigate all fires within the fire district as well as provide assistance to the surrounding communities when needed. From the smallest grass fire to the largest building fire, all fires are investigated by our investigators to determine the cause and origin of a fire. The Cause and Origin Team is one of the busiest specialty Teams in the Orland Fire District year after year. The Orland Investigation Team also belongs to the MABAS 19 Cause and Origin Team and the Will, Cook, and Grundy county task force. The Orland Fire Investigation Team works closely with the Illinois State Fire Marshal on all fires, especially fires that are incendiary or complex in nature.

The Orland Fire Investigation Team is made of 12 Fire Investigators who must maintain their certifications by accruing 100 hours of training every 4 years. Fire Investigators participate in classroom training, live fire training scenarios, and also attend multi-day conferences to keep their certifications active. Team members must also investigate multiple fire scenes every year to maintain their skills. Investigation Team members are skilled in documenting all aspects of a fire scene including photographing the scene, interviewing witnesses, and creating sketches to show building layouts. Documentation of a fire scene is the primary reason the Fire Investigation Team exists. Determining the cause and origin helps to prevent further fires from occurring.

Accidental fires are the leading cause of fires every year in the fire district. Many fires can be avoided if the proper safety measures are taken. Winter months are especially challenging with many people using supplemental heating elements and alternative heating systems. Follow the instructions when operating these units to ensure they are used in a safe manor. The Fire Investigation Team works with the Fire Prevention Bureau throughout the year to help prevent fires and understand the common causes.

Camera Burning

Car Fire

Emergency Medical Services Coordinator

Lieutenant Josh Girdick

Emergency Medical Services

The Orland Fire District takes great pride in the services provided to Orland Park, Orland Hills and Orland Township. All Orland Firefighters are also Paramedics and may arrive at your emergency in an ambulance and/or fire apparatus. Sometimes people ask why a fire engine or truck is needed for a medical call. The simple answer is that the fire district ensures the correct number of trained professionals arrive to handle the needs of every possible situation. The computer aided dispatch (CAD) system sends the closest fire company and ambulance to guarantee that help arrives as soon as possible. Every fire apparatus is not only staffed by paramedics but also equipped with advanced life support (ALS) equipment, the same as each District ambulance carries.

Orland Paramedics are highly trained and skilled. Simulation is utilized on a regular basis to provide realistic scenarios related to cardiac arrest, trauma, and medical emergencies in a safe and nonthreatening learning environment. This type of training is the gold standard within the industry and allows Paramedics to safely and effectively develop critical thinking skills, situational awareness, psychomotor skills, and encourage student role development to meet professional standards of care.

In 2012, Orland EMS became the first suburb in Illinois to implement the High-Performance CPR model. Cities like Seattle, Washington; Minneapolis, Minnesota; Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona had already been utilizing the model and experienced cardiac arrest save rates of over 50%. Since implementing the HighPerformance CPR model, Orland has consistently averaged save rates comparable to the highest in the US due to the amount and level of training our Paramedics receive, and the CPR instruction given over the phone by the District’s Emergency Medical Dispatchers.

Every minute that CPR is not performed on a cardiac arrest victim, their chance for survival decreases by 10%. Even with response times of 3-5 minutes, the odds improve tremendously with bystander intervention. As a result, Orland provides CPR/AED training to about 1,200 citizens annually and has made the investment into the PulsePoint Respond App which empowers CPR-trained citizens to help improve patient outcomes and save lives by reducing collapse-to-CPR and collapse-todefibrillation times. Citizens interested in learning CPR can visit orlandfire.org to find monthly BLS Provider and bi-monthly Friends and Family courses.

Emergency Medical Services

NEW AMBULANCE DESIGN

After several months of meetings, planning, and taking trips to look at ambulances from other organizations, the EMS Committee designed and developed a spec for a new ambulance. For the first time in Orland’s history, the District placed an order for a Horton ambulance on a Ford F-series chassis. This new ambulance spec, designed for enhanced functionality, equipment storage, and improved patient care, has become a necessity to meet the increasing demands of our community’s emergency medical services. Orland Fire currently maintains one front-line ambulance at each of its 6 fire stations, 2 reserve ambulances that are utilized when maintenance is required on one of the front-line ambulances, and one training ambulance. Keeping a training ambulance allows the EMS Bureau to provide more realistic training to Orland’s Paramedics for both shift personnel and the EMS Academy for new hires.

Emergency Medical Services

EMS Appreciation Barbecue

Every year around "National Emergency Services Week," the Orland Fire District provides a cookout for the EMS providers and support staff. We cannot take a vacation or holiday from providing emergency services to our community, but providing a meal and acknowledging the good work done is a small gesture that is well received. This year EMS providers were treated to a taco bar, which was a huge success, with Lt Russ Ricobene eating 25 tacos over a two-day period. EMS Administration did the cooking with help from Flat Top Master Russ Siska, Fire Inspector Ryan Collins, organization and food prep by Administrative Assistant Joan Mulchrone and Fire & Life Safety Educator Betsy Dine.

Emergency Medical Services

9-29-24

The Diocesan Blue Mass is a Catholic tradition here in the United States that gives the Church an opportunity to recognize and celebrate all First Responders and their service to the community.

Emergency Medical Services

In 2023, there were more than 356,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests in the U.S.

According to 2023 US CARES data for Out of Hospital Cardiac Arrests (OHCA), survival to hospital discharge was only 10.2% for all EMS treated non-traumatic out-of-hospital cardiac arrests. Bystander witnessed arrests had a 14.2% survival to hospital discharge, and 9-1-1 responder witnessed arrests had a 17.1% survival to hospital discharge. Globally, cardiac arrest claims more lives than colorectal cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, influenza, pneumonia, auto accidents, HIV, firearms, and house fires combined.

Bystander CPR Improves Survival

According to 2023 US CARES data, the majority of Out of Hospital Cardiac Arrests (OHCA) occur at a home or residence (71.4%). Public settings (15.8%) and nursing homes (10.4%) were the second and third most common locations of OHCA.

Help is Needed Immediately

Unfortunately, only about 41.2% of people who experience an OHCA get the immediate help that they need before professional help arrives. 2023 US CARES data states that of the 139,822 OHCA’s that were reported to CARES, only 5.4% received AED treatment by a bystander. If performed immediately, CPR and AED use has the chance of doubling or tripling the chance of survival from an OHCA.

The 6 links in the adult out-of-hospital Chain of Survival are:

• Recognition of cardiac arrest and activation of the emergency response system

• Early cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) with an emphasis on chest compressions

• Rapid defibrillation

• Advanced resuscitation by Emergency Medical Services and other healthcare providers

• Post-cardiac arrest care

• Recovery (including additional treatment, observation, rehabilitation, and psychological support)

Emergency Medical Services

LIFEGUARD IN-SERVICE

Every summer since 1998, the Orland Fire District has partnered with the Orland Park Aquatic Center to practice life-saving skills. From 1998 to 2024 the number of lifeguards grew from under 50 to over 100. Under the watch of Orland Fire Paramedics, Lifeguards are instructed on and practice various skills including CPR, bleeding control, medical emergencies, and patient extrication from the water slides and platforms. The Orland Park Aquatic Center is a safe family place because of the partnerships developed and maintained over the years.

Emergency Medical Services

New AirTraq Video Laryngoscope System and SSCOR Suction Devices

In September of 2024, the EMS Bureau began transitioning to the AirTraq Video Laryngoscope System and S-SCORT III Portable Suction Units throughout the District to manage a patient’s airway when needed. The AirTraq Video Laryngoscope System was selected after many demos and trial periods with all the major video laryngoscope systems currently on the market. After selection, extensive training was provided to every Paramedic in the District to ensure they were proficient and confident in utilizing the AirTraq system before they were placed on service.

STOP the Bleed

The importance of knowing how to stop uncontrolled hemorrhage cannot be overstated. It is the number one killer in trauma whether it is from a terribly created manmade event, an accident, or another type of occurrence. Just like CPR and AED use is the best treatment for a cardiac arrest victim, bleeding control is the best treatment for a hemorrhaging trauma victim. When bystanders call 9-1-1 and take immediate action to help, the chance for survival and full recovery increases many times over. Grant-funded classes are available to the community and a schedule of upcoming classes can be found on the Fire District’s website at orlandfire.org.

Training

Training & Life Safety Officer

Lieutenant Robert Griffin III

The Training and Safety Officer of the Orland Fire Protection District is responsible for delivering emergency response training and education programs for members of the District, other outside agencies, and community members.

The goal of the Training Division is to ensure that the men and women of the Orland Fire Protection District are well-trained and prepared to respond to any emergency. To achieve our training goals, the Orland Fire Protection District staffs a Lieutenant to work Monday-Friday as the Training and Safety Officer for the District. The Training Officer receives help from District personnel on their off-duty days in the delivery of training topics and maintenance of the Training Site. The Orland Fire Protection District will continue to strive towards the growth and development of our personnel while maintaining a state-of-the-art training facility for our Firefighters and Paramedics.

2024 Training Overview

The Orland Fire Protection District certifies our personnel to the standards set forth by the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshall. The certification and recertification program established by the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshall establishes standards for firefighters in various fire and rescue-related disciplines. In 2024 members of the Orland Fire Protection District earned more than 100 certifications through the Office of the State Fire Marshall and FEMA. The certifications earned by the men and women of the Orland Fire Protection District in 2024 include:

The certifications our members earned, as detailed in the table, encompass various training methods. These include in-person lectures, engaging discussions, intimate small group sessions, and practical scenarios demonstrating competency in specific skills or areas. Some certifications necessitated additional real-world experiences or tasks, meticulously recorded in a task book and submitted to the Office of the State Fire Marshal for validation.

Training

The Training Division takes immense pride in the collective effort and dedication our members demonstrated in 2024 to enhance their professional education and knowledge. This commitment to continuous learning is a testament to our shared goal of maintaining the highest standards in the fire protection industry.

The Training Division is steadfast in ensuring that each member fulfills the minimum training hours mandated by the Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL), the Insurance Services Office (ISO), and OSHA standards for firefighters. Our ultimate aim is to surpass these minimum industry standards annually, underscoring our unwavering commitment to excellence.

In addition to obligatory training, members of the Orland Fire Protection District had the opportunity to train in 3 Acquired Structures in town before they were demolished as well as working alongside members from the Itasca Fire Department and neighboring communities while conducting live fire training in a High-Rise Building.

To meet our training goals, our personnel conduct weekly group trainings that is delivered remotely by members of the Training and EMS Division. In addition to weekly training, company-level training is done with multiple companies or fire stations participating in various topics at our training facility or other locations within the response area of the Orland Fire Protection District. Company Fire Officers and Shift Battalion Chiefs also regularly conduct self -directed trainings to address any needs identified as well as concerns within the community.

Much of the focus in 2024 was identifying emerging hazards in the fire service, developing the appropriate training programs, policies and purchasing necessary equipment to combat these issues. Crews learned to manage lithium ion and electric vehicles fires, solar panel fires, as well as reinforcing past training such as standpipes operations in larger buildings. Orland personnel also actively participate in monthly cooperative training with agencies from within MABAS Division 19 who we regularly rely on for large scale emergencies.

Training

Cook County Emergency Management and Regional Security (EMRS)

The partnership with the Cook County Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security, the Orland Fire Protection District, and outside training agencies entered its eighth year. Our collective efforts between these three agencies have enabled the Orland Fire Protection District to host numerous Office of the State Fire Marshall courses for our personnel and Fire, EMS, and Law Enforcement personnel in the Chicagoland Area. The delivery of these courses at our facilities allows the Orland Fire Protection District to certify our staff in many State fire certifications at a fraction of the cost due to this grant funding. Conservative estimates are a savings of $50,000 annually in tuition to the Training Budget for these courses for our personnel. Throughout the eight-year partnership with Cook County EMRS, an estimated 9,000 personnel have been training in the Chicagoland area, with many of the courses being held at the Orland Fire Protection District Regional Training Facility. Additionally, more than 900 Orland Fire personnel and residents have benefited from this grant funding in the eight years. The Training Division aims to continue this partnership by offering grant-funded training opportunities to firefighters in the Chicagoland area.

Vision

The Orland Fire Protection District Training Division has a vision to develop a training organization that provides the highest quality training for the Orland Fire Protection District, as well as other departments throughout the region and state that utilize our campus/classes. Our training is structured to identify standard conditions, deploy standard actions, to deliver standard outcomes. Our state-of-the-art training props and facilities, virtual reality and scenario-based simulation centers, and quality instructors will provide training and certification.

Training

Training Campus Reorganization

Members of the Training Division, the Village of Orland Park Public Works Department and Private Contractors have begun work to reorganize the Orland Fire Protection District Training Campus to mitigate unnecessary risk factors, improve operational efficiency, and plan for future goals. The primary focus in 2024 was to reorganize a portion of the grounds to serve as a training area for auto extrication. Work on the next phase of this project is ongoing with the goal creating dedicated training areas on the campus for each specialty discipline to have its own dedicated area of operation.

Looking Ahead to 2025:

In 2024, the Orland Fire Protection District welcomed a new Training and Safety Officer for the Orland Fire Protection District. In 2024, Lieutenant Robert Griffin III assumed the roles and responsibilities of the Training Officer for the Orland Fire Protection District. Some of Lieutenant Griffin’s goals include:

Create an Instructor Development Program

• A focus on realistic training scenarios and situations for our Firefighters

• Look to develop props and simulations that mimic situations on the street

• Focus on reinforcing operational uniformity

• Research innovative solutions to emerging challenges in the fire service

• Continue to proactively address succession planning for the future

• Reinforce existing programs with equipment and training to assure they match emerging challenges.

Training—2024 Fire Academy

On February 27, 2024, thirteen dedicated individuals embarked on their careers with the Orland Fire Protection District. Since 2014, except for 2016, the Orland Fire Protection District has held an in-house training academy for our new Firefighters. In this time space, nearly all of our Firefighters/Paramedics have used this format for their initial training. The Training Division is committed to providing this initial training to our newest members to ensure they can meet the expectations of the Orland Fire Protection District and uphold our mission statement. The in-house training academy, which has evolved each year, is a testament to our dedication to ensuring that our newest Firefighters receive training in any situation they can respond to in their role as Firefighters with the Orland Fire Protection District. The in-house academy consists of a 10-week training program comprising five weeks of Emergency Medical Training and 5 weeks of Firefighter Training. The thirteen new Firefighters were assigned a 40-hour work week to complete their training. In addition to their Emergency Medical and Firefighter Training each morning, the thirteen Firefighters participated in Fitness Training directed by the Orland Fire Protection District Fitness Committee. The Training Division would like to thank the Lead Instructors for the 2023 Academy: EMS Lead Instructors FF Locus, FF Nanak, FF Schick, Fire Lead Instructors, Engineer Majda, Engineer Proctor, Firefighter Klimson, Firefighter Kasules and Fitness Leads Engineer Pericht and FF Weber. Lead instructors are selected based on their skills, ability, and experience to lead our in-house training. They are wellrespected members of the Orland Fire Protection District and work tirelessly to offer their expertise to our newest members and set them on a path to success with the Orland Fire Protection District. The 2024 candidates will complete their year of probation and became members of the Orland Fire Protection District on February 27th , 2024 and will be officially Sworn in on March 18, 2025.

Training—2024 Fire Academy

2 0 2 4 A C A D E M Y

Swearing In of Probationary Firefighters

Congratulations to Orland Fire District's 2023 Fire Academy 9 new Firefighter/Paramedics. After an intense 9-week Training Academy to provide them with the skills necessary to be successful with the OFPD, they were released as Probationary Firefighters, functioning under the direction of a Company Officer as they worked to complete their 1-year probationary period.

On Tuesday, April 30, 2024, Fire Chief Schofield welcomed their families and spoke of the opportunities for them to succeed and advance with the OFPD. Next, Fire Commissioner Brian O’Neill administered their Oaths of Office, and their loved ones pinned their badges.

Swearing In of Probationary Firefighters

Nicholas V. Cinquepalmi

Russell Engel

Matthew Bobber

Sebastian Matoniak

Darren Hall

Steve Stremme

Alec Spagnoli

Gabriel Ramirez

John Nagle

Water Rescue & Recovery

Lieutenant Dan Ritchie

Water Rescue & Recovery MABAS 19

DIVE TEAM

The Orland Fire District has 12 members that are part of the MABAS 19/22 Water Rescue and Recovery Team. Our team responds to all water related incidents involving rescue or recovery within the MABAS 19/22 jurisdiction and beyond on an as-needed basis. This response area covers about 450 square miles which includes a variety of water ranging from numerous retention ponds, rivers and navigational water ways.

Team training was conducted twice a month which consisted of:

• Annual Swim Test and SCUBA skills review

• Ice Diver Training

• Scenario based training (surface and subsurface)

• Surface Supplied Air Training

• Swift Water Technician Training

• Sonar Training

• Underwater Evidence Recovery Training

• Water Craft Training

Our members put in over 300 training hours this past year. Our team is looking forward to more training opportunities in 2025 to further advance our skills and abilities.

Our team responded to 3 incidents in 2024. These incidents included calls to search for a missing fisherman in the Brandon Quarry, an occupied vehicle that was submerged in a pond, and assisted a local police agency in searching for a missing person.

Water Rescue & Recovery

MABAS 19 DIVE TEAM

Engineer Majda using a metal detector for evidence recovery

Firefighter Marty Majda and Engineer Mark Hogan preparing for their training dive

Steven Prohaska

HazMat

The Orland Fire Protection District Hazardous Materials Team is an essential component of the services provided by the fire district. Our team is comprised of dedicated members who complete a variety of annual training to maintain their state certification levels. The team is tasked with mitigating any hazardous materials situation that occurs within our response area. Orland is home to a wide assortment of dangerous materials within its boundaries. A few potential examples we can encounter are underground pipelines, industrial chemicals, and radiological equipment. The Orland area is also a major thoroughfare for a variety of vehicles that carry hazardous material products daily.

2024 had a plethora of updates and operational changes for our team. We completed the transition to our Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS) Division 19 hazardous materials team organizational structure. This now puts us under the operational guidance of the Division 19 Fire Chiefs. This change allows us to have a dedicated budget to help fund the Division 19 team and also allows us to incorporate a standard practice of operational procedures. MABAS Division 19 covers a large area that goes from Orland to as far south as Manhattan.

We also purchased some updated meters that will provide a better service to our residents. The Orland team bought a new photoionization detector (PID). This detector utilizes an ultraviolet lamp that can measure a VOC (Volatile Organic Compound). The PID can measure hundreds of various chemicals in ranges from 0-15,000 parts per million. Having this updated meter ensures we are ready to respond to the variety of products we have within our response area.

The past year involved a lot of focus on radiation training and preparedness for our members. With help from the Illinois Emergency Management Agency, we were able to outfit all our front-line vehicles with personal radiation detectors (PRD). These pager-like devices can detect gamma radiation sources and help alert our first responders to any potential issues they may come across.

HazMat

Lieutenant

HazMat

The Hazmat Team had three members complete the Primary and Secondary radiation screener courses through the Counter Terrorism Operations Support (CTOS). These courses were held in conjunction with the federally funded, Securing the Cities program. This program funded the classes in which our members became certified to assist with advanced radiological material identification and analysis. The program allowed the division to receive a radiation isotope identifier (RIID) that we can utilize within our MABAS division or other outside areas if requested.

2024 Hazardous Materials Responses

Technical Rescue Team

Lieutenant Tom Panzica

Technical Rescue Team

The Orland Fire Protection District’s Technical Rescue Team faces challenges on an annual basis, with members retiring and seeking out new members to join the Team. Maintaining the numbers on the roster is very challenging given the time and dedication needed to complete all the courses to be certified as a Technician. The Team has been working hard to encourage members to continue to educate themselves, given these situations are such a low frequency substantial risk scenario. The low-frequency makes quality training much more important. The MABAS 19 TRT requires all new members to achieve their Technician status within three years from when they were placed on the roster. It is required that all members make 50% of the annual drills, which are only once a month. Each member is also required to validate annually in a specified discipline. As a Team, we devoted approximately 684 hours throughout the year to training.

In 2024, we made the complete transition to the MABAS 19 Technical Rescue Team, while remaining a member of the CART Central Board, as Team Navy. This has been a very exciting time for the Orland Technical Rescue Team. For years, MABAS 19 has been a Blue and Black Team. The teams have always faced the same challenges, trying to get enough members to attend drills monthly for a quality drill in each discipline. The CART Central Board has transitioned into a training and resource organization. This is allowing the Teams to evaluate and explore more improved methods in all disciplines. The Central Board has adopted a more efficient and safe Trench procedure. Every year technology changes in Tech Rescue. The financial burden makes it difficult to keep stride with the new and improved changes. These changes in both organizations have allowed departments to become better trained and more updated with their equipment, creating a consistency across all of CART.

The challenge is still maintaining all members’ continuing education for all OSFM certifications, so they don’t become suspended. MABAS 19 Technical Rescue Team has designed a training program assuring all our members will stay current and proficient in all the disciplines.

The Orland Fire Protection District's Technical Rescue Team will continue to be leaders of Technical Rescue throughout State and Chicagoland area. As a member of the MABAS 19 Technical Rescue Team, consisting of well over ninety members from twelve departments around the area, we will continue to be leaders in Technical Rescue by evaluating new equipment and new techniques, putting the safety of the membership above all. This will ensure a safe, efficient and rapid rescue for victims. We are always looking for more members, striving to be proficient in every discipline.

The past year we were deployed to a rope rescue in Frankfort. A contractor was working on top of the Grainery which stands 125 feet. The crew was tasked with a difficult extrication as it was snowing that day, making it a challenging scenario. After more than five hours, the patient was brought to safety and transported to the hospital. The DNC came to Chicago and many MABAS Division Technical Rescue Teams were deployed to the Chicago Fire Academy. The teams were placed on standby closer to the DNC for a more rapid response.

IL Task Force

Administrative Chief

John Purtill

IL Task Force - Urban Search & Rescue

The Orland Fire Protection District had 7 members participate on the Urban Search and Rescue Team in 2024. Included on the Team were: Battalion Chief John Purtill –Task Force Leader/Safety Officer; Lieutenant Dan RitchieStructures Specialist; Lieutenant Mark Hogan - Rescue Specialist, Lieutenant Zachary Zweizig - Rescue Specialist –Firefighter Michael Dorencz - Technical Information Specialist – Firefighter Andrew Kasules Logistics Specialist – Firefighter William Patterson Hazardous Materials Specialist. The Team is composed of 200+ personnel from around the State of Illinois and Iowa. The team is divided into three platoons to balance availability and response.

A Type 1 Task Force of 80 personnel has the goals to respond, search, rescue and assist at major disasters, including earthquakes, floods, tornados, or large building collapses. Each member is required to attend monthly drills during the year for about 80 hours of training. The team can be broken down into smaller response components to fit the needs of the disaster or request from the State Emergency Management Agency. The Team trains on collapse, trench, rope, confined space and wide area search scenarios. Additionally, the Team practices on rescue size up, hazardous materials identification, patient assessment, search, GPS location, K-9 search operations, GIS integration, swift/flood water rescue, planning and logistics.

In September of 2024, a 12-person Type 2 Swiftwater Team was deployed to North Carolina for Hurricane Helene. This was the first time ILTF-1 was being activated and arriving to our assigned area prior to the disaster. In the hours leading up to the storm, ILTF-1 members worked with the National Guard evacuating residents along the French Broad River. Once the storm hit, the team faced multiple challenges such as flooded and washed out roads, trees and power lines blocking roads, and no cell service. ILTF-1 was sent to the town of Swannanoa, along the Swannanoa River, just east of Asheville. ILTF-1 launched two boat crews who rescued a total of 19 civilians who were trapped or washed away by the raging flood waters. Some of the civilians rescued were pulled off of their roofs and out of trees. Once the flood waters receded, ILTF-1 was tasked with wide area searches, clearing debris piles and vehicles that were washed away by flood waters and landslides. The team spent a total of 16 days out of state assisting the residents of the Asheville area.

The team was placed on alert for multiple other natural disasters throughout the year.

MOBEX MOBILIZATION EXERCISE

in 2024, the Team and Orland membersparticipated in a MOBEX (mobilization exercise) testing our new vehicle convoy plan, cache load plan and base of operations set-up. A MOBEX is a 12-hour drill to work on the deployment, set up and return to readiness components of the Team. IL-TF1 participated in the Chicago Democratic National Convention for the duration of the event in many different operational levels. In August of 2022, the IL-TFl US&R team achieved Emergency Management Accreditation Program

Type 1 Certification. IL-TFl was the ninth team to be certified in the program. Currently IL-TFl isthe only State Type1 team certified by EMAP in the United States.

Director of Dispatch Operations

Gina Cortez

Communications/Dispatch

The Orland Fire Protection District operates a consolidated emergency communications center, Orland Central Dispatch (OCD). The center is the only fire and EMS-only ECC in Chicago’s south suburbs. In addition to serving the District and its residents, OCD provides emergency communications services to the following eight fire departments and fire protection districts – Blue Island, Calumet City, Chicago Heights, Garden Homes, Lemont, Merrionette Park, Oak Forest, and Palos. Additionally, OCD is the primary emergency communications center for Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS) Division 19. Orland Central Dispatch is also the secondary center for MABAS Division 22 and Division 24. In 2023, OCD processed 25 requests for MABAS Division 19.

Orland Central Dispatch operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our emergency communications team includes a director of dispatch operations, 2 communications shift supervisors, 12 full-time telecommunicators, 5 part-time telecommunicators, and 1 part-time quality assurance analyst. In 2024, these first, first responders processed over 51,000 fire and EMS incidents and more than 125,844 phone calls. The phone calls handled include incoming and outgoing 9-1-1 and emergency calls from wireless and landline phones, RTT/TTY, alarm companies, and non-emergency calls on 7-digit and administrative lines.

In 2024, Orland Central Dispatch kicked off the CAD-2-CAD project with two neighboring emergency communications centers, Tinley Park 9-1-1 and Southwest Central Dispatch. This technology facilitates real-time interoperability among multiple fire departments and emergency communications centers.

CAD-2-CAD technology expedites locating and dispatching fire and EMS resources, making agencies more resilient and better able to respond to complex incidents quickly and with the right resources.

Orland Central Dispatch strives to deliver the highest quality service through every stressful situation. We continue to meet the Association of Public Safety Communications Officials (APCO), National Emergency Number Association (NENA), and ASTM standards. For his contributions to our team and his outstanding performance in 2024, Logan Maske received our Employee of the Year award.

OCD’s first, first responders’ workdays are often the public’s worst days. To help alleviate the stress that comes with that enormous responsibility, OCD relies on our facility dog, Winnie. She goes home with the Director, but Winnie loves to go to work brightening the days and nights of all OCD staff.

Hose Maintenance

In 2024, we continued to push forward with the standardization and evaluation of all our hose on all fire apparatus. For many years we didn’t carry much backup hose for all the frontline fire apparatus. The compliment of back up hose allows us to support our preventative cancer policy with hose. Our hose is in the IDLH environment and the jacket absorbs all of those toxic carcinogens. After a fire, the deployed cross lays can be rolled up, brought back to the station and cleaned properly to remove all the hazardous carcinogens. This will not only help with the aid in the prevention of cancer. It will also extend the life of the hose. The more we take care of our equipment the longer it lasts and the more reliable it will be when we need it.

In keeping with the standardization model, we purchased new cross-lays for all the rigs, Key-hose Big 10 FDNY spec. The current became the backup spare hose for that rig. We did a lot of research as it relates to the purchase of this hose as it is our bread-and-butter attack lines. Not only is this hose more durable, has less friction loss (lower discharge pressures), and it is easier for one individual to move it throughout a structure. These characteristics make the Engineer’s job more efficient, all the rigs are now the same discharge pressure, and the Firefighter more confident to move through out a structure. The conversion to this double jacketed hose, for the large diameter, will help to prevent back injuries. The hose is lighter and easier to handle for individuals trying to hook to a fire hydrant.

We are nearing the end of this project. In the next year of two we will have a full complement of spare hose for all our apparatus. Our annual goal is to ensure we test every piece of hose, which will give us an accurate count of failed hose. This allows us to budget for the next year, so the Finance Department is not surprised by this. The entire hose inventory has been entered into PSTrax which was assigned to their appropriate rigs. It has been a long time coming, but our rigs finally have accurate hose charts both on PSTrax and in Engineers compartment.

Hose Maintenance

Lieutenant Tom Panzica

Facilities Maintenance

Mark Koczwara

Facilities Maintenance

The Orland Fire Protection District Facilities Maintenance Department provides maintenance services to support the District's operations, including repairs and maintenance of 12 buildings. Our dedicated team ensures that our facilities are safe and well maintained according to annual and long-term plans. These tasks are accomplished by a team of (1) full-time and (4) part-time employees with an extensive HVAC, Plumbing, Carpentry, and Electrical background. We respond to emergency maintenance calls when conditions threaten health and safety. Most repairs are handled in-house to address issues promptly and efficiently, keeping costs down and minimizing any impact on operations.

Mechanical and Electrical Services:

• Water Heaters

• Boilers

• Furnaces

• Electrical Repairs

• Lighting

• Circuit Breakers

• Emergency Lights

• Automation Controls

• Fire Alarm Systems

• Diesel Exhaust Extraction Systems

• Gas Infrared tube heaters

• Rooftop HVAC units

• Preventive Maintenance

• Air Filters

• Inspection, Adjustments

• Lubrication

Annual Inspections:

• Backflows

• Fire Alarms

• Exercise Equipment

• HVAC Equipment

• Building Sprinkler Systems

• Station Inspections

• Exhaust Hood Systems

• Elevators

Station 3 Repaving

Boiler Piping Repair

Facilities Maintenance

Carpentry, Paint, and Grounds Services:

• Plumbing repairs

• Interior and exterior painting

• Landscaping

• Concrete repairs

• Remodeling and updating facilities

• Appliance maintenance and repair

• Station Supplies

• Locksmith services for doors and hardware

• Equipment maintenance and repair

The Facilities Department completed many projects in 2024:

• New roofs for Stations 3 and 5

• Station 1 had 4 Skylights replaced due to hail damage

• Parking lot resurfacing for Station 3

• Station 2 outdoor lighting

• Replaced mop sinks

• Sealcoating and striping parking lots

• New security cameras at all locations

• New AC system for the server room

New Roofs (Stations 3 and 5) Plumbing Repair

Fleet Maintenance

John Cihocki

Fleet Maintenance

The Orland Fire Protection District operates its own state-of-the-art modern vehicle maintenance facility to perform service repairs and preventive maintenance on the District’s vehicles. Safety, reliability and readiness are the priority in addition to operating cost-effective and efficient maintenance programs. We take no shortcuts when it comes to maintaining OFPD emergency vehicles and equipment. Emergency vehicles and equipment are very unique, extremely complex and quite challenging to maintain and repair. Given the nature of the fire service, this equipment is subjected to extreme and less than ideal operating conditions which not only results in significant wear and tear but demand a very high and specialized level of technical skill and training. Orland Fire Protection District Technicians possess a keen knowledge and understanding of automotive and heavy truck mechanical systems including hydraulics, welding and fabrication. What sets our personnel apart is their level of expertise and training specific to Fire and EMS emergency vehicles and equipment. All vehicles and equipment are serviced regularly and thoroughly maintained as part of the Orland Fire Protection District’s Preventive-Maintenance Program. About the Fleet Maintenance Program:

• Fleet of 60 pieces of fire apparatus, ambulances, specialty rescue/haz-mat squads, boats, and support vehicles combined.

• Staffed with trained, certified Emergency Vehicle Technician (EVT) mechanics that are highly-skilled and extremely valued.

• Reduces costly breakdowns and increases reliability

• Utilizes a cost-conscious, cost –effective, common sense approach to repairs and maintenance of vehicles and equipment.

• Ongoing initiative to exceed operational demands and increase efficiency

• Great pride and professionalism are the expectation

• Safe work practices and safe equipment are a constant must

Utility 1 having the re-furbished utility box installed on the new chassis

Fleet Maintenance

Vehicle Maintenance Program

Orland Fire Protection District vehicles are extremely well-maintained which is imperative given the need for 100% reliability and the service duty associated with emergency responses at any given time. The OFPD employs an EVT Certified Fleet Maintenance Supervisor, two ASE and EVT Certified Journeyman Technicians and one EVT Certified Apprentice Technician, who are responsible for the upkeep, maintenance and repairs of the 60 vehicles in the fleet. In addition to OFPD fleet, we have entered into agreements with other MABAS Fire Departments to provide maintenance and repairs for their fleets with the same professionalism, pride, and care as our own fleet.

• Oak Forest

• Calumet Park

• Merrionette Park

• Palos FPD

• Bensenville

• Schiller Park

• Lemont

• Richton Park

• Moraine Valley Community College (Fire Science program apparatus)

We also are responsible for and take care of all Third Party testing for, the Fire pumps, ground ladders, and aerial ladders in/on the vehicles to stay compliant with NFPA and OSHA regulations.

New for 2024

Med 1 used for special events and emergencies off road

• Utility 1 received a new four door chassis replacing the 1998 two door chassis. Fleet Maintenance performed all work in house with the exception of the new paint on the utility box and graphics.

• The Fire Prevention Bureau received the Fire Districts first all-electric car. This vehicle is used for day to day fire prevention inspections and public education events.

• Med 1 was put into service this past summer for public events and emergencies off road.

• Pick-up 6017, utility vehicle for the Fire District and reserve unit to Utility 1 when it is out of service for Maintenance.

Finance Director Kerry Sullivan

Finance

The Finance Department is responsible for all financial activities and financial functions of the district, including preparing the annual budget and property tax levy, paying employees, paying vendors, collecting revenue, investing funds, recording receipts, expenditures, and other financial transactions, and preparing financial reports.

2024 Financial Highlights

• The 2024 and 2025 balanced budgets reflect the District’s strategic plan and mission.

• Property taxes were capped at a 5% increase despite a 7% CPI increase. Collection rate remains strong at 97%.

• Ambulance transports approximated prior year as did ambulance billing.

• Debt funding for Information Technology projects was issued in 2022; projects continued throughout 2024 and are scheduled to be complete in early 2025.

• The District continued to receive grant funding to train Firefighters and Law Enforcement from the Cook County Department of Emergency Management & Regional Security as a pass-through award of federal funds for IEMA through FEMA.

• The CAD 2 CAD project, funded by a grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, began in 2023. This project will connect public safety agencies to each other in times of crisis.

• A ten year Capital Plan was developed and approved by the Board. In addition to the Information Technology projects and the Station 3 remodel, there were several other capital expenditures in 2024 including ordering an Ambulance, a Polaris vehicle, and a Utility vehicle.

• Labor Agreements with Orland Professional Firefighters Local 2754 and with IBEW 134 were renegotiated and will continue through 2026.

CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT IN FINANCIAL REPORTING

The District has received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for the 2023 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR). This is the 16th consecutive year the District has received this prestigious award. The CAFR can be found on the District’s website at: www.orlandfire.org.

DISTINGUISHED BUDGET PRESENTATION AWARD

GFOA’s Distinguished Budget Presentation Award has been received by the District since 2018. The 2025 budget document can be found on the District’s website at www.orlandfire.org.

Finance

2025 Budget

The 2025 budget was developed to serve as the financial plan for the upcoming year based on the Strategic Plan. Under direction from the Board of Trustees, the 2025 Budget gives priority to programs and services that support the goals described in the Strategic Plan and which provide the greatest benefit to District.

The costs to achieve the District’s mission are primarily offset by property tax revenue. Increases in property tax revenue are limited by tax rate ceilings and property tax caps. Other sources of revenue includes ambulance service fees, grant revenue, dispatch service fees, and fire prevention fees.

Revenue sources anticipated for the 2025 budget are summarized in the following graph:

The 2025 Budget gives priority to programs and services that provide the greatest benefit to District residents. The 2025 Budget represents the efforts of District staff in reviewing their operations, streamlining them when possible and investing in improvements to daily operations to benefit the safety of District residents and employees. Wages and benefits represent 83% of the District’s operating expenditures.

Expenditures anticipated for the 2025 budget are summarized in the following graph:

Fire Prevention Bureau Supervisor

Mike Ercoli

Fire Prevention Bureau

Mission Statement

It is the mission of the Fire Prevention Bureau to educate the community about the benefits of proper safety practices, and to identify and eliminate hazardous conditions which pose a threat to life, property and the environment.

The Fire Prevention Bureau protects people by eliminating potential emergencies before they occur. We use the term “proactive firefighting” to describe how we analyze new building plans in an attempt to anticipate potential life-safety issues. We also use this term to describe how we look for potential life-safety hazards while doing our annual inspections and bring them to the property owner’s attention. Our Public Education programs are designed to address current life-safety issues that we see occurring within the Fire District. Ultimately the goal of the Fire Prevention Bureau is to keep emergencies from occurring; thus keeping people out of harm’s way.

We believe that Fire Prevention plays a crucial role in making our community safer. Inspection, enforcement, and public education work together to not only identify and correct safety issues but also to help change people’s attitudes toward safety. We anticipate fiscal 2025 to bring greater challenges as we strive to ensure the safety of the public and our Firefighters.

Fire Prevention Bureau Activities for 2024:

• All Target Hazards within the Fire District were inspected in 2024.

• Fire Prevention Bureau personnel attended online and in-person continuing education courses and seminars throughout the year.

• Fire Prevention Bureau Personnel worked on numerous fire alarm issues throughout the District.

• Fire Prevention Bureau Personnel made 2787 field contacts during 2024.

• Bureau personnel conducted fire and evacuation drills with the schools in the fall of 2024.

• All schools, daycare centers, and group homes were inspected by Bureau personnel during 2024.

• All commercial, multi-family residential, and educational occupancies, within the Village of Orland Hills, were inspected by bureau personnel in 2024.

• All Commercial occupancies within the unincorporated areas of the Orland Fire Protection District were inspected in 2024.

• Fire Prevention Bureau personnel taught classes on fire alarm and fire sprinkler familiarization to our firefighting personnel.

• Fire Prevention Bureau personnel met with several condo associations, throughout the year, to discuss fire and life-safety issues.

• Bureau members met monthly with the Village of Orland Park’s Code Enforcement, Development Services, Building, and Administration Divisions Working Group. These meetings are a cooperative effort to discuss and resolve various issues within the Village of Orland Park.

• Fire Prevention Personnel participated in the planning and implementation of the Fire District’s Annual Open House in September.

• Bureau personnel assisted with the Kid’s Fire & Safety Camp.

• Fire Prevention Bureau personnel staffed a booth at the Orland Park Summerfest, Taste of Orland, and Night Out Against Crime.

Fire Prevention Bureau

• Fire Prevention personnel assisted several building owners with emergency planning.

• Fire Prevention Bureau personnel taught several fire extinguisher classes to businesses within the Fire District.

• Bureau personnel attended safety meetings with the public and private schools within the Fire District.

• We added three additional part-time fire inspectors to the Fire Prevention Bureau.

• We began preliminary work for the establishment of a Community Risk Reduction Program.

• The Fire Prevention Bureau began carrying AEDs on Fire Prevention vehicles.

• The Fire District leased its first electric vehicle which was given to the Fire Prevention Bureau. This vehicle is a pilot program to check on the feasibility of using electric vehicles for our staff vehicles. This vehicle is completely electric, which eliminates the cost of gasoline and greatly reduces vehicle maintenance costs.

• Fire Prevention Bureau personnel helped host the Senior Luncheon on March 15, 2024.

• The Fire Prevention Bureau worked with the Village of Orland Park’s Building, Code Enforcement, and Police Departments on task force inspections of all nursing homes and two of the industrial areas within the Village.

• Fire Prevention Bureau personnel assisted the Village of Orland Park with their Emergency Action Plan Training.

• The Fire Prevention Bureau conducted numerous new construction inspections on new businesses and buildings in the Villages of Orland Park and Orland Hills.

• Fire Prevention Bureau personnel assisted in the first Special Needs Camp, in June of 2024. This camp taught life-safety lessons to children and adults with special needs.

• Fire Prevention Bureau personnel worked on the Fire/Life Safety section of our annual accreditation review document.

Community Risk Reduction Educator

Elizabeth Dine

Fire & Life Safety Education

Here at the Orland Fire Protection District, the Community Risk Reduction (CRR) Educator’s primary goal is to enhance the safety and well-being of our community through proactive education, outreach, and prevention. These efforts focus on equipping residents with the knowledge and skills needed to prevent emergencies before they occur. Through interactive programs, hands-on training, and community partnerships, we strive to reduce fire risks, promote life safety, and empower individuals to make informed decisions in critical situations. Whether educating children on fire prevention, guiding seniors through different safety initiatives, or addressing emerging safety concerns such as lithium-ion battery hazards, our mission is to foster a culture of preparedness and resilience within the Orland Fire Protection District. Our District’s mission is to identify risks, educate residents of all ages about fire prevention and life safety measures, and empower them to make informed decisions that reduce the likelihood of emergencies.

The educator plays a critical role in CRR by collaborating with other Fire & Life Safety Educators and community organizations and developing targeted risk-reduction strategies that address local concerns. By engaging with diverse populations and tailoring safety messages to specific needs, educators help build safer, more resilient communities while reducing the burden on emergency services. We proactively identify potential hazards and implement educational programs to mitigate them. Plans are developed to reduce those risks that are viewed as high priority. Through targeted outreach, the educator designs and delivers initiatives tailored to diverse groups, such as school visits, boy and girl scout troops, senior groups, special needs residents, and businesses, ensuring the community is informed about fire prevention, emergency preparedness, and life safety practices. By fostering partnerships with local organizations and conducting hands-on training sessions, the educator empowers individuals to take preventative measures, reducing the likelihood of accidents and emergencies before they occur. This comprehensive approach enhances public safety and supports the department’s mission to protect lives and property.

Together, we strive towards a future where safety is a shared responsibility of our community’s well-being. Changing attitudes and behaviors regarding fire safety requires a comprehensive and targeted approach beginning with education and awareness. Programs are designed to protect the lives and property of all who live, shop, work, and visit within the boundaries of the Orland Fire Protection District.

Fire & Life Safety Education

Community Risk Reduction Educator Responsibilities

In today’s ever-changing world, we are shifting from a reactive approach to a more proactive strategy in keeping communities safe. This is where the Community Risk Reduction (CRR) Educator plays a crucial role. After evaluating fire and injury trends, we develop targeted safety programs for high-risk populations. And, by identifying potential hazards, analyzing risks, and implementing targeted safety programs, the CRR Educator works to prevent emergencies before they happen. These duties include conducting public education campaigns and teaching fire and life safety in schools, special needs groups, and senior communities, to name a few. Outreach events are coordinated by collaborating with local organizations to address specific risks such as home fire prevention and preparedness. Through these efforts, we help build a safer, more informed community while reducing the burden on our emergency response teams.

Various responsibilities of the educator aim to prevent emergencies and promote safety within our community. Organizing and participating in public safety events, open houses, and health fairs are some ways we engage with residents and community members. Each of these responsibilities contributes to reducing risks and preventing emergencies within our community.

Some of the Educator's duties include monitoring, evaluating, and modifying each plan while tracking results. The Educator collaborates with all the district schools (public and private) and has developed a partnership with the different grade-level teachers. Fire safety lessons/programs are prepared, taught, evaluated, and integrated into all curriculums:

FIRE SAFETY LESSONS/PROGRAMS

Prevention Educational Programs -Preschool/Daycare

Adopt a Firefighter Program – 1st Grade

Learn Not to Burn Program – 3rd Grade

Station tours and educational lessons taught to schoolaged children, Boy and Girl Scout troops, teens, special needs groups, and seniors

Organizing, planning, implementing and proper evaluation of district programs

Junior Cadet Camp – Ages 13 to 16 years old

Fire Station Tours

Safety demonstrations and Health Fairs

Fire Extinguisher Training

Fire Drills at schools/businesses

Preparation of all educational safety messages

Prevention Educational Programs – Kindergarten

Sound Off for Safety Program – 2nd Grade

Risks of burns, scalds, fires, falls and other hazards –children, teens, special needs groups, adults and seniors

Public education about the benefits of having working smoke alarms and updating them about the IL Smoke Alarm Law effective 1/1/2023

Kids Life & Fire Safety Camp – 8 to 12 years old

Special Needs Groups Camp

Parades

Annual Open House

CPR and First Aid Training

Development of fire prevention materials

Annual toy drive collection @ all 6 Stations and Administration

2024 Fire & Life Safety Events

Fire & Life Safety Education

Fire Prevention Week

The theme for Fire Prevention Week 2024 was "Smoke Alarms: Make them work for you!". The week took place from October 6–12, 2024.

The theme aimed at educating people about the importance of having working smoke alarms in their homes.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), smoke alarms reduce the risk of dying in a home fire by more than half.

NFPA data shows that most home fire deaths in the U.S. occur in homes with either NO Smoke Alarms or NO working Smoke Alarms.

As of January 1, 2023, Illinois residents must install new smoke alarms with 10-year sealed batteries. This law applies to single and multi-family homes.

What does the law require?

• New smoke alarms must have a 10-year-old sealed battery alarm where the battery can NOT be removed or replaced.

• Smoke alarms older than 10 years or no longer working alarms must be replaced.

• Smoke alarms that are hardwired to a home's AC power line are still allowed

• Smoke alarms should be installed on every level and in every bedroom

• Smoke alarms should be tested monthly

• Plan and practice your escape route with your entire family twice a year! Make sure you have an outside meeting place in front of your home.

• Have two ways out of every room in your home

Fire & Life Safety Education

Senior Population Education

The CRR Educator develops outreach programs tailored to the senior population, ensuring their safety and well-being through education and prevention. These programs are designed by assessing the unique risks seniors face, such as falls, reduced mobility, declining health conditions, fire hazards, and medical emergencies, and are modified based on feedback and emerging safety concerns. The educator engages with seniors directly through events like “Coffee and Conversation” sessions, hands-on demonstrations, luncheons, and partnerships with local organizations to provide resources that promote independence and safety. Preventative measures, such as fire safety education, and emergency preparedness training, are integrated into these programs to reduce risks before incidents occur. By aligning these efforts with broader community risk reduction initiatives, the educator helps create a safer environment for seniors while fostering collaboration between emergency services, healthcare providers, and community organizations, ultimately enhancing public safety for this vulnerable population.

Senior St. Patrick’s Safety Luncheon

In March, 2024 the Orland Fire District sponsored a Senior St. Patrick’s Day Safety Luncheon

Fire & Life Safety Education

Kids Fire & Life Safety Camp

Our Fire & Life Safety Camp is for children ages 8 to 12. Kids engage in hands-on activities that teach them valuable fire safety and life-saving skills in a fun and interactive way. Through real-world simulations and firefighter-led demonstrations, they learn to recognize fire hazards, develop escape plans, and practice fire and life safety techniques. They also gain essential knowledge about calling 911, performing basic first aid and CPR, and understanding the importance of fire prevention at home. These engaging activities build confidence and empower children with the skills needed to respond calmly and effectively in emergencies, fostering a lifelong awareness of safety and preparedness.

Camp

Fire & Life Safety Education

Junior Cadet Academy

At the Orland Fire Protection District’s Junior Cadet Academy, teens aged 13 – 17 immerse themselves in an exciting, hands-on experience that introduced them to a world of firefighting and emergency response. This interactive program challenges cadets with reallife scenarios, including search and rescue drills, fire suppression techniques, CPR and First Aid training, and teamwork exercises designed to build leadership skills. Under the guidance of experienced Firefighters and Paramedics, participants engage in physical and mental challenges that test their problem-solving abilities and resilience. Additionally, cadets worked closely with the District’s Dispatch Director and Supervisor to learn how to effectively take a 911 call, understanding the importance of clear communication, critical thinking, and rapid decision-making during an emergency. The academy provides an unforgettable opportunity for young individuals to gain practical fire and life safety knowledge while developing confidence, discipline, and a deeper appreciation for the vital role of first responders.

Fire & Life Safety Education

Special Needs Fire Academy

The Special Needs Fire Academy provided participants with hands-on training in essential fire and life safety skills. Students were introduced to and practiced vital emergency response techniques, including Stop the Bleed, CPR, and the proper use of an AED. They also gained firsthand experience in fire safety by learning how to use a fire extinguisher and shooting water on a staged “wooden” fire. The participants were introduced to calling 911 correctly, listening to various emergency scenarios, and engaging in discussions with our Dispatch Director and Supervisor to build their confidence in handling such emergencies. Tailoring Community Risk Reduction (CRR) efforts to high-risk populations is essential to preventing fires and reducing injuries. Through hands-on initiatives, education is customized to meet each audience's unique risks and learning needs.

In-Home Kitchen Safety with Special Needs Groups

The Community Risk Reduction Educator visited each Bethshan Group Home to provide hands-on training in home kitchen cooking safety, ensuring residents and staff understood essential fire prevention practices and procedures. During these visits, participants learned how to safely use stoves and microwaves, identify potential fire hazards, and respond appropriately to cooking -related emergencies. In addition to kitchen safety, the sessions covered other critical fire and life safety topics, including proper evacuation procedures, and calling 911 in an emergency. These interactive lessons empowered residents with the knowledge and skills to create a safer home environment while reinforcing the importance of fire prevention in their daily lives.

Fire & Life Safety Education

2024 Annual Open House

A big thank you to Orland Fire Protection District’s Board of Trustees, Chiefs and Training Officer, Senior Advisory Council, our incredible team of dedicated Firefighter/Paramedics, the Cook County Specialty Teams and their Education Division, Healing Hearts Dogs, Costco, Home Depot, Project Fire Buddies, House of Music, Guitarist and retired Firefighter Jim Pape and our other generous community vendors for making our annual open house a resounding success! The community support and donations allowed us to provide an engaging and educational experience for our community, reinforcing the importance of fire safety and emergency preparedness.

This year’s Open House featured some truly unforgettable demonstrations, showcasing the remarkable skills and dedication of our Specialty Teams! The Cook County Specialty Teams played a vital role in demonstrating advanced techniques used in common emergencies. Invaluable fire and life safety knowledge was given to attendees of all ages. From a high-intensity car extrication to a precise and technical rope rescue, our firefighters displayed their expertise in a life-saving rope rescue demonstration. The pool demonstration/dive scenario emphasized the critical importance of water safety, while the live burn cells left a lasting impact on all who witnessed it. By comparing a cell with sprinklers to one without, attendees saw firsthand how today’s synthetic materials burn hotter and faster than ever before, giving families less than two to three minutes to escape a home fire. This powerful demonstration reinforced the urgency of fire safety measures and the importance of having working smoke alarms and a wellpracticed escape plan.

We are truly grateful for the dedication of everyone who played a role in making this event possible. We will continue to strengthen the bond between our fire district and the community, ensuring that safety and education remain a top priority.

Fire & Life Safety Education

2024 Annual Open House

Senior Advisory Council (SAC)

Senior Advisory Council (SAC)

SAC GOALS for 2025

• Participate in District Open House

• Reinforce branding for consistency with badges and other materials

• Outreach to SAC members’ HOA’s

• Continue Speaking Engagements/Safety Presentations

• Continue to interact with seniors in community to get feedback

• Continue outreach with community organizations and venues while increasing drop-off locations

• Continue supporting District-sponsored events when invited

• Continue to coordinate with Public Education and Fire Prevention Bureau

• Increase participation of other OFPD staff/officials at SAC meetings

• Ride alongs and visit to 911 Center for new SAC members

• Visiting fire stations with permission from the Chief

Note: All SAC activities and goals will be implemented subject to health and safety guidelines and limitations.

Operations Chief Erick Johnson, Fire Chief Mike Schofield and Lieutenant Eric Zielinski with some SAC Members helping out at a Station Q & A with Firefighters Barbecue

Human

Resources

Director

Alice Stevenson

Our Culture

Human Resources

As the Human Resources Director, I provide day-to-day human resources support to the Fire Protection District in the following areas: recruitment, administration of benefits, training and staff development, performance management, employee relations, compliance, staff member communications, promotion of organizational culture, and records management.

Thank you for taking the time to review our Annual Report. I invite you to join me in looking for ways we can inspire others. Let’s keep the momentum going to keep up Orland Fire Protection District’s level of greatness.

Simply put, our work culture is one that prioritizes the well-being of employees, offers support at all levels within the organization, and has policies in place that encourage respect, trust, empathy, and support. The District is dedicated to fostering a culture of unwavering commitment to our community, prioritizing safety in all operations, and empowering our staff to work as a unified team to provide the highest level of service to our residents.

Human Resources

District Workers’ Compensation Program

Human Resources manages the District’s Workers Compensation program. Our program provides financial assistance and medical coverage to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses while on duty. This program allows our employees to receive benefits like lost wages and medical treatment if injured during work activities.

Key Points about Workers’ Compensation for Firefighters:

State-regulated:

Covered under the Illinois Workers Compensation Act.

Coverage for injuries and illnesses:

This includes physical injuries sustained during firefighting operations as well as occupational diseases like certain types of cancer that may be linked to exposure to smoke and chemicals.

Claim filing process:

Firefighters/ Employees who get injured on the job must typically report the incident to their supervisor and file a claim with their fire district's workers' compensation insurance provider within a designated timeframe.

We continue to develop and implement programs, policies, and procedures to ensure compliance with State and Federal regulations.

Employee Benefits

We ended the year with Open Enrollment. We continued to utilize the Paycor portal for employee benefits. This year was the same as last, in that I implemented a “passive” enrollment. As a result, if you are not going to make any changes to your benefits, you do not need to log in to the portal, your current elections will roll to the new year. This was quite successful, especially for our retirees.

Key components of fire district employee benefits:

• Health Insurance: The District offers multiple medical plan options, including high deductible health plans with Health Savings Accounts (HSAs).

• Dental Insurance: We provide coverage for routine dental care.

• Vision Insurance: The District has a voluntary vision plan that provides coverage for vision care needs.

• Life Insurance: We offer an employer-provided life insurance coverage.

• Retirement Plans:Our plans include pensions, deferred compensation and other benefit plans.

• Disability Insurance: This coverage provides income replacement in case of long-term disability.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): The District offers accrued vacation and sick days.

Human Resources

Workforce

By focusing on effective recruitment and assessment practices, the Orland Fire Protection District built a highly, skilled, and competent workforce. These initiatives contribute to the District’s mission of providing exceptional emergency services to the community while ensuring the safety and well-being of its personnel.

2024 Staffing

Key aspects of workforce development in our fire district:

• Recruitment:

We attract new firefighters through advertising, outreach programs, competitive salaries, and defined career paths, particularly focusing on diverse populations to build a representative workforce.

• Basic Training:

The District provides initial firefighter training at a fire academy covering firefighting techniques, emergency medical response, building codes, and equipment operation.

• Continuing Education:

We maintain ongoing training programs to enhance skills, including specialized training in areas like hazardous materials, technical rescue, and advanced life support.

• Leadership Development:

Training and mentorship programs are provided to develop future fire officers and leaders within the District.

• Career Progression:

The District creates structured promotion paths for firefighters to advance their ranks based on experience, performance, and additional qualifications.

Human Resources

• Wellness Programs:

Human Resources provides initiatives to support firefighters'/ employees’ physical and mental health, including fitness programs, stress management techniques, and access to mental health resources.

Accreditation

The Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI) confirms that our District has undergone a comprehensive evaluation and has met specific standards for service delivery, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement and high-quality emergency response capabilities to the community.

All the Accreditation’s Team’s teamwork led us to receive the nation’s highest rating for accreditation, ISO 1. The Orland Fire Protection District is one of more than 318 agencies in 12 countries to achieve Internationally Accredited Agency status with the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI) and the Center for Public Safety Excellence, Inc. (CPSE).

And now, the Orland Fire Protection District is one of only 120, both an ISO Class 1 rated Fire District and Internationally Accredited. There are only 12 Accredited agencies in Illinois.

Promotional Testing

The testing process is comprised of multiple steps including application, and required documentation submission, written exam, oral interviews, assessment center, and preference points.

In May of 2024, the Orland Fire Protection District had 10 staff members take the Lieutenant Exam. These staff members underwent an in-depth, comprehensive assessment of their knowledge of fire tactics, leadership skills, incident procedures, and other relevant concepts required to supervise a crew on the scene of an emergency. Human Resources will continue to ensure the highest levels of integrity and fairness in all promotional testing for the District. Key points about the Lieutenant promotional exam:

Focus on Supervisory Skills:

The exam assesses the candidate's ability to lead a team of firefighters, make decisions under pressure, and manage complex fire situations.

Written Test Format:

OFPD uses a written exam covering topics like fire behavior, incident command system, hose calculations, building construction, and fire codes.

Assessment Center Components:

We incorporate an "assessment center" where candidates participate in practical scenarios simulating real-life fire situations, including leadership exercises and oral presentations.

Eligibility Requirements:

To be eligible to take the Lieutenant promotional exam at the Orland Fire Protection District, firefighters need to meet specific requirements regarding years of service, performance evaluations, and completion of required training courses.

Promotions

The Orland Fire District's Fire Commissioner Matt Rafferty administered the Engineer's Oath of Office to Jon Kendra, Sergio Navarro, RJ Proctor, Mike Pericht and Dale Weber, and the Lieutenant's Oath of Office to Mark Hogan, Zach Zweizig, and Justin Dublin, at a ceremony held January 15, 2024 at the Orland Civic Center. Their families were all there to pin their badges. Congratulations Gentlemen!

Promotions

2024 Retirements

On Friday, December 20, 2024, Engineer Jeff Uthe continued the tradition by moving his picture from the active wall to the Legacy Lane wall honoring all who had a part in making the Orland Fire District what it is today. Congratulations Jeff!

Project Fire Buddies

On Sunday, July 14, 2024, Isla held a lemonade/hot dog stand to raise funds for an organization near and dear to her heart Project Fire Buddies. Isla knows first hand how wonderful of an organization it is, as Isla is a fire buddy of the Orland Fire District and has experienced their love and generosity first hand. Being the sweet girl that she is, she wanted to raise funds for this amazing organization and she did just that with her awesome lemonade/hot dog stand! Great job Isla!

Lemonade Stand at Open House

Benefitting PFB We are incredibly proud to share that the proceeds from the Project Fire Buddies Lemonade Stand went directly to the organization “Project Fire Buddies.” Project Fire Buddies' mission is to ensure that no child fights alone! This is a firefighter-led charity where firefighters offer support and give back to children fighting critical illnesses. Seeing our community come together to support such a meaningful cause embodies the spirit of our District and beyond.

Honor Guard

In 2024, the Orland Fire District Honor Guard consisted of 10 members, with most of those members also being involved with the AFFI State Honor Guard. Four of those being AFFI Inductees. The mission of the Honor Guard is to preserve the honor of fallen firefighters, and to post colors for promotional ceremonies and special District functions. Members made a special trip to Colorado Springs, CO in mid-September to honor multiple IAFF Line-of-Duty deaths from the previous year. Some of the local ceremonies the honor guard participated in included the 9/11 Memorial held at Administration on September 11th and Lt Keith Buhs Memorial Service. In addition, the Honor Guard posted colors at multiple promotional ceremonies. The Honor Guard also participated in the Class of 2023's swearing in for 8 members who completed their probationary period. To prepare for these events, Honor Guard Members participate in multiple drills held at Orland Training Center and throughout the AFFI Honor Guard’s 4th District. Attending these drills assures that Honor Guard members are proficient with drill and ceremony, such as marching and posting of colors. The Honor Guard looks forward to attending a wide range of activities in 2025 and will always continue to recruit new members.

Honor Guard

Firefighter Nick Perez

Cadet Program

Lieutenant Josh Girdick

Cadet Program

During 2024, the Cadet Program finished up the selection process for applicants, and began a new class of 15 Cadets. The Cadets had many opportunities to assist the Fire District in 2024 by getting out into the community. Some of the public education events the Cadets assisted with were the Fire District's annual Open House, the Taste of Orland, Orland Chamber of Commerce Summerfest, and Toucha-Truck events throughout the year. In addition, we continued to train Cadets in the Basic Operations Firefighter curriculum through the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshall. As a result, the program had several Cadets successfully challenge and receive their State Certification for Basic Operations Firefighter through the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshall in 2024. By providing the opportunity to

obtain this certification to individuals between 16 and 21 years of age, the Orland Fire Cadet Program starts Cadets on a path to a successful career in the fire service. In addition, Orland Fire Cadets are granted preference points by the Board of Commissioners on entry-level selection for Firefighter/ Paramedic positions with the Fire District. This resulted in the Orland Fire Cadet Program having it's fifth Cadet hired for a full-time position as a Firefighter/Paramedic with the Fire District in 2024. Cadets continue to attend meetings on Saturdays held at the Fire District's Training Facility to complete their practical objectives, and utilize an online format for their didactic training. As we move into 2025, the Orland Fire Cadet Program will continue to build on its successes while also looking to expand and improve the program that is offered to its Cadets. The program continually looks for ways to get the Cadets more involved within the organization, for example, two of the programs current Cadets have started to work part-time in the District's Dispatch Center. Overall, the Cadet Program will continually strive to achieve its mission of providing individuals with a strong foundation to build upon as they pursue a career within the fire service.

Cadets learning and practicing hydrant connections

Former Cadets P. King, N. Cinquepalmi, Q. Burke now full-time District employees

Apparatus

Fire Engines

Fire Trucks

Fire trucks are equipped with a variety of aerial ladders and ground ladders of various types and lengths that help firefighters reach fires. Fire trucks also carry specialized equipment for forcible entry, ventilation, and search and rescue tasks.

Trucks 1, 4, 7

Fire engines, also commonly known as pumpers, are equipped with a variety of hoses of different lengths and widths that pump water. This water can come from either the internal tank of the engine or other outside water sources, such as hydrants.

Engines 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8

Squad Vehicles

Ambulances

Ambulances are used to deliver immediate advanced medical care to sick or injured patients and to transport these patients to the hospital.

Ambulances 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Because some emergencies require special assistance, squad vehicles are provided to each specialty team in order to properly aid in these special situations.

Squad 2, 3, 5, 7

Arson Vehicle

• 1998 Ford Converted Ambulance

• Went into service in 1998 as Ambulance 5

• Reassigned in 2005 as Arson Squad and is equipped for fire investigations

Apparatus

Staff Vehicles

Staff vehicles are provided to the Fire Chief, Battalion Chiefs and Bureau Supervisors.

Incident Command, Chief and Staff Officers, Headquarters

Fire Prevention Bureau

Staff vehicles are provided to the Fire Prevention Bureau Supervisor, Fire Inspectors and to the Public Fire & Life Safety Educator

Squad Boats

Squad Boats are used to aid the Water Rescue & Recovery Team

Support Vehicles

Support vehicles are provided for the in-house maintenance crews.

Building Maintenance, Fleet Maintenance, Utility