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SS KOKIEKOKIE F IRE DEPARTMENT FIRE DEPARTMENT 2018 A2018 A NNUALNNUAL RR EPORTEPORT
ISO Class 1
2
Message from the Chief 2 Fire Prevention/Code Enforcement 12
Accomplishments & Goals 3 FPB Smoke Detector Program 13
Medal of Merit Award 4 Public Education 14
Promotions 5 Training 15
Personnel/Honor Guard 6 Work Groups 16
Cancer Reduction Initiative 7 Organization Chart 18
Emergency Medical Services 10 Retirements 27
Response Statistics 9 Leaving a Legacy 26
Operations Division 8 Department Personnel Photos 19
Support Services 11 Council-Manager Government 28
Table of Contents
Message from the Chief
We are pleased to present the Village of Skokie 2018 Fire Department Annual Report. It was a year
of many accomplishments and much change within the organiza on. The Fire Department
responded to a record number of emergency incidents with 10,082 calls for assistance. With the
ever increasing call volume, members of the Fire Department con nue to provide a high level of
service to the community. Mee ng these demands has only been possible through the strong
support of the Village. Therefore, we offer our wholehearted apprecia on to our Honorable Mayor,
George Van Dusen, Village Board of Trustees, and Manager’s Office, for ensuring the Fire
Department has the necessary resources to serve the ci zens, businesses, and visitors of Skokie.
With the re rement of several members of the Fire Department’s senior leadership, several fire
officers have been promoted to key roles within the organiza on. We would be remiss if we did not
acknowledge the tremendous contribu ons and commitment of Deputy Chief Ken Borre, Deputy
Chief Bob Reichert, Ba alion Chief Steve Ludkowski, Lieutenant Ron Smith and Lt. Roger Penninger,
who each provided the Skokie Fire Department more than 3 decades of dedica on, leadership, and
professionalism. Their guidance was instrumental in developing the Skokie Fire Department into a
na onally recognized Insurance Services Office (ISO) Class 1 and Commission on Fire Accredita on
Interna onal, Accredited Agency. Through their mentoring, the newly promoted fire officers are well
prepared to carry on effec ve leadership of the organiza on. They, along with FF/FAE Tom Fuchs
and FPB Specialist Linda Brady, have made las ng impressions on the legacy of the Skokie Fire
Department.
For over 138 years, the Skokie Fire Department has upheld a strong culture of service to others,
while maintaining our core values of respect, accountability, honesty, and coopera on. With support
from the Village of Skokie, municipal departments, and external agencies, the Department will
con nually strive to provide the highest level of service to the community. We are forever
commi ed to ensuring the life‐safety and well‐being of those we serve.
Thank you,
Jeffrey J. Hoeflich
Interim Fire Chief
3
We Are Our Accomplishments
The Skokie Fire Department is a “full service agency” that is accredited by the Commission on Fire Accreditation International and holds an enviable ISO Class 1 rating. The Department provides a full spectrum of contemporary services for Village residents:
Fire suppression Plan review Life safety education
Paramedic services Rescue services Fire investigation
Code enforcement Hazardous materials response Disaster management
The department strives to deliver the highest level of emergency response with the greatest margin of safety for firefighters in the most fiscally responsible manner. The 111 shift firefighters, paramedics and officers operate from three stations with 3 engines, 2 trucks, 3 ambulances, 1 rescue, 1 squad and an incident command vehicle.
2018 Accomplishments Enhanced fire suppression personnel protection equipment replacement program Reviewed operations to comply with Insurance Services Office (ISO) requirements and
Center for Public Safety and Excellence (CPSE) Accreditation recommendations Purchased and installed extractors to comply with National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA)
standard 1851 and reduce Firefighter exposure to carcinogens left on bunker gear from fire exposure
Developed, implemented and evaluated smoke detector/home inspection program for the Village
Updated technology to migrate fire suppression operations and field inspections to web-based tablets
Evaluated incident response times for compliance with ISO/CPSE/NFPA 1710
2019 Goals Review/update Standard Operating Guidelines to promote safe and effective operations Automate pre-plan component of the annual fire inspection program employing apparatus
tablets Develop structured reports to document compliance with ISO/CPSE/NFPA 1710 utilizing new
analytic software Integrate state-of-the-art medical devices to assist with cardiac arrest protocol Accelerate replacement of structural fire helmets and PPE for all line personnel Initiate process to evaluate and establish appropriate staffing levels department-wide,
including the Fire Prevention Bureau Complete enhancements and required engineering inspection of the drill tower Develop and maintain a comprehensive succession plan for department leadership and
management
4
Medal of Merit Award This award is presented to a member who performed a personal act in a courageous manner in the protection of life while engaged in the mediation of a fire incident. On November 19th, at the Village Board Meeting, Retired Battalion Chief Steven Ludkowski presented the Medal of Merit to Lieutenant Eschner, Firefighter Jahn and Firefighter Wallace for their courageous and selfless act on February 16, 2018.
On the night of February 16th, at 23:22 hours, the Department was dispatched to a house fire located on Tripp Avenue. Tower Ladder 16 with its crew of Lieutenant Eschner, Firefighters Jahn and Wallace responded along with Engine 17, Rescue 17, Ambulance 17, Squad 18 and Battalion 16. Although initially fire companies were told that there was a possibility two adults in the house, prior to arrival they were notified that all were evacuated.
TL16 crew was assigned a duty in the rear of the structure. While in-route to the rear, they encountered an adult male who was attempting to re-enter the rear door. They pulled the victim from the heat and smoke of the rear door and were able to determine that there were still two elderly adult victims in the burning structure. Without the aid of a protective hose line and under intense heat and smoke caused by a fully involved fire in the front of the building, the crew entered the rear of the structure and found an elderly female on the kitchen floor; which they quickly removed and transferred to EMS personnel. They then re-entered the house, again without the aid of a protective hose line and found an elderly male in the hallway, which they removed to the exterior and transferred to EMS personnel. Through their actions and dedication to preserve life, TL16 crew was able to transfer three patients to EMS personnel, who although they suffered smoke inhalation and burns, where conscious at the time of transport.
Left to Right, Lieutenant Nicholas Eschner, Battalion Chief Steven Ludkowski (Ret.), Firefighter Scott Wallace and Firefighter Michael Jahn.
5
2018 Promotions
Captain Kathleen Furgala to Deputy Chief December 7th
Lieutenant Stephen Jagman to Captain December 10th
Lieutenant Mark Larson to Captain December 10th
Lieutenant Thomas Doran To Captain July 6th
Firefighters
Promoted to Lieutenants
December 18th
Left to Right, Lieutenant Michael Jahn, Lieutenant Timothy Norton, Lieutenant Michael Greenwood, Lieutenant David Norris, Fire and Police Commissioner Willard Evans, Jr., Mayor George Van Dusen,
Lieutenant Nicholas Eaglin and Interim Fire Chief Jeffrey Hoeflich
6
Personnel The proficient staff of the Skokie Fire Department are, at all times, ready to meet the challenge of the varied tasks associated with this profession. As of June 2018, the Department had an average of just under 13 years of service associated with an average age of 40.32. Our diversity in experience ensures a balance of appropriate performance now and continuity of performance in the future.
Years of Service Number of
1-5 Years 39
6-10 Years 9
11-15 Years 13
16-20 Years 21
21-25 Years 15
Over 31 Years 1
Average 12.63
26-30 Years 10
Age Number of Members
21-25 Years 4
26-30 Years 17
31-35 Years 19
36-40 Years 18
41-45 Years 13
Over 51 Years 20
Average 40.32
46-50 Years 17
Honor Guard The Skokie Fire Department Local 3033 Honor Guard has been established to provide dignified funeral and memorial honors for fallen Fire Department Members as a Line of Duty Death benefit and to assist and support surviving family members, union brothers and sisters during their time of need. The Honor Guard also promotes a positive image of the Fire Service, the Skokie Fire Department and its members by serving as a well trained professional team at formal occasions, civic functions and memorials.
Skokie Fire Department Local 3033 Honor Guard Members
Capt Thomas Doran* DC Kathy Furgala * FF Craig Nordin* R Lt Christopher Vrshek FF Josh Hutchison*
FF Jason Dziedzic* FF William Gendel* FF Tim O’Malley FF Joseph Pryst* Lt Leo Riley* R * Associated Firefighters of Illinois State Honor Guard Members R Retired
Highlights of 2018 Honor Guard Events
Interna onal Associa on of Fire Fighters’ Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial, Colorado Springs, CO
26th Interna onal Associa on of Fire Fighters’ Honor Guard Induc on Ceremony and Conven on
Illinois Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial and Medal of Honor Ceremony, Springfield, IL
Village of Skokie Memorial Day Ceremony, Fourth of July Parade, Patriots’ Day Ceremony
7
Plastics and synthetics are more common in today’s households, making residential fires more dangerous due to an increase in toxic and carcinogenic products of combustion. Unsafe contaminants and dangerous smoke particulates easily penetrate turnout gear and are promptly absorbed within the fabrics of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
A growing body of research and data shows the contributions that job-related exposures have in chronic illnesses, such as cancer and heart disease. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recently undertook two large studies focused on firefighter cancer and concluded that firefighters face a 9 percent increase in cancer diagnoses, and a 14 percent increase in cancer-related deaths, compared to the general population in the U.S.
NFPA 1851 - Standard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance of Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting established the basic criteria for selection, inspection, cleaning, decontamination, repair, storage, and retirement of structural firefighting protective ensembles. The purpose of NFPA 1851 is to reduce the exposure the firefighter has to carcinogens produced in a structure fire.
PPE requires customized wash programs, with different cycles used for outer shells and inner liners. These items each have unique qualities and specialized care requirements and should not be washed together. The exposure-reduction and cleaning processes begins at the fire scene. For example, if possible, contaminated gear is bagged at the fire scene and isolated from the passenger area of vehicles. Advanced cleaning is best accomplished with a washer extractor with fully programmable controls—including water-temperature control and a 100 g-force extraction setting. This meets today’s requirements while allowing the flexibility to ensure adherence to future requirements.
Three exposure-reduction initiatives were implemented in 2018
First, “Responder Wipes” are now distributed at fire incidents allowing the firefighter to wipe off contaminants at the scene. Responder wipes are specially formulated with micellar water, an innovative ingredient with cleansing compounds that dissolve dirt, oil, soot, and other hydrocarbons making them more efficient than using regular baby wipes.
Cancer Reduction Initiative
Secondly, the department is intermittently issuing a second set of fire gear, allowing firefighters to change into clean and dry protective clothing after incidents involving toxic and carcinogenic products of combustion. Twenty-two second sets of fire gear were issued in 2018.
The third initiative was to install UniMac washer extractor laundry systems and drying cabinets at each station, specifically designed for cleaning fire gear and to meet NFPA 1851. Furthermore, the FireLinc technology along with UniMac’s TotalVue™ dashboard lets users access to specific cycle information for assurance that every piece of gear has
been cleaned to meet fire-safety specifications.
8
Operations Division We are considered an all hazard Fire Department and the Operations Division has overall responsibility for providing the highest level of quality emergency services to Village of Skokie residents and visitors. This is accomplished by coordinating the efforts of multiple aspects of the department to ensure seamless operations in emergency activity. The Operations Division ensures a state of readiness through training and evaluation of personnel and maintenance of tools and equipment, apparatus, buildings and grounds, fire prevention and public education.
The Operations Division is charged with the responsibility of providing prompt and efficient emergency response to fires, hazardous conditions, rescues, illnesses or any other conditions where the health, safety and welfare of the public is in peril. Proficient and appropriate results require interaction with other Village departments, local businesses and cooperation with regional public safety agencies. This type of interface necessitates ongoing pre-incident coordination, which is part of the day-to-day activity of the Operations Division.
Response By Type 2017 2018
Total Incidents 9,466 10,082
Fire/Non-EMS Incidents 3,416 3,898
EMS Incidents 6,050 6,184
Response By Station 2017 2018
Station 16 2,493 2,777
Station 17 2,649 2,737
Station 18 4,324 4,568
9
Our goal is to exceed
expecta ons and
provide ci zens
with the best
service possible.
Census Tract
Number of Incidents
2018 Percentage
8067 389 3.86
8068 1,375 13.64
8069 1,581 15.68
8070 650 6.45
8071 356 3.53
8072 591 5.86
8073 1,133 11.24
8074 638 6.33
8075 304 3.02
8076 1,010 10.02
8077 970 9.62
8078 876 8.69
Mutual Aid 208 2.06
Response Statistics
Fire Loss/Saved 2017 2018
Loss to Fire $1,659,208 $2,275,867
Loss Per Capita $26 $35
Saved from Fire $50,228,440 $80,116,737
Saved Per Capita $775 $1,237
18
17
16
10
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) In 2018, the Skokie Fire Department responded to 6,050 Emergency Medical Service (EMS) and Rescue incidents. During these incidents, 6,789 patients were attended to with 4,636 of them being transported to area hospitals. Additionally, service was provided 598 times for invalid or occupant assists.
All firefighters are licensed by the Illinois Department of Public Health as either an EMT-Basic or EMT-Paramedic providing emergency medical care to the citizens and visitors of the Village of Skokie. The department is part of the St. Francis Hospital Emergency Medical Services System. The system ensures that paramedics are properly trained, and that victims of injury or illness are assessed, treated and transported to local Emergency Room Departments in a timely manner.
The focus of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) is to provide and promote the continued development of an optimal system of emergency medical and trauma care, which provides the best possible patient outcome and to continually improve public health in our community.
EMS Activity 2018
Ambulance Responses 6,184
Patients 6,682
Transport 4,578
Non Transport 1,046
Invalid/Occupant Assists 715
Average Responses /
Day (Including Invalid/Occupant Assists) 17
2017
6,050
6,789
4,636
1,521
598
16.5
Our Emergency Medical Services
System is a comprehensive network of
personnel, equipment and resources
with a purpose of delivering aid and
emergency medical care to the
community.
Nature of Call 2018
Cardiac 389
Medical 3,735
Trauma 1,512
Service Refusal 979
2017
478
3,757
1,452
950
11
Apparatus and Station Numbers are Based on Regional Mutual Aid Assignment
Support Services The Support Services Division of the Fire Department is charged with oversight for maintenance and repair of all vehicles, facilities, equipment and supplies.
Activities include:
The procurement of equipment, materials and supplies to support department operations.
Coordination of maintenance and repair at Fire Department facilities.
Vehicle fleet maintenance consisting of 16 emergency response specialized apparatus and other operational vehicles supported by the Public Works Village Garage.
Research and testing of equipment, concepts and practices to support our efficient and safe operation.
Maintenance of records, reports and inventories to support Operations.
Systematic preventative maintenance along with continual research and evaluation supports our operational readiness while balancing the challenges of contemporary technology, the special needs of the fire service and the fiscal obligations of our organization.
MAJOR APPARATUS
Ambulances Pumper Engines
Ambulance 16 - 2014 Horton
Ambulance 17 - 2014 Horton
Ambulance 18 - 2016 Horton
Ambulance 17R - 2010 Horton
Engine 16 - 2003 Pierce
Engine 17 - 2013 Pierce
Engine 18 - 2004 Pierce
Engine 16R - 1997 Pierce
Pumper / Squads Aerial Apparatus
Rescue 17 - 2018 Pierce
Squad 18 - 2007 Pierce
Squad 17R -1999 Pierce
Tower 16 - 2016 Pierce
Truck 18 - 2001 Pierce
Truck 17R - 1995 Pierce
Station 16
Headquarters 7424 Niles Center Road
Station 17
Training Facility 8157 Central Park Avenue
Station 18
Equipment Maintenance 9024 Gross Point Road
12
The inspec on and code
enforcement process
iden fies fire and life
safety hazards.
Activity 2017 2018
Inspections 1,973 1,246
Citations 0 0
Plan Reviews 351 277
Residential Sprinklers 3 7
Public Education Activities/Events 294 310
WORKING CARBON MONOXIDE WORKING CARBON MONOXIDE AND SMOKE DETECTORS SAVE AND SMOKE DETECTORS SAVE
LIVES!LIVES!
Fire Prevention/Code Enforcement The Fire Prevention Bureau (FPB) annually conducts a commercial inspection program. Through inspection, plan review and code enforcement, the goals of the program are to maintain a safe living, shopping and work environment for the residents, employees and patrons of the Village. The program also provides for the collection of current building and property information to support efficient and safe emergency response and timely interaction with building occupants and/or owners during emergency operations.
The expertise necessary to support these goals are maintained with membership in the National Fire Protection Association, National Fire Sprinkler Association, Illinois Fire Safety Alliance and Illinois Fire Inspectors Association. Fire Prevention Inspectors participate in continuing education classes and seminars in order to maintain their knowledge of the codes and trends in fire protection, public fire and life safety education.
The Fire Prevention Bureau works with various Village Departments to ensure that proper construction practices are enforced in all residential and commercial structures. The Bureau also investigates fire and building code violations along with the Village building, electrical, mechanical and health inspectors. The Fire Prevention Bureau works in conjunction with the Village Water Department by annually testing and maintaining all fire hydrants and planning for future water main replacements.
13
Fire Prevention Bureau
Smoke Detector Program The Skokie Fire Department strives for excellence in customer care with professionalism and dedication to the community. Some of the community programs provided through the Fire Prevention Bureau and by individual fire companies include CPR classes for the public, as well as Village employees, a Citizens' Fire Academy, and the new Home Inspection Program that will focus on the population most vulnerable during residential fires.
The ability of a population or community to respond to a residential fire is measured in risk; the assessment risk takes into consideration social vulnerabilities. NFPA has defined the population over the age of 65 and under the age of 5 years old as being the most vulnerable during a structure fire. Between 2009 and 2013, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) reported that those vulnerable populations comprise 39% of home fire deaths, but account for only 19% of the population. Per the census of 2010, the Village of Skokie has a total area of 10.06 square miles and was composed of 64,784 people, who formed in 23,223 households, containing 17,045 families. Skokie's age population comprises: 23.0% of minority age (younger than 18 years); 7.0% aged from 18 to 24 years; 25.0% aged from 25 to 44, 25.5% aged from 45 to 64, and 19.6% aged 65 years and older.
Our Fire Prevention Bureau analyzed community demographics, provided by the Village of Skokie’s Planning Department’s Geographic Information System (GIS), to determine the socially vulnerable population; and work with Skokie Human Services to conduct voluntary home inspections. Fire Companies will conduct voluntary home inspections and install 10-year lithium smoke detectors at no cost to the homeowner.
14
Public Education The Skokie Fire Department provides a full spectrum of Public Education programs tailored to meet the needs of the Village.
Public Education and interaction with our citizens provides an opportunity to stress the importance of fire and life safety. These contacts allow personnel an opportunity to explain the many programs offered by the Department and to provide familiarity with our Emergency Operations.
The Skokie Fire Department works with community groups, schools, businesses and other Village agencies. By offering quality programs, we provide increased knowledge of fire prevention and life safety issues in an effort to reduce the loss of life, injury and the destruction of property.
Public educa on comes in
many forms and is
provided in many ways to
meet the needs of the
community.
Programs 2017 2018
School Programs 76 55
Fire Drills 24 31
Disaster Planning 5 4
Juvenile Intervention 2 3
Senior and Nursing Programs 6 4
Station Tours 21 23
Engine Requests 71 138
Block Parties 55 64
CPR Classes 11 14
Misc. Public Education 23 37
Total Number of Contacts 24,811 26,071
2018 National Fire Prevention Association Fire Prevention Week campaign: “Look. Listen. Learn. Be aware. Fire can happen anywhere”
This year’s Fire Preven on Week campaign worked to educate people about three basic but essen al steps to take to reduce the likelihood of having a fire and how to escape safely in the event of one:
1. Look for places fire could start. 2. Listen for the sound of the smoke alarm. 3. Learn two ways out of every room.
15
Training Skokie Fire Department’s training mission is to ensure all personnel are able to safely and effectively perform the critical tasks required of their position and rank. With this vision, the annual training program is designed to meet professional standards, satisfy state and federal mandates, and provide a broad range of education and skill development. Based upon essential job functions, each employee achieves specific training objectives and obtains required levels of certification through the Illinois Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM). Skokie Fire Department achieved planned training objectives for the year and members significantly enhanced their firefighting, rescue, and emergency medical service capabilities.
The Skokie Fire Department continues to meet the challenges of an evolving workforce with about one-third of our members retiring and being replaced with new recruits (39) over the past several years. After graduating from the Northeast Illinois Public Safety (NIPSTA) Fire Academy, the probationary firefighters completed post-academy training with the department and have been assigned to fire companies to commence their careers. Through the first four years they must pass six written and practical exams demonstrating successful achievement of department standards. During this phase of their career, they will also become certified paramedics and fire apparatus engineers. As their careers progress, they will develop knowledge, teamwork, continuity and mastery of individual skills.
In 2018, the Illinois OSFM awarded 68 certifications to Skokie Fire Department personnel with completion of various firefighter and fire officer courses. Employees averaged 322 hours of training, which exceeds the required 260 hours of training for the year. The department continued diligent efforts to recoup training expenditures with reimbursement to the Village from OSFM, IL-MABAS and Illinois Terrorism Task Force. In 2018, the Training Division received extremely positive feedback through comprehensive analysis conducted by CFAI, ISO and OSFM. This, along with the most effective measurement of success (personal and company performance), continues to validate the positive impact of our training program. This would not be possible without the support of the entire Fire Department and Village of Skokie. Special acknowledgement to the Company Officers, Training Liaisons and members of the Training Work Group who contribute to the successful administration and implementation of the Department’s training program.
Training Hours By
Activity 2017 2018
Number of Members 111 110
Avg. Annual Hrs. of Training 350 322
Emergency Medical
Services 5,932 6,193
Fire Apparatus Engineer 3,117 3,343
Firefighter II / Basic 12,131 9,839
Firefighter III / Advanced 6,752 6,341
Hazardous Materials 1,143 977
Technical Rescue 4,404 2,512
Officer Development 2,194 3,475
Other / Miscellaneous 3,275 2,729
Total 38,948 35,409
16
Work Groups The Work Group philosophy is used to provide an opportunity for all personnel to participate in the development and implementation of department initiatives.
Accreditation/ISO Responsible for fulfilling ISO and
Accreditation requirements Maintaining records Submittal of an Annual Compliance
Report
Apparatus/Tools and Equipment Updating apparatus specifications
and equipment inventory Apparatus specifications and
purchase recommendations Maintain apparatus equipment
inventory Ladder maintenance and UL testing Annual hose testing
Benevolent Committee/Social Events LODD/Bereavement Guidelines Responsible for fundraising for
individuals in need Plans retirement party and other
social gatherings
Clothing Committee &Grooming Responsible for guidelines for turnout
gear/department uniforms Quartermaster System Uniform and Grooming Policy Review
Communications Committee Department cell phones and radios
inventory and maintenance Conduct quarterly meeting with
dispatch supervisors Dispatcher Training Components/Infrastructure Reviews communications policies
Driver Training Third Party Safety Officer Program &
Non-CDL Class B Licensure Fire Service Vehicle Operator
Certification Program Development/Delivery of Annual
Driving Safety Program
Emergency Medical Service EMS training and operations Equipment maintenance and
purchase recommendations Ambulance purchasing
specifications IDPH Inspections
Fire Investigation Team Fire Investigation Training and report writing Member recruitment and
participation Recertification
Fire Prevention/Public Education/Citizens’ Fire Academy
Assess the Village’s needs and develop new programs
Review existing programs for effectiveness
Foreign Fire insurance Board Review of all requests Updating Board By-laws Dissemination of meeting results to
staff Equipment purchase
recommendations
Hazardous Materials Team Hazmat Training Team equipment inventory and
maintenance Equipment recommendations Compliance with annual STAC
requirements
Honor Guard/Recognition Serves as representatives of the
Department, projecting a positive image of the organization and its members by serving as a well trained professional team at formal occasions, civic functions and memorials.
17
Image Trend/Preplans/GIS Maintaining Image Trend data entry Learning and utilizing Target
Solutions for data queries
Incident Command/MABAS/NIMS Assuring NIMS compliance I/C Training (Department and Village
wide)
Labor/Management Team Meet as a team to review and
discuss any labor and management issues
Promote Communication and Coordination
Pension Board Review Policies Administer pension fund Provide sworn personnel with
information
Print Shop Complete production of all Village
requests for printing Maintaining equipment in print shop
Safety Committee Hazard/risk assessment and
prevention Review of safety related standards Development and review of safety
related SOGs
SCBA/ Monitor Committee Training Team equipment inventory and
maintenance Monthly SCBA inspections SCBA & APR fit tests Equipment recommendations
Specialty Vehicle Response Team (SVRT)
Active membership in MABAS Division 3 SVRT
Responsible for deployment and operations of SVRT apparatus (Air 3 & Comm 3)
Complete annual training requirements and STAC reports
Standard Operation Guidelines/Rules Regulations
Reviewing and developing SOG recommendations
Ensure SOG's are in compliance with MABAS/state response protocols
Review Department Rules and Regulations
Station Supplies and Buildings & Grounds
Responsible for maintaining station supplies and inventory
Station Tools Buildings and Grounds Manages station improvement
projects Budget recommendations
Strategic Plan Committee Continuous review and updating of
department goals and objectives with emphasis on short and long range goals.
Technical Rescue Team Technical Rescue training Equipment maintenance, inventory
and purchase recommendations Compliance with Annual TRT STAC
Requirements
Training Coordinating with Training Officer to
plan and implement training evolutions and schedule
Implementation of Minimum Standards testing
Compliance with OSFM & NFPA Standards
Wellness/Fitness Team Fitness program development and
implementation Health Risk Reduction Program Physical ability test for candidates Monthly wellness newsletter
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Organization Chart
115 Sworn Members 42 Firefighters • 45 Firefighter/Paramedics
18 Lieutenants • 3 Shift Captains • 3 Battalion Chief Captains 1 Fire Prevention Bureau Captain
2 Deputy Chiefs • 1 Fire Chief 7 Civilian Members
2 Secretarial • 1 Clerk / Messenger • 1 Administrative Project Coordinator 2 Full-Time & 1 Part-Time Fire Prevention Specialists
Chaplains Rabbi Moshe Wolf Pastor Henry H. Biar
19
Administration
Nancy Maroney
21 Years of Service
J.R. Johnson
6 Years of Service DC Kathleen Furgala
23 Years of Service
Interim Fire Chief
Jeffrey Hoeflich
32 Years of Service
The Administrative Division creates and administers department policy, plans and organizes department activities and budgets for efficient economic operation of all department divisions. In addition, the Admin-istration provides motivation for all department employees and ensures growth through training and edu-cation.
Fire Prevention Bureau
John Quinn
32 Years of Service
Dale Fochs
6 Years of Service
Christine Blakenheim
6 Years of Service
Tom Reinhardt
4 Years of Service
Captain Thomas Doran
17 Years of Service
The Fire Prevention Bureau acts to control the loss of life and property through plan review, inspection, hazardous material monitoring and public education programs. Fires are investigated, codes are enforced and data is collected and analyzed for evaluation and planning.
Mission Statement We, the members of the Skokie Fire Department, are dedicated
professionals commi ed to safely serving our community by
protec ng life, property and the environment through
preven on, educa on and emergency services.
20
FIRE STATION 17
SHIFT 1 FIRE STATION 16
Lt Nicholas Eschner
10 Years of Service
FF Robert Franz
18 Years of Service FF Brian Netolicky
10 Years of Service
FF Carl Smits
6 Years of Service
FF Andrew Schavone
5 Years of Service
FF Salvatore Prato
3 Years of Service
FF Timothy Moran
23 Years of Service
FF Charles Degeneffe
21 Years of Service FF Christopher Riley
15 Years of Service FF Michael Peterson
6 Years of Service FF Scott Wallace
5 Years of Service
FF Ramiz Albazi
3 Years of Service
FF Christian Platt
2 Years of Service
Lt Andrew Matanovic
22 Years of Service
FF Stephen Schutz
3 Years of Service
FF Kyle Connor
4 Years of Service
FF Hernando Zavala
20 Years of Service
Capt. Mark Larson
26 Years of Service
BC William Endre
22 Years of Service
Lt Michael Jahn
13 Years of Service
FF Matthew Boccassini
1st Year of Service
21
SHIFT 1
FF Ramiz Albazi
FF Joseph Biasi
FF Kyle Connor
Lt Nicholas Eschner
FF Nate Hammer
FF Brian Handler
Lt Michael Jahn
FF Joseph Johnson
FF Michael O’Malley
FF Brian Netolicky
Lt Timothy Norton
FF Michael Peterson
FF Christian Platt
FF Salvatore Prato
FF Christopher Riley
FF Andrew Schavone
FF Stephen Schutz
FF Carl Smits
Lt Christopher Vrshek
FF Scott Wallace
PARAMEDIC
FF Charles Degeneffe
FF Robert Franz
FF Nate Hammer
FF Brian Handler
Lt Michael Jahn
FF Joseph Johnson
FF Timothy Moran
FF Brian Netolicky
FF William Nicholas
Lt Timothy Norton
FF Timothy O’Malley
FF Christopher Riley
FF Andrew Schavone
FF Carl Smits
FF Scott Wallace
FF Brad Zabadal
FF Hernando Zavala
FIRE APPARATUS ENGINEER
SPECIAL TEAM MEMBERS
FIRE STATION 18 SHIFT 1
FF William Nicholas
28 Years of Service
FF Daniel Kalata
24 Years of Service FF Brian Handler
16 Years of Service
FF John Palsir
16 Years of Service FF Brad Zabadal
15 Years of Service
FF Nate Hammer
7 Years of Service
FF Michael O’Malley
5 Years of Service FF Steve Grothendieck
2 Years of Service
FF Joseph Johnson
5 Years of Service
HONOR GUARD Lt Christopher Vrshek
Lt Nicholas Eschner
FF Joseph Johnson
FIRE INVESTIGATION FF Carl Smits
FF Brad Zabadal
FF Charles Degeneffe
FF Timothy O’Malley
BREATHING APPARATUS MAINTENANCE Lt Christopher Vrshek
BC William Endre
Lt Nicholas Eschner
FF Nate Hammer
Lt Michael Jahn
FF Andrew Schavone
FF Carl Smits
TECHNICAL RESCUE
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS FF Michael Peterson Lt Christopher Vrshek
TACTICAL INTERVENTION UNIT FF Joseph Johnson
FF Timothy O’Malley
27 Years of Service
Lt Christopher Vrshek
18 Years of Service
Lt Stanley Goolish
17 Years of Service
FF Joseph Biasi
2 Years of Service
Lt Timothy Norton
15 Years of Service
22
FIRE STATION 17
SHIFT 2 FIRE STATION 16
FF Joshua Hutchison
4 Years of Service
BC Gabriel Millard
16 Years of Service
FF Scott Fogarty
28 Years of Service FF Keith Buenzow
19 Years of Service
FF Joseph Winkelman
13 Years of Service
FF Joseph Pryst
12 Years of Service
FF Kevin Curtin
4 Years of Service
FF Jason Dziedzic
5 Years of Service
FF Brant Kotowski
4 Years of Service
FF Daniel Fogarty
28 Years of Service
FF William Gendel
22 Years of Service
FF Kevin Lieder
7 Years of Service
FF Robert Lampen
5 Years of Service
FF Mark Pappas
2 Years of Service
FF Michael Schey
5 Years of Service
FF Nicole Davis
16 Years of Service
FF Michael Adams
2 Years of Service
FF Patrick Herling
2 Years of Service
Lt Anthony Scianna
19 Years of Service
Capt Stephen Jagman
19 Years of Service
Lt David Norris
18 Years of Service
23
SHIFT 2 SPECIAL TEAM MEMBERS
PARAMEDIC
FF Kevin Curtin
FF Nicole Davis
FF Jason Dziedzic
Lt Robert Everson
FF William Gendel
FF Joshua Hutchison
FF Christopher Kalinowski
FF Matthew Kochajkiewicz
FF Brant Kotowski
FF Robert Lampen
FF Jeffrey Leslie
FF Kevin Lieder
Lt Harry McDonough
BC Gabriel Millard
FF Mark Pappas
FF Robert Pellegrini
FF Joseph Pryst
FF Michael Schey
FF Anthony Scianna
FF Jeremy Simonelli
FIRE APPARATUS ENGINEEREngineer
FF Michael Agosti
FF Keith Buenzow
FF Kevin Curtin
FF Andrew Cutting
FF Daniel Fogarty
FF Scott Fogarty
FF William Gendel
FF Joshua Hutchison
FF Robert Lampen
Lt David Norris
FF Robert Pellegrini
FF Sean Patten
FF Joseph Pryst
FF Michael Schey
FF Jeremy Simonelli
FF Joseph Winkelman
FIRE STATION 18
FF Sean Patten
19 Years of Service
SHIFT 2
FF Robert Pellegrini
14 Years of Service
Lt Robert Everson
13 Years of Service
FF Christopher Kalinowski
5 Years of Service
FF Peter Kravetz
30 Years of Service FF Michael Agosti
24 Years of Service
FF Andrew Cutting
17 Years of Service
FF Kevin Finlay
16 Years of Service
FF Jeremy Simonelli
5 Years of Service
FF Jeffrey Leslie
4 Years of Service FF Michael Catino
2 Years of Service
FF Patrick Strong
3 Years of Service FF Matthew Kochajkiewicz
7 Years of Service
HONOR GUARD
Capt Thomas Doran
FF William Gendel
FF Joseph Pryst
FF Joseph Winkelman
TECHNICAL RESCUE FF Michael Agosti
Lt Robert Everson
Capt. Thomas Doran
FF Jeremy Simonelli
FF Michael Schey
FIRE INVESTIGATION FF Michael Agosti
FF Scott Fogarty FF Anthony Scianna
BREATHING APPARATUS MAINTENANCE
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS FF Jason Dziedzic FF Robert Lampen
TACTICAL INTERVENTION UNIT FF Jeremy Simonelli
Lt Harry McDonough
24 Years of Service Lt Nicholas Eaglin
16 Years of Service
24
FIRE STATION 17
SHIFT 3 FIRE STATION 16
FF Michael Gierut
18 Years of Service
Lt Adam Becker
14 Years of Service
FF Eric Faber
10 Years of Service
FF Matthew Kainer
10 Years of Service FF Jeremy Fisher
5 Years of Service
Lt James Cortilet
21 Years of Service
FF John DeGroot
28 Years of Service
FF Collin Weldon
28 Years of Service
FF Steven Semerau
13 Years of Service FF Timothy Witkus
7 Years of Service
FF Timothy Hartogh
5 Years of Service
FF Ray Roybskie
2 Years of Service
FF Wilfredo Ocasio
2 Years of Service
FF Joshua Eggebrecht
3 Years of Service
FF Michael Reiken
17 Years of Service FF Brian Riordan
13 Years of Service
FF Joseph Raclawski
22 Years of Service
Lt Charles Demes
18 Years of Service Capt Christopher Bylak
24 Years of Service
Lt Michael Greenwood
11 Years of Service
BC Earl Matrenec
28 Years of Service
25
SHIFT 3 PARAMEDIC
Lt Daniel Collins
FF Joshua Eggebrecht
FF Eric Faber
FF Jeremy Fisher
FF Michael Greenwood
FF Timothy Hartogh
FF Joseph Hildenbrand
FF Matthew Kainer
FF Gregory Koniecki
FF Kevin Morphey
FF Mark Reding
FF Brian Riordan
FF Andrew Schmitt
FF Steven Semerau
FF Collin Weldon
FF Timothy Witkus
FIRE APPARATUS ENGINEER
FF John DeGroot
FF Eric Faber
FF Jeremy Fisher
FF Michael Gierut
FF Michael Greenwood
FF Matthew Kainer
FF Gregory Koniecki
FF John Kosinski
FF Kevin Morphey
FF Ronald Neigo
FF Joseph Raclawski
FF Michael Reiken
FF Brian Riordan
FF Steve Semerau
FF Collin Weldon
SPECIAL TEAM MEMBERS
FIRE STATION 18
SHIFT 3
Lt Daniel Collins
19 Years of Service
Lt Robert Gaseor
26 Years of Service
Lt Adam Pease
11 Years of Service
FF John Kosinski
24 Years of Service
FF Brian Diedrich
22 Years of Service
FF Ronald Niego
21 Years of Service FF Joseph Hildenbrand
5 Years of Service
FF Mark Reding, Jr.
7 Years of Service FF Gregory Konecki
5 Years of Service
FIRE INVESTIGATION BC Earl Matrenec
Lt Adam Pease FF Michael Greenwood
FF Matthew Kainer
TECHNICAL RESCUE
Lt Adam Becker
Lt Daniel Collins
Lt James Cortilet
Lt Charles Demes
FF Jeremy Fisher
FF Michael Gierut
FF Timothy Hartogh
BREATHING APPARATUS MAINTENANCE Lt James Cortilet
Lt Adam Pease
FF Joseph Raclawski
FF Steven Semerau
FF Collin Weldon
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS FF Michael Greenwood FF Joseph Hildenbrand
TACTICAL INTERVENTION UNIT FF Steve Semerau
FF Kevin Morphey
3 Years of Service FF Jacob Gaisor
2 Years of Service FF Thomas Vasis, Jr.
2 Years of Service
FF Andrew Schmitt
5 Years of Service
26
FF Tom Fuchs discussing truck opera ons
Lt Ron Smith and Lt Chuck Demes working on the Sta on 16 table
Lt Roger Penninger teaching
the Ci zens’ Fire Academy
Ba alion Chief Steve Ludkowski
commanding a fire
Tower Ladder 16 Wet Down Ceremony
Deputy Chief Ken Borre with Skokie Police at
Na onal Night Out
Deputy Chief Bob Reichert and Local 3033 President Dave Norris at Fire Ops 101
Deputy Chief Ken Borre leading ac ve threat exercise
Lt Roger Penninger on the Edens Expressway with Squad 18
Ba alion Chief Steve Ludkowski
TLO Lt Ron Smith and Captain Bill Endre at the drill tower
Leaving a Legacy
FF Tom Fuchs leading aerial ladder maintenance
Deputy Chief Reichert & Captain Furgala with FPB Specialist Linda Brady receiving
the Lonnie Jackson Award
27
2018 Retirements
When a man becomes a fireman, his greatest act of bravery has been accomplished. What he does a er that, is all in the line of work.
Chief Edward F. Croker
Deputy Chief Robert Reichert Robert Reichert was appointed to the Skokie Fire Department on June 18,1990. He was promoted to the rank of Fire Lieutenant on May 23, 2003. Next, he was promoted to the rank of Fire Captain on November 26, 2012 and Deputy Chief on October 25, 2016. After serving the department and citizens of the Village of Skokie for over 28 years, DC Reichert retired on May 2, 2018.
Battalion Chief Steven Ludkowski Steven Ludkowski was appointed to the Skokie Fire Department on August 31, 1981. He was promoted to the rank of Fire Lieutenant on September 8, 1988. Next, he was promoted to the rank of Fire Captain on June 4, 2002 and Battalion Chief on May 1, 2016. After serving the department and citizens of the Village of Skokie for over 36 years, BC Ludkowski retired on June 2, 2018.
Lieutenant Roger Penninger Roger Penninger was appointed to the Skokie Fire Department on July 27, 1987. He was promoted to the rank of Fire Lieutenant on July 24, 1994. After serving the department and citizens of the Village of Skokie for over 30 years, Lieutenant Penninger retired on July 10, 2018.
Lieutenant Ronald Smith Ronald Smith was appointed to the Skokie Fire Department on January 12, 1987. He was promoted to the rank of Fire Lieutenant on November 21, 2007. After serving the department and citizens of the Village of Skokie for over 31 years, Lieutenant Smith retired on September 9, 2018.
Deputy Chief Kenneth Borre Kenneth Borre was appointed to the Skokie Fire Department on September 9, 1985. He was promoted to the rank of Fire Lieutenant on June 9, 1990. Next, he was promoted to the rank of Fire Captain on May 9, 1998 and Deputy Chief on November 17, 2014. After serving the department and citizens of the Village of Skokie for over 33 years, DC Borre retired on November 6, 2018.
Firefighter Thomas Fuchs Thomas Fuchs was appointed to the Skokie Fire Department on February 23, 1987. After serving the department and citizens of the Village of Skokie for over 31 years, Firefighter Fuchs retired on November 6, 2018.
Fire Prevention Bureau Specialist Linda Brady Linda Brady was appointed to the Skokie Fire Department on October 12, 1998. After serving the department and citizens of the Village of Skokie for over 20 years, Specialist Brady retired on November 30, 2018.
VILLAGE OF SKOKIE www.skokie.org
Council‐Manager Government Mayor
George Van Dusen
Clerk Pramod C. Shah
Trustees Michele L. Bromberg
Karen Gray‐Keeler
Ralph Klein
Randall E. Roberts
Edie Sue Sutker
Ilonka Ulrich
Manager John T. Lockerby
Counsel Michael M. Lorge
Board of Fire and Police Commissioners David Jones, Re red Chair Willard Evans, Jr., Chair
Helene Levine, Vice Chair Nicole Po hast Beryl Rabinowitz
Village of Skokie Awards and Dis nc ons Insurance Services Office (ISO) Class One Fire Department
Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI)
American Public Works Association (APWA) Accreditation
Illinois Law Enforcement Accreditation Program (ILEAP)
Government Finance Officers Association Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting
Government Finance Officers Association Budget Award
State of Illinois Certified Health Department - Governor’s Hometown Award
Tree City U.S.A. Distinction - All America City Finalist - Gold Level Clean Air Counts Community
