Fire Chief Michelle M. Hullinger
Deputy Fire Chief Scott W. Stegenga
Assistant Fire Chief Roger Agpawa
The Country Club Hills Fire Department is responsible for fire prevention, fire inspections, public safety and education, fire suppression, and emergency medical services.
The department operates from two central locations:
4350 West 183rd St.
4520 West 175th St.
For all NON-EMERGENCY issues, call 708-798-3270 or 708-798-8493.
DIAL 911 FOR ALL EMERGENCIES
PROGRAMS & SERVICES
AMBULANCE SERVICE
The Country Club Hills Fire District was the first paramedic unit in the Southern Cook County system to serve its community since the inception of the paramedic program. Residents receive quality emergency care within minutes of receipt of a 911 dispatch.
FIRE SUPPRESSION
The department has full-time and part-time personnel trained in fire suppression, vehicle operation and are certified as firefighter by the state. Training does not stop at the level of firefighter, as there are many special certifications, classifications and classes available. Many of our firefighters have continued their education to ensure the best service and use of the latest techniques in providing fire suppression. Currently, there are two “Class A” fire engines that hold 750 gallons of water each and carry the latest equipment available. There is also a 75-foot aerial ladder truck in service.
TOURS
Upon request, tours of the department facilities and equipment are given. Any group wishing to tour this facility should contact the Fire Chief’s office for an appointment.
FIRE EXPLORERS
In 2004 the Country Club Hills Fire Department began sponsoring a Fire Explorers group. Operating in conjunction with the Boys Scouts of American, the Fire Cadet group is open to young men and women ages 14 to 20. The monthly meetings include training in many aspects of fire fighting and emergency rescue. Enrollment forms can be obtained at City Hall or either fire station.
FIRE PREVENTION
During Fire Prevention Week in October, the Country Club Hills Fire Department provides special activities at schools and day care centers upon request. Programs and educational material are always available.
ADOPT YOUR OWN FIRE HYDRANT
You could be the proud “parent” of a Country Club Hills fire hydrant. By teaming up with the city’s fire and public works departments to adopt a hydrant you are aiding in the protection of your community. Fire hydrants do not have to be fed, walked or burped but do have a tendency to suffer from claustrophobia. They need the three-foot radius space around them kept free and clear of snow and shrubbery.
Being a fire hydrant is a meaningful job. Keeping an eye on your hydrant to prevent vandalism and opening of the caps is important. By doing so, you can ensure that the hydrant will be able to assist the firefighters when they need your hydrant the most. During the winter you need to keep the snow below the line of vision so your hydrant can maintain a watchful eye on the neighborhood. This will help the firefighters find your hydrant quickly. If your fire hydrant should leak, contact City Hall as soon as possible.
Anyone who has a hydrant on or near their property can adopt a hydrant. A family or group, such as Scout or clubs, also can adopt a hydrant. Adopt-a-Hydrant forms can be obtained at City Hall, the fire or police stations.
ARSON CANINE
In 2002 the city acquired the first arson detection dog in the south suburban region. The female yellow Labrador retriever was named Blaze in a “Name our Newest Firefighter” contest. The city’s next arson detection canine, a black Labrador retriever named Jake, was secured from the Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms Department (ATF) in December 2006. In 2009, Malcom took over arson detection. All the dogs were trained to detect accelerants and other materials capable of starting fires.
FILL THE BOOT PROGRAM
Fire personnel from Country Club Hills participate in the “Fill the Boot” program to support a special week for children who have suffered severe burns. A special summer camp experience for those children is offered by the Illinois Fire Safety Alliance (IFSA). The Burn Camp offers activities such as row boating, sailing, canoeing, fishing, archery, nature, crafts, campouts, hiking, horseback riding and swimming. Camp staff members include counselors, doctors, nurses, social workers, physical and occupational therapists.
HOME SAFETY
Is your home equipped with an early warning device for fires, as well as carbon monoxide detectors? Do you have an escape plan in case of fire? More than 70% of fires occur in homes during nighttime hours when people are sleeping. Carbon monoxide also can build up due to faulty heat producing appliances. People are usually overcome by the deadly gases before a fire can get to them. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that can be deadly. Often, when a fire breaks out you have only seconds to get out of the building. You should never go back inside for any reason. Home fire escape planning is vital and can save you and your loved ones once fire has been detected. For help in planning a home fire escape route, contact the fire department.