North Boone Fire Protection District invests in its future with youth program

VIDEO: A new program in Boone County was introduced to build a bright future for young people who want to become firefighters. North Boone Fire Protection District #3 already has a program for kids in high school called Explorer Post #2100. This teaches them about fire services and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and prepares students for a career in those fields if they choose to pursue one. The program introduced Tuesday evening is for kids younger than the high school age. Chief E.J. Dilonardo says North Boone Fire District #3 will work with the schools to approach students when they are in middle school. This approach to encouraging kids to work for their community as firefighters or EMS is embraced and supported by the International Association of Firefighters.
WIFR-TV CBS 23 Rockford

Peoria Fire Division Chief of Fire Prevention Nathaniel ’Nate’ Rice earns ‘Chief Fire Officer’ designation

A local Peoria Firefighter earned a new professional designation. According to the Peoria Fire Department, Peoria Fire Division Chief of Fire Prevention Nathaniel “Nate” Rice has achieved the Chief Fire Officer designation through the Center for Public Safety Excellence. The Commission of Professional Credentialing met and conferred Rice’s designation on April 15. Rice is one of 1,892 Chief Fire Officers in the world, according to the Center for Public Safety Excellence. “Having this designation confirms that I am meeting the highest professional standards as a chief fire officer,” Rice said. “The affirmation by my peers from across the industry is honorable and I look forward to continuing professional growth to retain this designation.”
WMBD-TV CBS 31 Peoria

House fire on Peoria’s West Bluff causes $100,000 in damage with no injuries

VIDEO: A West Bluff house fire early Monday morning caused $100,000 in damage but no injuries, the Peoria Fire Department said. Firefighters were called to the house, which is on the corner of West Brons Avenue and North Broadway Street just after 6 a.m. When they arrived on the scene crews observed smoke and fire coming from the home’s first and second floors, said Peoria Fire Battalion Chief Mike Ralston. Multiple fire hoses were deployed to both put out the fire in the home and to prevent it from spreading to neighboring homes. The home was searched, and no one was found in the residence. Ameren was called to the scene to secure the home’s electrical and gas utility. A fire investigator and arson dog were also called to the scene. The fire department confirmed that the fire was an arson.
WMBD-TV CBS 31 Peoria

Dixon firefighter retires after 20 years of service

PHOTO: A recently retired Dixon city firefighter/paramedic has been honored for his many years of service. The Dixon City Council at its meeting last week recognized David Boucher, who began his career with the department in July 2004 and retired Feb. 17. “Through his 20-year career of serving the community of Dixon, he’s obtained certifications in advanced firefighting, Fire Officer 1, extrication, and rope rescue,” said Dixon Fire Chief Ryan Buskohl. “Dave was also our juvenile firesetter intervention specialist working with youth identified as a risk of starting fires.” Boucher is a U.S Army veteran and earned a bachelor’s degree from Western Illinois University. Boucher was presented with framed firefighter memorabilia and a retirement axe.
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