Type of Organization

Fire/Rescue Department - Volunteer

Job Function

Lieutenant

Years in Fire/EMS:

17

Primary Fire/EMS Department:

Loves Park Fire Dept.

Years With Department/Agency

17

Dept. Web Site:

http://www.lpfdweb.com/

My Training:

Multiple Illinois Fire Service Institute Classes; FFII certified; Driver/Engineer; NIMS; CEVO Defensive driving courses; LP Gas Emergencies; Emergency Response to Terrorism:Basic Concepts;

About Me:

I have been on Loves Park Fire Dept. for 17 years, 10 years as Lieutenant of the Truck Co 1854. VFW Firefighter of the Year 2002.

Married with one son.

Day Job:

Mechanical Assembler @ Woodward Governor Co.

Relationship Status:

Married

Why I Joined Fire/EMS

My friends dad was on the fire dept. as I grew up and I got to know some of the guys through my friends dad. When I was 14 I had a cousin who died in a house fire trying to get dressed. When I turned old enough to join I wanted to help make a diffence.

Why I Love Fire/EMS

It used to be the adreanaline rush when I was 19. Now at 36 it is the satisfaction of knowing I made a positive difference in someones day or life.

Top Issues Facing Responders:

The top issues I see as potentially the biggest problems are: 1. In our area the struggle to recruit and keep good volunteers that are willing to put forth the commitment needed. 2. Is funding to properly train responders to the various aspects of the job. The job is changing so much so fast with hybrid cars and stability of new structures being built because of cheaper ways to build and etc.