It is the time of year when we share a letter describing the progress of your fire department. We also request donations to help us prepare for the next emergency. All contributions are valued by our officers and members, as they support our continued progress.

During the past year, the Midwest has faced severe weather that has led to flooding and the loss of lives. Wildfires have also affected Canada ... (Full Story & Photos)

October marks Fire Prevention Week, bringing attention to the importance of fire safety both at home and in the workplace. Activities during this time include conducting fire drills, training employees on how to use fire extinguishers, checking smoke alarms, and identifying hazards such as overloaded electrical outlets or blocked exits. Implementing simple preventive measures can greatly reduce the ... (Full Story & Photos)

This is a retirement announcement from the Barnard Fire District. Dated September 29th, 2026

After 45 years of dedicated service to the fire service, including 32 years with the Barnard Fire District, Assistant Fire Chief Steven Dorgan is completing his final shift today and retiring.

Chief Dorgan began his journey as a young Hamlin Fire Explorer in 1973, following in the footsteps of his father ... (Full Story & Photos)

Using artificial smoke, crews filled Hope Valley - Wyoming Fire District burn building to create a dark, low-visibility environment similar to what firefighters may encounter during an actual structure fire.

Crews entered the building and worked through the smoke to locate and remove simulated victims, putting their search techniques, communication, and teamwork to the test.

Our Junior Firefighters ... (Full Story & Photos)

The Village of Crestwood wishes all of our residents a fun, festive, and safe Halloween!

As families head out to enjoy the evening, please remember that official trick-or-treating hours in Crestwood are 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

To help keep everyone safe:
• Children should be accompanied by an adult whenever possible
• Wear reflective clothing or carry flashlights when walking after dark
• Use sidewalks ... (Full Story & Photos)

Available to all Homeowners and Businesses

Applications need to be picked up in person (FIRST STEP)

To qualify you need to supply us with the following:

*Must have lived in the home and be the owner as of 1/1/25

*2025, second installment property tax bill copy

*Proof of payment of your tax bill, (copy of the Chase Bank receipt or Cook County Treasurer proof of payment copy)

*Copy of your driver's ... (Full Story & Photos)

Clay County EMS staffs two ambulances to serve our community, and with two patients requiring care, all of the county’s available EMS transport resources were committed to a single incident.

But this picture also shows what makes a small community work.

Our friends at the Clay County Sheriff’s Office stepped up in force to help wherever they could. Many of our deputies either started their public-safety ... (Full Story & Photos)

National Night Out is October 6th at Stafford Market Place from 5-8pm, Members of Aquia Harbour Volunteer Rescue Squad and other volunteer fire rescue agencies are sponsoring free bike helmet fittings for the kids. This safety initiative has been a priority for the squad for over 25 years. This night is a great time to meet members of the Fire, Rescue and law enforcement community in Stafford. Lots ... (Full Story & Photos)