“The General” - WEGOFPD E-Newsletter

Fall 2025

*Our newsletter is named in commemoration of our 1934 antique fire pumper known as “The General” for its’ many years of great service to the community. Click HERE for some Department historical info.

Emergency: Dial 9-1-1 I Non-emergency: (630) 231-2123

Save the Date: Our next Fire Department OPEN HOUSE (free) event will be September 26, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Fire Station #6 located at 200 Fremont Street.

District Update

As we welcome the fall season, we want to thank everyone who attended our Open House on September 27. It was a great chance to connect with the community, showcase our equipment, and share important safety tips. Seeing so many families and neighbors interact with our firefighters reminds us of the strong partnership we are fortunate to have with the community that we serve. Your support makes events like this possible, and we sincerely appreciate it.


In the coming weeks, our crews will be focusing on a variety of training topics. The last months of the year will also be dedicated to rapid intervention team and firefighter survival training—essential skills that help ensure we can protect each other in the most challenging situations. October also marks Fire Prevention Week, observed from October 5–11, which is an important reminder that while our firefighters are always prepared to respond, the best protection is prevention! 

Special Safety Message 

October 5 – 11 is nationally known as “Fire Prevention Week”. The week is intended to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 and remind people to practice fire safety. Each year, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sets a theme for the week, with the 2025 theme being “Charge into Fire Safety”. It is a reminder to use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries safely.  

Seasonal Safety News

Fall has arrived! With the season changing and yard clean-up and leaf raking in full swing, it is a perfect time to review open burning laws.  The Fire District and the City of West Chicago have jointly enacted local laws, also known as ordinances, that regulate open burning.  


The burning of leaves and other yard waste is prohibited in both the corporate limits of West Chicago and the unincorporated areas. Using a recreational fire pit is allowed if you burn clean, untreated wood (not leaves) and keep the pit at least 15 feet from structures. Never leave fires unattended; always keep a fire extinguisher or garden hose nearby.  

Injury Prevention Reminder 

The end of summer brings a final frenzy of stinging insects such as bees, yellow jackets, and wasps. While avoidance is the best action, sometimes we get stung. The aftereffects of a sting can range from mild to severe, especially if you have an allergy. The Fire District would like to remind our residents that if, after a sting, you experience an allergic reaction, including shortness of breath, swollen tongue, and widespread itching and/ or rash - Call 9-1-1 immediately. For more information on stings, check out:  

Disaster Readiness Post

Being prepared for a disaster can have many meanings. Preparedness includes a variety of actions, including having a family communications plan, assembling disaster supplies, and documenting your property for insurance claim purposes. 


Documenting can be as simple as taking photos or videos of your property and storing the info in a secure, weather-proof location. The documentation will significantly aid the insurance claims process if ever needed.  


Quick Fact

The Fire District’s fleet includes a tower ladder centrally located at Fire Station #6 (200 Fremont). The tower ladder carries extensive rescue, firefighting, and emergency medical equipment, along with a vehicle-mounted ladder that reaches 95 feet in the air and has built-in piping and a nozzle for aerial water application. It is staffed 24/7 by our personnel and primarily covers the area around Fire Station #6, but it is available to respond to emergencies districtwide.  

PARTNER EVENTS

Our personnel will be participating in the following upcoming community events:


West Chicago Halloween Festivities – 10/25/25 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Downtown WEGO

Follow the West Chicago Fire Protection District at www.wegofpd.org or on Facebook for timely news & updates.

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