Lisle-Woodridge Fire District Receives Grant for Specialized Training

Editor's note: The following press release was submitted by Illinois American Water.

The will be sending firefighter officers for specialized training, thanks to a grant by Illinois American Water (IAW). The IAW 2012 Firefighter GrantProgram provides financial assistance to fire and emergency organizations serving communities in its service areas.

The Firefighter Grant Program has been successful in providing assistance to community fire protection efforts, according to Karla Olson Teasley, president of Illinois American Water.

"Over the last two years we’ve been able to provide 83 grants totaling over $100,000 to fire departments across Illinois. We look forward to providing even more assistance to firefighters in our communities,” she said.

Grants of up to $1,500 are awarded to cover the costs associated with the following:

• Personal protective gear
• Communications equipment
• Firefighting tools
• Water handling equipment
• Training and related activities/materials used to support community fire protection
• Reimbursement for specific fire training classes, including training manuals and workbooks

Battalion Chief Jeff Toepper explained that the Lisle-Woodridge Fire District will use the award of $1,250 award for specialized fire officer training at the University of Illinois Fire Service Institute.

“This class is designed tohelp company officers gain the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to effectively lead a fire company,” explained Toepper. “Classroom discussions of leadership, responsibilities, and tactics will be coupled withfour days of hands-on practical scenarios directing live-fire evolutions."

During the check presentation at the district, Toepper stated the many benefits the grant will provide in enabling these fire officers to attend the institute.

“Attending the U of I institute will greatly enhance the practical skills of our two new lieutenants on the street in emergency situations.”