Benton, West Frankfort, Illinois News | Franklin County News
Newspaper covering Franklin County, Illinois
Zeigler Fire Department members participate in engine company training this week.
By BRUCE A. FASOL
The first Wednesday of 2013 found 10 members of the Zeigler Fire Department doing what they normally do: training. Wednesday evenings are training sessions for Chief David Greer’s department. This training is for both veteran firefighters and those in training to become a firefighter. These are relatively new training rules implemented for that department.
A person undergoing training to become a member of the Zeigler Fire Department must complete a two-year training program to move from “firefighter candidate” to actual firefighter. This goes above and beyond the lack of mandatory state regulations covering training for certification.
The Zeigler Fire Department studies a different aspect of training each Wednesday evening. Some sessions may cover equipment, regulations, and of course procedural situations. The actual scene procedural training is done with full “bunker gear” worn by fire crews to more closely replicate real-life situations. Captain Ron Duigood handles the training tasks as the designated officer in that department.
The Zeigler Fire Dept. responded to more than 320 calls in calendar year 2012.
By BRUCE A. FASOL
A home in the 600 block of North Jefferson Street in West Frankfort was destroyed by fire Sunday evening.
Firefighters were called to the scene about 5:30 p.m., after a passerby saw flames shooting out of the roof of the building.
Officials said the house was abandoned, with no one living there and utilities turned off.
Fire fighters were challenged in protecting neighboring structures, including a garage just a few feet away. No other structures were damaged in the blaze.
By BRUCE A. FASOL
One of this area’s most efficient volunteer fire departments wants to grow. So, Saturday night they are having a fundraiser to help fund an addition to their current home.
Chief David Greer’s department is hosting a Raise the Roof event Saturday night at Zeigler Eagles Lodge. The event is planned to raise money so that an addition can be built to the current fire station at Zeigler City Hall.
The department needs more room for their emergency vehicles and seeks to raise the money themselves, with community help.
“We literally have equipment stacked up and in the loft,” said Lt. Kathie Flowers. One emergency vehicle sits out in the elements.
West Frankfort fire fighters responded to a call this morning for a possible electrical fire in the 200 block of East Elm Street.
By BRUCE A. FASOL
West Frankfort firefighters were called to a possible electrical fire Wednesday morning. Firefighters were summoned just after 9 a.m., at the report of smoke coming from the rear of the home.
Two residents said they noticed smoke, but did not know the source. They exited the home safely.
The home is located at 212 East Elm Street in West Frankfort.
