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The Oak Forest Fire Department believes it is important to be proactive with regard to fire safety in the community. Oak Forest firefighters routinely conduct station tours and strive to provide a comprehensive community education to the general public, especially school-aged children, regarding safety issues. Elements of the program include educational presentations on fire safety and prevention subjects as well as information booths and demonstrations at community functions, such as the Community Awareness Fair or Senior Health Fair.
Specific programs or services include:
Blood Pressure Screenings
Blood pressure screenings are conducted regularly at the Oak Forest Senior Center and at Bremen Township. Residents are welcome to walk in for blood pressure checks at either Fire Station 1 or Fire Station 2 as needed.
Car Seat Checks
Car seat installation checks are available by appointment. This allows parents or grandparents to double-check their child car seat installation and feel more confident that it will function properly in a crash.
Citizens Fire Academy
In 2006, the department initiated the Citizen's Fire Academy. Interested citizens and city officials can enroll in the eight-week program, which provides an overview of the routine training that firefighters receive.
Community Education
Department members deliver age-appropriate lessons on fire safety including fire extinguisher safety and Exit Drills in the Home (EDITH). They also conduct equipment and uniform demonstrations. In addition, schools and local community groups visit the fire station to meet firefighters
Firehouse Breakfast and Open House
The Oak Forest Fire Department Breakfast and Open House is held annually in September at Fire Station 1. Aside from offering a delicious breakfast, hands-on activities, vehicle accident extrication, and similar demonstrations are part of the day. Fire Department members are assisted by local youth organization volunteers to safely help children through all of the fire-related activities.
Juvenile Fire Setter Intervention
Specialists are available at the Oak Forest Fire Department to combat this destructive behavior. This confidential program aggressively addresses propensities to fire setting by juveniles with the goal of preventing a foreseeable tragedy. If you know of a child who is showing an unusual interest in fire, please contact the Fire Department.
Project Prom
Project Prom is an alcohol-awareness program held bi-annually at Oak Forest High School. It includes speakers and a graphic display of an accident between a car driven by an average family and teen-aged prom-goers. It is designed to help young adults realize the dangers of drinking and driving.
Well Being Checks
Fire and police personnel work together to conduct well-being checks when there is cause for concer of a loved one or neighbor.
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