On May 6, 2021, the Village of Skokie celebrates the Fire Department’s 140th birthday. After a bucket brigade was unable to extinguish a fire in the Iserman family home, the community of what was then Niles Centre recognized the need for improved fire protection. On May 6, 1881, residents assembled and officially formed the Niles Centre Volunteer Fire Company.
As Niles Centre grew and eventually became the Village of Skokie, so too has the Skokie Fire Department evolved. From a dedicated group of volunteers focused on fire extinguishment with a hand pumper, hose cart, and horse-drawn ladder wagon to a professional fire department providing emergency medical, fire prevention, fire suppression, and a wide range of community services. The Fire Department has grown from a single firehouse to three fire stations, three ambulances, three engines, two trucks, one rescue vehicle, one squad and a Battalion Chief vehicle. A total of 28 Skokie Fire Department members, including officers, firefighters and paramedics, and always on duty to serve the public.
One thing that has not changed over the 140 years is the organization’s commitment to service. Happy Birthday Skokie Fire!
See more information about the Skokie Fire Department's rich 140-year history.
