Cary Fire Protection District

04/09/2026

We’re glad to see this recognition shared by the Woodstock Fire/Rescue District.

Alex Vucha, who supports the Cary Fire Protection District, has earned the Public Information Officer designation through the Center for Public Safety Excellence, becoming one of only 86 worldwide and the first in Illinois.

This level of professional development helps strengthen how we communicate with and serve the Cary community.

The Commission on Professional Credentialing has awarded Public Information Officer designation to Alex Vucha through the Center for Public Safety Excellence.

Alex is now one of only 86 credentialed PIOs worldwide and the first in the State of Illinois to achieve this designation.

This milestone reflects the continued growth of the PIO program and a commitment to providing clear, consistent, and reliable communication to the communities we serve.

04/07/2026

Give back in a way that truly matters 🩸 The Cary Fire Protection District and Cary Police Department are hosting a community blood drive on Friday, April 17, from 9:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. at 400 Cary Algonquin Road.

New donors are especially needed, and every donation has the potential to save lives. Appointments can be made by calling Vitalant at 877.258.4825, visiting Vitalant.org using code ORD0CG40, or scanning the QR code on the flyer. Plan ahead by eating well, staying hydrated, and bringing a valid ID. Sign up today and be part of something that makes a real impact.

04/02/2026

It’s never a bad idea to plan ahead, especially with the potential for damaging winds, large hail, and isolated tornadoes this evening.

If you receive an emergency alert, take a moment to read it, identify your location, and move to a safe place right away. Head indoors, stay away from windows, and continue to monitor updated information as conditions change.

03/31/2026

NEVER FORGOTTEN: March 31, 1953 Cary Fire Department, IL
Firefighter Milton Neeley. On March, 28, 1953, the Cary Fire Protection District responded to a report of a fire behind Peters Bakery on West Main Street. The fire station at the time was located in the old Village Hall on Rt. 14. Milton Neeley was a volunteer firefighter and he worked at a local tavern about one block from the firehouse. The driver of the responding fire engine did not see FF Neeley jump onto the passenger side sideboard as the engine was rolling out the door. When they arrived at the fire, the engine entered through an alley. The building on the right side of the engine had an abutment that stuck out about two feet more than the width of the rest of the building. It was a tight squeeze and because the driver did not know that FF Neeley was riding on the passenger sideboard, he was crushed between the engine and the abutment on the brick wall. FF Neeley’s injuries were fatal, but he was conscious at the scene. A passing woman even helped him smoke a cigarette until the ambulance arrived. FF Neeley suffered a crushed pelvis, among other injuries. He was taken to Sherman Hospital in Elgin, Ill.

03/31/2026

The Cary Fire Protection District proudly hosted its 31st Annual Seniors Fire Safety Presentation, continuing a long-standing tradition of connecting with our senior community in a fun and meaningful way!

In partnership with the Cary Park District, dozens of seniors gathered to enjoy a great meal of corned beef and cabbage, share plenty of laughter, and take part in engaging conversations focused on fire prevention and safety. It was a great afternoon filled with good food, great company, and valuable information that helps keep our community safe.

03/20/2026

As we move into spring, it is a good time to take care of routine home maintenance, including cleaning your dryer vent. Lint buildup in the vent system can restrict airflow and create a fire hazard over time.

In addition to cleaning the lint trap after every load, make sure the vent and exhaust duct are clear of buildup. If your clothes are taking longer than usual to dry, it may be a sign the vent needs attention.

03/16/2026

Be prepared for a messy Monday morning commute. Rain that has been falling across the Cary area throughout the day is expected to transition into a winter mix this evening, with a Blizzard Warning in effect from 10:00 p.m. tonight through 1:00 p.m. Monday.

As temperatures drop overnight, 3 to 5 inches of snow and wind gusts up to 45 mph may lead to blowing snow, reduced visibility, and slick roads.

Drivers should plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions on area roadways.

03/13/2026

The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Warning from 1:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Friday, with west winds of 30 to 35 mph and gusts up to 60 mph possible across the area. These strong winds may bring down tree limbs and power lines, which could lead to scattered power outages and difficult travel, especially for high profile vehicles.

Very windy conditions are expected tonight into Friday with wind gusts 50 to 60 mph expected. A powerful storm system will bring periods of rain and a chance of thunderstorms on Sunday. Some of these storms may be strong. A cold front will move across the area Sunday night bringing much colder temperatures, strong northwest winds and snow back to the area. While it's too early for snowfall amounts, some snow accumulation along with blowing snow is possible Sunday night into Monday.

03/09/2026

Severe storms are possible across northern Illinois Tuesday afternoon and into the overnight hours, with the potential for damaging winds, large hail, and tornadoes. As we enter severe weather season, residents are encouraged to monitor the forecast and ensure they have multiple ways to receive weather alerts.

If a tornado warning is issued, seek shelter immediately in a basement or an interior room on the lowest level of your home, away from windows.

02/25/2026

This morning around 11:30 a.m., crews responded to a reported deck fire in the 200 block of Moders Avenue in Cary. Firefighters arrived to find fire showing from the roofline of an attached enclosed rear deck and quickly brought the fire under control. An initial search confirmed the sole occupant had exited safely and was not injured.

The fire was contained to the deck roof area and did not extend into the main portion of the home, allowing the residence to remain habitable. The roadway was closed for approximately one hour while crews operated on scene. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

02/25/2026

The Cary Fire Protection District recently recognized several members and a community resident for their roles in a January water rescue on Lake Killarney.

The Milton A. Neeley Lifesaving Award was presented to Firefighter/EMT Ben Delatorre, Firefighter/EMT Cody Delatorre, and Firefighter/EMT Kyler Ochab for their direct roles in rescuing two individuals who had fallen through the ice. Their coordinated actions and willingness to place themselves in harm’s way were instrumental in saving lives and bringing the incident to a successful outcome.

The Cary Fire Protection District Unit Citation was awarded to NERCOM Telecommunicators Penelope Wegner, Bridgette Veronese, Tracy McNamara, and Grant Havens, along with Lt. Steve Nelson and Lt. Peter Penkava, for their critical roles in coordinating and supporting the incident.

The Community Service Award was presented to Steven Willis for his courageous actions in attempting a rescue before crews arrived and for continuing to assist responders once he was safe.

We commend everyone involved for their professionalism, teamwork, and dedication to protecting others. Their actions during this incident reflect the highest standards of service and the level of care and commitment our community expects and deserves.

02/13/2026

A big thank you to Sammie and Reese from Cary-Grove High School’s National Honor Society for stopping by Station 2 with cookies. The crew really appreciated the thoughtful surprise!