Lake Bluff Fire and Rescue

06/21/2026

Today, we celebrate all the incredible fathers, grandfathers, stepfathers, and father figures who make a difference every day. Thank you for your guidance, strength, and unwavering support. Wishing you a very Happy Father’s Day!

06/17/2026

An update on the severe weather threat through this evening: Overall, the threat for significant severe weather (wind gusts >75 mph and strong tornadoes) has shifted farther south in the wake of this morning's storms, mainly for areas near and south of a Pontiac to Rensselaer line, with the expectation that the warm front struggles to lift much farther north than that. A severe weather threat remains across the rest of northern Illinois and northwest Indiana, however, including the potential for another round of storms this evening across northern Illinois. Have multiple ways to receive warning information today!

06/16/2026

On June 14, Squad Co. 451 responded with a crew of 5 to a swift water incident in Libertyville, where crews were tasked with searching the Des Plaines river for a reported missing kayaker. Lake Bluff firefighters assisted in shoreline operations including establishing a high-line rope system to safely access and search the area.

Working alongside our mutual aid partners, crews conducted a thorough search utilizing specialized technical rescue equipment and training. Incidents such as these demonstrate the importance of preparedness, interagency cooperation, and the advanced rescue capabilities our department brings to the community when called upon.

06/11/2026

[3:30 PM CDT - Thursday 6/11/2026]
As the first round of storms exits the area in northwest Indiana, additional storms are now moving across northern Illinois. The primary hazard with these storms will be damaging winds and lightning. The threat of significant severe weather, including the potential for tornadoes increases as we head into the early evening hours along the cold front which is approaching the Mississippi River. A Tornado Watch is in effect until 9 PM CDT. Have multiple ways to receive warning information!

06/10/2026

Hot and humid weather is expected over the next few days. Know the warning signs of heat-related illness:

Heat Exhaustion: Heavy sweating, dizziness, weakness, headache, nausea, and cool, clammy skin.

Heat Stroke: Confusion, high body temperature, hot skin, or loss of consciousness. Call 911 immediately.

Drink plenty of water.
Take breaks in air-conditioned spaces.
Check on family, friends, and neighbors who may be vulnerable to the heat.

Stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay safe!

06/09/2026

06/02/2026

Congratulations to our award recipients!

The Lake Bluff Fire Department is proud to recognize FF/PM Jim Oehlerking, along with B/C Brian Collazo and FF/EMT Dillon Stewart (not pictured), who, together with our partners from the Lake Forest Fire Department, were recently honored with Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital's Better Together Award.

This recognition highlights the importance of teamwork and collaboration in emergency services. Through their professionalism, dedication, and coordinated efforts, these first responders provided exceptional care to a patient during a critical medical emergency.

We are grateful for the strong partnership between our departments and proud of the commitment these individuals demonstrate every day in service to our communities.

Please join us in congratulating them on this well-deserved honor!

06/02/2026

Celebrating Our Firefighters!

This June, we’re proud to recognize the incredible service and dedication of our firefighters:

A/C Steve Willard – 49 years of service
B/C Brandon Collazo – 14 years of service
B/C Brian Collazo – 14 years of service

Your loyalty, commitment, and daily efforts to protect our community leave a lasting impact. Thank you for all that you do!

05/29/2026

A Warm Day Can Turn Dangerous Fast

Did you know that the temperature inside a parked vehicle can rise dramatically in just minutes. Never leave children, pets, or vulnerable adults unattended in a vehicle. A quick stop isn’t worth the risk.

If you see a child or pet left alone in a hot car, call 911 immediately.

05/25/2026