Lostant Illinois Fire Protection District

03/25/2026

The combination of southwesterly winds gusting up to 30 mph and very dry conditions with minimum relative humidity values falling into the 15 to 25 percent range will lead to an elevated fire danger this afternoon. Limit outdoor activities that involve open flames or sparks, including operating farm equipment, parking on grass, and improperly discarding smoking materials.

03/14/2026

03/10/2026

The weather today is doing its usual Midwest thing… warm and nice one minute, storms the next.

Forecast is calling for strong thunderstorms moving through later today with the potential for heavy rain, strong winds, and suprise suprise, possibly some seriously severe weather.

This is also the time of year when a few folks look outside, see the wind picking up and the clouds getting dark, and decide that would be the perfect moment to burn brush or start a fire. Just a reminder… today would not be that day.

Secure loose items around your yard and keep an eye on the weather this afternoon and evening. Even though it’s nice and warm now, mother nature may relocate that patio table and chairs to your neighbors later tonight.

Spring in Illinois… where you can experience all four seasons in about 12 hours.

Stay safe and stay weather aware.

03/07/2026

One week away from this wonderful sight at our annual Lostant Fire Department Drawdown.

We only have a very small handful of tickets left, so if you’ve been planning on coming but haven’t gotten one yet, now’s the time.

Tickets are $60 and include a guest
Lostant Fire Station
Doors open at 5:00 PM

We’ve got some outstanding drawdown prizes this year along with some big tip board prizes, great food, and a good night supporting your local fire department.

If you still want a ticket, reach out here. Venmo the Lostant Fire Department page and we’ll get you taken care of.

Thanks to everyone who continues to support the department. We appreciate it.

02/27/2026

Update- Burn ban has been lifted

RED FLAG WARNING – BURN BAN STILL IN EFFECT

In case anyone was wondering… today is NOT the day to test your luck with a burn pile.

We are under a Red Flag Warning. That means:
• Extremely dry conditions
• Strong winds
• Fires spread fast

The Burn Ban remains in effect. There is no “it’s just a small pile” exception. There is no “I’ll watch it closely” clause. When it’s this dry and this windy, small fires don’t stay small.

We’ve already seen how quickly things can get out of hand in these conditions. Let’s not repeat that lesson.

Please hold off on burning until conditions improve and the ban is officially lifted. We’d much rather spend the day at the station than chasing field fires across the township.

Help us out. Use common sense.

02/16/2026

BURN BAN IN EFFECT

Due to extremely dry conditions and today’s high winds, the Lostant Fire Protection District is issuing an immediate burn ban until further notice.

Earlier today, crews responded to a field fire that spread rapidly and proved difficult to control because of the dry ground cover and wind conditions. Thankfully, no injuries were reported — but conditions remain favorable for rapid fire spread

Effective immediately:
• No open burning
• No brush piles
• No agricultural burning

Even small fires can quickly become uncontrollable in these conditions.

We are asking for everyone’s cooperation to help keep our community, farmland, and firefighters safe. We will notify the public when conditions improve and the ban is lifted.

Thank you for your understanding and support.

— Lostant Fire Protection District
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01/10/2026

FIRST DAY OF EMR-TO-EMT BRIDGE CLASS

Today marks the first day of our EMR-to-EMT Bridge Course, and we’re proud to see committed EMRs taking the next step in their training and service. This course strengthens not only individual responders, but the entire emergency-response system serving our local communities.

Volunteer fire departments and ambulance services across our area rely heavily on EMTs, and advancing EMRs into EMT roles helps ensure faster response times, stronger crews, and better patient care when it matters most. Today we are excited to bring additional personnel to Tonica, Leonore, Reading, Streator, Grandridge and Granville Hennepin.

This class is a great reminder that volunteer fire and EMS agencies are always looking for dedicated individuals willing to serve. Whether you’re interested in EMS, fire, or a combination of both, opportunities and training are available right here locally.

Training is provided.
Opportunities to advance your certification are available.
Serve the community you live in.

If you’re interested in becoming an EMR, advancing to EMT, or joining your local department, reach out to a nearby fire department or ambulance service to learn more.

12/25/2025

As I reflect on this past year, I want to take a moment to express my sincere appreciation to everyone who makes this fire department what it is.

First and foremost, I would like to thank my officers. Your leadership, commitment, and countless hours behind the scenes keep this department running day in and day out. The responsibility you carry, often quietly and without recognition, does not go unnoticed. Your dedication to our members and to this community is truly appreciated.

To all of our firefighters, EMS personnel, and members — thank you for your service throughout the year. You have sacrificed time away from your families, missed holidays and personal events, and answered the call whenever the tones dropped. Your willingness to serve others is what defines this department, and we are incredibly proud of each of you.

We would also like to thank the public for the continued support you show our department. Whether through attending fundraisers, offering encouragement, or placing your trust in us during an emergency, your support means more than you know.

As we celebrate Christmas and spend time with loved ones, we also want to remind everyone that the need for volunteers never stops. Our department relies on community members who are willing to step up and serve. If you have ever considered becoming a volunteer firefighter or EMT, we encourage you to reach out and learn more. No experience is necessary — just a desire to help and serve your community. We have a spot for everyone.

From the Fire Chief and the Fire Protection District Board of Trustees, we wish everyone a very Merry Christmas, a safe holiday season, and a happy New Year. Thank you to our members and our community for another year of dedication and support.

11/21/2025

Parents should all take note.

11/14/2025

Tonight, one of our neighboring departments is hosting their main fundraiser. Please consider stopping by, grabbing a bite, playing cards, and showing your support for the firefighters who support the surrounding community year-round!

Leonore Volunteer Fire Department