Pontiac Firefighters Local #3239

05/12/2026

04/27/2026

04/26/2026

Pontiac Fire Department – Project Fire Buddies Pontiac Chapter Honors Aryka Dyck at PTHS Softball Tournament

Members of Pontiac Project Fire Buddies were proud to be at the Varsity Pontiac Township High School Softball Round Robin Tournament today, where Aryka Dyck was recognized in a special way. Aryka, along with her cousin Regan Krause, a former PTHS standout and Stanford University pitcher, threw out the first pitch to open the tournament.

PTHS Varsity Softball honored Aryka throughout the day by raising funds for St. Jude Hospital, where she was treated during her battle with cancer. The support shown by teammates, family, and fans was strong all day.

We’re proud of Aryka and the courage and strength she continues to show. We’re also proud of the PTHS softball program, her family, and everyone who came together in support of Aryka, and Project Fire Buddies during their journey.

A great example of what community and unity look like.

04/17/2026

04/05/2026

Pontiac Fire Department Press Release

On Easter, the Pontiac Fire Department was dispatched at 4:25 PM to a reported structure fire at 121 St. James Place in Pontiac involving a row of residential homes. Upon arrival, crews were met with heavy smoke and fire conditions that posed a significant threat of rapid extension to multiple connected residences due to the building’s construction.

Lieutenant Michael R. Jahn, a 19-year veteran serving as Squad 66’s company officer, quickly recognized the severity of the situation and the high potential for the fire to spread throughout the row of homes. Demonstrating exceptional leadership and situational awareness, Lt. Jahn made the critical decision to act aggressively in the early stages of the incident.

While his company deployed a hoseline for fire attack, Lt. Jahn advanced into the structure under heavy smoke conditions equipped with a water pump can. He made his way to the kitchen, identified as the area of origin, and successfully kept the fire in check until the hoseline crew could advance and fully extinguish it.

Due to Lt. Jahn’s experience, decisive actions, and aggressive interior attack, the fire was contained to the kitchen of the affected residence, preventing extension and saving multiple adjoining homes from significant damage.

Fire Chief Jacob Campbell would like to publicly commend Lt. Jahn for his outstanding efforts on Easter. His ability to read fire conditions, understand building construction, and act swiftly exemplifies the professionalism and dedication of the Pontiac Fire Department.

The Pontiac Fire Department would also like to thank all on-duty and responding personnel for their efforts on the fireground. Their teamwork, coordination, and commitment were critical to the successful outcome of this incident. We extend our appreciation to the Pontiac Police Department, VCOM Dispatch, and our auto aid partners from Cullom, Fairbury, and Saunemin Fire Departments for providing coverage for the City of Pontiac during the incident. Their support ensured continued protection for our community while crews operated at the scene.

The Pontiac Fire Department is proud to recognize Lt. Jahn’s commitment to protecting the community and his fellow firefighters.

12/04/2025

✨ **Meet Fire Buddy Aryka!** ✨ The newest Fire Buddy from Pontiac, IL!

Aryka is a brave and bright young warrior who is currently undergoing treatment for mesenchymal chondrosarcoma. Aryka is receiving care at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and because she’ll be homeschooled for the remainder of the year, our Pontiac Fire Buddies team stepped in to help make her learning—and her days—a little easier.

📚 **To support her homeschooling** we surprised Aryka with a brand-new **Apple iPad Pro** along with other essentials to help her stay on track and connected.

🎮 **But it’s not all homework!** The Pontiac chapter also made sure Aryka has plenty of fun during her radiation and chemotherapy treatments by gifting her a collection of games to keep her entertained and smiling.

🚒 She received a special **VIP tour of Squad 66** where she learned all about the equipment and tools on the fire truck. The excitement on her face said it all!

🙏 As Aryka and her family continue this challenging journey, we ask our community to keep them in your thoughts and prayers. Their strength is inspiring, and your support means more than words can say.

❤️ **We’re with you, Aryka. Your Fire Buddies—and your entire community—are cheering you on every step of the way.**



Pontiac Firefighters Local #3239

10/30/2025

🚒🔥 Pontiac Firefighters Local 3239 Apparel Sale! 🔥🚒

Show your support for your local firefighters with our brand-new Squad 66 shirts and hoodies!

👕 T-shirts: $25
🧥 Hoodies: $35
Available in adult and youth sizes!

These make the perfect Christmas gifts for family, friends, and anyone who loves supporting their local heroes. 🎁❤️

Stop by the firehouse or reach out to any member of Pontiac Firefighters Local 3239 to get yours before they’re gone!

10/06/2025

🎯🍺 Bags & Brews is almost here! 🍺🎯

The 19th is fast approaching, and we can’t wait to see everyone at Emancipation Brewing Co. for a great day of fun, friends, and fundraising!

👉 Not signing up for the tournament? No problem, just come out, hang out, and enjoy the day with us! There will be live music, a silent auction, and 50/50s!

There will be good brews, great company, and plenty of bags flying!

📅 Sunday, October 19th –open at 11:00 AM Bags flying at 12:00 PM
📍 Emancipation Brewing Co.
13113 N 2500 E Rd, Fairbury, IL

Come support your Pontiac Firefighters Local 3239 and Project Fire Buddies while enjoying the Brewing Buddies Brigade Firehouse Lager 🍻

Let’s make this a day to remember — see you there! 🔥