Richmond Township Fire Protection District

05/05/2026

Lithium-ion batteries power many of the devices we use every day—but when they fail, they can become extremely dangerous.

🔥 Understanding “Thermal Runaway”
Thermal runaway is a chain reaction inside a lithium-ion battery that causes it to rapidly overheat, release flammable gases, and potentially ignite or explode. This can happen in seconds and is difficult to stop once it begins.

⚠️ Common Causes
• Overcharging or using the wrong charger
• Physical damage (dropping or crushing)
• Exposure to high heat
• Manufacturing defects or aging batteries

🚨 Warning Signs
• Battery or device feels unusually hot
• Swelling or bulging
• Hissing, popping, or leaking
• Smoke or a strong chemical odor

🛑 Safety Tips
• Always use manufacturer-approved chargers
• Don’t leave devices charging unattended or overnight
• Keep batteries away from extreme heat
• Stop using any device that shows signs of damage
• Store batteries in a cool, dry place

If a battery begins to smoke or catch fire, get out and call 911 immediately. These fires can spread quickly and produce toxic smoke.

Your safety is our priority—stay aware and take precautions when using lithium-ion powered devices.

05/04/2026

This is an update on an auto accident we responded to last week at Route 173 and Keystone Road. 

Firefighters spent approximately 40 minutes extricating two victims left heavily trapped and seriously injured in a truck that rolled over during a crash near Richmond Thursday morning.

04/23/2026

The south section of North Lane (near Valley Drive) will be closed through tomorrow (4/24/26) due to sewer replacement. Please plan an alternate route and we thank you for your patience as we complete this important utility work.

Please call Public Works (on-call) if you have any questions: 815-298-1934

04/22/2026

Former Richmond Township Fire Protection District's member, Charlie DeHaan, passed away on April 18, 2026. Charlie dedicated himself to serving others with courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the fire service and the community he protected.

We extend our deepest condolences to Charlie’s family, friends, and fellow firefighters during this difficult time. His dedication, sacrifice, and brotherhood will never be forgotten.

Please keep all those affected by this loss in your thoughts and prayers as we remember and celebrate Charlie’s life and legacy.

Rest easy, Charlie. 🖤🚒

04/15/2026

On Tuesday April 14, 2026 at 8:49am, the Richmond Township Fire Protection District (RTFPD) was dispatched to the reported structure fire at 6417 Keystone Rd. While enroute information was given the fire was in the attached garage to an occupied home. RTFPD units arrived at 8:58am, and found light smoke coming from the service door of the attached garage. Crews investigated and found a small fire inside the attached garage. The fire was quickly extinguished with one pre-connected hose line using tank water, searches found no victims. Overhaul and ventilation were done, and no extension beyond the interior of the garage was found or occurred. There were no injuries. The last units were released at 10:03am.

RTFPD units were assisted by Spring Grove FPD, Wonder Lake FPD, Hebron-Alden-Greenwood FPD, McHenry TWP FPD, Twin Lakes Fire & Rescue, Randall Fire, MERCY MD-1, and Fox Lake FPD providing change of quarters coverage at the RTFPD station. We also thank the McHenry County Sheriff’s department for their assistance.

The fire investigation is pending at this time.

The Richmond Township Fire Protection District reminds all residents to have working smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and to consider installing residential fire sprinklers for your home and attached garage.

04/15/2026

We have a good chance of severe weather tonight. Keep alert, have flashlights ready. If you lose power and see downed power lines do NOT approach downed wires. Call Com-Ed to report the power outage and location of wires down. We do not recommend using candles in your home during power outages, rather battery powered lanterns/lighting. If you have a medical emergency, do not drive to the firehouse, stay put and call 911. Keep alert to weather via a weather radio, local TV or radio media, or any weather app for your phone. Do not rely on the emergency weather sirens in town.

04/13/2026

Richmond Ambulance 1451 and Deputy Chief 1404 assisted at this incident. Our thoughts are with those affected. 

04/11/2026

This morning, Richmond Engine 1442 assisted at the McHenry County College Fire Academy for the classes live fire training held at Huntley Fire’s training tower. The fire department’s in McHenry County rotate their assistance of apparatus at the necessary practical courses for the academy. The live fire component is one of many for the basic firefighter certification, for the future firefighters in McHenry County and Illinois. 

04/08/2026

Richmond Township Fire Protection District is proud to participate in “Light It Up Purple” in support of Gift of Hope Organ & Tissue Donor Network 💜

Throughout the month, we’re lighting up purple to help raise awareness for organ and tissue donation, honor those who have given the gift of life, and support the many individuals and families impacted.

We encourage our community to learn more, register as a donor, and have the important conversation with your loved ones.