Ogle-Lee Fire Protection District

03/31/2026

A donation of $6,250 from CHS to our Steward station has allowed us to obtain necessary tools and equipment, and we appreciate this generous gift.

03/17/2026

Every year the OLFPD gives an award to spotlight an individual whose contribution to the District went above and beyond. The Pat Kasmar Award is named in honor Board Member Rick Kasmar’s Mom. The award reads….In appreciation for exceptional hard work for the protection of the community in the Rochelle Fire Department and Ogle-Lee area. On Saturday, March 14th, 2026, our own Tyler Carls won this award!

TC joined Ogle Lee Fire Protection District in Flagg Center and the Rochelle Fire Department as a Paid-On-Call member in April of 2009. He became a full-time firefighter with Rochelle in July of 2012. He was promoted to Captain with Ogle Lee in Nov. 2018. Most recently, he was promoted to Lieutenant of Gold Shift on January 6, 2025.

Throughout his career, TC has been tireless in his efforts to build and strengthen our training program, always pushing to ensure our department has the very best opportunities to learn and grow. His dedication and vision have played a major role in bringing our Training Center dreams to fruition, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who serves here.

We couldn’t be prouder of him. This award is well-earned, and he is truly deserving of this recognition.

03/17/2026

One of the highlights of the Fireman’s Ball each year is recognizing the dedication of our members through years of service pins. This year, on March 14th, we were proud to honor five individuals whose commitment and service help make our department what it is today. Thank you for everything you do—your dedication does not go unnoticed.

This year’s honorees included:

FF Matt Moore (Steward) – 10 years

FF Matt Bolhous (Flagg Center) – 20 years (not pictured)

FF Dale Lippold (Flagg Center) – 25 years

FF Gary Morgan (Steward) – 35 years

Chief Galen Cardott (Steward) – 35 years

02/27/2026

The Rochelle Fire Department Social Organization will host its 103rd annual Fireman’s Ball on Saturday, March 14, at the hangar at Flight Deck Bar & Grill in Rochelle.

11/30/2025

🎄
Each year, 860 home fires are caused by holiday decorations, and another 210 home fires are started by Christmas trees.

As you deck the halls this season, keep your home safe with these tips:
✨ Inspect lights for damaged cords or loose bulbs
✨ Keep trees and décor away from heat sources
✨ Water live trees daily
✨ Turn off all lights before leaving home or going to bed

Stay safe and enjoy a bright, fire-safe holiday season! 🔥🏠

08/23/2025

On Saturday, August 23, 2025, the Rochelle Police and Fire Departments, together with local, state, and federal partners, will take part in a training exercise at the Kinder Morgan facility located at 100 East Standard Oil Road.

The exercise will simulate a large gasoline tank fire. You may see emergency vehicles, equipment, and even simulated smoke in the area during the day. Please know this is only a training exercise — there is no danger to the public.

This training helps our police, fire, and partner agencies practice working together, improve emergency response, and ensure that our community is prepared for real emergencies.

The exercise will run from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Saturday, August 23, 2025.

We thank our residents and businesses for their patience and support as we continue working to keep Rochelle and the surrounding communities safe.

06/17/2025

06/11/2025

On June 10th, during the Ogle-Lee Fire Protection District Board meeting, Firefighter/EMT-B Anita Byrd was officially promoted to Lieutenant! Anita has been a dedicated member of the district for 17 years, serving out of the Hillcrest station. She also leads as the District EMS Coordinator, playing a vital role in our emergency medical services.

We are so proud of her leadership, experience, and commitment to the community.
Way to go, Lt. Byrd!

05/24/2025

Congratulations to our very own, Jack Tarvestad. Jack is a Firefighter Cadet with Steward Station.

We are proud of you and all your classmates!

05/17/2025

Today five members of the Ogle-Lee Fire Protection District and one from Rochelle Fire Department graduated from IFSI BOF academy in Cherry Valley, IL.

Congratulations to our members! We are proud of each of you for what you do to provide for our communities!

Flagg Center - Kris Lowery
Steward - Matt Moore, Tyler Echelbarger
Creston - Dani Ward
Hillcrest - Ronaldo Cruz
Rochelle - Noah Simmons