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5 Critical Upgrades & New Programs Elevating The City Of Evanston Fire Department In 2025

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The City of Evanston Fire Department (EFD) is currently undergoing a significant transformation, solidifying its commitment to public safety with major equipment upgrades, pioneering career development initiatives, and strategic leadership promotions. As of late 2025, the department, which operates 24 hours a day, is not just maintaining its high standards but actively enhancing its capabilities to protect life, property, and the environment across Evanston, Illinois.

This deep dive explores the freshest updates, from the unveiling of a distinctly-colored new fire engine to a groundbreaking apprenticeship program that is setting a new standard for firefighter recruitment and training in the state.

The EFD Command Structure and Key Personnel

The Evanston Fire Department is led by an experienced command staff dedicated to operational excellence, emergency management, and community engagement. Understanding the hierarchy provides insight into the strategic direction of the department's public safety mission.

  • Fire Chief: Paul Polep (Email: ppolep@cityofevanston.org). Chief Polep leads the department's overall strategy, operations, and community outreach.
  • Deputy Chief: Matthew Smith. Smith was recently promoted from Division Chief to Deputy Chief, a move that reinforces the department's top-tier leadership.
  • Deputy Chief: Bill Muno.
  • Division Chief (Emergency Management/): Kim Kull. Chief Kull oversees critical areas like Emergency Management, ensuring the city is prepared for large-scale incidents.

The EFD operates out of five strategically located fire stations throughout Evanston, ensuring rapid response times for fire suppression, emergency medical services, and specialized rescue incidents. The department's commitment to Advanced Life Support (ALS) capabilities on all its rigs means that life-saving emergency medical services are delivered quickly and efficiently.

Major Equipment and Infrastructure Upgrades: A New Era of Readiness

In a clear demonstration of the City of Evanston's investment in public safety, the Fire Department has recently rolled out state-of-the-art equipment, significantly boosting its operational capacity and reliability.

1. The "Northwestern Purple" Pierce Enforcer Pumper

One of the most visually striking and functionally important updates is the unveiling of a brand-new Pierce Enforcer Pumper. This significant acquisition replaces an older 2003 truck, marking a substantial upgrade in technology and performance for the department.

The new engine is notable not only for its enhanced capabilities but also for its distinctive color—a nod to the city's deep connection with Northwestern University, featuring the university’s signature purple. This new pumper is essential for frontline fire attack and water delivery operations, ensuring firefighters have the most reliable tools at their disposal to combat structural fires and other emergencies.

2. The New Tower 22 Aerial Apparatus

In addition to the pumper, members of Evanston Fire Fighters Local 742 are now operating the newest Tower 22. This aerial apparatus is a critical component of the department's fleet, providing elevated access for rescue operations, ventilation, and high-angle firefighting. Modern aerials like Tower 22 offer improved reach, stability, and safety features, which are vital for a city with a mix of residential and taller commercial and university buildings.

Pioneering Career Pathways: The EFD Apprenticeship Program

The Evanston Fire Department is taking a proactive approach to addressing the future needs of the fire service through innovative recruitment and training programs. This focus on pipeline development is perhaps the most forward-thinking initiative currently underway.

3. Launch of the Public Service Apprenticeship Program

In collaboration with Oakton Community College, the EFD has established its first public service apprenticeship program. This initiative is designed to provide a structured, hands-on pathway for individuals seeking a career in the fire service. The program is a direct response to the need for diverse and highly-trained personnel, offering participants a clear route from training to full-time employment as professional firefighters.

This model is becoming increasingly important as a method for workforce development. It allows the EFD to mold future firefighters with the specific skills and community-focused mindset required in Evanston. Furthermore, this local initiative aligns with broader legislative efforts in Illinois, where a new bill was signed to further support firefighter apprenticeship programs, providing more individuals with a viable pathway to fire service careers statewide. The Public Safety Civil Service Commission plays a vital role in certifying candidates for these entry-level positions, ensuring a rigorous and fair selection process.

Community Engagement and Preparedness Initiatives

Beyond emergency response, the EFD places a strong emphasis on prevention, education, and community preparedness. These initiatives are crucial for minimizing risk and ensuring residents know how to react when an emergency strikes.

4. Emergency Preparedness Fairs

The department regularly hosts community-focused events, such as the Emergency Preparedness Fair, often held at key locations like the Robert Crown Community Center. These fairs are designed to educate residents on how to prepare for various emergencies, from severe weather to house fires. Topics covered typically include creating emergency kits, developing family communication plans, and understanding local evacuation routes.

These events underscore the EFD’s philosophy: the most effective emergency response begins with a well-informed and prepared citizenry. The department encourages residents to utilize Evanston 311 (847-448-4311) for non-emergency questions or to be redirected to the appropriate Fire Department personnel.

5. Advanced Life Support (ALS) Commitment

While not a "new" initiative, the EFD's continuous commitment to maintaining Advanced Life Support capabilities across all its fire apparatus is a cornerstone of its service. This means that every fire rig is equipped not just for fire suppression but also for high-level medical emergencies, often arriving on the scene of a medical call before a dedicated ambulance. This dual-role capability ensures that Evanston residents receive immediate, critical medical intervention, significantly improving patient outcomes in cardiac arrest, trauma, and other life-threatening situations.

In conclusion, the City of Evanston Fire Department is positioning itself as a leader in municipal fire service. Through strategic investment in modern equipment like the Pierce Enforcer Pumper and Tower 22, the innovative Public Service Apprenticeship Program, and sustained commitment to community preparedness and ALS services, the EFD is continually enhancing the safety and well-being of the Evanston community. The promotion of leaders like Deputy Chief Matthew Smith ensures the department has the strategic vision to guide these advancements into the future.

5 Critical Upgrades & New Programs Elevating the City of Evanston Fire Department in 2025
city of evanston fire department
city of evanston fire department

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