Downers Grove Fire Department evolves to protect a growing community

By Julia Mazurek  |  Photos courtesy of Downers Grove Fire Department

Tucked inside the Downers Grove Museum sits a piece of local history: Engine 1, the fire department’s first motorized truck.  The 1920 pumper engine manufactured by the White Motor Company is a symbol of a young community investing in protecting its residents.

A single motorized truck – the 1920 pumper engine

More than 100 years later, the equipment has changed dramatically, but the mission remains the same: being there when neighbors need help.

Built by the Community

The department began entirely as volunteers – including the seven Dicke brothers who volunteered in the early 1900’s
Photo courtesy of Downers Grove Museum

Founded in 1898, the Downers Grove Fire Department has evolved from a small volunteer organization into a nationally recognized department.

Some of the department’s earliest growth was shaped by tragedy. After devastating fires at the Dicke Tool Company in the early 1900s, the seven Dicke brothers all became volunteer firefighters. Grant E. Dicke would later serve as fire chief from 1925 to 1967 and was the namesake of the village’s first permanent fire station at 1110 Warren Avenue.

The Grant E. Dicke Fire Station served as the community’s only fire station for more than 25 years.

As Downers Grove expanded, the fire department expanded along with it. Paramedic services were added in 1980.  By the 1990s, the department transitioned from a volunteer model to a fully professional force of career firefighters and paramedics.

Much of this history is chronicled at a permanent exhibit at the Downers Grove Museum. In addition to housing the original fire engine, the Montrew Dunham History Center on the museum’s campus also celebrates the history of the Downers Grove Fire Department. 

The Role of a Modern Fire Department 

Today the department serves over 50,000 residents across 14 square miles. Around-the-clock emergency response is handled by a staff of 83 from four fire stations throughout the village. 

And today’s fire department’s response encompasses much more than just fires. Last year, Downers Grove’s fire department responded to more than 8,000 calls for service. Of those, over 60% were related to emergency medical services.

This reflects an evolution in the role of firefighters. All Downers Grove firefighters are also licensed paramedics, often the first responders to arrive during critical moments in a resident’s life. All fire engines and trucks also carry advanced life support equipment that can provide the same treatments as an ambulance (except for transportation to a hospital).  

Today’s firefighters also don’t respond alone.

Through regional partnerships – Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS) and Combined Area Rescue Team (CART) – neighboring departments work together during large-scale emergencies, bringing additional equipment, specialized rescue teams, and extra personnel whenever they’re needed.

Fire Chief Scott Spinazola says the department’s focus on preparation is more important than ever. The fruits of this preparation, training, and collaborative efforts were on display this summer following severe weather that swept through the community.

“We place a strong emphasis on the health and safety of the public and our team members,” Spinazola said. “This commitment protects those we serve.” 

Recognition Follows Preparation 

Today’s DGFD has earned state and national levels of recognition.

The department’s Fire Prevention Division this year earned national accreditation as a Fire Prevention and Life Safety Department – one of only two departments nationwide to achieve this distinction.

For its excellence in cardiac and stroke emergency care, the American Heart Association awarded the department its Mission: Lifeline Gold Status, the association’s highest level of recognition.

“Every second counts during a cardiac or stroke emergency,” Spinazola added. “Our firefighters and paramedics provide exceptional care when residents need it most.”

The DGFD also boasts a prestigious ISO Class 1 rating, placing it among the top 1% of fire departments nationwide.

“Together these distinctions recognize our commitment to education, prevention, and safety practices,” added Spinazola.

Fire Safety

Downers Grove Fire Department Public Safety Event

October’s National Fire Prevention Week is a culmination of the department’s yearlong community education efforts.

“The safest emergency is the one that never happens,” Spinazola added. “Small steps can make a difference – checking your smoke alarm batteries, creating family escape plans, and practicing safe cooking habits.”   

A favorite tradition during Fire Prevention Week is the annual Night at the Firehouse event. Held at Fire Station #5, children get a chance to climb into fire trucks, meet firefighters, and families learn that safety is a shared responsibility.

Still Answering the Call

Most residents hope they never need the fire department. But behind every emergency call are decades of planning, training, and public education – work that often goes unseen until it’s needed most.

“We take great pride in serving the Village,” added Spinazola.

More than 125 years later, the promise remains: When Downers Grove calls for help, the fire department answers.

This year’s annual Night at the Firehouse event will take place on October 7.  For additional details, visit www.downers.us/fire-department.