The *Chicago Tribune* recently published an article discussing a controversial requirement for becoming a firefighter in Des Plaines. Specifically, the piece highlights a push by Alderman James Brookman to eliminate the current rule that requires applicants to hold a valid paramedic license from either the Illinois Department of Public Health or the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians.
Brookman, who previously served as a firefighter, introduced the issue during a recent council meeting, expressing his concerns about how this rule limits the pool of potential candidates. He argued that the city should focus on hiring the most qualified individuals and then providing them with the necessary training, rather than restricting the process to those already licensed as paramedics. “We should hire the best people we can find and then train them,†he stated.
However, Fire Chief Alan Wax raised concerns about the financial implications of this approach. Training a non-paramedic firefighter can cost approximately $60,000 per person, according to Wax. He also noted that the requirement was implemented in 2006 by the Des Plaines Board of Fire and Police Commissioners, and before that, paramedic license holders received preference points during the hiring process.
Despite this, Wax pointed out that state law allows municipalities to require a paramedic license before taking the written exam. Many candidates, he said, are aware of the advantage it provides and are actively pursuing the credential. Still, Brookman believes that excluding non-paramedic candidates could prevent the department from tapping into a broader talent pool—individuals with diverse skills that might be valuable in other areas.
John Swan, president of the Illinois Firefighters Association, noted that Des Plaines’ requirement is not uncommon in the state. Many cities have adopted similar policies because they believe it saves money in the long run. If a firefighter without a license leaves after being trained, the city loses both time and resources. Additionally, if the candidate fails to obtain the license, the department would face even more losses.
While some support the current policy, others, like Alderman Patricia Haugeberg, have expressed interest in revisiting the decision. She urged the board of fire and police commissioners to gather more information before making a final determination. Commissioner Debra Lester also emphasized that the issue is complex and doesn’t have a straightforward answer.
As a result of the ongoing debate, the next scheduled written firefighter exam, originally set for mid-September, has been postponed. The situation remains under review, and the outcome could significantly impact the future of firefighter recruitment in Des Plaines.
Thanks, Dan.
Semi-automatic Stretch Blow Muoulding Machine
King Whale Machinery Group J.S , https://www.baitextile.com