Tim Isaac's indigestion had caused heartburn that wouldn’t go away. It was Valentine’s Day and he had stopped to eat in Rock Falls with his wife and sister-in-law on their way to Clinton, Iowa. Soon, he would be slumped over the wheel of the moving car he was driving.
In addition to supporting co-workers, many other personality traits are needed for a career in EMS. Among them are problem solving, flexibility, adaptability, compassion, empathy and teamwork.
One local fire district offers help after traumatic calls.
Dustin Dahlstrom, a 12-year member of the department, officially became Dixon Rural's chief Jan. 16. Ken Wolf became Rock Falls fire chief Feb. 1.
OSF Life Flight, in business in Illinois since 1984, makes more than 1,800 flights a year. It has made more than 10 from the area since opening locally.
Brinkley joined the department on Feb. 27, 2017. She will retire June 12 after seven years of service as a community service dog.
Two Dixon city firefighters are going the extra mile to protect their community and build up the next generation of firefighters by teaching classes at the Illinois Fire Service Institute.
The Rock Falls Police Department is working to educate area residents on the realities of policing through its Citizen Police Academy and Law Enforcement Explorer Post No. 626.
Alexis Echebarria loves her work, doesn’t seek recognition for her job as the first point of contact during an emergency.