Urbana Fire Chief Dean Ortlieb recently spoke to the Urbana Lions Club, providing a comprehensive overview of the Urbana Fire Division and highlighting its history, structure, and essential role within the community.
Here’s what Ortlieb had to say about his fire division:
During the presentation, Chief Ortlieb explained that the department’s mission extends far beyond firefighting, focusing on emergency response, public safety, and prevention.
The Urbana Fire Department is made up of three primary divisions. The Fire Division, often referred to as “smells and bells,” is responsible for fire suppression and emergency response. The department’s response-time goal is to have water on the fire within 10 minutes, measured from the time an alarm is activated.
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) make up the second division. Chief Ortlieb summarized the mission simply: “Call and they will come get you.” EMS personnel provide emergency medical care and transportation, responding to medical emergencies throughout the community.
The third division is the Rescue Division, which handles specialized rescue operations. These include vehicle extrications and other technical rescue situations requiring advanced training and equipment.
Chief Ortlieb also discussed the department’s guiding principles, known as the “Three E’s.” The first is Economics. Funded by taxpayers, the department costs approximately 1.4 cents per taxpayer, underscoring its affordability and value to the community.
Education is the second focus, with the department offering CPR classes, free car seat installations on weekends, and public speaking and outreach programs designed to improve safety awareness.
The third “E” is Engineering, which centers on fire prevention. This includes implementing and enforcing fire codes, with the goal of reducing fire risks through proper design and planning before emergencies occur.
Chief Ortlieb emphasized that through response, education, and prevention, the Urbana Fire Department remains committed to protecting lives, property, and the overall safety of the community.
