FAQ & Safety Tips
FAQs
You can call the Ilinois EPA at the following number: 847-294-4000.
You can go to their website at:
http://www.epa.state.il.us/land/hazardous-waste/household-haz-waste
There is a long - term collection facility located in: Naperville, IL.
The address is: 156 Fort Hill Dr.
Their phone number is: 630-420-6095.
If you have any questions regarding the disposal of medications, and/or needles, please contact:
EMS Bureau Chief James Jaeger at the following email address: jjaeger@oaklawn-il.gov.
If you would like more information about Car Seat Installation Education and/or Training, please contact:
EMS Bureau Chief James Jaeger at the following email address: jjaeger@oaklawn-il.gov.
You can request medical records or billing records by contacting: Assistant to the Fire Chief
Lisa Comiskey at the following email address: lcomiskey@oaklawn-il.gov.
If you have specific billing questions, please contact:
Andres Medical Billing at the following phone number: (847) -305-5277.
If you would like more information on becoming a Firefighter at the Oak Lawn Fire Department, please contact:
Fire and Police Commissioner Karen Borgman at the following email address:
kborgman@oaklawn-il.gov.
Please click on the words "Key Box" (In Blue - Below).
This will take you to a step-by-step guide on ordering a Key Box.
If you need additional information or have any questions, please contact:
Fire Prevention Bureau Chief David Wheeler at the following email address:
oaklawnfp@oaklawn-il.gov.
Key Box
Fire Prevention Bureau Chief David Wheeler at the following email address:
oaklawnfp@oaklawn-il.gov.
For information about CPR classes or First Aid, please contact:
EMS Bureau Chief James Jaeger at the following email address: jjeager@oaklawn-il.gov.
EMS Bureau Chief James Jaeger at the following email address: jjeager@oaklawn-il.gov.
Yes, for a reasonable fee, area Fire Departments can use the training tower, forcible entry simulator, and the search trainer. For information about the use of the facilities, please contact: Chief of Operations Michael McMillin at the following email address: mmcmillin@oaklawn-il.gov.
You can call the Ilinois EPA at the following number: 847-294-4000.
You can go to their website at:
http://www.epa.state.il.us/land/hazardous-waste/household-haz-waste
There is a long - term collection facility located in: Naperville, IL.
The address is: 156 Fort Hill Dr.
Their phone number is: 630-420-6095.
If you have any questions regarding the disposal of medications, and/or needles, please contact:
EMS Bureau Chief James Jaeger at the following email address: jjaeger@oaklawn-il.gov.
If you would like more information about Car Seat Installation Education and/or Training, please contact:
EMS Bureau Chief James Jaeger at the following email address: jjaeger@oaklawn-il.gov.
You can request medical records or billing records by contacting: Assistant to the Fire Chief
Lisa Comiskey at the following email address: lcomiskey@oaklawn-il.gov.
If you have specific billing questions, please contact:
Andres Medical Billing at the following phone number: (847) -305-5277.
If you would like more information on becoming a Firefighter at the Oak Lawn Fire Department, please contact:
Fire and Police Commissioner Karen Borgman at the following email address:
kborgman@oaklawn-il.gov.
Please click on the words "Key Box" (In Blue - Below).
This will take you to a step-by-step guide on ordering a Key Box.
If you need additional information or have any questions, please contact:
Fire Prevention Bureau Chief David Wheeler at the following email address:
oaklawnfp@oaklawn-il.gov.
Key Box
The following are the minimum requirements for recreational bonfires and/or campfires per the Village of Oak Lawn Codes and Ordinances and the International Fire Code:
- Fuel for the bonfire shall consist only of seasoned dry firewood or other wood products. The fire may be ignited using a small quantity of paper, however the burning of any other type of material(s) is prohibited.
- The location of the bonfire shall be a minimum of 50 feet from any building or structure. If the bonfire is conducted at either the Wolfe Wildlife Refuge or Lawn Manor Park, the bonfire shall be contained within the existing “burn pit” at all times.
- The bonfire shall not be larger than 3 feet or less in diameter by 2 feet in or less in height and shall not burn for longer than 4 hours unless approved by the Oak Lawn Fire Department. There shall be no open burning between the hours of 11:00P.M. And 7:00 A.M...
- At least one garden hose attached to a positive water supply shall be provided for fire protection and extinguishment. If not available, a minimum of one portable fire extinguisher with a 4-A rating or two portable fire extinguishers with a 2-A rating each, shall be provided.
- The use of any other type of extinguishing method must be approved by the Oak Lawn Fire Prevention Bureau at least 48 hours prior to the event.
- If wind conditions are or become unfavorable (24 mph or higher) all outside burning activities shall be postponed.
- A minimum of two adult chaperones (minimum 21 years of age) shall be on-site at all times burning is in progress. At least one chaperone shall have access to a telephone in case of an emergency.
Oak Lawn Emergency Dispatch: Police, Fire, Ambulance
Emergency: 9-1-1 Non-emergency: 708-499-7721
- All fires shall be properly extinguished upon completion of the event. A 30-minute fire watch shall be provided after the event to assure complete extinguishment.
- Proper extinguishment of all recreational fires is the responsibility of the permit holder.The Oak Lawn Fire Department will respond for emergencies only.
Fire Prevention Bureau Chief David Wheeler at the following email address:
oaklawnfp@oaklawn-il.gov.
Open Burning and Recreational Fires
Open burning is the burning of materials wherein products of combustion are emitted directly into the ambient air without passing through a stack or chimney from an enclosed chamber. Open burning does not include highway safety flares, smudge pots, open flames for heating tar or other construction material or for welding, acetylene torches and similar devices associated with safety or occupational uses.
All open burning and recreational fires (bonfires) shall be prohibited, with the following exceptions:
- Small controlled fires and recreational fires (bonfires) provided permits have been obtained from all appropriate state and local governmental agencies including, but not limited to, Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, Cook County Department of Environmental Control, the Oak Lawn Fire Department, the Oak Lawn Park District (Wolfe Wildlife Refuge). Copies of all permits shall be provided to the Oak Lawn Fire Department no less than ten (10) days prior to the event.
- The location for open burning and recreational fires (bonfires) shall not be less than fifty (50) feet from any structure, and provisions shall be made to prevent the fire from spreading to within fifty (50) feet of any structure.
- The location for open burning and recreational fires (bonfires) shall not be less than twenty-five (25) feet from any structure where the pile size is three (3) feet or less in diameter and two (2) feet or less in height. Conditions which could cause a fire to spread within twenty-five (25) feet of a structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition.
- All recreational fires have a maximum time of 4 hours and shall be properly extinguished at the end of the activities or time limit. Regardless of when the fire was initiated it is not allowed to extend later than 11:00 P.M. and may not begin earlier than 7:00 A.M.
- Cooking or storage of a charcoal burner (barbeque) or any other open-flame cooking device, including, but not limited to, LPG gas grills, smokers, deep fryers, on combustible balcony shall be prohibited.
- A charcoal burner (barbeque) or any other open-flame cooking device, including, but not limited to, LPG gas grill, smoker, deep fryer, shall not be located/stored on any combustible balcony or within ten (10) feet of combustible construction including, but not limited to, structures, fences, and decks.
- A charcoal burner (barbeque) or any other open-flame cooking device, including, but not limited to, LPG gas grill, smoker and deep fryer shall be operated no less than (10) feet from all combustible construction including, but not limited to, structures, fences, and decks.
- All approved outdoor fireplaces shall be tested and certified for product safety by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or Factory Mutual (FM).
- Recreational fire within an approved enclosed domestic outdoor fireplace shall be kept no less than fifteen (15) feet from all combustible construction, including, but not limited to, structures, fences, and decks, and fifteen (15) feet from all property lot lines.
The Fire Chief/ Police Chief or their designee may prohibit any type of burning that becomes a nuisance based on complaints of irritation of the eyes or breathing of others, when the atmospheric conditions or local conditions make such a fire hazardous and my order the extinguishment of any fire which creates or adds to a hazardous or objectionable situation.
a. Open burning and recreational fires that will be offensive or objectionable because of smoke or odor emissions and any fires, when atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make such fires hazardous, shall be prohibited.
b. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall order the immediate extinguishment by the permit holder or by the fire department of any fire creating a nuisance or hazardous situation.
Any questions, please contact: Fire Prevention Bureau Chief David Wheeler
at the following email address: oaklawnfp@oaklawn-il.gov.
Safety Tips
Fire Prevention Bureau Chief David Wheeler at the following email address:
oaklawnfp@oaklawn-il.gov.
The Oak Lawn Fire Department offers the following tips for safe fireplace usage:
If you have any additional questions or would like more information, please contact:
Fire Prevention Bureau Chief David Wheeler at the following email address:
oaklawnfp@oaklawn-il.gov.
Please click on the words "Pet Safety" (In Blue - Below).
This will take you to a website for additional information.
Pet Safety
Outdoor Cooking: Safety Tips for Balcony Grills
If you live in an apartment or condo, your balcony may be the only outdoor space you have for grilling or barbecuing. Without appropriate precautions, balcony grills can be dangerous. Use these tips to ensure your safety as well as that of your neighbors and passersby.
DO: Know the rules in your building and municipality
Some cities ban the use of charcoal grills on balconies, while others restrict the use of propane grills. You may only be allowed to use your grill if you live on the first or second floor or if your balcony is made from a material other than wood. Check with your city and your landlord before using your grill to avoid fines or penalties.
DO: Keep the grill away from combustible structures
Place your grill at least 10 feet from building walls, railings and other flammable structures. An unexpected flare-up could cause significant damage to your dwelling and those of your neighbors.
EDITOR'S TIP:
Smaller portable grills, such as tabletop models, are more suited to balcony grilling than larger, stand-alone models. They contain less fuel, which reduces the effect of a tipped grill, and put off less heat.
DO: Store a working fire extinguisher nearby
You should own -- and know how to operate -- a fire extinguisher. Store it just inside the door that leads to the balcony so that you can eliminate uncontrolled fires quickly. Have your extinguisher inspected periodically to ensure that it remains in working order.
DO: Select a level area
An unstable grill poses a serious fire risk, as spilled coals and flying sparks can ignite nearby structures or burn passersby below your balcony. Always place your grill on a flat, level surface, and never allow children or pets to play on the balcony while the grill is lit or still smoldering, since they could tip the grill.
DON'T: Use a gas or charcoal grill on an enclosed balcony
A balcony with a ceiling or walls does not provide enough ventilation to disperse the carbon monoxide produced by charcoal grills or the potential gas build-up of propane grills. If you have this type of balcony, an electric grill is a safer alternative.
DON'T: Wear baggy or loose clothing
Loose apron strings, droopy sleeves or other clothing hazards pose a serious risk when grilling in an enclosed, elevated space, as you have less room in which to stop, drop and roll. Wear fitted clothing, and keep a large pitcher of water nearby to douse leaping sparks or flames immediately. Use silicone mitts and potholders instead of cloth, too.
DON'T: Place a grill near an air intake or door
Air intakes for ventilation systems and air conditioners as well as open doors or windows can draw smoke or fumes into the building, causing lung irritation or illness. Keep your grill at least 5 feet away from intakes and 3 feet from doors and windows to prevent smoke or gas fumes from being pulled indoors.
Few cooking methods provide as much flavor as grilling, but doing so on a balcony requires special precautions. These tips for using balcony grills can prevent damaging and dangerous accidents such as fires, explosions and carbon monoxide poisoning.
If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact:
Fire Prevention Bureau Chief David Wheeler at the following email address:
oaklawnfp@oaklawn-il.gov.
Air intakes for ventilation systems and air conditioners as well as open doors or windows can draw smoke or fumes into the building, causing lung irritation or illness. Keep your grill at least 5 feet away from intakes and 3 feet from doors and windows to prevent smoke or gas fumes from being pulled indoors.
Few cooking methods provide as much flavor as grilling, but doing so on a balcony requires special precautions. These tips for using balcony grills can prevent damaging and dangerous accidents such as fires, explosions and carbon monoxide poisoning.
The leading cause of home clothes dryer and washer fires is failure to clean them.
Here are some safety tips:
- Have your dryer installed and serviced by a professional.
- Do not operate the dryer without a lint filter. Clean the lint filter before or after each use. Remove accumulated lint around the drum.
- Rigid or flexible metal venting material should be used to sustain proper air flow and drying time.
- Make sure the air exhaust vent pipe is not restricted and the outdoor vent flap will open when the dryer is operating. Once a year, or more often if you notice that it is taking longer than normal for your clothes to dry, clean lint out of the vent pipe or have a dryer lint removal service do it for you.
- Keep dryers in good working order. Gas dryers should be inspected by a professional to ensure that the gas line and connection are intact and free of leaks.
- Make sure the right plug and outlet are used and that the machine is connected properly.
- Avoid overloading a washing machine or dryer. Follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions.
- Do not leave a dryer running if you leave home or when you go to bed.
- Washing machines and dryers should be properly grounded.
- Make sure the outdoor vent flap is not covered by snow.
- Never dry items that have come in contact with flammable substances, such as cooking oil, gasoline, paint thinner, alcohol.
- Keep the dryer area clear of things that can burn, such as boxes or clothing.
Fire Prevention Bureau Chief David Wheeler at the following email address:
oaklawnfp@oaklawn-il.gov.
The Oak Lawn Fire Department offers the following tips for safe fireplace usage:
- Have your chimney cleaned once (1) a year to remove creosote and soot.
- Do not use flammable liquids to start the fire.
- Keep a metal screen in front of your fireplace opening. This should keep the sparks contained and prevent accidental fires.
- Do not use excessive amounts of paper to build roaring fires. It is possible to ignite soot in the chimney.
- Never burn charcoal in your fireplace. Burning charcoal gives off deadly amounts of carbon monoxide.
- Keep flammable materials away from the fireplace. A spark could ignite these materials and cause a fire.
- Never close your damper with hot ashes in the fireplace. A closed damper can help[ hot ashes build up heat to the point where a fire could flare up when you are asleep.
- Never break apart a handmade log. Follow the package directions.
If you have any additional questions or would like more information, please contact:
Fire Prevention Bureau Chief David Wheeler at the following email address:
oaklawnfp@oaklawn-il.gov.
Please click on the words "Pet Safety" (In Blue - Below).
This will take you to a website for additional information.
Pet Safety
Outdoor Cooking: Safety Tips for Balcony Grills
If you live in an apartment or condo, your balcony may be the only outdoor space you have for grilling or barbecuing. Without appropriate precautions, balcony grills can be dangerous. Use these tips to ensure your safety as well as that of your neighbors and passersby.
DO: Know the rules in your building and municipality
Some cities ban the use of charcoal grills on balconies, while others restrict the use of propane grills. You may only be allowed to use your grill if you live on the first or second floor or if your balcony is made from a material other than wood. Check with your city and your landlord before using your grill to avoid fines or penalties.
DO: Keep the grill away from combustible structures
Place your grill at least 10 feet from building walls, railings and other flammable structures. An unexpected flare-up could cause significant damage to your dwelling and those of your neighbors.
EDITOR'S TIP:
Smaller portable grills, such as tabletop models, are more suited to balcony grilling than larger, stand-alone models. They contain less fuel, which reduces the effect of a tipped grill, and put off less heat.
DO: Store a working fire extinguisher nearby
You should own -- and know how to operate -- a fire extinguisher. Store it just inside the door that leads to the balcony so that you can eliminate uncontrolled fires quickly. Have your extinguisher inspected periodically to ensure that it remains in working order.
DO: Select a level area
An unstable grill poses a serious fire risk, as spilled coals and flying sparks can ignite nearby structures or burn passersby below your balcony. Always place your grill on a flat, level surface, and never allow children or pets to play on the balcony while the grill is lit or still smoldering, since they could tip the grill.
DON'T: Use a gas or charcoal grill on an enclosed balcony
A balcony with a ceiling or walls does not provide enough ventilation to disperse the carbon monoxide produced by charcoal grills or the potential gas build-up of propane grills. If you have this type of balcony, an electric grill is a safer alternative.
DON'T: Wear baggy or loose clothing
Loose apron strings, droopy sleeves or other clothing hazards pose a serious risk when grilling in an enclosed, elevated space, as you have less room in which to stop, drop and roll. Wear fitted clothing, and keep a large pitcher of water nearby to douse leaping sparks or flames immediately. Use silicone mitts and potholders instead of cloth, too.
DON'T: Place a grill near an air intake or door
Air intakes for ventilation systems and air conditioners as well as open doors or windows can draw smoke or fumes into the building, causing lung irritation or illness. Keep your grill at least 5 feet away from intakes and 3 feet from doors and windows to prevent smoke or gas fumes from being pulled indoors.
Few cooking methods provide as much flavor as grilling, but doing so on a balcony requires special precautions. These tips for using balcony grills can prevent damaging and dangerous accidents such as fires, explosions and carbon monoxide poisoning.
If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact:
Fire Prevention Bureau Chief David Wheeler at the following email address:
oaklawnfp@oaklawn-il.gov.
Air intakes for ventilation systems and air conditioners as well as open doors or windows can draw smoke or fumes into the building, causing lung irritation or illness. Keep your grill at least 5 feet away from intakes and 3 feet from doors and windows to prevent smoke or gas fumes from being pulled indoors.
Few cooking methods provide as much flavor as grilling, but doing so on a balcony requires special precautions. These tips for using balcony grills can prevent damaging and dangerous accidents such as fires, explosions and carbon monoxide poisoning.