The Trib Local recently published an article discussing the potential impact of budget cuts on the Lake Zurich Fire Department. Following the announcement of layoffs and staff reductions in the village’s fire, police, and public works departments, concerns have been raised about how these changes could affect public safety. According to the latest budget, 11 positions will be eliminated, with five employees being laid off. The fire prevention bureau is set to reduce its workforce from four to just two, which could lead to a 30% drop in fire inspections, as noted by Fire Department Chief David Wheelock. Terry Mastandrea, a village trustee and former fire chief who served for 21 years before retiring in 2011, expressed his worries about the consequences of fewer inspections. He pointed out that the fire department has already faced significant cuts over the years and fears that reducing inspections could put residents at greater risk. “We don’t have enough people or resources to respond to fires effectively, so preventing them is our best defense,†he said. “Why are we moving backward when public safety should be our top priority?†Wheelock explained that two fire inspector roles will be eliminated, while one position will be reclassified as a "fire prevention specialist." This change is expected to save the department approximately $135,000 annually. The new role will involve more responsibilities and collaboration with the deputy fire marshal. To compensate for the reduced staffing, the department plans to introduce a self-inspection program for low-risk buildings. Business owners would be responsible for conducting their own inspections and reporting back to the fire prevention bureau. Wheelock hopes this initiative will be implemented this year. However, Mastandrea remains skeptical about the effectiveness of the self-inspection plan. He argues that without real incentives or consequences, businesses may not take the process seriously. “We haven’t had a fire loss in years because of our strong fire prevention efforts and thorough inspection system,†he said. “The only way to ensure safety is through regular on-site checks.†Wheelock clarified that businesses will receive one warning before facing penalties for violations. The self-inspection program will target smaller, low-risk establishments such as offices and small shops with limited foot traffic. He doesn’t believe the lack of direct oversight poses a major threat, as even these buildings will be inspected every other year by a qualified inspector. Additionally, the fire department generates around $32,000 annually by conducting inspections for neighboring towns like Deer Park and Kildeer. However, the reduction in inspections will only apply within Lake Zurich, where no fees are charged for such services. Aluminium Tailgate,Aluminum Alloy Tail Lift,Electric Tailgate Lift,Aluminum Alloy Tail Gate Lift GUANGDONG NIULI LOGISTICS MACHINERY TECHNOLOGY CO.,LTD. , https://www.gdniulilogistics.com