Why does an engine come when I call for an ambulance?

When you call for an ambulance, we send the closest available unit.  The ambulance due to respond might already be servicing another call. The engine is equipped with both the equipment and personnel to provide advanced life support until the next due ambulance arrives. Also, you may see an engine responding to provide additional manpower if the call sounds serious. 

Why is there an ambulance or engine at the grocery store?

We work a 24 hour shift; each station sends a vehicle to the store to shop for groceries for the day to prepare lunch and dinner. All stations remain in their respective response areas while shopping for groceries and are in service, ready to respond to calls.

Do the crews shop with taxpayer money?

No. A collection is taken at each station daily for food to be prepared for meals for the day. No money is supplied by the District for groceries.

What should I do when I see an emergency vehicle approaching with lights and/or siren?

You are required by Illinois state law to pull to the right and stop. It is important to remain stopped while the emergency vehicle is passing unless the driver waves you on.

I pulled over for a fire engine, but when they passed me they turned off their lights and slowed down, why?

Occasionally, a fire engine or truck has been dispatched to a reported incident, but en route someone calls to confirm that there is no danger (i.e. false alarm, burnt food). The engine will continue the response, but will reduce speed for safety.

Why does the fire engine block the road when there is an accident?

The Fire Rescue District works with local law enforcement to facilitate safe operations at motor vehicle accidents. On some incidents, it is necessary for the crew to temporarily block traffic to protect both personnel operating at the scene and victims of the accident from traffic.

How do I schedule a CPR class, car seat inspection or address sign placement?

Please call the District Headquarters at (815)338-2621 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday to schedule any additional services the District offers.

What hospitals can I go to? 

The Woodstock Fire Rescue District has a responsibility to both the patient and the public to transport to the most appropriate hospital and get the ambulance back in service in a timely manner. As a result, generally all ambulance calls will be transported to Centegra Hospital-Woodstock, unless it is closer to transport to Centegra Hospital- McHenry. Two exceptions are when the crew decides to transport to Centegra Hospital-McHenry for patients suffering from a heart attack or when severe trauma patients are flown by air ambulance (helicopter) to a Level I Trauma Center.

Why can’t the ambulance take me to immediate care?

All of our ambulances and medical personnel are licensed through the McHenry Western Lake County EMS System and are required to follow the protocols outlined by the System. We are required by protocol to transport to a hospital, therefore we cannot transport to an immediate care center.

What number do I call for:

Fire/ Ambulance: 911

District Business: (815)338-2621 During business hours 8-5 M-F

Any District program: (815)338-2621 During business hours 8-5 M-F

Any police, non-emergency problem, burning complaints or hydrant issue: