Alton IL Fire Department

10/29/2026

🚒 HONORING EXCELLENCE IN SERVICE 🚒

Last night, Senator Erica Harriss hosted a reception in honor of National First Responders Day, recognizing those who dedicate their lives to serving and protecting their communities.

We are proud to share that 4th Shift Captain Steven Sowders and Engineer Jacob Schwegel were presented with Certificates of Appreciation for their lifesaving efforts during a recent medical emergency. Both members were nominated for this recognition by Deputy Chief Matthew Fischer.

Captain Sowders and Engineer Schwegel were joined by their families for this special evening.

We were also proud to see PFC Jacob Custer of the Alton Police Department recognized for his service, with several of our brothers in blue in attendance to show their support. Congratulations to PFC Custer on this well-deserved honor! It's a privilege to serve alongside such dedicated professionals.

We extend our sincere appreciation to Senator Harriss for recognizing the dedication of our first responders and to the families whose unwavering support makes their service possible.

Most importantly, congratulations to Captain Sowders and Engineer Schwegel! Your actions exemplify the professionalism, compassion, and commitment of the Alton Fire Department. Thank you for your continued dedication to our department and the community we proudly serve.

👏 Well-deserved recognition for all!

10/28/2026

🚒🚓🚑 NATIONAL FIRST RESPONDERS DAY

Today, we recognize the dedicated men and women who answer the call, no matter the time, circumstances, or challenges they face.

The Alton Fire Department is proud to serve alongside some of the very best! A special thank you to our partners at the Alton Police Department, Alton Memorial Hospital, and Survival Flight EMS, as well as all first responders who proudly serve and protect their communities every day.

Your dedication, courage, and commitment do not go unnoticed.

Different uniforms. Same mission. One community.

Happy National First Responders Day!

10/22/2026

A clean fleet is a happy fleet! 3rd shift is checking their daily to do list off! ✔️

10/17/2026

🚒🔥 FIRE ACADEMY GRADUATES! 🎓

Congratulations to Alton Fire Department probationary firefighters Joseph Best and Nathan Kuhl on their graduation from the Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC) Fire Academy today!

Their hard work, dedication, and commitment have paid off, and we couldn't be prouder of their accomplishments!

Battalion Chief Perry was in attendance to celebrate this milestone and show the department's support as these two begin the next chapter of their firefighting careers.

Congratulations, gentlemen! You've made your department proud!

10/15/2026

Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this tragic incident. Sending strength, comfort, and support to all during this difficult time. 🙏

At this time, the Brighton Betsey Ann Fire Protection District is asking for your thoughts and prayers for one of our own.
On Tuesday evening, an active member of our department was involved in a serious incident. This individual has given many years of dedicated, selfless service to our community and our surrounding districts, always standing ready to help others in their time of need.
We kindly ask that you please keep him in your prayers for a full recovery, and pray for strength, peace, and comfort for his family, friends, and fellow first responders during this difficult time.
Thank you, Brighton, for always standing strong with our fire department.

10/10/2026

Teamwork makes the dreamwork!

10/09/2026

Its always a pleasure to be apart of events that involve the youth in our community! Thank You to The Hayner Public Library District Central Library for including us!

10/03/2026

FILL THE BOOT FOR MDA! 👢🚒

Today, your Alton Firefighters were out at intersections across the community taking part in the annual MDA Fill the Boot Campaign!

For more than 70 years, firefighters across the country have joined the Muscular Dystrophy Association in raising funds to help children and adults living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and other neuromuscular diseases. Money raised through Fill the Boot helps support life-changing research, specialized care, advocacy, and programs for individuals and families affected by these diseases.

A huge THANK YOU to everyone who slowed down, rolled down a window, and dropped a donation into the boot today. Whether it was a few coins, a few dollars, or more — every contribution adds up and makes a difference.

We’re proud to continue this longstanding fire service tradition, but we couldn’t do it without the generosity of the Alton community. Thank you for helping us Fill the Boot!

09/29/2026

🚨 5 A.M. — TIME TO GO TO WORK! 🚨

Our probationary firefighters know early-morning drills are part of life at the SWIC Fire Academy. They know they’re coming, and they know what’s expected of them.
But this morning came with a little surprise…

Deputy Chief Fischer showed up to see firsthand what they were made of — and they didn’t disappoint!

Before most of us had even thought about that first cup of coffee, these guys were already putting in the work — training hard, pushing themselves, and showing just how far they’ve come.

And just like that… they’re HALFWAY through the Academy! 🔥

More boxes checked. More skills gained. More progress made. ✅

Graduation is right around the corner! Keep pushing, guys — we’re proud of the work you’re putting in and can’t wait to have you back home! 🚒💪

09/29/2026

OUT WITH THE OLD… IN WITH THE NEW! 🚒

After 13 years of service, it’s time for an upgrade to the Alton Fire Department command fleet!

Our 2013 Chevrolet Tahoes have served as the Fire Chief and Deputy Chief command vehicles since 2013. They’re now making way for two new 2026 Ford Police Interceptors.

The move to the Ford Interceptor also brings our command vehicles in line with the Alton Police Department fleet, helping keep maintenance, parts and service more consistent between departments.

And we’re getting some extra life out of the old fleet! Chief 1800’s Tahoe will be repurposed for our Inspection Captain, replacing his 2010 Ford Escape. The Escape and Deputy Chief 1801’s Tahoe will be retired from City service and offered for auction.

13 years, countless calls and plenty of miles later — thanks for the service, 1800 & 1801. Now it’s time for the next generation! 🚒