Mattoon Fire Dept.

10/18/2021

See these?
Do you know what they are and what they represent?
They are the shoes of volunteer firefighters.
They are the comfortable shoes, worn at home, running errands, taking the dog out, raking the leaves.
They were shed without hesitation to put on heavy uncomfortable boots and bunker gear designed to offer at least some protection from fire, broken glass, and jagged metal.
Clothing whose sole purpose is to protect..... those who protect you.
Local guys and gals.
They work in the construction, dept store, clinics, trucking company, phone company or area farms.
They leave their spouses, children, parents or whomever to come to complete strangers aid.
12 noon, 3pm, 2 am, it makes no difference.
And their families want little more than to see them put their shoes back on at the end of the call.
There are no words to describe the task of picking up that pair of shoes after a call, knowing the man or woman who put them there will not be returning to do it themselves.
Pay attention.
Get off your cell phone.
Move over.
Help them put their shoes back on.
We all want to make it home.

09/11/2021

09/11/2021

Never EVER forget…🇺🇸

07/08/2021

So thankful for all Dispatchers do!!!

You don’t know who I am; to you I am just a voice.
It was me who took your frantic call, when you had no other choice.

I spend many hours waiting, to help when you’re in need.
“Send help to me, please get them here is often what you plead.

To do my job is complex, but only a few tools are a must
Put your faith in me, I am the one that you can trust.

My ears are a necessity; my mouth a mighty sword
I must use my ears to listen, and then choreograph every word.

I am the protector of this land; I take pride in what I do
I am here to listen and do what is best for you.

The day you place a call to me, might be the worst day you ever had
At least today you know, I too was feeling sad.

I take your problems home with me, I know that’s not so good,
But as you felt your tragedy it was by your side I stood.

I walked with you to the door, to let them into help,
I guided you to safety, when all alone you felt.

It is not often we hear praise or even simple thanks,
But the cookies and cards are plenty through police and fire ranks.

The day you placed your call, and I picked up the phone
I hope I made you feel safe and showed you you’re not alone.

Remember who I am, I am not just a voice
I am the 911 Dispatcher you called when you had no other choice.

06/20/2021

Happy Father’s Day!!!

06/17/2021

Village of Mattoon will be having fireworks on Saturday July 10th @ the south Ball diamond. Donations are greatly appreciated and can be dropped off at the Village office.

05/31/2021

Many hands made light work this morning as we prepared for our Annual Open House. Thanks to all who helped prepare and serve everyone, and a big thank you to the community for coming out for the meal and your generous donations and support!
We had 324 people attend this year!

05/15/2021

Such a tragic loss on this day 2 years ago. We will always remember.