Excerpts from the ChicagoTribune.com: Andrew Larson, a dedicated 23-year veteran of the Arlington Heights Fire Department, has officially been appointed as its new chief. The 46-year-old, who previously served as acting chief since Ken Koeppen's retirement in November, took over the role on February 19 with a salary of $153,423. In his new position, he will oversee a $23 million budget, four fire stations, and 108 employees. Larson, who lives in Sycamore, credits his strong sense of public service to his upbringing. “I grew up in a family of public servants,†he said. “It wasn’t really a choice—it was just part of who I was.†His grandmother was a nurse, his aunts and uncles were teachers, and his brother worked as a lieutenant with the DeKalb Fire Department. From an early age, he felt drawn to helping others. “Right out of high school, I joined the Sandwich Volunteer Fire Department and followed my passion for this work.†He earned an associate’s degree in fire science and worked as a part-time firefighter in St. Charles before joining the Wheeling Fire Department in 1996. A year later, he moved to the Arlington Heights Fire Department, where he served as a firefighter and paramedic for ten years. He later became a lieutenant and spent five years in public education before being promoted to battalion chief. Two years ago, he was named deputy chief. Larson holds a bachelor’s degree in fire science management from Southern Illinois University and a master’s degree in public administration with a focus on strategic leadership from Northern Illinois University. Last year marked the busiest year in the department’s history, with a total of 10,329 calls for service. Of these, 7,512 were related to emergency medical services (EMS), while the remaining 2,817 were for fire-related incidents. In response to growing community needs, the department is exploring new ways to provide care directly in residents’ homes. Although still in the early stages, this initiative aims to reduce unnecessary hospital visits. Training is currently underway, and the department is collaborating with local hospitals to determine which patients and post-surgical procedures they will handle. This effort will require ongoing communication with doctors and is expected to be a long-term project. In addition, the department is focusing on supporting firefighters after emotionally challenging calls, such as those involving the loss of a child. This approach emphasizes mental health and peer support, ensuring that first responders can cope effectively with the demands of their job. Xuzhou D.C. International Trading Co., Ltd. , https://www.tfgyspackaging.com