Orland Fire Protection District Honored In Congressional Record

ORLAND PARK, IL — U.S. Representative Marie Newman (D-IL-03) submitted a statement into the Congressional Record to honor first responders of the Orland Fire Protection District (OFPD) on Monday, according to a news release.

The OFPD serves and protects the residents of Orland Park, Orland Hills, and unincorporated areas of Orland Township.

“Due to their excellence, Orland Fire Protection District is recognized as one of the best fire department organizations in Illinois and the country,” Congresswoman Newman stated in the Congressional Record. “I honor their strong leadership, resourcefulness, and innovation in dealing with the effects of COVID-19 directly and swiftly. Their drive to share knowledge, equipment, and resources will cut inefficiencies and save even more lives. I thank the Orland Fire Protection District for their service, resiliency, and bravery.”

Chief Michael Schofield’s First Command Team and his first responder units have won national awards for their quick response times, high cardiac save rates, and efficient processes and procedures, the release states. The district is one of 84 internationally recognized agencies with both an ISO Class 1 rating and accredited agency status with the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI), according to the release.

“We are grateful to Congresswoman Marie Newman for recognizing our dedication and commitment to provide the highest possible emergency response services to the residents of our district,” Fire Chief Schofield said. “Our firefighters, paramedics and staff have worked hard to provide the highest quality of lifesaving and emergency services. We are proud that the Orland Fire Protection District has one of the highest ‘save rates’ for victims of cardiac arrest, more than 65 percent in comparison to a national average of only 10 percent. We continue to strive for 100 percent.”

A full copy of Congresswoman Newman’s statement in the Congressional Record can be seen here.