The Prospect Heights Fire Protection District is pleased to announce the appointment of two new firefighter/paramedics, Vanessa Kieres and Michael Borkowski.

On Thursday evening, April 21 a small group of family and friends were present as the Oath of Office was administered by Fire Chief Drew Smith to Firefighter/Paramedics Vanessa Kieres and Michael Borkowski. Also in attendance was Trustee Shawn Clisham of the PHFD as well as several other members of the PHFD. The brief ceremony was held in the apparatus bay area with appropriate precautions.

Kieres and Borkowski are both licensed paramedics when they applied to the PHFD. Vanessa was already trained as a firefighter. Michael was sent to the regional fire academy to be trained as a firefighter. Both have completed their orientation and are now assigned to shifts where they will complete their 12-month probationary process. We are happy to welcome both to the PHFD family.

“I am honored to welcome these new members to our team” said Chief Smith. “As our team matures and grows we continue our mission of ‘Delivering exceptional services for everyone with courtesy, respect and empathy.’ I couldn’t be prouder of these individuals.”

The Prospect Heights Fire Protection District serves about 17,000 residents in the six square mile area composed of the City of Prospect Heights and adjacent unincorporated areas of Cook County. Operating from two firehouses, each shift is staffed with seven members who staffs two ambulances, two engine companies, and additional support equipment. In 2021 it responded 2,415 emergency calls.

Operating Smoke Alarms and maintained Fire Sprinklers save lives.