Open House for MABAS (update)

Fire department leaders from the area gathered at the MABAS Readiness Center for the open house on Friday. Several presenters shared insights on emergency preparedness and response strategies. Larry Shapiro photo

Congressman Peter Roskam spoke to local fire service personnel during the event, highlighting the importance of emergency infrastructure and community support. Larry Shapiro photo

The readiness center houses several specialized units, including this Mobile Field Office. Its slide-out sides expand the interior space, making it ideal for command and control operations. This unit is one of three designated as MSU-North. Larry Shapiro photo

This sign explains the purpose of the Mission Support Unit, which plays a key role in regional disaster response efforts. Larry Shapiro photo

This Oshkosh P-15, a large crash truck acquired from the Air Force, is one of the most powerful units in the MABAS fleet. It carries 6,000 gallons of water and 600 gallons of AFFF, with two high-capacity pumps. While not yet in active service, it's expected to play a critical role in major incidents. Larry Shapiro photo

The facility also serves as the home of Illinois Task Force 1 (ILTF-1), the state’s Urban Search & Rescue team. As part of MABAS-IL, the team is ready to respond to structural collapses and other complex emergencies. Larry Shapiro photo

This flatbed roll-off is a recent addition to the US&R team’s mobile equipment, used for transporting heavy materials like lumber during rescue operations. Larry Shapiro photo