NBC5Chicago.com has published an article detailing a new policy adopted by several fire departments in the Chicago area, which now charge fees for certain emergency services.
Car accidents can already be expensive, and now some individuals may find themselves facing additional costs when firefighters are called to assist them. At least 15 fire departments across the Chicago metropolitan region have started charging fees for responding to car crashes and vehicle fires. According to data obtained by the Better Government Association and NBC 5 Investigates, about half of these departments began implementing this billing system within the last year, as local governments look for new ways to generate revenue.
The charges are typically applied only to non-residents and can vary depending on the number of fire trucks and personnel involved, as well as the duration of the response. Some departments use a flat fee, while others base their charges on the level of service provided.
Among the departments that now charge for these services are Alsip, Berkeley, Blue Island, Broadview, Calumet Park, Chicago Heights, Flossmoor, Forest View, Hillside, Maywood, Midlothian, North Palos Fire Protection District, Roberts Park Fire Protection District, Stone Park, and Westchester.
Illinois state law has permitted municipal fire departments to bill non-residents for their services since 1996. The Broadview Fire Department, for example, started charging fees in 1998. Chief Thomas Gaertner explained that the department uses the collected funds to purchase firefighting equipment. He noted that in 2013, the village billed $5,155, but only $1,920 was actually collected.
However, the Better Government Association raised concerns about the billing practices of many departments. BGA investigator Katie Drews pointed out that some departments charge based on the number of firefighters and engines sent to a scene, which could lead to questions about whether they're charging for services that were actually necessary.
Despite these concerns, fire departments prioritize safety during emergencies, often deploying all available resources. Gaertner believes more municipalities will follow suit as they seek alternative funding sources.
While insurance companies typically cover these fees, the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America argues that such charges add unnecessary costs that may eventually lead to higher premiums. In fact, several states, including Indiana, have passed laws or resolutions banning municipalities from charging for emergency response fees.
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