The Chicago Tribune recently published an article discussing a potential change in the requirements for becoming a firefighter in Des Plaines. The focus of the story is on a proposal by Alderman James Brookman, representing the 5th Ward, who is pushing to eliminate the current rule that requires all applicants to hold a valid paramedic license. Brookman, a former firefighter himself, raised his concerns during a recent city council meeting. He argued that the existing requirement limits the pool of potential candidates to only those with paramedic credentials, which he believes is too restrictive. “We should hire the best people we can find and then train them,” he said, emphasizing the value of diverse backgrounds and skills beyond just medical training. However, Fire Chief Alan Wax pointed out that the cost of training non-paramedics can be significant—around $60,000 per person. He explained that the current rule was put in place in 2006 by the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners, after which paramedic licenses became a mandatory prerequisite for taking the written exam. Prior to that, paramedics received preference points during the hiring process, but not necessarily a requirement. Wax also noted that state law allows cities to require a paramedic license before candidates can even take the exam. While many applicants are aware of this and are working to obtain their credentials, Brookman believes the department could benefit from individuals with different skill sets, such as those with experience in other fields or specialized training. John Swan, president of the Illinois Firefighters Association, confirmed that Des Plaines’ requirement isn’t unique. Many municipalities across the state have similar rules, citing financial benefits. According to Swan, requiring a paramedic license helps avoid situations where the city invests in training only for the candidate to leave shortly after. Wax added that there's also the risk of a newly hired firefighter failing to obtain their paramedic license despite the city’s support. In such cases, the department would lose both time and money, and would need to restart the entire hiring process. Despite these arguments, Brookman’s position found some support. Alderman Patricia Haugeberg, chair of the public safety committee, has agreed to bring the issue before the board of fire and police commissioners. Commissioner Debra Lester suggested the board needs more time to gather information before making a decision, noting that the issue isn't straightforward. As a result, the previously scheduled written firefighter exam, originally set for mid-September, will now be delayed while the debate continues. Thanks, Dan.

Galvanized Steel

Galvanized steel is a type of steel that has been coated with a layer of zinc through a process called galvanization. This coating helps protect the steel from rust and corrosion, making it a popular choice for many industrial and construction applications.

The process of galvanization involves immersing the steel in a bath of molten zinc, which reacts with the iron in the steel to form a protective layer of zinc-iron alloy. This layer is tightly bonded to the steel surface, providing excellent corrosion resistance.

There are two main types of galvanization processes: hot-dip galvanizing and electro-galvanizing. In hot-dip galvanizing, the steel is immersed in a bath of molten zinc at temperatures above 800°F (427°C). This process creates a thick, durable zinc coating that provides long-lasting protection against corrosion.

Electro-galvanizing, on the other hand, involves using an electric current to attach a thin layer of zinc to the steel surface. While this process creates a thinner zinc coating compared to hot-dip galvanizing, it is often used for applications that require a more cosmetic finish or where intricate shapes need to be coated.

Galvanized steel is commonly used in a wide range of applications, including construction, automotive manufacturing, and industrial equipment. It is known for its durability, strength, and resistance to corrosion, making it an ideal choice for outdoor structures, such as fencing, roofing, and guardrails.

One of the key benefits of galvanized steel is its low maintenance requirements. Because the zinc coating provides a barrier between the steel and the environment, galvanized steel is less prone to rust and corrosion compared to untreated steel. This makes it a cost-effective and long-lasting material for a variety of applications.

In addition to its corrosion resistance, galvanized steel also has excellent mechanical properties, including high tensile strength and impact resistance. This makes it a reliable and sturdy material for structural components in buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure projects.

Despite its many advantages, galvanized steel does have some limitations. For example, prolonged exposure to acidic or alkaline environments can weaken the zinc coating and reduce its effectiveness in protecting the steel underneath. In such cases, additional protective measures may be necessary to prevent corrosion.

Overall, galvanized steel is a versatile and durable material that offers many benefits for a variety of applications. Whether used in construction, automotive, or industrial settings, galvanized steel provides the strength, corrosion resistance, and long-lasting performance that is essential for demanding environments.

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