THE FOLLOWING IS A DANVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT RELEASE
Danville, Illinois — The Danville Fire Department is announcing a series of upcoming fire service training opportunities scheduled throughout 2026 and early 2027. These programs will bring nationally recognized instructors, hands-on training opportunities, leadership development, fireground decision-making courses, and certification-based education to Danville.
The training series is designed for firefighters, company officers, chief officers, investigators, safety officers, and fire service leaders from Danville and surrounding communities. Courses will cover a wide range of topics including mid-rise firefighting, incident safety, engine company operations, sprinkler systems, fire investigation, fire attack, leadership, firehouse culture, and reading smoke.
“This training series gives firefighters access to high-quality instruction without having to travel across the country,” said Captain Ryan Allison of the Danville Fire Department. “Our goal is to bring strong, practical training to this area and make it available to firefighters of all ranks and experience levels.”
Upcoming courses include:
Midrise Mayhem
June 17, 2026
A one-day lecture focused on the unique firefighting challenges found in four- to eight-story mid-rise buildings.
Fire Department Incident Safety Officer
Online self-study opens August 1, 2026; live online meeting September 30, 2026; in-person final evaluation October 8, 2026. An Illinois State Certified 40-hour blended course designed to prepare students to serve as Incident Safety Officers. The course includes online self-study, live online instruction, and an in-person final evaluation.
5 Reads by Fire Department Safety Officers Association
August 3, 2026
A one-day program focused on strengthening incident scene performance by reading risk, buildings, smoke, hazardous energy, and firefighters.
DIY Engine
August 15 or 16, 2026
A single-day hands-on engine company class presented by Brothers in Battle.
Fire Sprinkler Systems: Hands-On Training
August 25, 26, or 27, 2026
Live demo trailer training focused on sprinkler system operation, valve familiarization, system shutdown, and restoration basics.
Advanced Fire Investigations
October 14-16, 2026
A three-day advanced fire investigation course where students will work a real fire scene from start to finish, prepare a report, and participate in a mock trial.
Mastering the Craft with Jeff Rothmeier
November 3, 4, or 5, 2026
A half-day fire attack and mindset class focused on discipline, decision-making, tactical excellence, and developing a personal philosophy for fire attack. The same class is repeated each day.
Team + Work = Success with Chief Dennis Reilly
November 21, 2026
A full-day leadership and culture course focused on building high-functioning firehouse teams, accountability, operational readiness, and effective training.
The Art of Reading Smoke with Battalion Chief Rob Backer
December 1, 2026
A full-day class focused on reading smoke, identifying fire location, predicting fire behavior, and making better fireground decisions.
Firefighters at The Fischer: Fully Involved Leadership with Mark VonAppen
January 20, 2027
An evening leadership program at The Fischer Theatre focused on the Big 4: Do Your Job, Treat People Right, All In Attitude, and All Out Effort.
Several courses are free, while others require paid registration. All courses are open to firefighters of all ranks unless otherwise noted. Flyers and registration information are available through the Danville Fire Department.
For questions, contact:
Captain Ryan Allison
Danville Fire Department
rallison@cityofdanville.org
217-431-2350
About the Danville Fire Department
The Danville Fire Department is committed to protecting life and property through emergency response,
prevention, public education, and professional training. The department continues to invest in firefighter
development, operational readiness, and partnerships that strengthen emergency services throughout the
region.
