The firefighters from Buffalo Grove, Lincolnshire-Riverwoods, and Long Grove have been keeping busy this week as they took turns practicing their skills at the flashover training facility in Buffalo Grove. It’s always intense but incredibly valuable for them to go through these exercises. Tim Olk and Larry Shapiro dropped by to capture some of the action.
As I scrolled through the photos, I couldn’t help but feel impressed by how seriously everyone was taking the training. There’s something about seeing real-life scenarios unfold that makes you appreciate the dedication these first responders put into their work. In one image, a Lincolnshire-Riverwoods firefighter is shown stoking the flames, his helmet adorned with the #61 sticker—a show of support for Lt. Jim Carney, who’s currently fighting cancer. That little detail really struck me; it highlights not just their professional expertise but also their camaraderie and compassion.
Another shot caught my eye where a group of firefighters stood inside the training prop during a break between rotations. Their focus was evident even when they weren’t actively engaged in the drill. You could tell they were mentally preparing themselves for what was next, which speaks volumes about their discipline and commitment.
There’s something raw yet inspiring about watching people train under such controlled yet demanding conditions. They’re preparing for situations where every second counts, knowing full well that lives depend on their ability to act quickly and decisively. It’s humbling to think about.
If you want to see more images from the session, there are additional pictures available [here](link) and [here](link). Whether you're interested in emergency response or simply enjoy great photography, these shots do an excellent job capturing both the intensity and humanity behind this kind of training.
Looking at all these photos reminded me why I’m grateful for the hardworking men and women who dedicate their lives to keeping others safe. Their efforts don’t stop at putting out fires—they extend into every aspect of community service, including rallying around one another in times of personal struggle. If you haven’t already, consider supporting local first responders however you can—it means more than words can express.