Alan
Stoffregen joined the Sauk Village Fire Department on March 8, 1969. Al quickly
learned the ways of the fire service and was promoted to Lieutenant October 19,
1970. Al took classes and earned his
Fire Instructor certification, was an EMT, and taught
many classes necessary for the firefighters to become certified.
Al was
promoted to Captain May 25, 1976. At that time he was given responsibility to
oversee the Fire Prevention Bureau which oversees fire inspections and public
education. Al became Assistant Chief October 23, 1979, Deputy Chief November 1,
1992 and finally Chief October 13, 2009.
As with many members who were on the department in the 1980's, Al says his worst experience as a firefighter was the year when several children died in two separate house fires. On the other hand, Al says his best experience with the department has been being involved with Fire Prevention Education. He says, "There is no substitute for fire safety. People have to make sure they have working smoke detectors in their homes and have an escape plan."
Besides
working with the Fire Department Al is retired from the Ford Motor Company. He
worked at the stamping plant in Chicago Heights for 42 and ½ years.
Chief
Stoffregen has six children and many grandchildren. They live in various cities
across the country.
Al
has been married to his wife Arlene for fifteen years. They enjoy camping where
you will find them most weekends during the summer. They also enjoy traveling
and going to live shows.
