Why is called a Still Alarm Fire?

150th Anniversary - The Great Chicago Fire began on the night of October 8, 1871. The fire burned October 8-10 and destroyed over 17,000 buildings, killed an estimated 300 people, 100,000 homeless and caused an estimated $200 million in damages. From this tragedy, the city was rebuilt and reforms were made to save lives and property for future generations.

Fast forward to 2021 and the Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications 9-1-1 Operations handles all emergency calls for the City of Chicago. The 9-1-1 Center is responsible for dispatching all police, fire, and emergency medical services for the city. One room stands out on the operations floor - the Fire Alarm Room. Once the alarm goes off the Fire Department is dispatched for the Still Alarm Fire. In 1871, you couldn't call 9-1-1. Tim Bingham, a Fire Communications Supervisor at OEMC provides a brief history of why all fires are referred to as Still Alarm Fires and how it has evolved over the years. For more information visit, chicago.gov/oemc. Enjoy!