Petersburg Rural Fire Department

03/26/2026

02/27/2026

Due to the Elevated Fire Risk, please avoid burning today.

10/20/2025

There is a Significant fire weather risk in our area for the next couple of days. Please don’t burn.

10/12/2025

Enhanced fire risk for today. Please do not burn.

10/02/2025

10/2/25 - BURN BAN

The Petersburg Community Fire Protection District has issued a Burn Ban for the entire Petersburg Community Fire Protection District (see the attached map). The ban will be in effect starting at 12:00 AM on Thursday, October 2, 2025 and continued for seven consecutive days subject to renewal by additional declarations as allowed by statute. The ban is pursuant to Section 8.20(d) of the Illinois Compiled Statutes (70 ILCS 705/8.20 (d)).

Due to persistent, dry conditions across our area and the lack of rainfall predicted in the extended forecast, No open burning will be allowed. This includes but is not limited to the burning of agricultural waste, landscaping waste, household trash, and/or other garbage, bonfires or campfires. At this time, the use of gas and charcoal grills will be permitted for cooking. Please exercise caution when doing so.

Fires started during these dry conditions can quickly get out of control and have the potential to threaten life and property. If you have any questions regarding this matter, please contact the Petersburg Community Fire Protection District. Violators of this ban are subject to fines and costs as allowed by Section 8.20 (e) of the Illinois Compiled Statutes (70 ILCS 705/8.20 (e)). We appreciate your cooperation and understanding.

Christopher J. Schirding
Fire Chief

WICS ABC Newschannel 20 The State Journal-Register 104.5 WFMB

08/21/2025

Recently, we have seen an uptick in property related crimes — burglaries, thefts, etc. Neighboring jurisdictions have been experiencing the same. Fortunately, in some cases, suspects have been identified, arrested and charged — thanks to the vigilance and awareness of our citizens and the investigation by deputies. However, we still have some cases with few leads that we are continuing to work.

We urge everyone to take steps to secure their property! Please follow the and avoid being a victim of crime

🔒 Lock up your car, house, windows, garage, gate, shed
💡 Turn on exterior lights, security camera, alarm system
🎒 Bring in valuables from your car, yard, patio

If you see anything suspicious, please do not hesitate to call us. With your help, we can put a stop to these bad actors. Please never approach a suspect, call 911!

😴💤

07/31/2025

07/22/2025

Thank you to Menard Electric Cooperative!

We partnered with CoBank to provide a $10,000 Sharing Success donation to Petersburg Community Fire Protection District. The funds (1/2 from MEC, 1/2 from CoBank) will be used towards purchase of a self-contained breathing apparatus, a vital piece of personal protective equipment. Pictured for a “big check” presentation were Dave Leischner, Tim Wankel, Co-op Director Dennis Ryan and General Manager Alisha Anker, Chris Schirding, Hal Schirding and Wayne Winkelmann.