Clay Fire

10/16/2026

MABAS Division 201 TRT Rescues Trapped Worker in Penn Township

On October 15, Penn Township Fire Department requested the MABAS Division 201 Technical Rescue Team to assist with a worker trapped approximately 10 feet underground in a trench along Kern Road.

Rescuers stabilized the trench, used specialized equipment and shoring techniques, and worked with Bob Frame Plumbing Services to remove soil from around the worker’s legs. The patient was safely extricated and transported to a local hospital in stable condition.

Thank you to Penn Township Fire Department, all responding MABAS Division 201 member agencies, and Bob Frame Plumbing Services for their teamwork and support!

This incident highlights the importance of specialized training, equipment, and teamwork during complex technical rescues

PENN TOWNSHIP, Ind. -- The Penn Township Fire Department crews respond to an individual trapped approximately 10 feet below ground, with soil trapping him from the knees down.

10/13/2026

Thank you to Patsy Sears State Farm for partnering with Clay Fire Station 24 for Fire Prevention Week.

09/30/2026

If you need your car seat checked, check out the flyer below. It is today from 4 to 7pm.

09/11/2026

The Chicago Cubs hold a solemn 25th anniversary 9/11 tribute at Wrigley Field, with the Clay Fire Territory color guard leading a moment of silence for those lost.

09/11/2026

Bell Ceremony at St. Patricks County Park the 25th Anniversary.

09/11/2026

We will live stream the Bell Ceremony from St. Patricks County Park at 9am. #9/11

09/07/2026

Come join us this Friday at St. Patricks County Park, 9am.

Commemorate the 25th anniversary of the events of September 11, 2001, with local fire, police and EMS as they unite at the annual Ringing of the Bell Ceremony which will take place September 11, 2026, at 9:00am at St. Patrick's County Park at the Freedom Memorial. There is no fee to attend.

08/08/2026

Over the past week, you've met four remarkable individuals who each took a different path to Clay Fire. One served our nation in the Marine Corps. Another left a successful corporate career to pursue a life of service. One discovered his calling through fire training, while another turned a volunteer opportunity into a lifelong profession.

Different backgrounds. Different experiences. One shared mission.

Together, they strengthen our department, enrich our culture, and help ensure Clay Fire continues to provide exceptional service to the communities we are honored to protect.

Please join us one last time in congratulating Firefighters Braxton Creakbaum, Jared Gerndt, Ben Janowski, and Ben Martin as they begin this exciting new chapter.

Welcome to the Clay Fire family—and thank you for choosing a life dedicated to helping others.

08/07/2026

🚒 Meet Our Newest Firefighter: Ben Martin

Every firefighter's journey begins with someone who believes in them.

For Ben Martin, that encouragement came from the Fire Chief in his hometown of LaGrange. After beginning his fire service career as a volunteer firefighter, Ben discovered a passion for serving others and knew he wanted to pursue the profession full-time.

Before joining Clay Fire, Ben worked in HVAC and construction while continuing to build his experience in the fire service. His strong work ethic, positive attitude, and willingness to learn made him a natural fit for our organization.

When asked what inspired him to become a firefighter, Ben shared:

"I was encouraged by the Chief of LaGrange to start my career in my hometown. I enjoy working hard at everything in life and strive to always put my best foot forward. I'm most looking forward to new opportunities to learn and train."

Ben joins B-Shift at Station 21 (Engine 21), where he'll continue developing the skills and experience needed to serve our community with excellence.

One of the things that stood out most during Ben's hiring process was his humility. When asked what he brings to the team, he simply said he is "young, eager, and willing to learn." He also shared, "I am young, so give me as much advice as you can in all walks of life." That mindset reflects exactly what it takes to succeed in the fire service—a commitment to continual learning, growth, and becoming better every day.

Please join us in welcoming Firefighter Ben Martin to the Clay Fire family. We look forward to watching him grow throughout his career and are confident his enthusiasm, character, and dedication will make a lasting impact on our department and the communities we proudly serve.

Welcome to Clay Fire, Ben!

08/06/2026

🚒 Meet Our Newest Firefighter: Ben Janowski

A career in the fire service isn't always the path someone expects to take—but sometimes, it's exactly where they're meant to be.

For Ben Janowski, that realization came while participating in a live-fire training exercise at the Illinois Fire Service Institute (IFSI). What began as an opportunity to experience the fire service quickly became a calling to pursue a career dedicated to serving others.

Before joining Clay Fire, Ben built a successful career in software sales, trade shows, and plastics distribution. Along the way, he developed strong communication skills, professionalism, and a commitment to continuous learning—qualities that will serve him well in the fire service.

When asked what inspired him to become a firefighter, Ben shared:

"I found my calling while working at Elkhart Brass after participating in a live burn at IFSI. I'm most looking forward to the specialty teams and my career here at Clay Fire."

Ben joins A-Shift at Station 22 (Engine 22), where he'll continue developing the knowledge, skills, and experience that will shape his career. His long-term goal of becoming a paramedic and contributing to Clay Fire's Technical Rescue Team reflects both his ambition and his commitment to serving our community at the highest level.

Outside of work, Ben enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter, golfing, skiing, grilling, and cheering on his favorite teams. His dedication to family, positive attitude, and willingness to embrace new challenges will undoubtedly make him a valued member of the Clay Fire family.

Please join us in welcoming Firefighter Ben Janowski to Clay Fire. We're excited to watch his journey unfold and look forward to the many contributions he'll make as he grows into a trusted firefighter and dedicated public servant.

Welcome to Clay Fire, Ben!

🚒 Tomorrow, we'll conclude our series by introducing the final member of our newest firefighter class.