A Park Forest resident recently used social media to express concerns about a neighbor allegedly burning garbage in a backyard, asking for guidance on whom to contact since the property is located in an unincorporated area of the Village.
Park Forest Fire Chief Mark Cotrano addressed the situation on Tuesday, advising residents to call 911 during emergencies or use the non-emergency number, 708-748-4700, for assistance. He emphasized that first responders will respond regardless of whether the incident occurs within incorporated or unincorporated parts of Park Forest.
“Oftentimes, people vent on social media about things that are happening in the community, but reaching out to police and fire via calling should be their first line of defense,” Cotrano said. “Posts go viral, but they can also get lost in the shuffle. The Village doesn’t have a team monitoring social media around the clock, so calling is the best option.”
Cotrano explained that officials were unable to find the original social media post and therefore could not follow up directly with the resident who raised concerns.
“We want people to understand that if something is actively happening and it concerns safety, the fastest way to get help there is by calling,” he said.
Burning garbage, trash, leaves, and yard waste is not allowed in Park Forest. According to Cotrano, municipal regulations only permit small recreational fires in approved fire pits using clean, dry wood that has not been painted or treated.
“The Village’s code limits what can be burned outdoors,” Cotrano said. “Fire pits may be used only with clean, dry, non-painted or treated wood. Other than that, residents shouldn’t burn other things.”
He noted that burning household waste or yard debris poses health risks and can affect neighbors—especially those with respiratory issues—and can become hazardous if fires spread due to wind or dry conditions.
Cotrano pointed out that recent warm weather has led more residents outside for spring cleanup activities but cautioned against outdoor burning because vegetation remains dry after limited rain or snow this season.
“We haven’t seen a significant amount of rain or snow recently,” Cotrano said. “When vegetation is dry, it doesn’t take much for a small fire to extend into grass or nearby structures.”
Even when incidents occur in unincorporated areas within village boundaries, fire protection services will respond as needed. Residents are encouraged not to hesitate when reporting unsafe situations.
“If you see something that concerns you, make the call,” Cotrano said. “That’s what we’re here for.”
Village officials also advise anyone with questions about open burning rules to contact the Park Forest Fire Department before starting any outdoor fire.
The Village of Park Forest operates under a council-manager form of government led by a mayor and six trustees. The community focuses on public health initiatives and civic engagement through various commissions and programs (source). The village has earned recognition for its sustainability efforts—including support for climate protection agreements—and provides educational opportunities like its Civic Leadership Academy (source). Officials emphasize collaboration and innovation in delivering municipal services while seeking continued improvement in economic conditions (source).
