Prospect Heights fire district names firefighter of the year

Lt. Jason Hardy has been named 2021 Firefighter of the Year by the Prospect Heights Fire Protection District.

Hardy has been a member of the fire district since 2005. In his 16 years with the district, he has been a valued firefighter/paramedic and lieutenant and his many contributions make the PHFD a better place, officials said in the announcement of the award.

"Jason has many good ideas and takes on several projects. He does not hesitate to get involved. Jason has also done much to prepare himself for future roles in the organization" Chief Drew Smith said in the announcement.

Since 1991, district firefighters have nominated one of their peers for this award. Each member bases their nomination decision on the following criteria: training and performance, performance on emergency incidents, general leadership, helping other members of the department, involvement in special projects and overall positive attitude toward the department, its members, and the public.