FireWatch
FireWatch is a service that provides links to news stories from the fire community that have attracted our attention.
New Sensor Could Help Prevent Lithium-Ion Battery Fires and Explosions
A new sensor technology could be the breakthrough needed to prevent fires and explosions caused by lithium-ion batteries. By detecting early warning signs, it may offer a safer future for everything from smartphones to electric vehicles. Discover how this innovation...
Volunteer Firefighter Shortage A Significant Issue
Communities across Canada are struggling to recruit and retain volunteer firefighters, and the shortage is reaching a critical point. Without enough volunteers, emergency response times could suffer - especially in rural areas. Read more to learn why fewer people are...
Government Of Canada Announces New Actions On PFAS, Say The IAFF
The Canadian government is taking new steps to address PFAS - harmful chemicals often found in firefighting gear - that have been linked to serious health risks. Firefighters and their unions have been pushing for action, and change may finally be on the way. Read...
Indigenous Communities in B.C. And California Promote Cultural Burns for Disaster Mitigation
After a record-breaking wildfire season, B.C. is turning to cultural burns - an Indigenous-led practice also used in California - to help manage forest fuel and reduce fire risk. These small, controlled fires could hold the key to a safer future. Read more to learn...
Home Insurance Rates Expected to Rise in B.C. Fire Zones Due to California Fires
Homeowners in B.C.’s fire-prone areas could see insurance rates rise - thanks in part to the growing impact of wildfires in California. Insurers are adjusting premiums as fire risks climb across the West Coast. Discover how international wildfire trends are hitting...
Fighting Fires With AI, Drones and Sensors. How High Tech Could Help Battle Future Blazes
Tech giants are teaming up to fight wildfires using AI, aiming to predict and contain blazes before they spread. The high-tech approach is being tested in Los Angeles, where wildfire threats are growing each year. Read more to see how AI could revolutionize wildfire...
C. Paramedics Say Staffing Nears ‘Critical’ Levels, Affecting Response Times
Paramedics in B.C. say they're stretched too thin, with staffing levels nearing a breaking point and response times suffering as a result. The ongoing shortage is putting both patients and frontline workers at risk. Read more to learn what's behind the crisis and what...
Two Dozen Firefighters Tackle Multi-Storey Fire in Coquitlam, B.C.
Two dozen firefighters rushed to battle a massive multi-storey blaze in Coquitlam, B.C., working through thick smoke and tough conditions. The fire caused serious damage and forced evacuations in the area. Read more to find out how crews contained the flames and what...
Red Deer Company Offers Innovative Protection Against Wildfire Threats
A Red Deer company is making waves with a new wildfire protection system designed to safeguard homes and businesses. Their innovative solution could be a game changer for communities facing growing wildfire risks. Read more to see how this Alberta-based company is...
Longtime N.S. Volunteer Firefighter Battling Cancer Won’t Receive Compensation
CBC NEWS A Halifax volunteer firefighter battling cancer highlights the challenges volunteer first responders face when it comes to insurance coverage. Discover how his case could lead to change for others in similar situations.
Engine Failure Caused Fatal Crash of Helicopter Involved in Wildfire Fight in Northern Alberta
CBC NEWS A tragic helicopter crash in northern Alberta has claimed the lives of two people, prompting an investigation by the Transportation Safety Board. The chopper was found in a remote area after it went missing during a flight. Read more to learn what officials...
More Than 130,000 Electric Stoves Recalled in Canada Due to Fire Risk from Front Knobs
Hundreds of thousands of electric and gas ranges are being recalled across Canada after reports of the stoves turning on by themselves. Some cases even led to minor injuries and property damage. Read more to find out which models are affected and what steps to take if...
As Wall Street Chases Profits, Fire Departments Have Paid the Price – The New York Times
As Wall Street prioritizes profits, fire departments across the U.S. are feeling the strain, facing budget cuts and resource shortages. With increased financial pressures, some departments are struggling to maintain response times and public safety. Discover how...
Jasper Tenants Facing ‘Astronomical’ Rent Increases Following Wildfire
Jasper tenants are facing rent hikes of nearly 50% following the 2024 wildfire, worsening an already dire housing crisis. While officials acknowledge the issue, concerns over affordability and price gouging are growing. See what’s being done to address Jasper’s...
New Fire Maps in California Add 1.4 Million Acres Requiring Stronger Safety Regulations
California’s new fire maps add 1.4 million acres to high-risk zones, triggering stricter building and land-use regulations. While these changes aim to improve fire safety, they aren’t expected to directly impact insurance rates. Learn how these updates are shaping...
EV Fires Could Become Much Easier to Contain
Renault is making EV fires easier to control with a new battery access port that allows firefighters to flood the battery with water in minutes. By offering this technology under a free license, they’re pushing for safer solutions across the industry. See how this...
Improperly Stored Materials Likely Cause of Downtown Prince George Fire That Levelled Building –
A fire that destroyed a downtown Prince George building last month was likely caused by improperly stored materials, investigators say. With no signs of foul play or unauthorized entry, officials have ruled the blaze accidental. Learn how the investigation unfolded....
Without Fire Hydrants, This Northern Manitoba Community Uses Buckets to Fight Fires
Firefighters in Tataskweyak Cree Nation are forced to use buckets to fight fires due to broken hydrants and a lack of running water in parts of the community. Local leaders are pushing for federal support to fix decades-old infrastructure and improve fire safety. See...