FireWatch

A new study shows that wildland fires emit far more air pollution than scientists thought, releasing huge amounts of smoke, soot and greenhouse gases that can affect air quality thousands of kilometres away. These findings could change how experts assess the climate...

The Farmington Fire Department is using a new technology that alerts drivers to approaching emergency vehicles, aiming to reduce collisions and clear the way faster for crews responding to calls. By sending real‑time warnings directly to phones and dashboards, the...

A new federal study finds that while Canada is seeing fewer wildfires overall, the big blazes that do occur are burning much more land and causing significantly more damage than in the past. Researchers say this shift points to longer, hotter fire seasons and tougher...

The Corpus Christi Fire Department is trialling revolutionary helmets with built‑in infrared cameras that let crews actually see through smoke and darkness, a huge advantage when visibility drops to zero. The live video feed also streams back to teams outside, giving...

Many fire departments are doing fewer live‑fire training sessions, and that’s costing firefighters more than just experience. It can affect confidence, decision‑making and safety when the real thing happens. The article explores why hands‑on training is slipping and...

Firefighters’ protective gear can break down over time from UV exposure, even if it looks okay on the outside, and that can weaken the very protection crews depend on in a fire. Proper care and inspection can help extend the life of PPE and keep responders safer on...

Fireground radios are critical, but common reasons they fail when crews need them most include interference, poor battery life, antenna issues, and outdated equipment. Understanding these weak spots can help departments improve communication and safety on the...

Fire chiefs in B.C. are sounding the alarm as FireSmart funding runs low and competition for grants tightens, threatening year‑round wildfire prevention work that helps protect homes and forests from dangerous blazes. Communities that rely on these proactive programs...

The Port Coquitlam Fire Department is launching a first‑of‑its‑kind support dog program to help firefighters, staff and even residents cope with stress and traumatic calls using a specially trained canine. The dog will offer comfort after tough incidents, during...

Phoenix has rolled out an AI‑powered system to handle non‑emergency 911 calls, greeting callers and guiding them through prompts so human dispatchers can focus on life‑threatening emergencies. The tool aims to cut wait times, ease staff stress, and free up resources...

A new fire‑extinguishing agent called Hydrogel can put out flames without using PFAS, “forever chemicals,” aiming to protect both people and the environment. Unlike traditional foams, it contains zero detectable PFAS yet still performs well on common and lithium‑ion...

A fire service in Hertfordshire has begun trialling body‑worn cameras for crews after an 83 per cent jump in abuse incidents, from verbal harassment to physical confrontations with firefighters and support staff. The cameras are meant to deter bad behaviour, help with...

Hong Kong officials say they warned contractors about fire safety risks at the Wang Fuk Court high‑rise renovation project less than a week before a deadly blaze tore through the complex, raising questions about whether enough was done to prevent the disaster....

Researchers around Bradford are trialling robotic dogs equipped with AI to help spot wildfires early and operate in conditions too dangerous for humans. These high‑tech helpers could make fire detection faster and safer in rough terrain. Read more to learn how robots...

Modern fire services are shifting from just reacting to emergencies toward creating real, lasting value in their communities through prevention, education and partnerships. By focusing on risk reduction and community well‑being, departments can keep people safer...

A California startup is developing a fire‑suppression system that uses targeted sound waves to interrupt flames without water or chemicals, offering a cleaner way to fight certain fires. If proven effective, the tech could help protect homes and infrastructure with...

The Holiday season can be tough on fire‑service crews, where long shifts, volunteer commitments and unpredictable calls add stress when families want connection most. A few simple acts, a warm meal together, a handwritten thank‑you note, or a small surprise treat can...

NASA and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are rolling out new drone and air‑traffic‑management tech that could let crews fight wildfires at night, and even through thick smoke, when traditional planes must stand down. Their suitcase‑size portable system gives...