FireWatch
FireWatch is a service that provides links to news stories from the fire community that have attracted our attention.
Michigan fire chiefs want rules for disposal of firefighting foam
As fire-fighting foams containing PFAS chemicals have been linked to cancer, immune system dysfunction and issues with child development Michigan fire chiefs are seeking a protocol for disposal of the foams. Click here to read more.
Fatal fire raises concerns about thousands of other buildings
A fatal fire in Esquimalt, BC has raised concerns about thousands of similar buildings - three and four storey walk-ups without sprinklers. These buildings didn't require sprinklers when they were built and were grandfathered under the old building code. Click here to...
Robson FD named fire department of the year by MD Canada
Robson Fire Department, which recently held its sixth annual Boot Drive to raise funds for muscular dystrophy, has been named "Fire Department of the Year" by Muscular Dystrophy Canada. Click here to read more.
U.S. auto safety regulator to open investigation into Hyundai, Kia engine fires
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) will open an investigation into 3 million Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Motors Corporation vehicles after reports of more than 3,000 fires. Click here to read more.
9/11 compensation funds running out
The growing number of people registered as having 9/11-related illnesses is putting pressure on the September 11 Victim Compensation Fund. Click here to read more.
Residents used to false alarms ignore fire in Hay River highrise
Residents of a 17-story building in Hay River, NWT are so accustomed to false fire alarms that they disregarded the alarms when there was actually a fire in the building. Click here to read more.
Vernon ordered to reinstate two employees dismissed for sexual activity in fire chief’s office
The City of Vernon has been ordered to reinstate two fire department employees who were caught on video engaging in sexual activity in the fire chief's office and subsequenty dismissed. Click here to read more.
Nova Scotia fire departments implement new safety measures after firefighter death
Nova Scotia fire departments have responded with new safety measures after a firefighter died as a result of an incident during training that involved a fire extinguisher. Click here to read more.
Daily fire truck inspection rule unnecessary?
An Alberta Transportation requirement that all vehicles over 11,794 kg be inspected daily has led to increased overtime for some volunteer fire departments. Click here to read more.
Volunteer firefighters sued over hotel fire in Manitoba
The owner of a hotel in The Pas and Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries are suing the town's volunteer fire department and the town after the Town Centre Hotel was completely destroyed by fire. Click here to read more.
Fire-proof sensor can track firefighters in burning buildings
Reseachers at McMaster University have come up with a motion-activated, fire-proof sensor that can track firefighters and others working in environments where they are not easily seen. (Thanks to Chief Janine Caldbeck of the Thetis Island Fire Department for...
Retirement homes owner fined more than $200K for fire code violations
PG&E says its equipment probably ignited Camp fire
PG&E Corp. says its equipment probably ignited the Camp fire, the deadliest fire in California history. The utility has declared bankruptcy. Click here to read more.
Kamloops Fire Rescue’s 911 system takes technological leap
Kamloops Fire Rescue is the first in the province to implement Next Generation 911, which could eventually allow residents to text or share photos or videos in an emergency situation. Click here to read more.
Toronto Fire lays charges against city and construction company
After three of four exit doors at Toronto's Union Station were blocked, causing a massive crowd leaving a concert to exit through a single set of doors Toronto Fire Services laid charges against the City of Toronto and Bondfield Construction. Click here to read more.
Tragic Halifax fire could lead to new safety measures
Phil Rizcallah, director for construction research and development with the National Research Council of Canada, says the Halifax house fire that lead to the deaths of seven children could lead to changes to the national building code.
Former fire chief sues City of Vernon
Edmonton homeowner gets $13,000 bill from fire department
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Movers & Shakers
Greater Napanee Fire promotes Shawn Armstrong to Fire Chief- Appleton Fire Department Captain Jeffrey “Nelly” Nelessen retires after 29 years of service
- Glendale Fire Department Fire Chief Greg Fish announces retirement after 33 years of service
- Waynesville names a long-time loyal firefighter, Chris Mehaffey, as interim Fire Chief