PFAS chemicals in turnout gear may release by wear and tear, study says
A recent study by the National Institute of Standards and Technology has unveiled more alarming information about PFAS, toxic industrial chemicals used in firefighters' turnout gear to make them fireproof. The study indicates that specific textiles in protective...
The dire shortage of volunteer firefighters in the US
Many parts of the United States heavily depend on non-career firefighters, but their numbers are declining. If this issue persists, significant consequences could arise. bbc.com
BC gives $6.2 million to volunteer and composite fire departments
Over 200 volunteer and composite fire departments in British Columbia are slated to be granted over $6.2 million for practical training, acquiring new equipment, and mental health support. CDN FIREFIGHTER
Suing over snow removal? Here’s what the courts have said about who’s responsible
Read this article to learn about a case of suing over injuries caused by inadequate snow removal, focusing on cases in British Columbia, Canada. CBC NEWS
As weather-related disasters mount, some Canadian homeowners can’t get insurance coverage
Extreme weather events, including floods, wildfires, storms, and hurricanes, led to insured losses exceeding $3 billion in Canada for the second consecutive year, according to a report by the Insurance Bureau of Canada. CBC News
Springfield Fire Department now using new technology to alert drivers to move over
The Springfield Fire Department has implemented the HAAS Alert Cloud, a new technology connecting emergency lights on firetrucks with drivers' navigation systems. This system provides real-time updates to drivers about accidents or approaching emergency vehicles from...
This device can detect the one lightning strike likely to cause a wildfire
Florida Forest Service collaborates with the Fire Neural Network at the University of Florida, utilizing a High-Risk-Lightning detector for quicker response to wildfires caused by lightening strikes. The detector, integrated with artificial intelligence, provides...
Enhancing Fireground Effectiveness Amid Staffing Challenges
Navigating low staffing levels, tight budgets, and inadequate equipment, fire departments face added complexity in maintaining effective operations. The significance of well-defined roles and responsibilities on the fireground has grown, demanding unwavering...
Edmonton needs different approach for dealing with homeless encampments, police chief says
Edmonton's police chief, Dale McFee, is urging a revaluation of the city's approach to homeless encampments following fatal tent fires downtown. Read More
Bangladesh gets female firefighters for first time
In a historic move for the Bangladesh Fire Service and Civil Defence (FSCD), 15 female firefighters have joined the force, marking the first time in its history. Read More
Osoyoos Fire Rescue gains ‘Full-Service’ designation
Osoyoos Fire Rescue (OFR) has been re-designated following ongoing training, enabling it to provide fire suppression protection to larger, more complex structures. In a presentation to council, Corey Kortmeyer OFR Chief said the move “enhances fire life and safety for...
FEMA chief “very concerned” about disinformation from U.S. adversaries after disasters
FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell expressed deep concern about U.S. adversaries, such as China and Russia, spreading misinformation and disinformation in the aftermath of natural disasters. Speaking at COP28 in Dubai, Criswell highlighted the potential for...
Apartment buildings with only one stairwell: The answer to B.C. housing woes?
North American building codes have long mandated two staircases in apartment buildings for fire safety. Now, the B.C. government is considering relaxing this requirement, especially for buildings between two and six stories, aligning with European practices. Over the...
E-bike fire on Toronto subway was ‘rapid and intense’
E-bike fire on Toronto subway was 'rapid and intense,' Toronto Fire says. Here's how it erupted. A fire engulfed a subway train in Toronto Sunday afternoon and Toronto Fire says it is due to the failure of a lithium ion battery pack used in an electric bike. Just...
Firefighters sounding the alarm over staffing level
Cochrane firefighters are raising concerns about the necessity for increased manpower to cope with rapid urban expansion, citing it as a critical matter for public safety. He notes that the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) standard prescribes one...
Vancouver Island fire department challenged by soaring overdose calls
The number of medical aid calls addressed by Nanaimo Fire Rescue is rapidly increasing, along with the associated response costs. During a Nanaimo city council meeting on Monday, November 6, Fire Chief Tim Doyle presented a report, requested earlier in the spring,...
Though winter is coming, fire crews are on the lookout for zombie fires that can spring back to life
While the official end of the wildfire season in Alberta has been announced, Firefighters remain vigilant, monitoring for underground fires that could potentially reignite come spring. Beneath the surface, fire may still smoulder in organic material known as peat,...
Moncton researchers developing artificial intelligence to fight wildfires
In New Brunswick, a group of researchers is pioneering an innovative strategy to address the escalating wildfire risk in Canada: instructing artificial intelligence to identify them more swiftly. Engineers at the Université de Moncton are refining an algorithm...
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Movers & Shakers
Clarington Fire Chief Dave Speed recognized for Ontario Leadership Award- Mt. Pleasant introduces new Fire Chief Mark Kraisinger
- Orillia Fire Chief Capt. Glenn Higgins retires after nearly 30 years
- Canyon Fire Deputy Chief Wiley Harp retires after 42 years of service
- Captain Mark McCarthy retires from Butte Silver Bow Fire Department after 30 years