FireWatch
FireWatch is a service that provides links to news stories from the fire community that have attracted our attention.
A prescribed burn saved lives and homes on this B.C. First Nation, offering a glimpse at firefighting’s future
A prescribed burn conducted by the Aq’am First Nation in British Columbia is highlighted in a recent study, showcasing its effectiveness in preventing wildfires. The Globe and Mail
Climate-Fueled Wildfires Testing the Limits of Canada’s Aging Water Bombers
With Canada's water bombers aging and anticipated increases in wildfire seasons, sure wildland firefighters and emergency preparedness experts argue that the country must strengthen its fleet of firefighting aircraft. Despite some provinces downplaying concerns about...
CBRM volunteer fire chiefs, management to begin talks on changes due to budget crunch
The fire services of Cape Breton Regional Municipality are encountering a significant budgetary challenge, and volunteer chiefs are seeking involvement in finding a resolution. According to Craig MacNeil, deputy chief of the regional fire service in Sydney, N.S., the...
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...
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