L.A. fire chief under pressure for shifting firefighters from engines to ambulances
The changes are designed to address an increase in medical calls. This may be a new trend to deal with first responder call volumes.
Women settle law suit with Chicago Fire Department over physical abilities test
The women were part of a group of 187 who had passed the written test in 2006 but were later denied jobs because they failed the department’s physical abilities test. Many will now have the opportunity to reapply.
Profit-making plan to rescue fire service – Fire Department Forms Company
The idea seems to be that all commercial buildings need fire risk management services so the fire department will compete for the business. They also plan to sell health and safety, first aid and extinguisher training.
Fires in hospital operating rooms
Root cause analysis clearly shows the high concentration of oxygen and general lack of appreciation for what constitutes risk by staff were contributing factors. The staff simply did not appreciate the risk that existed. A simple risk analysis can prevent these fires.
Fire breaks out in collapsed garment factory
Fire service officials said the blaze was started by sparks from cutting equipment used by rescuers.
38 dead in Russian psychiatric hospital fire
Russian psychiatric hospital housed patients with severe mental disorders who were under sedatives. Most of them did not wake up. Investigators say 38 people – 36 patients and two doctors – were lost in the fire.
West VFD loses five firefighters in deadly explosion
West VFD is without two-thirds of their members as five firefighters died and eleven others were hospitalized after the deadly fertilizer plant explosion. They also lost three fire trucks and an emergency medical services vehicle.
Bullying in the workplace may have contributed to suicide
Montreal’s fire chief recently admitted the department has a serious problem with bullying.
He said there was a terrible environment in the fire prevention department and the people there were very, very unhappy.
Firefighters suing siren manufacturers for hearing loss
Firefighters claim the companies knew or should have known that the sirens were inherently dangerous, defective and hazardous to human hearing.
Dishwasher fire hazard
Due to an increase in fires it is recommended that people do not turn on appliances before they go to bed. A simple bedtime routine which includes switching off all electrical appliances at night will reduce the risk of having a fire in your home.