Review cites need for research on wildfire, chemical interactions
A recently published review by UC Davis graduate students found research on the health impacts of wildfire smoke where fire-suppression chemicals and pesticides are used is lacking.
Montreal’s Metro operators use simulator to learn how to deal with fires
In a sealed-off tunnel in an undisclosed location in Montreal Metro operators and fire personnel use simulations to learn how to deal with fire emergencies in the subway network. The simulator uses a real Metro train.
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Halifax seniors’ building to get fire-rated cladding
The Metropolitan Regional Housing Authority, after an investigation by a fire safety expert, has decided to replace the cladding on a 16 story seniors’ residence in Halifax. The cladding was found to be the same type used on Grenfell Towers in London.
Court orders blood sample after man vomits on firefighter
B.C.’s Intervention Disclosure Act has been used for the first time to order a blood sample from a person who vomited on a Nanaimo firefighter, then left the hospital before being treated.
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Alberta ranchers demand answers from Canadian military
Alberta ranchers who lost homes, structures, equipment, fences and cattle after a grass fire that started on CFB Suffield swept through 36,000 hectares of land are asking for compensation and answers from the Canadian military. The military has acknowledged responsibility for the fire.
September in fire history – the Blue Bird Cafe fire
On September 1, 1972 three young men who had been refused entry set a fire on the staircase that served as the only regular entrance for the Wagon Wheel bar in Montreal. The resulting fire killed 37 people.
Government declares Canadian National Firefighters Memorial Day
Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Minister Ralph Goodale announced the Government of Canada has set aside the second Sunday in September as National Firefighters Memorial Day.
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Can wildfire smoke damage lungs?
For weeks this summer residents of British Columbia, Alberta, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana and Northern California lived in a pall of wildfire smoke. NPR’s Jane Greenhalgh met with Dr. Gopal Allada, a pulmonologist and critical care specialist at Oregon Health & Science University, to find out whether all that smoke can harm lungs.
Is BC doing enough to reduce wildfire risk to communities
After the catastrophic 2003 wildfire season former Manitoba premier Gary Filmon was hired by the province to conduct a review. His report, “Firestorm 2003”, warned that action had to be taken to reduce fuels in forests near communities. Communities are now saying the province needs to do more.
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CSB releases video on fire safety for school presentations