Coombs fire department tabs first-ever full-time female deputy chief
The Coombs Hilliers Volunteer Fire Department has made Theresa Benoit its first full-time female Deputy Fire Chief. Posted August 12, 2023.
Commander Rolland Wilkie of the Meaford and Saugeen Shores Firefighting Departments has retired
Commander Rolland Wilkie of the Meaford and Saugeen Shores Firefighting Departments has retired after 48 years as a volunteer firefighter. Posted August 10, 2023.
B.C. fire chief granted citizenship from front lines of Kelowna fire
When the Popkum Fire Department received the call to assist in protecting homes from the ferocious wildfire in the Central Okanagan, Fire Chief Walter Roos sprang into action to coordinate his team’s response. He selflessly left his residence in the Lower Mainland to aid in battling the encroaching blaze in West Kelowna, fully aware that doing so meant he would miss the chance to attend his eagerly anticipated citizenship ceremony.
Drones Can Be Even More Effective for Search and Rescue
Drones play a pivotal role in disaster responses and have the potential to be utilized more extensively and effectively than ever before. They can serve various crucial functions, including the transportation of supplies or equipment to remote and challenging-to-access areas, the swift delivery of vital medications and essential goods, the rapid identification of fire origins, and the search for survivors.
Deadly blazes aren’t the only thing wildland firefighters are battling this fire season
Wildland firefighters across the country endure challenging working conditions, including two-week work cycles, shifts that stretch up to 18 hours, accommodations in tents or distant gymnasiums, far away from their homes, and exposure to hazardous and unpredictable work environments.
Community rallies around 13 firefighters who lost their homes while protecting others
A total of over $38,000 has been collected to support 13 volunteer firefighters who tragically lost their residences while bravely defending their community from a wildfire.
Fire Chief Paul Zydowicz leads a dedicated team of 24 volunteers at the Wilson’s Landing Fire Department, situated north of West Kelowna. He himself was among those who saw their homes consumed by the relentless McDougall Creek fire during their firefighting efforts.
B.C. to expand programs that train volunteers to help firefighters battle wildfires
The BC Wildfire Service is increasing the scope of its educational initiatives, with the aim of providing essential training to a greater number of local volunteers. This training will empower them to safely assist wildfire responders when a fire endangers their communities.
Shutting off power to reduce wildfire risk on windy days isn’t a simple decision – an energy expert explains the trade-offs electric utilities face
Maui County is taking legal action against Hawaiian Electric, alleging that the utility company’s negligence contributed to the destructive Lahaina city fire on August 8, 2023.
Determining when to cut power is often a complex decision. Read the full article to better understand the risks and considerations utilities face when responding to fire-prone conditions.
Answering at a moment’s notice: How volunteer firefighting works in Canada
The summer of 2023 in Canada has witnessed an unprecedented wildfire season, with raging fires spreading from one coast to another, making it the most severe wildfire season in recorded history. Fire chiefs point out that one crucial defense against these escalating climate-related disasters is a network of volunteers, a resource that is dwindling with each passing year.
Safety alert: Canada-wide recall for portable heaters after multiple fires
Numerous portable heaters distributed throughout Canada are under recall due to multiple instances of overheating, including three cases resulting in fires.
An alert issued by Health Canada warns that specific heaters sold under the Mastercraft, Profusion Heat, Prestige, and Matrix brands pose potential safety risks, potentially resulting in burns or property damage.