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 location details within approximately 40 seconds, allowing for rapid and precise intervention to combat wildfires.
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 dedication from firefighters.
Edmonton‘s police chief, Dale McFee, is urging a revaluation of the city’s approach to homeless encampments following fatal tent fires downtown.
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.
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 the residents and visitors of Osoyoos.”
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 cyberattacks during vulnerable moments, citing instances like the Maui fires and the Ohio train derailment.
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 next year, potential changes to the B.C. Building Code will be explored to encourage more cost-effective construction.
After four decades of service, current Saskatoon Fire Chief Morgan Hackl is heading off into retirement
After nearly seven years Kelowna Fire Chief Travis Whiting is leaving to take over as Chief of the Whitehorse Fire department.
Kelowna fire chief leaving to seek new adventures in Whitehorse.
Kelowna is searching for a new fire chief.
After nearly seven years at the helm, including leading the city through this summer’s wildfires, Travis Whiting is leaving the Okanagan to answer the call of the Yukon. He is taking over as chief of the Whitehorse Fire Department.
“I don’t know if it will be a slower pace. I’m not one who tends to be at a slow pace, but it definitely will be at a different scale,” Whiting told Castanet. “A lot of our focus on moving up there, of course, is on the lifestyle and just exploring another area.”
Fire chief John Crelly retires from Golden Valley Fire Department after 42 years.
Firefighters prepare for anything. Someone could be stuck in an elevator, suffering from cardiac arrest or trapped in a burning house. Most calls are medical, but there is a huge variety. For John Crelly, firefighting turned into a career spanning more than four decades.
Crelly joined the Golden Valley Fire Department in 1981 as a part-time paid on-call firefighter. He worked a few years for Honeywell until he was laid off in 1990. Crelly has served on the fire departments in New Hope, Maple Grove, Fridley, and Colombia Heights. About 10 years ago, he became chief of Golden Valley’s Fire Department. This year, he decided it was time to retire.