The Washington Fire Chiefs are sad to share that Gary May, a staple instructor for a number of years at the Fire Mechanics conference, has passed away.  He will be very missed.

Our Office has noted a recent increase in cases of payroll frauds at fire districts and departments of all sizes. Specifically, we’ve seen frauds involving the inflation of leave balances and/or employees not taking leave when required.

• Approximately 370 Fire Districts in the State of WA 

• 121 (33%) have applied to participate in 4481-DR-WA 

• 65 (18%) have submitted projects for reimbursement 

• 41 (11%) have received funding - $1.5 million funded since May 2020* 

• Additional $1.5 million worth of projects currently pending in review. 

• 4481-DR-WA continues to be extended

It is with heavy hearts that Spokane County Fire District 4 announces the death of Lt. Jay Hughes. Jay died Wednesday 1/6/2021 after succumbing to complications following a cardiac arrest that occurred while on duty at his regular job with Kalispell Tribal Police. He was 64 years old.

Jay worked for Spokane County Sheriff’s Department for 39 years, retiring several years ago at the rank of Lieutenant. After retiring from the Sheriff’s Department, Jay then continued his law enforcement career working for Kalispell Tribal Police. Additionally, he has served SCFD4 for nearly 18 years, currently as a Lieutenant with Battalion 4, and member of the D4SIU as a Fire Investigator. Jay was currently serving as the Chairman for Washington State Board of Volunteer Firefighters. Jay’s service to his community and the leadership he has demonstrated throughout his career will be sorely missed. He has left quite a legacy.

We ask that everyone keep his wife Diane and their children in your prayers.

In recognition of this Line of Duty Death, the Washington Fire Chiefs recommend that Washington fire agencies shroud their badges until 5pm on December 11th, in accordance with their agency's policies.