Orcas Island Fire & Rescue has launched one of its largest fire academies in department history. Thirty recruits began training on January 3, 2026. They represent every fire station on Orcas Island. This coverage expansion is significant. It strengthens emergency response across the island. It also has the potential to improve homeowner insurance ratings through the Washington Survey and Rating Bureau (WSRB).

For the first time in 13 years, OIFR has included cadets in the academy. Six young islanders, ages 15 to 18, are training alongside adult recruits. More information about the cadet program will be shared in coming weeks. The academy runs through April. Training takes place on weekends and two Thursday evenings each month. Sessions run from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Recruits will train for Firefighter 1 and 2 certifications through the Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office under the auspices of the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC). They will also earn HAZMAT certification. In March, they’ll complete live fire training at the Fire Training Academy in North Bend. This is a required component for certification. More information about the live fire training will be shared in the coming weeks.

San Juan Islander – Metered source

The post Orcas Island Fire & Rescue launches historic fire academy appeared first on Daily Dispatch.

Municipal fire departments face challenges in equipping engines for industrial firefighting, including pump size, foam equipment, and tank capacities, impacting vehicle design and response capabilities.

The post Outfitting Rigs for Industrial Firefighting Responses appeared first on Fire Apparatus: Fire trucks, fire engines, emergency vehicles, and firefighting equipment.

Washburn, ME, has opened a new 14,000-square-foot municipal hub, replacing an outdated fire station. The $4.3 million facility improves operations and accommodates larger equipment.

The post After 100-Plus Years, ME Town Has a New Town Office and Fire Station appeared first on Fire Apparatus: Fire trucks, fire engines, emergency vehicles, and firefighting equipment.

The Ceredo (WV) Volunteer Fire Department has placed a 2000 Pierce pumper, Engine 6-2, into service, replacing a 1991 model.

The post Push-In Ceremony Held for 26-Year-Old Pumper appeared first on Fire Apparatus: Fire trucks, fire engines, emergency vehicles, and firefighting equipment.

A Brownsburg (IN) Fire Territory ambulance overturned into a creek after losing control on icy roads.

The post Ambulance Slides Off Icy Road, Overturns Into Creek appeared first on Fire Apparatus: Fire trucks, fire engines, emergency vehicles, and firefighting equipment.