California is facing the worst wildfire conditions in its history with fewer engines and firefighters than it had 40 years ago, says a group of lawmakers and fire unions asking Gov. Gavin Newsom for an extra $84 million to beef up the state’s fire response. Cal Fire has 31 fewer engines than it had in 1975 yet it is responsible for more land, provides protection for more cities and faces drier forests and a longer fire season, said Sen.
- PUB DATE: 3/1/2019 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Sacramento Bee - Metered Site

Peru will be down one police officer and one firefighter the rest of the year to make up for a budget shortfall after city officials miscalculated how much pay raises, approved last year, would cost the city. Officers and firefighters received a 1.5-percent increase in their longevity pay as part of across-the-board raises approved for city workers that took effect this year.
- PUB DATE: 3/1/2019 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Kokomo Tribune

VIDEO: The town of Clover discussed a back-up fire protection plan Monday night for families just in case firefighters make good on a threat to walk out. Firefighters said they are angry that the town’s longtime volunteer chief was not chosen to be the first paid fire chief. The Clover town council called a special meeting Monday evening to discuss the concerns about the threats firefighters made to quit.
- PUB DATE: 2/28/2019 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: WSOCTV.com

Firefighters in Pawtucket gathered outside of a private fundraiser for Mayor Donald Grebien Tuesday evening, demanding better working conditions and a contract. President of the Rhode Island State Association of Firefighters (RISAFF) Joseph Andriole said the Pawtucket Fire Department has been working without a contract since 2016.
- PUB DATE: 2/28/2019 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: WPRI-TV

VIDEO: The Riverside Fire Department is busier than ever, and at the same time, has the lowest staffing levels the department has ever seen. The city plans to apply for a federal grant that would let them hire three more full-time firefighters. But, even if they get the grant, those positions would not start until 2020.
- PUB DATE: 2/28/2019 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Dayton Daily News