The number of people in the U.S. dying from drug overdoses is falling for the first time in years—and it’s falling quickly. Nationwide, overdose deaths fell 12.2% between April 2023 and April 2024 from 110,771 to 97,309, according to CDC data released in September. In comparison, overdose deaths fell by 3% between 2022 and 2023, the first annual decrease since 2018 when the number of deaths was 67,367.
- PUB DATE: 9/30/2024 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Healthcare Brew

VIDEO/PHOTOS: The magnitude of devastation wrought by Helene intensifies by the hour as search crews discover more bodies and floodwaters slowly recede, revealing more neighborhoods obliterated by the storm. The death toll across six states soared to 119 Monday, days after Helene made landfall in Florida as a monstrous Category 4 hurricane.
- PUB DATE: 9/30/2024 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: CNN

First responders in Florida came across an active house fire while navigating Hurricane Helene floodwaters by boat. Crews from the South Pasadena Fire Department and the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office found the scene while responding to water rescues. The area was completely flooded when they found a home that was fully involved in a fire.
- PUB DATE: 9/27/2024 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: WFTV ABC 9 Orlando

VIDEO: The Oklahoma State Firefighters Association is banning energy drinks at any and all class sites where there is hands-on training. "With the trend of energy drinks, we've seen that some firefighters are drinking a four pack of Red Bull before lunchtime," said Sheri Nickel, Deputy Director for the association.
- PUB DATE: 9/27/2024 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: KOKH-TV FOX 25 Oklahoma City

VIDEO: History was made in New London when New London Fire Headquarters was staffed by an all-black crew. The fire headquarters is about 80 years old. After 80 years, it was manned by an all-black crew for the first time earlier this month. New London firefighters are proud of their work. “We’re a busy fire department, I’m proud of all the members I work with, I love this job and am proud to be a part of it,” said Al Mayo, New London Fire Department Lieutenant.
- PUB DATE: 9/27/2024 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: WFSB-TV CBS 3 Hartford