The Spokane City Council approved additional funding during Wednesday’s legislative session to help 1590 Heart Funds support inclement weather shelter operations, according to the city. Council members said the added money is meant to help Spokane prepare for colder conditions and keep shelter access available for people who need it through the end of the year.

“It is our responsibility to ensure that community members can access shelter, especially during extreme weather,” said Council Member Sarah Dixit. “As we approach winter, it is vital that we use these dollars to increase capacity to help our neighbors when they need it most.”

The city said The Salvation Army, Jewels Helping Hands and Catholic Charities currently serve as housing providers. It said the added funding was approved so those operations have enough support as winter approaches.

The city also explained that inclement weather beds are activated under SMC 02.04.045. That happens when forecast wind chill is 32 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, as reported by the National Weather Service, or when the Air Quality Index reaches 201 or higher.

KHQ-TV NBC 6 Spokane

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A street sweeper was hit by a suspected impaired driver late Wednesday night, bursting into flames on Interstate 405 in Bothell. According to the Washington State Department of Transportation, traffic was temporarily reduced to one lane as fire crews responded. Early Thursday morning, all lanes reopened.

Washington State Patrol Trooper Rick said Thursday morning that the person who crashed their car into the truck was arrested for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Trooper Johnson said no one was injured in the collision.

KIRO-TV CBS 7 Seattle

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Chicago Fire Commissioner Annette Nance-Holt will retire in May.

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New Albany advanced funding for new firefighter turnout gear, using public safety tax money. Officials said the gear is nearing expiration.

The post Fire, Police Departments in New Albany (IN) Likely to Receive New Equipment Soon appeared first on Fire Apparatus: Fire trucks, fire engines, emergency vehicles, and firefighting equipment.

Greensboro voters approved four of five bond measures, authorizing $39.4 million for fire stations, parks, transportation, and housing.

The post Greensboro (NC) Voters OK Bonds Funding New Fire Station, Renovations appeared first on Fire Apparatus: Fire trucks, fire engines, emergency vehicles, and firefighting equipment.