Even with three highly effective vaccines available in abundance throughout the country, the delta variant of SARS-CoV-2 continues to cause a large number of new infections, particularly in states where vaccination rates remain low. What’s more, as schools and businesses reopen and the holiday season approaches, another rise in infections may be on the way.
- PUB DATE: 9/24/2021 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: The Conversation

The number of homeless encampment fires in Seattle continues to climb. Another explosive blaze torched part of a homeless camp at green lake Thursday morning. “I woke up from a loud explosion,” said Arthur McNeil, who lives at the camp. Within moments McNeil says he lost everything he owned. “I’ll pick up the pieces and start over,” he said.
- PUB DATE: 9/24/2021 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: KOMO-TV ABC 4 Seattle

The Sedro-Woolley Fire Department recently added a state-of-the-art ambulance to its fleet. Built to exacting specifications provided by the department itself, the new rig — built from the chassis up — was driven from the renowned ambulance manufacturer Braun Northwest located in Chehalis to its new home.
- PUB DATE: 9/23/2021 10:13:56 PM - SOURCE: Skagit Valley Herald (GoSkagit.com)

The groundbreaking for the $5.9 million project is planned for a fire station, reports MLive.com.

The current fire station has three bays, while the new station will have five double bays. The planning for the station started in 2012.

When the department moved into the station in 1974, no one expected the need to fit a 105-foot aerial truck.

The fire station will have modern features like a decontamination room, industrial washers for the gear and space to clean the air packs.

The department hopes to buy a water rescue boat after the move into the new space.

The purchases of a new fire truck and ambulance are part of a five-year, $28.7 million capital improvement plan, reports CentralMaine.com.

The spending would be put to a vote in June 2022, or the city could hold a special election.