A major earthquake in California is likely to knock out many communications services for days or weeks, including the vast majority of cellphones in the areas closest to the epicenter, according to a landmark new analysis by the U.S. Geological Survey. The widespread disruption would imperil the public's access to 911 operators and lead to delays in reporting fires and calls for medical help.
- PUB DATE: 10/22/2021 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Yahoo News

A new fire position is now open at West Benton Fire Rescue. Officials told Action News that they created a “Firefighter Only” position where a firefighter can respond to only fire calls and no medical calls, which means they would not fall under the COVID-19 vaccine mandate. The Fire Chief said that while there is currently only one firefighter in the position while they get fully vaccinated, this position is one that will stand and allow them to recruit more firefighters.
- PUB DATE: 10/22/2021 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: KEPR-TV CBS/CW+ 19 Pasco

Spokane County Sheriff’s deputies arrested a domestic violence suspect Thursday evening, who is suspected of setting his home on fire during the standoff. The Spokane County Sheriff’s Office said the standoff had been going on since Wednesday night when suspect Brian N. Olson, 37, refused to surrender from his home on N.
- PUB DATE: 10/22/2021 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: KXLY-TV ABC 4 Spokane

Pullman Fire Marshal Chris Wehung has determined the cause of the fire to be a battery charger that was being used overnight to charge lithium batteries bought from overseas. The damages to the townhouse are estimated at $500,000. The townhouse was completely lost, along with the belongings inside, two vehicles and a motorcycle.
- PUB DATE: 10/21/2021 10:52:30 PM - SOURCE: KHQ-TV NBC 6 Spokane

Firefighters are used to stressful situations, running into fires, saving buildings and people. The vaccine mandate was another type of stress for firefighter Mike Miner. “There’s a lot of stuff I brought to my faith. And, it just didn’t sit right with me,” Miner said. It was between losing his job and not being able to provide for his family or get vaccinated against his faith, which he didn’t feel comfortable disclosing.
- PUB DATE: 10/21/2021 4:20:20 PM - SOURCE: KXLY-TV ABC 4 Spokane