Fire departments across Massachusetts face a “daunting” task in replacing the foams they use to fight fires caused by fuels or other flammable liquids, one chief told a task force mulling ways the state can address contamination by a class of chemicals known as PFAS. Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances are a group of long-lasting, man-made chemicals used for decades in consumer products like non-stick coating and in certain firefighting foams.
- PUB DATE: 9/8/2021 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: WWLP-TV NBC/CW+ 22 Springfield

Some scientists have called it "superhuman immunity" or "bulletproof." But immunologist Shane Crotty prefers "hybrid immunity." "Overall, hybrid immunity to SARS-CoV-2 appears to be impressively potent," Crotty wrote in commentary in Science back in June. No matter what you call it, this type of immunity offers much needed good news in what seems like an endless array of bad news regarding COVID-19.
- PUB DATE: 9/8/2021 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: National Public Radio

Firefighters and police officers are investigating a fire at an abandoned two-story house on the 300-block of Auburn St on Tuesday afternoon. Kennewick Fire Chief Chad Michael told KAPP-KVEW that the fire was first reported shortly after 12:40 p.m. on Tuesday, September 7. Crews observed smoke stemming from this fire all the way back at their fire station.
- PUB DATE: 9/8/2021 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: YakTriNews

Cases driven by the delta variant are still on the rise, but now health officials are starting to closely monitor another variant called the mu variant. Its mutations are raising concerns that it may be more resistant to COVID-19 vaccines. According to Outbreak, a Scripps Research website, the mu variant has spread to 49 states, including Washington state.
- PUB DATE: 9/8/2021 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: KIRO-TV CBS 7 Seattle

Bumping River Road was elevated to a Level 3 “go now” evacuation on Tuesday night because of spotting from the Schneider Springs Fire. Yakima Valley Emergency Management said the order covers the Bumping River Road area from State Route 410 west toward Bumping Lake. Residents are advised to take family, pets, and important documents and evacuate the area immediately.
- PUB DATE: 9/8/2021 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Yakima Herald-Republic - Metered Site