A marina fire in Scottsboro, Alabama, earlier this year illustrated how such a situation can turn tragic in just minutes. At 12:35 a.m. on January 27, 2020, a man living aboard a houseboat at Jackson County Park Marina awoke to a “popping” sound and smoke filled the cabin. According to the report from the National Transportation Safety Board, the owner told investigators he saw flames coming from the forward bulkhead near the vessel’s electrical panel.
- PUB DATE: 11/13/2020 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Marina Dock Age

The City of Seattle is ramping up its response to a nuisance house in West Seattle. Seattle Police officers have responded to this house 49 times since the beginning of the year. “From a police standpoint, nearly 50 calls to a single residence in 10 months is a lot,” said Sgt. Randy Huserik. This comes after an RV many have said is associated with this nuisance property caught fire on Monday.
- PUB DATE: 11/13/2020 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: KOMO-TV ABC 4 Seattle

The city of Tacoma may see a reduction in fire engine service next year. City Council is considering a proposal for the 2021-22 budget that would reduce the Tacoma Fire Department’s fleet by three engines. The reduction has led to Tacoma Firefighters IAFF Local 31 union to speak out in a letter to the public with concerns about what it would mean for the city’s service levels.
- PUB DATE: 11/13/2020 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: The News Tribune - Metered Site

Anacortes Fire Chief David A. Oliveri is no longer working for the City of Anacortes, the mayor confirmed Tuesday. His last day was Oct. 31, following an administrative leave, Mayor Laurie Gere said. Gere gave no specific reason for Oliveri’s leave or departure, but said it is her job as mayor to evaluate directors.
- PUB DATE: 11/12/2020 7:42:20 PM - SOURCE: Skagit Valley Herald (GoSkagit.com)

During pre-COVID-19 times, the East County Fire & Rescue board of commissioners’ special meeting to discuss staffing issues would likely have been standing-room only. Instead, when callers joined the virtual board meeting on Monday, Nov. 9, a voice simply announced: “There are more than 20 participants in the meeting.
- PUB DATE: 11/12/2020 1:04:37 PM - SOURCE: Camas-Washougal Post-Record