A garage was destroyed in an overnight fire in Tacoma. Crews called to the 1000 block of North Madison Street early Friday worked to keep the flames from spreading to nearby homes. Witnesses reported hearing several explosions. At one point, flames were shooting out of the building’s roof, but firefighters were able to contain the fire to the garage.
- PUB DATE: 12/27/2019 1:53:36 AM - SOURCE: KIRO-TV CBS 7 Seattle

Municipal officials have agreed to set up what’s called a 401(a) plan, tax-differed retirement saving accounts, for retiring public safety employees. Members of the City Council approved a measure on Monday allowing mayor Andre Sayegh’s administration to set up the plan at the request of the police and fire unions.
- PUB DATE: 12/27/2019 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Paterson Times

Major changes are coming to the Owen Valley Fire Department. Lt. Joe Frye said the department will lose a majority of its firefighters at the end of the year because the Owen Valley Volunteer Firefighter Incorporated Group could not reach a contract agreement with the Owen Valley Fire Territory Board.
- PUB DATE: 12/27/2019 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: WRTV ABC 6 Indianapolis

The city’s firefighters union is pushing for more emphasis on mental health after losing an officer to suicide. “One of our brothers passed away of this disease,” said Shawn Weeks, president of Local 1891, the union that represents Boynton’s paramedics and firefighters. “Nobody thought this was gonna happen.
- PUB DATE: 12/27/2019 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: The Palm Beach Post

Knowing how to properly handle all the equipment that's used to fight fires is a crucial part of a firefighter's job. Joseph Cross looks like he's adept and ready to go to battle, but he is actually not a firefighter – yet. He is training to become one after fighting some personal demons and ending up in prison.
- PUB DATE: 12/27/2019 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Bay News 9