Okanogan County voters will be asked on the Nov. 5 general election ballot to approve a tax meant to upgrade emergency communication systems and facilities. The Okanogan County Sheriff's Office explains the need for the tax by detailing the current state of the system used by fire, emergency management services, and police first responders in Okanogan County.
- PUB DATE: 9/18/2019 1:05:23 PM - SOURCE: Grand Coulee Star

A fire destroyed a large detached garage in Washougal late Wednesday morning. Camas-Washougal Fire Department crews were dispatched at 11 a.m. to 3300 block of G Street for a report of a structure fire. The first fire crew to arrive reported that there was smoke billowing from the side of an outbuilding, according to emergency radio traffic monitored at The Columbian.
- PUB DATE: 9/18/2019 12:49:08 PM - SOURCE: Vancouver Columbian

Former Chelan Fire and Rescue Chief Tim Lemon passed away Tuesday after complications from pancreatic cancer. Chief Lemon was involved in firefighting for 40 years, including the past 10 at the head of Chelan Fire and Rescue. New Chief Mark Donnell says Lemon’s wife Cathy was with him. “Please send Cathy and family your best wishes and prayers as they navigate this difficult time.
- PUB DATE: 9/18/2019 10:42:15 AM - SOURCE: KPQ-AM 560

It’s only a drill. This time. U.S. Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound, as well as other state and local agencies, are scheduled to hold an active shooter drill at the Washington State Ferries Eagle Harbor Maintenance Facility from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 21. Nearby residents and community members around the facility and surrounding waterway should expect a large number of first responders, equipment, sirens and simulated gunfire.
- PUB DATE: 9/18/2019 2:17:44 AM - SOURCE: Bainbridge Island Review

After months of negotiating, North and Central Whidbey fire districts have reached agreements to continue longstanding deals with the hospital for ambulance staffing. During discussions, Whidbey-Health considered ending the inter-local contracts with both districts, which would have resulted in a significant loss in revenue for the fire departments.
- PUB DATE: 9/18/2019 1:45:28 AM - SOURCE: Whidbey News-Times