VIDEO: A retired firefighter who spent 20 years helping families through some of the worst days of their lives is now facing that loss himself. When Tim Archer walked through homes destroyed by fire during his career, he was the one comforting families who had lost everything. Now, he’s learning what its like to be the one receiving that comfort.

For two decades, Archer served as a Spokane firefighter and EMT. He spent years walking through homes destroyed by fire, comforting families who had lost everything. Now, he’s the one starting over. “I spent 20 years as a firefighter, so it kind of looked like what I expected it to look like… but I guess I was surprised it was my house,” said Archer.

The Old Trails Fire destroyed the home Tim and his wife Francie built their life in. They escaped with just a few belongings, their dogs and hopes they’d have something to come back to. “I think we were in shock for a day… just kind of in survival mode,” said Francie.

When they returned, only the chimney was still standing. But among the ashes, they also found reasons to keep moving forward; their chickens survived, a few clothes were still hanging on the line and a small cast-iron fire helmet was pulled from the rubble.

KREM-TV CBS 2 Spokane

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PHOTOS: The federal government has approved Washington’s request for an emergency declaration, unlocking federal assistance to help state, local and tribal governments respond to the devastating wildfires burning across eastern Washington, Gov. Bob Ferguson’s office announced Tuesday.

The declaration covers Chelan, Ferry, Okanogan, Spokane, Stevens and Yakima counties, along with the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, and the Spokane Tribe of Indians.

According to the governor’s office, the declaration allows the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to provide support for emergency response efforts, including evacuations, emergency shelters, food and water, search and rescue operations, and other response costs. Ferguson’s request was approved in full except for debris removal assistance.

KOMO-TV ABC 4 Seattle

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Sparta voters approved a six-year 0.50-mill fire authority millage to buy equipment, turnout gear and breathing devices, and help fund fire station construction.

The post Sparta (MI) Voters Approve Funding New Turnout Gear, SCBA, Firehouse Expansion appeared first on Fire Apparatus: Fire trucks, fire engines, emergency vehicles, and firefighting equipment.

Archbald residents and fire officials are urging the borough council to keep all four fire stations open amid talk of possible consolidation.

The post Resident, Fire Chief Advocate to Keep All Archbald (PA) Fire Stations Open appeared first on Fire Apparatus: Fire trucks, fire engines, emergency vehicles, and firefighting equipment.

Beaumont City Council approved $1.17 million for a 2026 Pierce pumper for Fire Station 10.

The post Beaumont (TX) Approves $1.17M Pierce Pumper to Replace Aging Frontline Engine appeared first on Fire Apparatus: Fire trucks, fire engines, emergency vehicles, and firefighting equipment.