A city resident, who was rejected as a firefighter because he has high blood pressure, has filed a $500,000 federal discrimination lawsuit against the city. Antonio Dias, 30, claims that although the city’s own doctor said he can perform the duties of a firefighter as long as he takes medication for his high blood pressure the city’s personnel director refused to clear Dias.
- PUB DATE: 2/14/2017 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Connecticut Post

Boise Fire Chief Dennis Doan said he is outraged after the House State Affairs Committee voted, 6-9, on Monday not to move forward with legislation that would close a fireworks loophole in Idaho. Meridian Fire Chief Mark Niemeyer also echoed Doan’s concerns in a statement released Monday afternoon, and Nampa Fire Chief Phil Roberts has also stated in the past he is among those in favor of banning the sale of aerial fireworks.
- PUB DATE: 2/14/2017 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Idaho Press-Tribune

McLennan County’s state representatives have expressed support for a bill that would allow first responders with a state License to Carry a Handgun to carry while responding to emergencies, but local officials have differing views. Waco Fire Chief Bobby Tatum, said he’s adamantly opposed to firefighters caring guns on duty.
- PUB DATE: 2/14/2017 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Waco Tribune

Fire chiefs and firefighters on Monday urged Gov. Scott Walker to require new homes to have more devices to prevent fires, saying a new electrical code being considered by his administration doesn't go far enough. "This is a reckless disregard for safety," said Wauwatosa Fire Chief Rob Ugaste, president of the Wisconsin State Fire Chiefs Association.
- PUB DATE: 2/14/2017 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Stevens Point Journal

North Riverside (IL) Fire Department 100-foot platform quint. Velocity FR cab and chassis; Detroit DD13 500-hp engine; Waterous CSU 2,000-gpm pump.