Switzerland is easing an alcohol ban for volunteer firefighters and other emergency workers using heavy vehicles, saying it had led to staffing shortages when crises demanded quick action, especially in smaller towns lacking professional personnel. Starting on Jan. 1, slightly tipsy volunteer firefighters and off-duty members of so-called professional "blue light" organizations responding to urgent situations will be no longer face punishment - provided their blood-alcohol level does not exceed 0.
- PUB DATE: 10/26/2016 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Reuters.com

New disciplinary actions issued at the Austin Fire Department last week have brought the total of fire personnel who were suspended over traffic incidents this month to 16, a number the union president described as part of an “over-punishing environment” at the department. Each suspension has been for only a matter of hours.
- PUB DATE: 10/26/2016 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Austin American-Statesman

The voters have spoken, and a date has been set to return the Chico Way fire station to full capacity. Central Kitsap Fire and Rescue officials will have the Chico station, which has been largely unmanned for a year and a half, staffed full time starting Dec. 1, Fire Chief Scott Weninger announced at a board of commissioners meeting Monday.
- PUB DATE: 10/26/2016 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Firehouse

Tri-Clover Volunteer Fire Department, District 26, Orefield, PA, pumper. Predator Panther cab and chassis; Cummins ISL9 450-hp engine; Hale Qmax 2,000-gpm pump.

Arlington leaders say it could take some time for investigators to determine the cause of a large fire that destroyed a historic building in the heart of the city. Flames ripped through 2 Bits and More along North Olympic Avenue at around 7 P.M. Monday when an explosion sent debris and glass flying across the street.
- PUB DATE: 10/25/2016 9:00:56 PM - SOURCE: KOMO-TV ABC 4 and Radio 1000