This fourth Fire Service Needs Assessment Survey was conducted by NFPA in 2015-2016 and follows three earlier surveys, which were completed in 2001, 2005 and 2010. This report shows that while some fire service needs have been declining, many have remained constant or increased. Fire service needs are extensive for departments of all sizes and in every area, including staffing, training, facilities, apparatus, personal protective equipment (PPE); and health and wellness.
- PUB DATE: 11/10/2016 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: National Fire Protection Association

The state attorney general's office has determined that selectmen did not violate the Open Meeting Law in their selection of a fire chief last spring. However, the attorney general's office said that minutes from an open session May 16, when the board interviewed candidates for fire chief, lacked sufficient detail and that the minutes show the board wrongly kept secret how they determined the top candidate.
- PUB DATE: 11/10/2016 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Worcester Telegram & Gazette

With more questions than answers surrounding a Trump presidency, these seven items are likely to be front of mind for fire and EMS providers. I have closely followed the presidential campaign over the past 18 months. Today as I review the results, read the analysis and scroll through the cries of despair and boasts of triumph on Facebook, I am reminded of the EMS adage, "Don't treat the monitor, treat the patient.
- PUB DATE: 11/10/2016 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: FireRescue1

Two men are in serious condition after a gunman opened fire near a busy bus stop Wednesday night, shooting five people just outside a 7-Eleven. Two of the other three victims, a man and a woman, are in satisfactory condition at Harborview Medical Center. The third victim, a man, has been released from the hospital.
- PUB DATE: 11/10/2016 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: KOMO News

Central Volunteer Fire Company of Elizabeth Township (PA) walk-in rescue. Spartan Gladiator cab and chassis; Cummins ISX15 500-hp engine.