At least six local fire chiefs say they have serious concerns about the Snohomish County Council's plans to float a criminal justice sales tax measure. The chiefs say the current draft of the tax measure would mislead voters into thinking some of the money could be used for firefighting. They're also worried that message would compete with fire department levies running on the same ballot in the Aug.
- PUB DATE: 5/6/2016 8:23:06 AM - SOURCE: Everett Herald

A Georgia volunteer fireman died Thursday after suffering a heart attack while on the scene of a brush fire late last week, according to a news release from the town. Steven Lapierre, 58, a lifelong Georgia resident, served as a member of the Georgia Volunteer Fire Department for more than 40 years, the town said.
- PUB DATE: 5/6/2016 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: burlington free press

VIDEO - A San Diegan and former fire chief spoke to 10News about the freak accident that left him scarred for life. 10News caught up with Matt Shobert running up and down the steps at the San Diego Convention Center, training for a triathlon. "Right now, exercise makes me feel the best," said Shobert.
- PUB DATE: 5/6/2016 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: KGTV-TV ABC 10 San Diego

Six people have died in an overnight house fire today on Syracuse's North Side, according to the Syracuse Fire Department. Neighbors this morning reported hearing an explosion and rushing out to find the home nearly engulfed in flames. The fire at 212 Martin St. was reported at 3:51 a.m., Onondaga County 911 dispatch logs show.
- PUB DATE: 5/6/2016 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Syracuse Post-Standard & Syracuse.com

PHOTOS - Acrid plumes of black smoke blanketed parts of west Houston for hours Thursday as a raging warehouse fire forced one school to evacuate and residents to shelter in place amid concerns of possible environmental contamination from chemicals stored on the property. Runoff from the firefighters' efforts sent vivid red streams of chemical additives flowing into Spring Branch Creek, and authorities warned residents to avoid the water there and in nearby ditches and culverts until it could be tested.
- PUB DATE: 5/6/2016 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: houston chronicle