The Washington State Fire Marshall's Office is alerting residents near Walla Walla of a fire that has already charred more than 2,500 acres. According to DNR officials, the Blue Creek Fire is zero percent contained and is burning ten miles east of Walla Walla. The fire is burning timber and short grass, officials said.
- PUB DATE: 7/21/2015 10:19:28 AM - SOURCE: Northwest Cable News

Those receiving emergency medical attention from Long Beach Fire Department personnel may soon be subject to a $250 fee, which fire officials hope will help offset costs for the financially strapped department. The First Responder Fee will be considered during a Long Beach City Council meeting Tuesday, July 21, and could potentially be implemented by mid-August if the council approves the resolution, according to Deputy Chief/Fire Marshal Rich Brandt.
- PUB DATE: 7/21/2015 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: long beach post

Metro has added a fire/rescue liaison to its "nerve center" following the fatal smoke incident in January. In an announcement Monday, Metro said the new staff member in the Rail Operations Control Center will help coordinate communication between Metro and first responders in the event of an emergency.
- PUB DATE: 7/21/2015 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: NBC Washington

A gutsy paramedic jumped into the grimy Hudson River on Monday morning to save a woman from drowning. “This was my first time I jumped in the water [for a rescue],” said Niall O’Shaughnessy, 38. “I have no idea why she jumped in, my concern was to just get her out.” The Long Island resident, who is originally from Ireland, had been stationed with his partner, Moses Nelson, near West and Murray Streets when they received a call at around 7:23 a.
- PUB DATE: 7/21/2015 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: new york post

Two lawmakers are taking steps to stop drones from interfering in firefighting efforts after several incidents in California. One bill, SB167, would increase fines and make jail time possible for drone use that interferes with firefighting efforts. And on Monday, Republican Sen. Ted Gaines of El Dorado and Democratic Assemblyman Mike Gatto of Glendale also announced SB168, which would grant immunity to emergency responders who damage drones during firefighting or rescue operations.
- PUB DATE: 7/21/2015 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: KGTV-TV ABC 10 San Diego