EBOARD CANDIDATE LETTER!

Dan Strobeck is running for E board

Our union is only as strong as the effort put into it by its members. Thankfully our previous representatives have been there for us. After many years of letting someone else do the hard work and put a tremendous amount of time into our union, it’s time for some of us to take on bigger roles. I’ve been there when the union calls for help, door belling and sign waving. Now our union needs our help. The union, now more than ever, needs to be strong in these tough economic times. Without a doubt, we face many tough opponents who will try to divide and conquer us. However, a continued vigilance is necessary to face up to the difficult challenges ahead.

In my many duty stations (14’s, 13’s, 3’s, 8’s, 1’s) I have had an opportunity to work with a huge variety of people. I’ve worked on BLS pumper ladders (way old PL14 now in field house), ALS pumper ladders and squads, BLS engines and ALS engines. With this background and perspective I believe I can help our union maintain its strong commitment and dedication to our members.

Thanks for reading this and please consider me for E board,
Dan Strobeck

EBOARD CANDIDATE LETTER!

Local 29 members, My name is John Goodman and I am running for one of the three soon to open E board positions. I am not a politician or aspire to be one, I speak pretty directly and to the point, sometimes too much so. I am willing to listen, and work for you or with you and the other board members. The learning curve is steep but I am willing to give it the time and energy to make myself a useful tool for the union and the membership. If this sounds like the type of person you would like to represent you on the E board, I would like your vote.
In closing I would like to thank the guys stepping down as they have done a fantastic job and have left us much better off than we could have been.
Thanks for your time, John Goodman

EBOARD CANDIDATE LETTER!

Wood for E-Board

I’ve been on our fire department for 17 years and I’m convinced we all have some obligation to make this job better and safer for the long-term. For me, this means active union participation, and well-placed political action. Towards this end I’ve tried to pay my dues as a Trustee, Grievance member, and Station Rep. I’ve availed myself of labor education when offered, and I’ve served on numerous committees. Two years ago I had the privilege of attending the State Legislative Conference in Olympia.

Most important, I’ve seen how our contract negotiations play out from beginning to end, and I realize that there is nothing that we get that can be taken for granted. While it’s impossible to make everyone happy, by and large we win the big battles of wages, benefits and working conditions; and only because we pick our battles wisely and do our homework to prepare. With this upcoming election our union is losing some experienced and dedicated members. It would be easy to lose the thread of continuity that has made us successful. To see how quickly things can unravel, look no further than the Police Guild where a regime change allowed personal gripes to overwhelm the greater notion of being a union- the result is dysfunction and a failure to be proactive. For lack of concessions, they now face layoffs and in frustration their President elects to slam us in the pages of the Spokesman-Review. All he had to do was tell the City, “we’ll do what the firefighters did”, but I'm guessing the Guild lacks an established “brain trust” to honestly study the issue. Let’s not make the same mistakes.

I look forward to serving my union brothers and sisters on our eBoard during these challenging times, and I would appreciate your vote!

EBOARD CANDIDATE LETTER!

Hello Union Brothers,

I am running for one of the vacant Executive Board positions. I am not going into the politics of making statements I can not keep. I will do my best to represent you the union body fairly and equally. I will be approachable for any issues and questions you may have if I do not have the answer to your question I will get the information and get back to you promptly. IF you have any questions on why I am running feel free to call me sta 8 A shift .


Thanks Dan Awbery

Prez candidate letter!

Shane Skipworth for Local 29 President


BRINGING THE YOU BACK IN UNION


What makes a strong union? Involvement by all of its members. When I am elected as President of Local 29, I will work for you, the members, not the other way around. As union president, I am responsible for my decisions and actions. However, I am accountable for those decisions and actions to you, the members of the union.

What do I bring to the table? I have been in local 29 for 8 years. I graduated from Eastern Washington University in 1998 with a degree in Criminal Justice which required some classes in law, government, ethics and management. Some people will say I don’t have the experience required to do this job. What I do have is the motivation, desire and personal integrity to be the president. I concentrate on the issues not the person. We may have differing opinions, but you will get the same effort from me. I believe this is about what is right not a popularity contest. We are a professional organization and we should act like it.

I believe in respect, whether it’s dealing with the chiefs, city hall or our membership. We may not agree on every issue, but all discussions and negotiations can be done with professional courtesy and respect.

We need to unite and look toward the future together. We need to unite and be prepared for both the good and the challenging times. We need to unite to be a stronger union. Together let’s bring the you back in union.

Shane Skipworth

EBOARD CANDIDATE LETTER!

Brian Chavez for Executive Board





When I decided to run for the E-Board I asked myself the same question that I expect to hear from each one of you. Why do I want to be on the E-Board?



The answer to this question can be found in the Constitution and By-Laws of Local 29, Article 2 titled objectives. It states that one of the objectives of this local shall be "the cultivation of friendship and fellowship among its members". I believe we have lost sight of this and we have let personal agendas and intolerance for diverse opinions divide and even alienate the members of this local. You have members of this local who are ostracized because they are vocal about their opinions and what they feel is a lack of any true representation. This is absolutely unacceptable. You cannot have accountable leaders who are not willing to listen to all
sides.



I believe in equal, fair, non-preferential treatment of all members. I value diverse opinions and I am an advocate of open honest discussion of relevant issues without fear of retribution. As an E-Board member my job will be to represent you, and to be your advocate. The only way to do this is by open communication. I will accomplish this by actually going out and talking with the members. I realize that this is promised by everyone at election time but seldom acted upon. Its time for a change and I promise that I will represent all of you to the best of my abilities.



Thanks for your consideration,



Brian Chavez

Cell 991-2450

fire press release Four fer...

ISSUING OFFICER: AC Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/24/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Information
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 44 West Riverside
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: Update on yesterday's incidents:

10/23/2009 12:09 at 1508 North Post- Working Apartment Fire. Accidental. $5,000 loss. Cause was determined to be combustibles too close to a wall heater. Damage limited to one unit.


10/23/2009 13:57 at 1317 East Rich- HAZMAT Team Incident. Release of 100 gallons of furnace fuel inside the residence. Accidental. $20,000 cleanup/loss. The HazMat Team mitigated the incident and coordinated with a private HazMat clean-up company which assumed responsibility of the site. Spokane Regional Health and Washington State Department of Ecology notified.


10/23/2009 14:11 614 E 7th AVE- Working Structure Fire. Accidental. $200,000 loss. Cause was due to a working fireplace that was not utilizing a closed screen. Sparks from the fireplace spread to combustibles which rapidly propagated throughout the occupied home.


10/23/2009 18:16 1429 E 14th AVE- Structure Fire. Accidental. $5,000 loss. Combustibles left on an operating stove. Damage from the fire was contained to the kitchen, however smoke spread throughout the residence.


PROBABLE CAUSE: Above
DAMAGE EXTENT: Above
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE:
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Yesterday - Three Fires in Seven Hours...

Not a lot of media coverage here. I can't point you to any news sites for video because there aren't any. It would be good for citizens to see why they don't want I-1033 and do want to support the fire bond.

These three fires, if not stopped, would have had a major impact on the city's infrastructure.

You think that would be news.

There is, however, a story about a $1 bounty being paid to kill gophers in Idaho. People who live in democracies need to be informed in order to make good decisions.

fire press release

ISSUING OFFICER: AC Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/23/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1508 North Post
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208

NARRATIVE: On Friday October, 23 2009 at 12:09 PM, 7 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 5 Engines and 2 Senior Ladders responded under the direction of Battalion Chief Craig Cornelius and Mike Inman to a reported apartment building fire at 1508 N Post. On the arrival of the first company they reported smoke showing from a single story apartment building which housed approximately six living units. The alarm was upgraded to a working fire and an additional engine company was added.

Ladder companies were sent to the roof and to adjoining rooms to search for, and evacuate victims; while the arriving engines established water supply from nearby hydrants and stretched hose lines to the fire. The fire was confined to the unit of origin within 15-minutes and companies spent a significant amount of time overhauling and salvaging the areas. No civilians or firefighters were injured as a result of the incident.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this incident is under investigation by the SFD's SIU.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The unit of origin is not able to be occupied due to the damage. SFD's CARES Team and Red Cross assisted the two occupants of the unit find temporary housing and assisted in replacing personal effects. The CARES Team also assisted other residents on-site and remained on-scene to provide support.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE:
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

fire press release

ISSUING OFFICER: AC Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/22/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 19 W Pacific
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On Thursday June 6, 2009 at 08:51 AM, 8 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 5 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue and 2-Senior Ladders under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Dan Brown, Bruce Moline and Acting BC Haworth responded to a reported building fire at 19 West Pacific.

When the first companies arrived from Station 1, they reported heavy smoke and flames showing from the three story (includes basement) vacant building. The building had previously been involved in a tragic fire in 2006 which resulted in multiple injuries and the structure being boarded up and secured from access. The unreinforced masonry construction combined with the smoke/fire conditions and building's proximity to other occupied structures led to the alarm being upgraded to a second alarm in anticipation of a need for additional resources. Ladder Companies were utilized to gain access to the boarded up vacant structure while personnel from Engine Companies assembled to prepare for an offensive attack on the fire. The additional alarm added a Pumper-Ladder and two engines which allowed the 38 Firefighters to locate and knock down the fire and control the incident within 45-minutes. One civilian was treated by SFD Paramedics for injuries received while fleeing the fire, however was not transported. No firefighters were injured as a result of the incident.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this incident was determined to be incendiary and two adults (one 26 Year-old male and one 23 year-old female) have been arrested and charged by SFD Investigators with Arson 2nd Degree.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The building was not inhabitable after the fire in 2006 and that continues to be the case. Damage is significant and access is prohibited due to the concern for public safety.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 38
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

fire press release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bob Green
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/17/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1404 E NORTH AVE
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208

NARRATIVE: On Friday October 16, 2009 at 8:58 AM, 6 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 2 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue, 1 Pumper-Ladder and 2-Senior Ladders under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Bob Green and Steve Sabo responded to a reported residence fire at 1404 E. North Avenue. Neighbors called 911 when they noticed smoke coming from an open door in the vacant two-story residence. When the first company arrived, they reported smoke banking down near the floor in the interior first level and believed that they had a working basement fire.

Ladder and Engine Companies worked quickly, in a coordinated effort, to attack the fire and force entry to perform a search of the two living units that made up the residence. It took 24 Firefighters just 15 minutes to locate and knock down the fire and control the incident. Firefighters were able to limit the damage to the area of origin in the basement and prevent it from spreading into floors above.
No civilians or firefighters were injured as a result of the incident.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this incident was determined to be incendiary (intentionally human caused). If citizens have information regarding the cause of this incident, they are encouraged to contact the SFD's Arson Tip Line at 344-FIRE.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Moderate damage is limited to the basement.
DOLLAR LOSS: 5000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 24
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

In Los Angeles, they have the opposite problem that we have...

Tis the season in Spokane.

Fire calls for Halloween smoke displays.

Jack-o-lantern steam/smoke.

"Cell phone caller states nonbreather laying on lawn. Patient is dressed like a scarecrow."

And on and on...

But in Los Angeles, they do things different.

Easy way to fight I-1033...

Here is a link to volunteer to make calls asking people to vote NO on I 1033.

Also, don't forget to send your letters to the editor into the Spokesman-Review.


I wrote one yesterday. We'll see if it gets published.

Don't forget to include your address and phone number so they can call to verify that you wrote the letter.

fire press release

ISSUING OFFICER: AC Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/9/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 206 South Post
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On Friday October 9, 2009 at 10:38 AM, 7 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 3 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue, 1 Pumper-Ladder and 3-Senior Ladders under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Ken Kirsch and Craig Cornelius responded to a reported fire in the building at 206 South Post, the Carlyle Residential Care and
Assisted Living Community.

The seven story building was originally constructed in 1892 as the Carlyle Hotel and was most recently renovated in 2003. The Carlyle now provides residential and assisted care for individuals 18 years of age and older with varying levels of mobility. The building currently has 72 furnished client rooms with occupancy of 126 residents.

When the first company arrived, they were met by facility staff which advised smoke was visible on the interior of the building in the basement area. Due to the conditions and building's high-risk occupants, the alarm was upgraded to include the balance of a second alarm-plus incident to extinguish the fire and manage the evacuation and transportation of 100% of residents and staff to the Central Methodist Church at 518 W 3rd Avenue as prescribed by the facility's disaster plan.

Initial arriving Engines were assigned to supporting the building's fire suppression system while additional Ladder and Engine Companies were utilized to gain access to the basement and locate and extinguish the fire. Other companies were spread throughout the building on multiple floors to search for occupants and to check for extension of the fire with thermal imaging cameras. It took 43 Firefighters 45 minutes to locate and extinguish the fire and control the incident. Firefighters were able to limit the damage to the northeast first-floor area and basement below the fire. Two STA Transit buses were used by the command team to transport the residents to the Church's shelter.

No civilians or firefighters were injured as a result of the incident. All residents were transported in an orderly fashion and managed from a medical perspective by SFD and AMR Paramedics.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire was discarded smoking materials which spread to flooring on the building's interior.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Firefighters successfully confined the fire to a 10x10 area on the first level in the flooring and small area on the exterior wall.
DOLLAR LOSS: 10,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 50
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

fire press release

ISSUING OFFICER: Mike Inman / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/3/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 8410 Palm Pl.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP: 99208

NARRATIVE: On October 3, 2009 at 1047 am the Spokane Fire Department responded on a call to 8410 Palm Pl. The owner said they were using a gas fire insert and could smell wood smoke. Due to the quick thinking of the resident the gas insert was turned off and the Fire Department was called. Four Engines, a Ladder truck, a Rescue unit and 2 Battalion Chiefs responded. The first Engine on scene quickly extinguished the fire in an exterior wall of the structure using a 1 ¾" hose line. Additional Fire crews checked the attic for extension, checked the interior walls using a thermal imagining camera, put down tarps to minimize the damage to the inside of the home and ventilated the smoke out of the structure. Due to the quick fire attack some of the crews were able to return in service in a short period of time. A Fire Investigator was called to try and determine the cause of the fire inside a wall in the vicinity of gas fired insert. Although this fire does not appear to be caused by improper use or poor maintenance the Spokane Fire Department would like to remind residents to check their heating devices for proper operation and maintenance as we enter the heating season.



PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: 2 vertical structural supports were slightly damaged by fire. Exterior siding of the structure, some electrical wiring and interior sheet rock was damaged by either fire or fire crews opening up the structure to extinguish the fire.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 21
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

No on I 1033 video

Fire vs. Police Blood Drive Today!

After reading this flyer, you may want to get your eyes checked too.

Tim Eyman's latest venture to bankrupt Spokane - Initiative 1033

Initiative 1033 would further bankrupt Spokane. They tried this in Colorado and it took them years to undo, and not until communities teetered on the verge of destruction.

Hey, Don't forget that Mike Fagan is running for city council. He is Tim Eyman's right hand man. I am sure Mr. Eyman will be happy to have an inside guy in city hall. Can you imagine the phone calls between those two, if Fagan were elected? Fagan can report firsthand Spokane's destruction to his buddy, Tim.

Fagan's opponent is Amber Waldref. If she is in your district, please consider voting for her. Here is her site.

The union is endorsing Amber and is joining the WSCFF to ask for your vote AGAINST Intitiative 1033.

Local 29 is also endorsing Jon Snyder for city council. I've hung out with Jon lately. He's a smart guy. Here's his website.

If you are in Karen Kearney's district, the union is supporting her as well. Here is her website.
She has been a friend to public safety in Spokane for a very long time.

Latest Eyman Initiative has Governments Worried (9/7)
http://www.tdn.com/articles/2009/09/07/breaking_news/doc4aa52d415f8f3018631955.txt

Backers of revenue cap initiative lose bid to change ballot wording (9/12)
http://www.theolympian.com/elections/story/968267.html

This Woman Came All the Way From Colorado to Tell Us Not to Vote for Tim Eyman's Initiative (9/15)
http://blogs.seattleweekly.com/dailyweekly/2009/09/while_eyman_sues_the_state_thi.php

Richland council reviews how Initiative 1033 could hit home (9/16)
http://www.tri-cityherald.com/kennewick_pasco_richland/story/718864.html

Hutchison, Constantine slam Eyman spending initiative (9/16)
http://blog.seattlepi.com/seattlepolitics/archives/179446.asp

Hutchison calls Eyman initiative "a disaster"
http://www.seattlepostglobe.org/2009/09/17/hutchison-calls-eyman-initiative-a-disaster

Hutchison slams Eyman initiative (9/17)
http://publicola.net/?p=14286

I-1033 will penalize Federal Way (9/22)
http://www.pnwlocalnews.com/south_king/fwm/opinion/60302387.html

The Argument Against Permanent Recession-Level Spending (9/22)
http://www.seattleweekly.com/2009-09-23/news/the-argument-against-permanent-recession-level-spending/

Kirkland City Council opposes Initiative 1033 (9/22)
http://www.pnwlocalnews.com/east_king/kir/news/60411887.html

King County Executive Candidates Prevent Eyman proposal from Distracting Serious Budget Debate (9/22)
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/editorials/2009921619_edit23county.html

Realtors come out against I-1033 (9/23)
http://blog.thenewstribune.com/politics/2009/09/23/realtors-come-out-against-i-1033/

Muni League Slams Eyman Initiative (9/23)
http://slog.thestranger.com/slog/archives/2009/09/23/muni-league-slams-eyman-initiative

Puyallup budget update turns to talk of a State Initiative (9/23)
http://www.thenewstribune.com/news/local/story/889040.html

Finance directors attempt to calculate impact of property tax initiative (9/23)
http://www.tdn.com/articles/2009/09/24/area_news/doc4abac7489f892879187838.txt

The True Cost of Wash. Initiative I-1033 (9/24)
http://whitmanpioneer.com/opinion/columnists/2009/09/24/the-true-cost-of-wash-initiative-i-1033/

Coalition launches effort to defeat I-1033 (9/24)
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2009936843_webinitiative24m.html

Timmy knows best (9/25)
http://horsesass.org/?p=20638

King5 Upfront (9/27)
http://blogs.king5.com/upfront/archives/2009/09/initiative-1033.html

fire press release

ISSUING OFFICER: Craig Cornelius / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 9/25/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1847 E. Marshall
CITY: Spokane
STATE: wa
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: This evening, September 25, 2009 at 16:15 hours, the Spokane Fire Department dispatched 7 fire apparatus and 2 chief officers to a reported structure fire located at 1847 E. Marshall.

Engine 7 responding from the Fire Station 7 located at 1st and Magnolia, was the first apparatus to arrive. Acting Lieutenant Jeremy Morash reported that he had a four unit apartment complex with heavy smoke and fire showing from one of the upper floor apartments. He quickly made assignments for the other responding fire companies while he and his crew made an immediate attack on the upper floor fire.

Incoming fire companies performed a rapid primary search of the building, extended additional hose lines into the apartment and provided ventilation to assist firefighters working inside. An aggressive attack by initial crews knocked the main body of the fire down within five minutes of Engine 7's arrival. Crews were on the scene a total of 2 ½ hours making sure the fire was out.

There were no injuries at this fire. Two adults living in the apartment were not home when the fire started. The fire caused significant damage to the one unit, and the two adults who are now displaced are being assisted by the local Red Cross.

Tenants in the building's other apartments will continue to stay on site as damage was primarily confined to the one unit. The fire is still under investigation at this time and a fire cause will be determined after all evidence and interviews have been completed and reviewed.



PROBABLE CAUSE: This fire is still under investigation.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Heavy fire and smoke damage to one apartment unit.
DOLLAR LOSS: 50,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 26
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

fire press release

ISSUING OFFICER: Joel Fielder/ Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 9/3/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3528 East Lydia Court
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: Early Thursday September 3, the Spokane Fire Department responded at approximately 1:10 AM to 3528 East Lydia Court on a reported structure fire. The first fire crew responding to the above address upgraded the fire to a working structure fire from several blocks away as smoke and flames were visible from the multi-level 2-story, wood framed house. An aggressive interior attack by on scene fire crews confined the majority of the fire to the back of the structure and the roof. There was heavy smoke and heat damage through out the rest of the structure. The fire was brought under control within 30 minutes. One firefighter was injured while pulling sheetrock down from the ceiling to expose the hidden fire in the attic. That firefighter was transported to a local hospital and was treated and release. There were no reported injuries to any civilians.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is under investigation by Spokane Fire Department Investigators.
DAMAGE EXTENT: There was significant fire, smoke and heat damage throughout the entire structure.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 24
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Privatize the Fire Department?!?!

This gem sent to me by our own Bill Jackman:

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Dan Brown
DATE OF INCIDENT: 8/24/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2504 East Riverside
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99202

NARRATIVE: On the 24th of August at 1:10 AM The City of Spokane Fire Department responded six fire apparatus and two command officers to the intersection of Cook and Sprague for a reported building fire. Engine Company 7 arrived within 4 minutes and reported smoke and flames coming from a 3 car garage at the rear of 2504 East Riverside. Attack leads were advanced to protect the house and extinguish the fire in the interior of the garage.
The fire was brought under control and extinguished in about 15 minutes. The interior of the garage and storage items were damaged by smoke and fire. It took fire crews about 1 hour to overhaul and remove the damaged contents. There were no reported injuries. Crews were on the scene about 2 hours.
This fire is under investigation and the cause is undetermined at this time.


PROBABLE CAUSE: Under Investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Extensive damage to the contents and interior of the garage.
DOLLAR LOSS: 10,000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 18
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

fire press release

ISSUING OFFICER: Mike Inman / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 8/21/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 923 E. Walton
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: At just before 2:00 am Friday August 21, 2009 the Spokane Fire Department was called to a house full of smoke at 923 E. Walton in Spokane, WA. Four Engines, one Ladder Truck, one Rescue Unit and two Battalion Chiefs were dispatched for a total of twenty one Firefighters. Upon arrival of Engine 2 found a single family residence with moderate smoke coming out of the front door. They advanced a 1 ¾" hose line to the front door. Inside they found a window air conditioning unit that had burned up. They reported the fire was out and all they needed was two Engine Companies and a Ladder Truck to assist with ventilating the smoke out of the residence. The air conditioner was plugged into an extension cord with other electrical items in the living room. Damage was confined to the air conditioner, a chair, some items on a desk, molding around the window, smoke throughout the house and scorched paint around the window. A neighbor assisted by helping get birds out of the house and fighting the fire with a garden hose. Both adults at home at the time as well as one of the neighbors said they had breathed some smoke but refused aid when looked at by Engine 15 a Paramedic unit. The quick actions by the neighbor most likely minimized the fire damage but it can be dangerous using a garden hose to fight a fire inside or involving a structure. Smoke inhalation, electrical shock, and the intensity of the fire being too much for the small amount of water coming from a standard garden hose are just some of the dangers faced when citizens attack a fire involving a structure using a garden hose. Smoke detectors inside the house were sounding and everyone got out safely. The air conditioning unit in this house appeared to be plugged into an extension cord. Don't use extension cords to power air conditioners as they draw too much electricity for an extension cord to handle. It can quickly lead to overheating which causes a fire.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Accidental, electrical
DAMAGE EXTENT: The air conditioner, a chair, some items on a desk, molding around the window, broken glass in the window, smoke throughout the house and scorched paint around the window.
DOLLAR LOSS: 1000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 21
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Binkoski discovers this gem...

Abolish the Nazi-Commie Nightmare of Public Firefighting

The patriots who have killed off this so-called "public option" for so-called "healthcare reform" need to learn from the mistakes the first President Bush made way back in 1991 when he chickened out and blew his chance to march all the way to Baghdad and dethrone Saddam Hussein.

Unlike Poppy Bush, today's pro-corporate, pro-capitalist warriors need to show some backbone. They need to keep marching. Because, though they are on a righteous path, they have been thinking small. Way too small.

Consider this your formal invitation to join in THE fight for the future of American freedom. I'm referring to the fight to abolish public firefighting. For too long we have endured the socialistic nightmare of tyrannical laws that incite our neighbors to call 911 and report us TO THE GOVERNMENT when our homes are on fire.

Americans are so brainwashed that only a tiny, patriotic sliver of us have truly understood the fascist flood that gushes from taxpayer-funded fire hoses every day in these United States. The facts are chilling. So wake up, America!

FACT: When a neighbor reports your burning home to the government, you as the property owner are helpless. The taxpayer-funded sirens come ever closer, whether you like it or not, until finally the trucks arrive on your property. Soon your door is bashed from its hinges, your windows are in shards, your belongings are soaked with the fluoridated poison that passes for a municipal water supply.

FACT: You as the property owner get no say whatsoever as to who is sent to extinguish a blaze in your home. The government DOES NOT CARE about the sacred trust that is supposed to exist between an individual homeowner and the individual firefighter he would select to be the defender of his little piece of the American dream. No. Instead, callous government bureaucrats DECIDE FOR US which masked, helmeted strangers will be dispatched to breach our supposedly sacred homes. Breathing taxpayer-funded oxygen from taxpayer-funded tanks, these strangers even have the authority to snatch our children from their beds. Our children! FROM THEIR BEDS! Again, I say: WAKE UP, AMERICA!

FACT: Government bureaucrats decide which firefighting services will be available and which will be rationed. Under a market-based system, we would be able to contract for firefighting that is tailored to our individual needs. Instead, we get this one-size-fits-all travesty of a system. Just one example: Try calling 911 and asking for a firefighter to come blow out your birthday candles. At best, the bureaucrats will laugh at you. At worst, the bureaucrats will send straightjacket-wielding thugs to your home. All the while, it is you -- the taxpayer, the property owner -- who is paying the salaries of these jackals and hyenas.

FACT: The property owner loses all authority to decide what or whom should be saved from his burning home. The unthinking bureaucratic drones will always choose human life over an inanimate object. Heaven help you if you want the firefighters to save some precious possession and let your house guests burn alive. The bureaucrats refuse to listen.

Even if your house guests are parasites who have overstayed their welcome.

Even if your house guests are the sort of people who write satire.

Even if the precious object is a Bible.

Even if the precious object an American flag.

Even if the precious object is the original copy of the Second Amendment.

Without fail, the bureaucrats will save the parasite, save the satirist. Without fail, they will let the Bible burn, let the American flag burn, let our God-given right to bear arms go up in flames. Can there be any more clear evidence of the tyranny we are up against? NO!

Keep marching.

If we seize this moment, if we maintain this momentum, we can give our children an America free from the totalitarian, communist abomination of public firefighting.

Keep marching!

KEEP MARCHING!

Huffington Post blogger David Quigg lives in Seattle where some of his photographs will be on display through September 10.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 8/19/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3303 S. Inland Empire Way
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On 08/19/09 at approximately 0522 hrs units of the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 3303 S. Inland Empire Way upon report of a structure fire. First arriving units found a one and one half story, wood-frame, single family residence with smoke and fire showing from the second floor. First arriving firefighters were able to quickly determine that all occupants were out of the building and were then able to concentrate on extinguishing the blaze. Fire was evident coming from the structures 2nd floor west end, which contained sleeping areas, and from the 1st floor's east end, which was attic space. Firefighters advanced pre-connected hose-lines up the stairs to the second floor and were able to get and initial knock down of the fire within about 15 minutes. At the same time other crews used chain saws to ventilate the roof, covered the belongings of the tenants with tarps, provided first aid to one burn victim, and pull down ceilings on the first floor to gain access to fire above. A total 12 apparatus, with 33 firefighters fought this blaze. The first knock down of the fire took about 15 minutes but fire crews will continue to be on scene for some time to overhaul the scene looking for any hidden fire and to clean up areas of the residence as necessary. Fire Investigators are also on to scene to determine the fire cause.

There was one civilian burn injury at this fire. The owner of the property and one tenant advanced a garden hose to the second floor in an attempt to extinguish the fire prior to the arrival of firefighters. On scene reports indicate a portion of the burning structure fell onto them causing the burn injuries. Aid was rendered to the patient by on scene medics and he was transported to the hospital. No injuries to firefighters were reported.




PROBABLE CAUSE: Fire Investigators are currently on scene and are investigating the cause of this fire. The cause of the fire is currently undetermined.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage to structure included fire damage to the entire second floor and attic space of the single story portion of the residence. Smoke and water damage was also evident on the first floor of the structure. In addition crews had to open the ceilings on the first floor in an attempt to find any hidden fire so it would not extend to other areas of the residence.


DOLLAR LOSS: 90,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 33
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Local 29 members approve change of insurance plan to help city's finances...

Stand by for immense coverage from Spokesman-Review. Well, you may want to sit down.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bob Green/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 8/13/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3724 N Cook
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: The Spokane City Fire Dept. dispatched fire apparatus and fire fighting crews to 3724 N Cook at 2:15 in the afternoon of Thursday, Aug 13th, for a reported structure fire. Assistant Fire Chief Brian Schaeffer was first on the scene and reported heavy black smoke issuing from a ground floor apartment in a 2 story wood/frame multi- building apartment complex. Under the direction of Chief Schaeffer the arriving crews of fire fighters were given assignments that, when carried out, led to a rapid extinguishment of this fire and their aggressive tactics kept the fire contained to the room of origin. All tenants of this particular building in the complex had successfully exited their apartments before fire fighters arrived on scene. As always the fire fighters did a thorough search of the entire building to insure that everyone was safely outside. There were no reports of any injuries to the fire fighters at the scene or to any of the escaping civilians. The fire damage was confined to the apartment of origin with the majority of the fire damage contained to the room of origin. Smoke damage was also contained to the apartment of origin because the fire fighters were able to get to the seat of the fire very quickly. The involved apartment will be untenable until repairs can be made and it was learned that the displaced tenant will be staying with friends until such time as the apartment can be repaired. A cause for this fire is still being investigated by the Spokane Fire Dept.'s Special Investigation Unit.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Heavy fire damage to one room that was being used as an office, smoke damage to most of the remainder of the apartment along with some minor water damage.
DOLLAR LOSS: 20,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 23
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

VOTE!

Don't forget to vote on how you feel about the proposed insurance plan. The meeting on Tuesday answered a lot of questions (including what happens if this doesn't pass). If you weren't able to go to that meeting or the one today, ask around. A lot of people were there and can answer your questions. Plus, all the worksheets and documents were mailed out to everybody who has registered on the local 29 account. The union has some hard copies too.

If you forgot your user name or password (like me) to vote, it can be emailed to your account through the local's website.

Find out what the facts are, think it over, and vote as soon as you can! You have until 08/19/2009 08:00:00.

Be careful out there... Man hides 9mm handgun and two clips in his rolls of fat.

Click to read this timely tale.

Fumes from rotting seaweed on France's northern beaches could kill

Probably something we should be aware of on the Spokane River.

Hopefully cell phone speed dialers will not read this article and add this to their list of potential 9-1-1 calls, along with bicycle-near-the-river and abandoned-raft-floating-down-the-river.

"Engine Four cell phone caller states that he saw some seaweed like growth washed up in People's Park. Check and advise."

If this story hits FOX News, you know we're going to get the call!

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Craig Cornelius / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 8/4/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: West 4930 Princeton Pl.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: This evening, August 4, 2009 at 4:46 pm, the Spokane Fire Department dispatched Engine 16 under the direction of Captain Jim McNamee to West 4930 Princeton Pl. E16 was sent to investigate smoke coming from a chimney in a home. Engine 16 arrived on the scene within two minutes of being dispatched and found a home that not only had smoke coming from the chimney, but also had smoke coming from the back side of the home.

Captain McNamee established Princeton Command and activated a normal fire response which dispatched 4 additional fire apparatus and 2 chief officers to the location. E16s crew masked up, stretched hose lines, and determined that the main body of fire was in the home's basement.

As the additional companies arrived, an aggressive fire attack was made into the structure and down the stairs into the basement to attack the fire. Firefighters from Station's 3 and 13 searched the first floor of the home for occupants. The searching firefighters located a large unconscious dog that had succumbed to the heavy smoke inside the home.

The unconscious dog was rescued from the burning home while crews extinguished the fire in the basement. The dog was treated and revived by Medic Bill Gonzalez and his crew from Station 13. Medic Gonzalez worked on the family pet for about 20 minutes. The family (who had returned home during the firefighting operations), transported the revived dog to their Veterinarian where it will be evaluated and treated. The family did lose one cat in the fire.

The fire in the home was knocked down within twenty minutes, with the majority of the fire damage confined to the basement. Smoke damage was sustained throughout the home. No injuries were incurred by Firefighters at this incident. The cause of the fire is still under investigation at this time and the official pronouncement will be made by Investigators after all the evidence had been reviewed.



PROBABLE CAUSE: Still under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: See narrative
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 18
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Mike Inman / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/20/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1423 E. Sanson
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: At 2:55 am the Spokane Fire was called to 1423 E. Sanson in the Northeast part of the city to a kitchen fire. This was in a duplex that has 6 adults and 4 children living in one apartment. There was no working smoke detector and the cause of the fire appears to be an unattended pan of grease being heated on the stove. The pan of grease ignited catching the cabinets on fire. Upon arrival Engine 15 found the residents out of the structure and the fire growing in intensity in the kitchen. A quick fire attack using a 1 ¾ inch hose line knocked the fire down. At the same time a search of the apartment was made while ventilating the smoke out. The ceiling above the kitchen stove was opened up to make sure there was no extension of fire into the structure and there was not. Red Cross was called to assist the residents as the kitchen was damaged and electrical power shut off to the apartment. One civilian injury was reported caused by smoke inhalation. She was looked at by Fire Department Paramedics but not transported at her request. Damage was confined to fire damage in the kitchen with smoke damage on the main floor. There were no injuries to Firefighters on scene and crews began to be released about 15 minutes after the arrival of the first crew. In all 4 Engines, 1 Ladder Truck, 1 Rescue unit and 2 Battalion Chiefs responded. The Spokane Fire Department would like to remind citizens of the importance of working smoke detectors. Fortunately these people got out. Do not count on smoke waking you up; a working smoke detector will sound giving you time to evacuate yourself from the structure. Secondly, cooking fires like this happen quite often and can be prevented by not leaving the kitchen while cooking. When using any type of heating or cooking appliance your vigilance is required to stay safe.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Unattended pan of grease
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire damage to the kitchen and smoke throughout the main floor of the apartment
DOLLAR LOSS: 15,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 21
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Budget cuts, the news media and the Spokesman-Review opinion article.

As predicted here, Phase Two of the SR's push to form public opinion around the city's budget happened today in a piece by their editorial board. I am pretty sure I know what Phase Three is going to look like (sound like?). If you want to hear my prediction, email me. If I know you, I will tell you.

Before I get started here, I would like to thank Chiefs Schaeffer and Williams for not sugar-coating it for the media yesterday. The cuts, if they come to fruition, will mean 15 firefighters and the closure of one station. Thanks for telling it like it is.

Now then, this morning's editorial. It is basically a rehashing of the Journal of Business' editorial which I addressed here. No wonder, the Journal is an arm of the Cowles Publishing Co. Here is a more complete picture of the Cowles Publishing Co. It is easy to see how the information is controlled in Spokane and that the formation of public opinion is almost like a lab experiment where all the input is planned for a desired result.

The tone of the editorial this morning is that we are all one community and that many in our community are hurting financially and that city workers have good compensation, better than most of our citizens. There is a funding gap and we should chip in to help. Fair enough. I hate to sound like a broken record, but here we go again:

1. How will the community ever know when we give up compensation and benefits when the Spokesman-Review won't tell them? Why won't they tell the citizens? Please refer again to the Wikipedia article. The Cowles have not been a friend to organized labor or government employment. To squash positive stories of city workers is a "two-fer," in that city employees are both government employees and organized labor.

2. Yes, we are one community. In fact, we are the second largest city in the state. Interestingly, we are the only major city in the state without a B and O tax. Why is that? Who would stand to lose from a B and O tax? I know who would stand to gain - those of us who shop in the city and pay a whopping sales tax, those of us who live in the city and pay property taxes, cable TV taxes and other surcharges that go a long way to offset Spokane's bizarre lack of a B and O tax. Hey Journal of Business and Spokesman-Review, show us what community supporters you are by proposing a B and O tax. I've told you what we could do in response.

OK this is old news and my old opinion. Don't ever expect to see it in print. That's fine, the way things are going, probably just as many are reading this blog as are reading the paper.

Here is something new to chew on. Yes, the community is hurting. Foreclosures are up. The ranks of the uninsured are swelling. Medical assistance to the mentally ill is dwindling. Guess who takes care of these folks? Guess who stops the insurance arson fire from spreading from the building next door into your abode or business? That's right. And these are the folks you are going to cut. It's like being in the middle of a war set to escalate and you want to cut troop levels and troop compensation. Except this war is not in some far-off land. It's right here and right now. And those who get the most benefit from those fighting it are the ones least willing to pay for it.

Some things never change.

Health Insurance Insider Tells How the Insurance Industry Works to Form Public Opinion and Influence Legislators Against Reform

Probably there is no national issue which will affect our benefits, the financial health of Spokane, our patients' health, the type of calls we go on as much as health care reform. It is important to know that because of their deep pockets, and consequently the influence that the health insurance industry exerts upon our legislators and the media, we will have to dig hard to get to the truth of the issue.

Wendell Potter is an insider who has been at the helm of influencing public opinion and legislators for the insurance industry. This first clip is an introduction. To watch the whole thing, with a transcript click here.



Click here to watch the entire interview with transcript.

This is not a Democratic or Republican issue. The industry influences both parties.

A response to yesterday's S-R article on city unions...

Yesterday’s Spokesman-Review article by Jonathan Brunt was pretty typical and not a big surprise. When it comes to our wages and the city budget, I guess there are some key items that will never be mentioned in the Spokesman-Review:

1. The 48 hours that each of us worked for free to help the city in its last budget crisis. We never received a media mention when we did it. And it won’t ever be noted in an article concerning the budget crisis de jour.

2. The fact that Spokane is the only city in the state without a B and O tax. The budget continues to be balanced on the backs of home and property owners, cable subscribers, shoppers and visitors. Hmmm, who would be effected by a B and O tax? Perhaps that is why it never gets mentioned.

3. Spokane’s firefighters respond to more emergencies with less people for about a fourth (I think) less funding than our comparables. Quite a good deal for the taxpayer. Don’t expect to ever see that in print.

4. Insurance company’s premiums continue to escalate, even while their bank accounts swell. Actually there was a mention of this in an opinion article yesterday but there was no connection to Brunt’s article. Insurance companies generate a lot of advertising revenue.

It will be interesting to see if Sunday’s article is the beginning of the predictable pattern the newspaper uses to form public opinion in Spokane. We’ll see if Phase Two manifests itself, as scheduled, tomorrow.

I have to admit that Mr. Brunt’s article, while definitely slanted, wasn’t completely lopsided. Maybe he didn’t get the memo about how this is supposed to work.

Here’s what I would propose Local 29 put forward to help the city budget. After reading this, you probably will be glad I’m not calling the shots.

1. We would be willing to give up a commensurate percentage of our next cost-of-living wage for every percentage the city is willing to tax businesses. The Journal of Business talks a good game about how we are all in this together. Let’s see them put up or shut up.

2. Forget about giving up any of our upcoming raises. Let’s have a business and occupation tax for anyone or any entity that makes money in Spokane - including firefighters, cops, plumbers, newspaper reporters, businesses - everyone who makes money off the infrastructure (including fire protection) Spokane provides.

3. How about a gasoline tax to pay for the emergency calls that automobiles generate? Beside car fires and MVAs, you can throw heart disease, diabetes and obesity-related calls into the mix. Along those lines, a tax on “high gravity” beer might make the imbibers of such pay for the detox service they periodically enjoy.

4. This is my favorite idea. Every percentage that an insurance company raises its rates on city-provided plans, there is a commensurate tax on the revenues they receive for providing insurance to Spokane citizens and companies. They raise their rates 10%, we slap them with a 10% tax. Next year, if they raise their rates another 10%, it’s now a 20% tax. I think they would get the message. There is no free market competition for health insurance companies. Never has been. This might help.

All to say, the Spokesman-Review has, from its earliest days, despised organized labor and the ability of working men and women to come together and effect change. It threatens the oligarchy of inherited wealth and power. Whenever there is a chance to put the blame in the lap of labor, they will make sure it happens. The continued news blackout of our previous concessions just makes this more obvious.

Whatever decision we make in regard to concessions, or medical insurance reform, we need to make sure we do it because it’s the right thing to do and be prepared that not one of our citizens will ever hear about it from the Spokesman-Review.

John

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Mike Inman / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/11/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1904 E. Gordon
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: At just after 2pm Saturday afternoon July 11, 2009 the Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported house fire at 1904 E. Gordon in the Northeast part of the city. Due to the fast action of the homeowner by calling the Fire Department and a quick coordinated fire attack from below the attic fire and ventilating the roof with a chainsaw the fire was kept to a minimum. Upon arrival of the first fire crew, smoke could be seen coming from every opening in the roof. A search of the house was made to make sure all occupants had gotten out. Simultaneously a hole was cut in the roof to ventilate the hot gasses out of the attic and a 1 ¾" fire hose was pulled to the upstairs and used to extinguish the fire. The utilities to the house were shut off for safety and an investigator was called to determine the cause of the fire. Fire crews had a knockdown of the fire about 15 minutes after arrival. There are no reports of injuries to either the homeowner or the fire crews. 4 Engine companies, 2 Ladder companies, a Rescue unit, 2 Battalion Chiefs and an investigator responded to the fire but crews began to be put back in service about 45 minutes after the fire attack began.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation but first look by responding crews it appears to be electrical.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Ceiling on the second floor, roof decking and some smoke/water damage on the second floor.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 26
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/8/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 614 West Montgomery
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99202

NARRATIVE: On Wednesday July 8, 2009 at 08:30 AM, 7 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 3 Engines, 2 Senior Ladders, 1 Pumper-Ladder and 1 Heavy Rescue under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Green and Hanna responded to a reported residence fire at 614 West Montgomery. A resident in the two-story single family residence converted to an apartment contacted Fire dispatchers via 911 at and reported that the residence was filling with smoke and there was a fire.

The neighborhood fire company arrived within four-minutes and reported smoke showing from all sides of the two-story apartment house. They followed up with additional information that a significant amount of fire was spreading in the rear of the home from the first floor to the second floor. It was unknown at the time of the alarm whether all occupants were able to evacuate from the home during the fire. The first engine stretched pre-connected hose lines to the first floor with four firefighters to attack the fire and confine it in order to allow for a safer atmosphere for other companies as they searched for possible victims. Nearly simultaneously, a Ladder Company arrived and immediately entered and began to search both floors of the home to locate potential victims. Additional companies placed ground ladders to the exterior, ventilated the roof and backed up the initial attack crews and extinguished the fire in the adjoining areas while continuing to search victims. The fire was controlled in just twenty minutes. They were successful in confining the fire to the rear of the home and attic and limited spread into the address side (front) of the structure.



PROBABLE CAUSE: The official cause is under investigation currently by the SFD's Special Investigation Unit. Preliminary information given from residents at the scene to the media suggested that the cause was electrical; however the cause has not been determined at the time of this release.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Significant structural damage on all floors and attic in the rear of the converted structure.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE:
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

PRESS RELEASE - SPOKANE FIREFIGHTERS LOCAL 29

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Spokane Firefighters IAFF LOCAL 29 and the Washington State Council of Fire Fighters (WSCFF) Burn Foundation team up to provide citizens of Spokane free smoke detectors.

The WSCFF has matched a $500 donation made by the Spokane Firefighters Union to buy $1000 worth of smoke detectors for Spokane families. 55 smoke detectors have already been purchased. They will be presented to Jan Doherty, the Spokane Fire Department’s education officer by Greg Borg, President of Local 29. There will be more smoke detectors to follow.

When the fire department responds to a call in a residential home, if there is no detector, one - if available, can be installed by Local 29 members - City of Spokane firefighters. This service, as well as the detector, is free to homeowners and renters. However, landlords are required by law to provide detectors for their renters, and may be charged for the cost of the detector. City of Spokane residents can also stop by a fire station to obtain a detector. Detectors will be provided on a first-come-first-served basis until all are distributed.

Greg Borg, IAFF Local 29 president says, “There is no doubt that smoke detectors save lives. As we are seeing more and more fires in the last few weeks, it is just a matter of time for a tragedy to occur. Unfortunately, someone will soon be killed or seriously injured in a fire because their home did not have a detector. We want to provide that ounce of prevention.”

The smoke detectors will soon be available.

For more information, please contact Local 29 President Greg Borg at 998-3617, Vice-President Mark Vietzke at 710-2045, or the Local 29 office at 484-5598.

Fire Press Release - Three Fer

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/3/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 5408 East Commerce Avenue
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99212

NARRATIVE: On Friday July 3, 2009 at 08:41 AM, 8 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 5 Engines, 2 Senior Ladders and 1 Heavy Rescue under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Cornelius and Inman responded to a reported residence fire at 5408 East Commerce Avenue on the City's far east side. The neighborhood's Fire Engine (Engine 8) arrived within five minutes and reported a single family home fully involved in fire. Nearby residents also reported that fire was blowing from all of the windows of the home and the front yard. As the first company was establishing a water supply and preparing to take action on the fire, two patients were identified as occupants from the home by neighbors. An adult female and 4-year old male (mother and son) were able to escape from the home prior to the Fire Department's arrival and were found across the street suffering from burns and smoke inhalation. Simultaneously, other companies arrived and provided advanced life support to the patients as other companies made entry into the home to search for additional family members and attack the fire. Neighbors had reported to on-scene personnel that multiple family members routinely stayed at the home which resulted in companies searching the home and its basement four-times under heavy fire conditions.

Both patients were transported to Sacred Heart and are receiving treatment there for injuries received from the incident. The fire was controlled in 30-minutes with all of the assigned resourced working extremely hard in difficult conditions. Firefighters were successful in confining the fire to the home, limiting loss to the family's possessions and preventing the fire's spread to adjacent homes. The Spokane Police Department's Chaplain was also successful in locating and accounting for family members which were off-site with relatives.

The outcome of this incident reinforces the importance of the Fire Department providing Paramedic-Level Emergency Medical Services in the fashion that we do. Dual trained Firefighters as Paramedics allows us to immediately treat injured/ill people without delay and truly bring the Emergency Room to the patient in need. In a Fire/EMS deployment system, time is of the essence; and the life saved today is a perfect example of the components of the system coming together for a successful outcome.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire has been determined to be the child playing with a lighter.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The majority of the home was destroyed by the fire. Some of the family's possessions were removed by firefighters and salvageable.
DOLLAR LOSS: 200,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 27
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/4/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 111 East Sinto
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On Saturday July 4, 2009 at 4:33 AM, 9 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 5 Engines, 3 Senior Ladders, 1 Pumper-Ladder and 1 Heavy Rescue under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Inman and Cornelius responded to a reported residence fire at 111 East Sinto near the Gonzaga Campus.

A patrolling Police Officer discovered and reported the fire through SPD Dispatch. Police Officers made attempts to evacuate residents of the apartment prior to SFD's arrival. The first company arrived within 5-minutes and reported an older multiple-story home with smoke and fire coming from the back of the building. The building was actually a large older home converted into apartments occupied with multiple tenants. Initial arriving companies were able to rescue two persons which crawled onto a roof their bedroom window with ladders and evacuate the remaining tenants through doorways. Other companies ventilated and attacked the fire simultaneously while performing detailed searches on all three floors. One occupant was treated on-scene by SFD Paramedics and transported via AMR due to injuries received from the fire and products of combustion. Her condition was listed as stable at the time of this release.

The fire was confined to bedroom and adjoining area within 15 minutes. Aside from the occupant transported, no other injuries were reported. Both SFD and SPD are anticipated to be remaining on scene for most of the morning.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause is currently under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Smoke damage throughout and focused fire damage to the rear of structure. Seven adualts and three children are receiving assistance by the American Red Cross/ Inland NW Chapter.
DOLLAR LOSS: 75,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 32
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Steve Sabo
DATE OF INCIDENT: 7/4/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1516 E. Sharp Ave.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99202

NARRATIVE: At 7:42 P.M. on July 4th, the Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported fire in an attached garage at 1516 E. Sharp Ave. Multiple crews reported heavy smoke visible while enroute to the scene. The first crew arriving on scene reported an attached garage fully involved in fire, and fire extending through an enclosed breezeway and beginning to enter the house. Arching overhead power lines which burned through and dropped to the ground presented an additional hazard to the firefighters. As some crews began extinguishing the fire, others searched the house to make sure any occupants were out. No one was found in the house, and it was later determined that the tenant was visiting at a nearby house at the time of the fire. An aggressive fire attack combined with rapidly opening-up concealed spaces stopped the advancing fire before it could gain a strong foothold in the house. Crews remained on scene for more than three hours completing salvage and overhaul.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The area of origin of the fire appeared to be on the exterior of the garage, but the exact cause is still under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department's Special Investigation Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The single car garage and breezeway attaching it to the house were heavily damaged. The house received some fire damage and will not be habitable until repairs can be made.
DOLLAR LOSS: 30000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 25
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Never mind the previous post.

Our condolences to the Jackson family, friends and fans. Sounds like the fire department did their best, but it was too late. There are numerous fansites set up where fans can leave their thoughts. This is not really one of them, but if you would like to say something you can.

Fire Department Saves Michael Jackson's Life...

Another good reason for you guys who are on the fence to consider becoming paramedics. No word on Bubbles the chimp.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 6/25/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1908 E. Wellesley
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: On the morning of June 25th, 2009 at 3:15 A.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded 26 firefighters with 4 engine companies, 2 ladder companies, 1 pumper ladder company, 1 rescue unit and 2 battalion chiefs to a house fire located at 1908 E. Wellesley. Engine 15 under the command of Capt. Ryan Reding found a single family home with fire coming out the back side. A report was received by the dispatch center stating that there were two people possibly trapped inside. A fast and aggressive search of the structure was started utilizing two fire crews. These search crews split into two groups and were able to cover the main floor of the burning home in rapid fashion. At the same time of the ongoing search, a fire attack team along with a roof team were working together in order to confine the fire as soon as possible. A roof ventilation hole was cut by the roof team and the fire attack team below was starting to darken down the fire but the fire had gained a significant amount of headway and was continuing to spread inside void areas above, in the attic. After a hard battle of hose line stretching, extinguishment, searching, cutting and breaching it was determined to "go defensive" as the house had been considerably weakened by the fire. An immediate withdrawal of firefighters from the interior was ordered. Although the majority of the home had been searched for victims, a small portion remained that had not been searched. Defensive tactics began which involved crews controlling the fire from above using an aerial nozzle stream and from hose lines on the ground on the outside of the structure. As soon as defensive tactics were underway, a report was received that the two occupants were out of town and this was later confirmed to be true. Fire crews also searched the garage behind the home and found a number of dogs to be in good condition. Shortly after this, a partial collapse of the porch roof occurred on the back side of the house momentarily trapping 3 firefighters. The Rapid Intervention Team consisting of firefighters from Ladder 1's crew were deployed to assist. All 3 firefighters were removed from the debris very quickly and one firefighter sustained a minor back injury and was transported to Holy Family Hospital. He was released a few hours later and is expected to recover soon. The other 2 firefighters were not injured. Another firefighter also sustained a minor back injury in the later stages of the fire while operating on the outside of the home and was not transported. As the fire was burning, two separate multi-occupancy complexes on either side of the home were under threat. Fire crews successfully kept the fire from extending to these structures. A complete evacuation was ordered early to ensure the safety of these occupants. All occupants were allowed to return after the fire was contained. The Red Cross arrived and assisted the family of the burned home with shelter, food and clothing. The home was a total loss and plans were being made early this morning to demolish the structure. The cause of the fire is unknown at this time but is currently under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Unknown at this time. Under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The home and the majority of it's contents were a total loss.
DOLLAR LOSS: 170,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 26
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bob Green/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 6/15/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1708 W Mission
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: The Spokane City Fire Dept. Dispatch Center received a 9-1-1 telephone call from a concerned passer-by at approximately 12:20 in the early morning on Monday, June 15th, 2009. The caller reported that a building located at the corner of Mission and Ash was on fire. Immediately a full fire response was sent out, fortunately one of the Stations dispatched is located just a couple of blocks north of that intersection and they arrived on scene within minutes and reported that the building was involved by fire and that the fire was growing in intensity and beginning to gain entry into the building. That initial fire crew rapidly set about attacking the fast spreading fire and was able to get it knocked down very quickly. They forced entry into the locked building at the front door and extinguished the fire that had penetrated to the inside of the structure. As other fire crews began arriving on scene they were directed to begin laddering and ventilating the building, still other crews began the labor intensive process of pulling ceilings and opening walls to get into the concealed spaces where fire tends to hide. The actual address of the burned structure is 1708 W. Mission. An investigator from the Spokane City Fire Special Investigation Unit was requested to respond to the incident since the circumstances surrounding this fire appeared to be suspicious; his work on this case is on-going at this time.. There were no reports of injury to any of the firefighters at the scene. The damage to the building was confined to the area around the front door, including the large soffit area above the front door which is a conduit to the attic spaces. Fire damage was also present in the foyer area just inside the building. Smoke damage occurred throughout the interior of the structure.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Currently under investigation by the Special Investigation Unit of the Spokane Fire Dept.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Front door area ouside of the building including the large overhanging soffit that conceals the attic space, interior damage to the entry area inside the front door, and smoke damage throughout the building.
DOLLAR LOSS: 10,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Joel Fielder/ Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 6/12/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2122 West Gardner
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On Friday June 12, 2009, the Spokane Fire Department responded at approximately 4:10 AM to 2122 West Gardner on a reported structure fire. The first crew on-scene reported smoke showing from the roof and fire showing from the eaves on the east side of the home. An aggressive interior attack by on scene fire crews confined the majority of the fire to the attic. The fire was brought under control with in 30 minutes and there were no reported injuries to firefighters or civilians.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is under investigation by Spokane Fire Department Investigators.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire damage was confined to the attic and the ceilings in the kitchen and living room
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Fire Press Release

NARRATIVE: On 06/08/09 at approximately 0232 hrs units of the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 303 W North River Drive, Red Lion Inn at the Park Hotel, upon activation of the fire alarm system. First arriving crews could smell smoke but initially did not see any active fire. Upon further investigation SFD crews found a fire in the laundry room in the lower level of the hotel. Firefighters advanced pre-connected hose-lines to the fire area, and with the assistance of the sprinkler system quickly extinguished the fire. Many tenants of the hotel had evacuated the building prior to the arrival of firefighters on scene.
While the fire was being extinguished, other SFD units checked the floors above the fire to assure no fire extension to those areas. Once all areas of the hotel were determined to be safe tenants were allowed to return to their rooms.

A total of 31 firefighters on 10 apparatus fought this blaze. No injuries to firefighters or civilians were reported. Firefighters remained on scene until approximately 0500 hrs.



PROBABLE CAUSE: The fire is currently under investigation. No final fire cause has been determined at this time. More information to follow.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The fire is currently under investigation. No final fire cause has been determined at this time. More information to follow.
DOLLAR LOSS: 2,500
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 31
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Dan Brown
DATE OF INCIDENT: 6/4/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1710 East 12 Ave
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99202

NARRATIVE: On the 4th day of June 2009 at 5:00 p/m the City of Spokane Fire department responded 6 fire apparatus and 2 command personnel to 1710 East 12th for a reported structure fire. The first company on scene reported light smoke coming from the basement on side Delta. Upon further investigation a fire was discovered in the basement of the one and one half story house. Hose lines were advanced to the interior and the fire was quickly extinguished. A search of the residence was made and no one was home at this time. The fire was confined to the basement and contents with heavy smoke damage. The fire did not extend to the main floor which did suffer some smoke damage. There were no reported injuries. The residents were displaced and will be staying with relatives. Fire department investigators were called in to determine the cause.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Electronic Gaming Device shorted out.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Basement and contents . Smoke through out
DOLLAR LOSS: 60,000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 20
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

END OF RELEASE

An open response to the Journal of Business’ open letter to the Workers of City Hall.

An open response to the Journal of Business’ open letter to the Workers of City Hall.

Dear Journal of Business Editorial Staff:

I write this letter as a member of Local 29 - the city firefighters’ union - a member of the Spokane Chamber of Commerce (Greater Spokane), and as a citizen of Spokane.

Everyone knows that business is the economic engine of our city. Your fine publication showcases and promotes regional businesses that are directly responsible for the success of Spokane. We firefighters, more than anyone, want to see local businesses flourish. I think you would be hard pressed to find a group of people who are more willing to give (and have given their all) for the physical structures of business, the employees and owners of Spokane businesses and their families. We are sure that you know, that like the military that protects our freedoms, your firefighters are willing to lay it on the line to protect you, your business, your customers and the entire infrastructure of a city. Without protecting this infrastructure and human population, chances are Spokane’s days would be numbered. To say the least, that would be bad for business. We are intertwined with each other and dependent upon each other - as it has been since the earliest days of our nation and our city.

You didn’t say much about how it is that our wages are determined. Simply put, our wages and working conditions are basically derived by comparison to similar cities in similar economic conditions. Both sides (labor and administration) negotiate along these lines and binding arbitration assures a fair settlement for all (and also forbids us from striking). When comparable firefighter wages go up, ours could go up in a future contract. Likewise, if there is an economic downturn and wages fall, ours could follow suit.

Your letter states that as a public relations gesture, we should lower our wages. With that in mind, I would like to tell you about our experience with your suggestion. A few years ago, the city administration came to the city’s three unions and asked if they would make some concessions to help them out of a financial bind they were in. This request was brought to the firefighters of Local 29. A vote was taken. Overwhelmingly, we voted to gift the city with 48 hours of free labor from each and every firefighter (over a two-year period). This saved the city over $600,000. Press releases were dispatched, and we awaited feedback from citizens, The Spokesman-Review and even The Journal of Business. Nothing happened. The news was never reported. We made contacts again with the press - nothing. I think many of our members now see this effort as a failed trial balloon. It would be hard to believe that any further future concessions would sway those who already have a bias against us and unionized labor in general. Our experience is that these concessions would not even be made public by members the news media (The Journal of Business included).

The Journal of Business, businesses in Spokane, unions, city workers, citizens - retired, employed, unemployed, our families - we are all in this together. You need us and we need you. It’s time to drop some of our biases and take a truthful look at what we can do together.

First off, a simple question. “Why are city employees costing the city so much money?” Raises have been modest. Well, the truth of it is something that you mentioned in your letter - health insurance. Twenty years ago, affordable health insurance was the norm for all workers. Even the smallest of businesses were able to insure their employees. You are right, city employees still enjoy this traditional benefit. But here’s something that you leave out of your analysis. It is the health insurance companies that are responsible for a greediness that has catapulted insurance costs higher than many mortgages. Is The Journal of Business, right now, willing to advocate for a national single-payer health care system, or some other reform, that would allow all to enjoy the benefits that city employees now enjoy? These are benefits that all workers used to enjoy until deregulated insurance companies took us to the cleaners. To be sure, their coffers are overflowing with cash. This cash makes its way into your publication. Most citizens and business owners know this. Maybe it’s time for you, not just as a public relations stunt but because you care about Spokane, to take a stand for small businesses, for government, for citizens and for our future against the true culprits of the budget - one of your patrons - the health insurance industry.

When you compare Spokane’s fire department with Tacoma’s (our most comparable) or any other city in Washington, the numbers are pretty stark. Spokane responds to more emergency calls with less firefighters for a fraction of the cost compared to other cities' fire departments. Citizens and businesses in Spokane get more bang for their buck. This is great news for all of us. However, there’s more to the picture. In Spokane, homeowners foot a bigger percentage of the city’s operating costs, when compared to cities where businesses offset property taxes with their contributions to a B and O tax. There is a B and O tax in every Washington city except Spokane. Will The Journal of Business advocate a city, or even a county, B and O tax? This would alleviate Spokane’s budget problems and help take some financial pressure off of our citizens and customers.

A new era has dawned in our nation, and in Spokane. We are beginning to see the folly of blindly following an ideology without question, and not looking with rational eyes at our circumstances. We need to logically consider, and perhaps implement, what has worked in other cities, states and countries. So far, your editorial board seems to want to stay on a course that has proven to be beneficial in the short run for a few, and disastrous in the long run for all. That’s understandable. It's a comfortable place for you. This is where The Journal of Business, like many, has strayed the past 20 years, intensifying in the last eight. But the times, they are a’changing. It won’t be easy to set aside a comfortable ideology. It may cost you (or us) some money, in the short run. Together we owe the future of Spokane nothing less, if there is to be a future for Spokane.

Here is one “Worker of City Hall” who has read what you had to say. I have taken it to heart. I hope you now have a better idea of why we need each other. And I hope you have considered what I have to say.

John Griffith
IAFF LOCAL 29

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Craig Cornelius/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 5/24/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 809 N. Canon
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On Sunday, May 24, 2009 at 4:31pm, the Spokane Fire Department dispatched a full alarm consisting of 6 fire apparatus and 2 chief officers to a reported house fire located at
809 N. Cannon St. The first arriving company, E3 under the direction of Lt. Greenamyer arrived at the scene within 4 minutes of being dispatched.
The initial report from Lt. Greenamyer was that he had a one story wood frame home with fire on the exterior that had extended up the siding into the attic. Engine 3's crew immediately stretched pre-connected hose lines to start extinguishment of the fire while verifying that all occupants were out of the structure. The additional arriving crews provided roof ventilation, covered interior furnishings with water proof tarps, and searched for a missing family cat. The main body of fire was knocked down within 15 minutes. Fire crews were on the scene for approximately 1 ½ hours.
There were no injuries at this incident.



PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this fire is currently under investigation by members of the Spokane City Fire Dept. Special Investigation Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage was confined to the exterior siding on the north side of the house, the attic area where the fire went up the siding and into the attic via the roof soffit, two bedrooms where fire fighters had to open walls and pull ceilings to get at the fire, and of course a major section of the building's roof.
DOLLAR LOSS: 20,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 24
MUTUAL AID: None Given

For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com

TEAM SFD IN CANADA!

For those of you who have been reading the facebook entries about the "Wherethefugawi" team you already know what a tough race this was! For those who don't, you'll have to hear it firsthand from Jason, Jeff B., Doug or Jeff W. They were one of only six teams that actually finished the race. It looks like a lot of work and courage went into this.