Public Safety

9 articles

Roswell firefighters in action, utilizing advanced equipment to train for a simulated electric vehicle fire, showcasing preparedness for new automotive hazards.
Tools & Equipment

Roswell firefighters train with new electric vehicle emergency equipment

An average electric vehicle fire requires 3,000-8,000 gallons of water to extinguish, a stark contrast to the 500-1,000 gallons needed for a conventional car fire, according to Fire Engineering Journa

Luis Ortega·June 29, 2026
Flagstaff residents at a town hall meeting discussing a proposed sales tax increase for public safety services, with symbols of fire and EMS in the background.
Safety

Voters to decide on sales tax hike for public safety

In Flagstaff, Arizona, voters will decide on a 0.

Ben Foster·June 20, 2026
Illinois firefighters proudly stand with newly acquired safety equipment, symbolizing the positive impact of state funding on emergency response.
Safety

Illinois fire districts receive $6 million in state equipment grants

Illinois fire departments requested over $8 million in state funding for small equipment this year, but only $6 million was awarded, leaving 282 applications unfunded.

Ben Foster·June 5, 2026
Illinois firefighters organizing new hydraulic rescue tools received from a $6 million statewide equipment grant, enhancing their readiness and safety.
Tools & Equipment

Illinois fire departments statewide receive $6M in equipment grants

The Rock Island Fire Department, like 259 others across Illinois, just received $25,000 for new hydraulic rescue tools.

Kyle Brenner·June 5, 2026
Massachusetts firefighters in new gear stand with a fire truck, showcasing the impact of recent state grants for essential equipment upgrades.
Tools & Equipment

Massachusetts Fire Departments Receive Millions in New Grants and Equipment

307 fire departments across Massachusetts will share $5 million in state grants in 2026.

Ben Foster·April 14, 2026
Winchester firefighter holding new SCBA equipment, symbolizing improved safety and readiness thanks to a state grant.
Safety

Winchester Fire Department Receives State Grant for Safety Equipment

Winchester firefighters, who previously relied on self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) units dating back to 2005, can now replace every single one thanks to a new $150,000 state grant.

Ben Foster·April 11, 2026
A construction worker inspects a damaged underground utility line at dusk, illuminated by emergency lights, emphasizing the critical need for 'Call Before You Dig' enforcement to prevent dangerous utility strikes.
Safety

Awareness Isn't Enough: Why Call Before You Dig Regulations Need Real Enforcement

Despite widespread awareness campaigns, millions of homeowners still plan to dig without calling 811, leading to thousands of preventable utility strikes each year. This article argues that stricter enforcement of 'Call Before You Dig' regulations is now a public safety imperative.

Ben Foster·April 7, 2026
Massachusetts firefighters in full gear inspecting new safety equipment, including thermal imaging cameras and turnout gear, inside a modern fire station, symbolizing enhanced readiness.
Safety

Massachusetts Awards $5 Million in State Grants to Fire Departments for Safety Equipment

The Healey-Driscoll Administration has awarded $5 million through its Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant program, providing critical funding for turnout gear, thermal imaging cameras, and other essential tools to 307 fire departments across Massachusetts.

Ben Foster·April 1, 2026
New firefighter safety equipment, including modern turnout gear and thermal imaging cameras, displayed in a Massachusetts fire department, funded by a state grant.
Tools & Equipment

Massachusetts Awards $5 Million in Grants for New Fire Department Safety Equipment

Massachusetts has awarded $5 million through the Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant program, providing 307 fire departments with funds for new turnout gear, thermal imaging cameras, and other critical tools to meet safety standards.

Ben Foster·April 1, 2026