On Sept. 11 at 8:46 a.m. when the first hijacked plane hit the north tower in New York City, lives of Americans were forever changed. Nearly 3,000 lives were lost that day, including more than 2,500 civilians, 343 FDNY firefighters, 60 police officers and 55 members of the military. This year marks 20-years since the attacks of 9/11, and the Seattle Fire and Police departments are teaming up to live-stream a small ceremony to honor all who lost their lives and as a result of that tragic day. A link for the public to tune in virtually to the ceremony will be posted to SFD’s Facebook page on the morning of Sept. 11. The ceremony begins at 11 a.m. and will end around 11:30 a.m.

While we would have hoped to have been together in person, the current surge of COVID in our community has limited how we can conduct this event. We hope you will still join us virtually to remember and honor those who lost their lives that day. The honor guards and pipes and drums from both departments will be part of the ceremony.

Seattle Fire around the community

Roger Webber selected as a 2020 King County Firefighter of the Year Firefighter Roger Webber, who works on Seattle's Health One unit and at Fire Station 10, was selected as one of two 2020 King County Firefighters of the Year by the King County Fire Chiefs Association. When Roger staffs the Health One unit, he spends his days helping people with mental/behavioral health or substance use disorder, and non-emergency medical issues access services. Congratulations, Roger, on this significant accomplishment!

Brian Wallace selected as 2020 King County Officer of the Year Acting Captain Brian Wallace, who has led the fire department's COVID-19 testing and vaccinations effort since the beginning of the pandemic, was selected as the 2020 King County Officer of the Year by the King County Fire Chiefs Association. Because of Brian's steadfast commitment to serving our community, the fire department has tested and vaccinated thousands of individuals. Well done, Brian, we are proud of you!

Seattle Fire visits neighborhoods on National Night Out

Thank you, Seattle, for another engaging National Night Out on Aug. 3! Visiting with neighbors at the numerous block parties across the City was special for us this year, as we’ve had to suspend our attendance at most in-person events due to COVID. We always enjoy interacting with the community we serve and wish everyone a healthy and safe remainder of 2021.

Firefighters working in Rainier Valley and bystanders help to save dog’s life

While travelling on Renton Ave. S. on Aug. 7, Engine 33 came upon a dog that had been hit by a car. The crew, along with members of the public (the owner, Natalie Luke and Emily Mayoras), helped to stabilize the dog using a large vacuum splint and an emergency blanket. They then used a backboard to move the dog into the back of a bystander’s SUV for transport to an animal hospital. We have since learned that “Mouse” is expected to make a full recovery! This was a great example of residents jumping into action to help a fellow community member dealing with a difficult situation. We thank them for their compassion and service to others and were pleased of the positive outcome. Watch King 5’s coverage of the event here.

Seattle Fire officially welcomes 32 new members from Recruit Class 113

On Aug. 25, we officially welcomed 32 (27 in photo) new members to the Seattle Fire Department! These firefighters successfully completed a 15.5 week recruit academy followed by a one-year probation. Now they're here to serve the Seattle community in their role as firefighter/EMT for many years to come!

NEW: Fire Science Associate degree program offered at North Seattle College

North Seattle College is launching a NEW Fire Science Associate degree program in fall of 2021. If you are a high school graduate looking to pursue a fire service career, or existing firefighter looking to strengthen profession-specific skills, consider applying by Sept. 20, 2021.

This program is the only of its kind in King County, is mostly online and takes approximately two years (full-time) to complete with affordable tuition and student financial aid available. Graduates will leave the program better prepared for the pre-employment examination and screening processes they must undergo at local fire departments, to include written exams and oral board interviews. It will also enable current firefighters to strengthen sharpen leadership and profession-specific skills. Visit the program website for more information and to apply.

Keeping you safe

Learn hands-only CPR, virtually

Tune-in to our Facebook Page on Friday, Sept. 3 at 10 a.m. to participate in our live streamed hands-only CPR course taught by Johnny Bell, a retired firefighter and certified CPR instructor. Johnny will guide you virtually through the proper techniques; all you'll need is a rolled-up towel, pillow or couch cushion to practice from home.

Back-to-school safety tips

As students return to in-person classes, now is a good time to remember some back-to-school safety advice.

September is National Preparedness Month

September is National Preparedness Month aimed to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. Ready.gov’s theme for 2021 is Prepare to protect. Preparing for disasters is protecting everyone you love.

Keep an eye out for our weekly posts to help you and your loved ones prepare for emergencies.