Friday, October 26, 2012

Swearing In Ceremony for Chief James P. Duggan

The Tacoma Fire Department would like to invite you to attend the swearing in of Chief James P. Duggan as the City of Tacoma’s 21st Fire Chief.  The ceremony will take place at the Greater Tacoma Convention & Trade Center, 1500 Broadway, Fifth Floor, on Friday, November 2, 2012.  The swearing in will begin promptly at 1:30 p.m. 

Chief James P. Duggan


Ensnared Owl Rescued by Firefighters

Tacoma Firefighters rescued an owl this week that had been ensnared by an old fishing line hanging from a tree alongside the Puyallup river.  When the crew of Engine 12 arrived, the distressed bird had been dangling helplessly above the water for several hours.  A concerned citizen had contacted the Tacoma Fire Department as a last resort after being unable to find assistance elsewhere.

After freeing the owl by using a long pike pole, Firefighter Mark Snyder guided the bird to shore while Lt. Andy Leitner contacted Bird Rescue for instructions on handling.  The owl was later examined and treated by a veterinarian.  According to Lt. Leitner, the owl suffered no broken bones, but was provided fluids for dehydration.  The healthy adult owl is expected to fully recover from the ordeal.