After Attacks on Firefighters, Oakland, CA, Modifies Wildfire Prevention Effort
Following attacks and intimidation, Oakland firefighters won't be going onto private property to conduct vegetation inspections.
The annual wildfire prevention initiative has not been met with open arms by many.
"Our firefighters are doing the inspections from the public right-of-way only -- not accessing the public's private property," said Seth Olyer of the Oakland Firefighters Union, told abc7.
The policy changed after a hike in incidents involving firefighter engaged in inspections.
"On July 4, we had a firefighter who unfortunately, was attacked by multiple dogs," Olyer said.
The firefighter recovered from the injuries.
Not all residents are happy about the change, saying it may affect the prevention efforts.
Several told reporters they are concerned that it may lead to an increase in wildfires.
About the Author
Susan Nicol
News Editor
Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com. She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company, Oxford Fire Company and Brunswick Vol. Fire Co. Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976. Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum. She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council. Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society, Maryland Division. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post, covering fire, law enforcement, court and legislative issues.