Cause for alarm- msnbc.com

Flaws in firefighters’
last line of defense

Fifteen firefighters have died at fires where rescuers weren't given a chance to find them quickly. An MSNBC.com investigation reveals that the federal agency that investigates firefighters' deaths was warned in early 2000 that firefighter personal alarms may not always be heard. But the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ignored its fire safety engineer's warning, waiting five years to act. Full story

NBC News

CDC fire unit: the ‘No Go Team’
The agency that examines firefighter deaths typically arrives 33 days after a fatal fire

Faster response to firefighter deaths is urged
Inspector general responds to MSNBC.com investigation of CDC team

Charleston balks at federal fire probe
Fire chief who lost nine men balked at interviews by federal investigators

Kerry calls for probe of firefighter unit
Senator responds to MSNBC.com report on problems with PASS devices

Fire chiefs urge action on firefighter deaths
Group joins union, family in reacting to MSNBC report on investigations

MSNBC.com video

Cause for alarm
15 firefighters have died at fires where rescuers weren't given a chance to find them quickly. MSNBC.com's Bill Dedman reports.

MSNBC.com

Interactive

Delve deeper
View more in-depth video interviews, a photo gallery and a timeline of events, and learn more about a firefighter's protective clothing and equipment.