The expression "See you at the Big One" is a common way for Firefighters to say "goodbye" to each other. We aren't refering to a fat horse, a Greyhound bus or a mountain top. We speak of a greater alarm fire. You see, even though a big fire is a tragedy to the property owner, it is an event that all worthy Firefighters look forward to.
This dandy example went to four alarms, and easily qualifies as a big one. We were there all night and into the next morning.
It was a carpet sales showroom and warehouse. The fire started after the business closed for the day. Don't ask me how it started, I rarely know the answer to that question. I just fight 'em, I don't investigate 'em.
What does it feel like to sit on top of a fire engine right next to an inferno? The answer will come in a later photo.
If you will recall, we talked about the fact that heat from a fire goes up. See that Firefighter on top of the ladder pipe? He has the best sense of everyone of just how hot the fire is. If the wind shifts, he will be enveloped in the smoke as well as the heat. The fact that his stream of water is pointed almost straight down is a good indicater of how close he is to the fire. Watching out for power lines is one of the biggest concerns when setting up a ladder pipe.
Greater Alarm fires are usually fought defensively. That means that everybody stays outside, and we pour water in with our largest hoses. It lacks the precision of an interior attack, but going inside just isn't an option on a fire like this.
Daybreak is almost on us; the fire is beginning to retreat. Firefighter Matthew goes to the tip of the aerial ladder to mop up a hot spot.
Do you have the courage to climb that ladder?
Once the fire is no longer a threat, we can finally go inside and look around.
Remember the Firefighters on top of the engine? This is the engine that they were perched on, and this was the side that was closest to the fire. Notice anything unusual? Look closely at the plastic parts of the engine. It got so hot that they melted! It wasn't that hot when they first got there, but after the wall of the building collapsed, the full brunt of the fire was felt by the crew.
Wow, that looks very scary! I would never want to be a fireman! :-)
But I'm glad that you enjoy it... ;-)
I wouldn't want to climb that ladder either... even if it wasn't over a fire! ;-)
Hahaha, enjoyed your post!
Have a good day!
Joy
P.S. Hopefully you won't see me "at the big one"... ;-)
I have been sitting here for the past five minutes trying to think of something suitable to write. I can not ask a question due to the fact that you don't answer peoples questions via blog. I can not make a witty/sarcastic remark, due to the fact that you would come onto my blog and do the same. So I have come to a dead-end road.
The only thing I can think to say is: "I saw the bambalance in the background."
I can't think of what to say either . ..
I like your entry. (?)
I'd like to see your 15 words on Ben-the-uninterested-in-vehicular-devices blog. I'm sure I'll be amused.
I really want to go on a motorcycle ride . . .If you don't mind, I'd feel safer with you though.
Those are AMAZING pictures and I mean AMAZING:) I love seeing picture of firefighters! One thing is true, I would never want to be one myself, LOL! I am terrified of heights and will never go down a ladder. If there was a fire at my house they would really have to force me, not joking!
In November we are going on a field trip to a Fire Academy and we get a 3 hour tour and get to eat luch with the firefighters, and go to their bookstore and gift shop. Isn't that to cool to be true?
Have you ever won anything for taking such wonderful pictures? If so, you deserved it!
Wel please stop by my blog soon! Have a great day and God bless!
Mr. Hector,
I have not been on your blog in a awfully long time. That is such a shame; your blog is so much fun to read, not to mention look at the pictures!
~Jessica~
Wow...I mean WOW!!!! You continue to amaze me with the awesome photos! I could almost feel the heat...
So for the firefighter that's on top of the extremely tall ladder, is that considered one of the cool positions/jobs? Or is it a "no, I think it's your turn" type of job?
So if these types of fires are major adrenaline rushes for you guys cooking a steak on a gas grill must be pretty boring...
I guess I have to load some better blog photo's now since I have milked the "car on it's side" shot for awhile now. Maybe I can light a nice big Weber fire and take some extreme close-up shots for some dramatic effects...(or some singed eyebrows)
Be safe!!!
Kevin
Incredible photos! I am (not a good photographer, but) really into photography, and it has been a blast reading through your blog! The pictures look so intense, as though I were there when it happened...thanks for sharing!!
Jess
P.S. I saw Katalina's comment...you ride a motorcycle? My dad does, too.
So . . .you're a liar? Or you can't count? OR, I know, you were in a coma and when you woke up about 3 weeks later you still thought it was that same day!
That would explain the "no new post" syndrome you are currently suffering from.
I will wait and watch with eagerness as I anticipate the next chapter of "Hec@19 - the story of a courageous hero in the face of flames".
