A Tribute to our Firefighters

As brush fires “roll across” the Texas panhandle and parts of Oklahoma to Midwest tornados, the nation’s fire service is accomplishing an outstanding job. Needless to say, fighting fires is a very dangerous profession with many personal risks. On call 24 and 7 in every state of the union, they are there for any emergency situation, paramedic calls, auto accident extraction of the injured to extreme structural fires in any city.

Hurricanes to Civil unrest, riot conditions, arson investigation to rescuing a “cat in a tree” is all part of the “job.”

Severe weather conditions, heat or cold is not a factor in the fire service of this nation. In freezing temperatures while controlling a 1 and ½ inch lead nozzle in winter, hosemen’s gloves are often caked with ice as well as helmet and protective gear.

In summer, full Fire resistant Coats are an enclosed “steam bath” but necessary for all major alarms.

OBAs or Oxygen Breathing Apparatus is necessary for rescue efforts in a dense smoke filled atmosphere when vision is limited to a few feet.

A floor may be burning above or below while rescue personnel search for injured or unconscious people. A spray pattern from a 1 and ½ lead supplies both air and a cooling factor for rescue attempts.

Entering a ‘burning building or residence “in extreme, unstable conditions is a daily mission for Fire Departments, coast to coast.

Nationally, since September 11, 2001, people should never forget the vital role the fire service provides in society. A popular bumper sticker in 1972 was simply Stated; “Firefighters Control Fires, Save Lives.”