Interesting Fire Department stuff.

[fireftr18]

A couple interesting things came across Facebook today. I thought I would share.
This one is in Bern. A little background first. The North American model for fire protection as designed by Ben Franklin has many small fire stations spread out. That means we have a lot of fire stations with a small number of trucks. In many large cities in Europe, the model is fewer, but extremely large stations. Now every so often, a fire department needs to move the station. Whether change the location to a more strategic spot, or the station needs to be upgraded, but the cost to build new is better, or whatever else. In North America, moving a station is really unnoticeable. When you have a station that has 30 or more pieces of apparatus, then it's a sight to see. This is a video of moving equipment in Bern from it's old station to the new one.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8GipTKN0nOo

[fireftr18]

Here's one from China. Be sure to click on "translate" and read the story.

https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=565269620266775&fref=nf

[August]

Thanks for posting these links. I will pass them along to a fire fighter buddy of mine.

[Aktungbby]

That's partially due to the philosophical difference imparted at one point by Franklin's American frontier mentality...now known as the Rurban-suburban interface. In my RE appraisal days, when dealing with FEMA in the Santa Cruz mountains-practically my domain, we didn't just have the Loma Prieta earthquake; but also the Lexington Hills fire and the fatal Charing Cross Rd. Oakland Hills fire. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oakland_firestorm_of_1991 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oakland_firestorm_of_1991)http://articles.latimes.com/1985-07-10/news/mn-7612_1_homes-near-san-jose (http://articles.latimes.com/1985-07-10/news/mn-7612_1_homes-near-san-jose) and the small but nasty Palo Alto Hills fire. A Cal Fire chief lives on my street in Napa and the Napa Sonoma hills-Mayacamas mountains are just two blocks over and will burn in their turn when the conditions are right- of that there is no doubt. Small, spread-out and interlocking mutual support is the modus operendi for wind-swept dry manzaninta, second growth redwood and large propane tank fueled infernos. As for FEMA in the other thread today: love 'em!!! they rebuilt (chimney & foundation-$40 K) my house after (2) Napa Quakes and I've contributed my files as needed (maintained for 5 years) for victims of quakes and fires: those front, rear and any interior photos with precise sketch addendum dimensions really count and were often the only good pics left for the FEMA assessment teams. NO CHARGE BBY! The last Napa quake in August is at 1 billion in damage! Yeah, FEMA can be slow, thorough and bureaucratic but still the only game goin' when the game's up and it's all 'hit the fan.' And they get there "firstest with the mostest" and stay the distance!:salute:

[Jimbuna]

Interesting footage :cool:

Sadly, here in the UK the current trend is to close stations and downsize manpower and equipment wherever possible...madness in the name of austerity.

[Gargamel]

Interesting footage :cool:

Sadly, here in the UK the current trend is to close stations and downsize manpower and equipment wherever possible...madness in the name of austerity.

That's the same everywhere.

But... With 80% of the calls being EMS (Medical) only calls, and 90% of the rest having an EMS element to it, and the general improvement of fire prevention in occupied buildings, the need for pure Fire coverage has declined over the recent past.

AND with the improved procedures, techniques, and devices/drugs available to EMS crews today, the pre-hospital care provided in the field (I am only familiar with US systems) has increased by leaps and bounds over the past 15 years. For two main reasons: 1) Education of both the responders and the medical doctors overseeing them, allowing for more aggressive approaches 2) Trauma resuscitation research has vastly improved since 2001, when the Afghan and Iraq wars started. The military trauma service has always been a testing ground for new procedures. That's why the survival rates are so much higher (and with it, more disfigured dismembered returning servicemen) than they were in past wars. The medical learning curve in the battlefield (system wide) is very quick to respond to changes. So the EMS crews in the field can provide better care over longer periods of time, negating the need for more units closer to hospitals.

All that means, we generally now need less responders to cover more population.

Of course, there are a lot of blockhead city councils that cut coverage based soley on budget reasons, and that's not good.

[fireftr18]

Dallas, Texas. The roofing materials dripped on to the back of this firefighter. I wonder how many times I've been in a similar situation and didn't realize it.

http://www.firerescue1.com/close-call/articles/2099010-Video-Dallas-firefighter-catches-fire-battling-blaze/

[August]

Sounds like a testament to some good PPE. :up:

[Wolferz]

Dallas, Texas. The roofing materials dripped on to the back of this firefighter. I wonder how many times I've been in a similar situation and didn't realize it.

http://www.firerescue1.com/close-call/articles/2099010-Video-Dallas-firefighter-catches-fire-battling-blaze/

Shows how much turn out gear has advanced.:up:

[fireftr18]

My buddies in Lexington are making national news. I see this once in a while. A couple pictures get on Facebook, then it's forgotten. This one is getting a lot more time than usual. If you glance at it, you can see it is a well marked company car.

http://www.statter911.com/2015/02/07/another-car-gets-hosed-time-kentucky/

[Aktungbby]

Did a parking citation also get issued? http://cdn3.1starriving.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2015/02/KY-Lexington-house-fire-car-on-hydrant-2-2-7-15.jpg

[Jimbuna]

Sounds like a testament to some good PPE. :up:

Rgr that....give the professional the correct tools and they'll do a first class job :cool:

[fireftr18]

Did a parking citation also get issued? http://cdn3.1starriving.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2015/02/KY-Lexington-house-fire-car-on-hydrant-2-2-7-15.jpg

I'm not sure, but I assume there was. If I was that guy's boss, I wouldn't be very happy with him. Although, I don't know if I would be laughing at him, or yelling at him while scolding him. :har:

[fireftr18]

Rgr that....give the professional the correct tools and they'll do a first class job :cool:

Thankfully, I always had the same kind of fire gear.

[Jimbuna]

Thankfully, I always had the same kind of fire gear.

A real necessity, I have occasionally been to a fire situation arriving before the fire fighting services and would never enter a building myself.

The one exception might have been some child or person screaming for help from the top of a stairway or first floor window....thankfully that never happened and my conscience/resolve was never put to the test.

[Oberon]

http://imgur.com/gallery/CPELb

http://i.imgur.com/Wmw2Jxp.jpg

As escapes go, they don't get much luckier than this.

[fireftr18]

Great story. Thanks for sharing.

[Jimbuna]

Awesome respect for the guy....a true professional :sunny:

[fireftr18]

This was part of the fire brigade at the Farmall plant. It is an in house fire truck. The pump ran off the PTO and the big box underneath is the water tank.

http://i1168.photobucket.com/albums/r496/fireftr18/Tractor%20fire%20truck_zpsypcg47z6.jpg (http://s1168.photobucket.com/user/fireftr18/media/Tractor%20fire%20truck_zpsypcg47z6.jpg.html)

[Aktungbby]

That's partially due to the philosophical difference imparted at one point by Franklin's American frontier mentality...now known as the Rurban-suburban interface. A Cal Fire chief lives on my street in Napa and the Napa Sonoma hills-Mayacamas mountains are just two blocks over and will burn in their turn when the conditions are right- of that there is no doubt. Small, spread-out and interlocking mutual support is the modus operendi for wind-swept dry manzaninta, second growth redwood and large propane tank fueled infernos. :salute: And lo it came to pass::nope: Currently the Lake fire is 5% contained and has destroyed 400 homes and much of Middletown (Evacuated)and 61,000 acres. The contained Rocky Fire burned 61,000 acres; the Jerusalem fire, also 100% contained burned 25,000 acres. Two of California's fastest-burning wildfires in decades overtook several Northern California towns, killing at least one person and destroying hundreds of homes and businesses and sending thousands of residents fleeing highways lined with buildings, guardrails and cars still in flames. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection confirmed one fatality in the wildfire north of San Francisco that raced through dry brush and exploded in size within hours. Officials also counted 400 homes, two apartment complexes and 10 businesses destroyed by the flames,
This part of my work related territory and saddens me greatly http://l.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/9BsuaWXgbDk1TyUC3GqM5A--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3NfbGVnbztmaT1maWxsO2g9NjQwO2lsPXBsYW 5lO3B5b2ZmPTA7cT03NTt3PTk2MA--/http://media.zenfs.com/en_us/News/ap_webfeeds/a129cee437a9ee29810f6a706700331f.jpg
http://l1.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/o3ycAk7G3R1uPr.mNK663Q--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3NfbGVnbztmaT1maWxsO2g9NzIwO3B5b2ZmPT A7cT03NTt3PTEyODA-/http://media.zenfs.com/en-US/video/video.kabc.abc.news.com/2185a0864d09d6886f4546cf58f85365http://news.yahoo.com/thousands-flee-2-fast-moving-california-wildfires-063329864.html (http://news.yahoo.com/thousands-flee-2-fast-moving-california-wildfires-063329864.html)# A map overlay of the awful situation:https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=zp8nK_5H0MFQ.kzTmU5XK-qJQ (https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=zp8nK_5H0MFQ.kzTmU5XK-qJQ)

[Aktungbby]

Fire still going strong; minor sprinkles not deterring the flames much http://ww2.hdnux.com/photos/40/71/31/8623705/3/1024x1024.jpgEvacuations underwayhttp://ww3.hdnux.com/photos/40/71/31/8623702/3/1024x1024.jpgNot fast enough it seemshttp://ww3.hdnux.com/photos/40/72/53/8628950/3/1024x1024.jpgFighting fire with firehttp://ww3.hdnux.com/photos/40/71/53/8624846/3/1024x1024.jpgWarning: These videos are extremely unnerving http://www.marketwatch.com/story/terrifying-video-shows-driver-escaping-californias-valley-fire-2015-09-14 (http://www.marketwatch.com/story/terrifying-video-shows-driver-escaping-californias-valley-fire-2015-09-14)

[fireftr18]

For the wildland firefighters :Kaleun_Salute:
That's some real work. Weeks at a time in a camp for fighting the fire. It isn't like a house fire. Those guys and gals hike to the fire, then start working. Digging, raking, and hoeing.

[Aktungbby]

It's just a wretched mess with three major fires; all germinating in the area in the last month NE NAPA county with 30 knot winds and perfect tinder dry drought underbrush up chimney like hills/canyons. Not as bad(yet) as the Lexington Resevoir and Oakland Hills fire IMHO from my appraiser days in the '90's. The Oakland fire ultimately killed 25 people and injured 150 others. The 1,520 acres (620 ha) destroyed, included 2,843 single-family dwellings and 437 apartment and condominium units. The economic loss has been estimated at $1.5 billion http://www.ebparks.org/about/history/firestorm-20-years-later/The_Oakland_Hills_Firestorm____Trapped_by_the_fire (http://www.ebparks.org/about/history/firestorm-20-years-later/The_Oakland_Hills_Firestorm____Trapped_by_the_fire ) My Cal Fire chief neighbor across the street hasn't returned home for three days...we think we saw him on the TV news earlier this evening.

[Oberon]

I feel sorry for the poor animals in paddocks and fields, humans can at least try to escape. But yes, what a terrible situation out there, the firefighters involved in tackling the California fires are very very brave men.

This guy, crazy, but some incredible footage:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rtMOp0bCpkM

[Aktungbby]

Yeah, it looks like a war zone. Cobb, Middletown and Hidden Valley Lakes appear hit worst. The Calistoga fairground is now a refugee center. Eight of the over 1200 firefighters have lost their own homes. The donations have turned one of the fairground convention halls into a Walmart. The American Red Cross has open shelters. So far about 585 homes are totaled; 25,000 Lake County residents evacuated and 62,000 acres are burned. Fortunately only one reported death ...so far and rain is expected; the weather is helping with less wind and cooler temps. Rain is forecast for tomorrow but may sprinkle today. I'm not looking forward to going there (work) but inevitably will have to. Cobb, possibly the starting point of the fire, is worst hit: every home destroved; I almost moved there myself as it is remote and beautiful; and there were cougars on one occasion within 10 feet of my car. Currently the fire is 10% contained.

[Gargamel]

I had my red card many many years ago, but never got called out or really did much with it. One of the crews near where I lived at the time had taken an old dual rear axle tanker/pumper, removed the rear wheels, and added a half track setup to it. They stored it west somewhere, since shipping it back to Ohio every few months was ridiculous. When the crew got called out, they'd go get the truck and work from there. They'd live off that truck for weeks at a time.

[Aktungbby]

I'm not looking forward to going there (work) but inevitably will have to.
OFF to the north for the better part of the day; I hope that realtor, Ms Meachum, ain't holdin' an "Open House"-it could get confusing!!!:timeout:: I can blog on my new Verizon tablet...assuming there's still WIFI:O::http://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/napavalleyregister.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/7/8e/78ea8a5d-4718-5c2e-b67b-ecdda9b83a66/55f8b43e2f829.image.jpg

[Aktungbby]

Fire behavior was moderated today due to cooler weather and very rainy conditions since noon today:yeah:. A chance of rain continues to exist this evening. Rain is assisting firefighter’s efforts on strengthening and constructing additional fire line. Firefighters continue to focus on structural defense and perimeter control. 585 homes have been destroyed by the Valley Fire and hundreds of other structures are known to have been damaged and or destroyed as well. Now #9 on CA's alltime list of most damaging fires.:down: The army: 3.128 personnel; 358 engines; 58 crews; 2 airtankers; 15 helicopters; 65 dozers; 70 water tenders 70,200 acres burned... 35% contained. Resources are thin: there are 5 current fires in CA and the troops are tired. One tanker plane engine disintegrated and engine parts fell on an inhabited area damaging an auto. The pilot is ok! Looting is a growing problem in evacuated communities as crews of firefighters and utility workers deal with the still-dangerous Valley fire. Law enforcement teams encountered looters through the night, officers were told during a Wednesday morning briefing. "...Department on Wednesday, a deputy recognized Worley from "prior law enforcement contacts" and began pursuit as Worley tried to speed away. The deputy said he found Worley wearing a yellow rain jacket - similar from a distance to the yellow fire-resistant garb emergency crews wear - and a red baseball cap with a California Highway Patrol logo. Inside Worley's car, the deputy found computer and cellular devices, a scorched wallet belonging to someone else, and a locked safe, as well as 13 obsidian points (archaeological artifacts), authorities said.
Worley has been charged with petty theft during an emergency, with impersonating an officer and with removal of an archaeological artifact." People are terrific aren't they?

[Aktungbby]

Now two fatalities known;Increased support: 3,580 personnel; 441 engines now on scene; 68 crews; 18 helicopters; Fire behavior was moderated overnight due to cooler weather and rainy conditions. Over one-half inch of rain fell over portions of the fire yesterday. The rain assisted firefighters in strengthening and constructing additional fire lines.:yeah: However, a warming trend is expected over the next few days with temperatures exceeding 90 degrees over the weekend.:down: Containment still at 35%...:hmmm: the fire is thought to have started in a shed in Cobb-investigation still ongoing. We're down 1 dozer (64).

[fireftr18]

Prayers to the people, firefighters, law enforcement and support personnel in the affected areas.

[Aktungbby]

73,700 acres burned; 3,921 personnel-(up 400); 84 crews; 72 dozers..
+6; Suppression crews made good progress today constructing and improving control lines. Smoke could be seen from burning interior islands, well within the fire's perimeter. Temperatures rose today, starting a warming trend that will reach in excess of 99 degrees by this weekend.:down: This afternoon, residents in and around the community of Berryessa Estates were allowed to return to their homes. The cancellation of additional evacuation orders are being evaluated based on a variety of factors including potential fire behavior and re-establishment of critical infrastructure
Tens of thousands of residents evacuated from the Valley Fire have been told that it will be days before they’re able to get back into their homes--and that’s a best case scenario. The fire must no longer be a threat, roads have to be passable and power restored.
With hundreds of homes and businesses cremated, a lot of people need to make long term plans. Their lives will literally never be the same.
The Napa County Fairgrounds in Calistoga has been transformed into a tent city, with an army of volunteers helping evacuees and utilizing donations with military precision. http://cdn.patch.com/users/21854731/2015/09/T800x600/20150955f70fc9a6776.JPG
Generous residents poured into the fairgrounds tent city carrying food, beverages, clothing, diapers, tents, sleeping bags--whatever the evacuees need. In fact, people have been so generous that no more donations are needed. We do it right in wine country!:yeah:

[Aktungbby]

http://vortex.accuweather.com/adc2004/pub/includes/columns/newsstory/2015/650x366_09161831_screen-shot-2015-09-16-at-2.30.17-pm.jpgThe Valley Fire now rated as 4th most destructive. Cadaver dogs are combing areas; three fatalities are now known. The fire is about 70% contained; however the weather is very hot and that's not good with winds. 75,781 acres burned=about 307 sq. kilometres! The refugees are transferring back to a new facility at a large Indian casino near Middletown and evacuations are not contemplated. Thus far over 1000 homes are destroyed; the number of the "other' structures (sheds, paddocks, garages etc) has not been tallied. The soot is drifted to my house 20 miles south. https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a0/Valley_Fire_California_CALFIRE.jpghttp://cdn.abclocal.go.com/content/kgo/images/cms/981462_1280x720.jpg

[fireftr18]

Aktungboy, I didn't realize you were that close. Stay alert, and keep a constant watch on the situation. In forest fire terms, flames are licking your back side. I have a prayer for you.

[Aktungbby]

Not to worry! those are very imperial miles as the crow flies; the incessant prevailing westerly's wind and a range of hills formed a barrier to the north. However: The mountains to my direct west about 2-5 miles are susceptible to a similar problem though. Known as the Mayacamas Range and 2500-4500 (actually Cobb Mtn just west of now-incinerated Cobb) feet in elevation they are the southern extension of the present fire's range. They separate Sonoma from Napa. A fire there in the very steep, dense, dry manzanita/redwood undergrowth and I'll be heading to Motel 6 in San Francisco or Sacramento. Fire emergency access is hopelessly difficult along 10mph switchback/winding 1lane roads. Ash and flaming embers blowing in 30 mph winds would be a real hazard. Due to the soot, today was a "spare-the-air-day'.. no BBQ's or open fires of any sort permitted. Temps in the 90's.

[Aktungbby]

The third-most-destructive blaze in state history was 75 percent contained today as officials released a staggering tally showing that the Valley Fire wiped out 1,325 homes and businesses. Firefighters have continued to mop up and secure more of the fire's perimeter. Damage Inspection Teams have nearly completed surveys of the fire area to determine how many structures have been destroyed. A second survey has been initiated to confirm initial findings. Current data indicates that the fire has destroyed 1910 structures; including 1238 single-family homes, 23 multi-family homes, 64 commercial structures, and 585 other structures such as sheds and smaller outbuildings.
The Lake County blaze — which ignited Sept. 12 near Middletown and killed three people — grew by 286 acres from Monday into Tuesday.
The inferno that forced thousands of people from their homes, often with only minutes to evacuate, has burned 76,067 acres of bone-dry wildland in Lake, Napa and Sonoma counties. That remaining 25% is still dangerous if still consuming 286 acres a day....

[Buddahaid]

It's just terrible and even worse when I think of all cats and dogs that must have perished that were peoples pets and had to remain behind. I know I would be as devastated to lose my cats as much as any other family member.

Much cooler today than yesterday here in San Rafael at least.

[Aktungbby]

I feel sorry for the poor animals in paddocks and fields, humans can at least try to escape.The fire is at 80+ % containment. 110 square miles totally burned. President Obama has declared a disaster. Another victim has been found. I actually spoke to some Cal Fire personnel grocery shopping for their station's table. They related that approximately 40 persons are still missing...considering the modern era of electronic phones, bank tellers, pc post etc and the twelve days gone by (sometimes referred to as 'electronically dead'), that's not encouraging. @ Oberon; a bright spot:rock:: http://napavalleyregister.com/news/local/valley-fire-aid-and-volunteering-extends-to-animals-too/article_e89fc2e8-ad43-55b6-89e8-bfaed097e5c8.html (http://napavalleyregister.com/news/local/valley-fire-aid-and-volunteering-extends-to-animals-too/article_e89fc2e8-ad43-55b6-89e8-bfaed097e5c8.html) http://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/napavalleyregister.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/ff/4fff8c09-53f3-5542-a605-04ee011243a6/5601dee01bcba.image.jpg?resize=620%2C413

As the Valley Fire tore through Lake County, flocks of volunteers came to the aid of its residents – including those of the four-legged persuasion.
While aid workers delivered food and clothing to evacuees sheltered in Calistoga and Kelseyville, others lent their efforts to numerous dogs and cats driven from their owners’ homes, as well as horses, livestock and fowl trapped by the fast-moving inferno that erupted Sept. 12 and spread to more than 76,000 acres.
Volunteer animal rescuers like Tracee Beebe, founder of Sunrise Horse Rescue in St. Helena, relied on social media, checking Facebook for posts from evacuated animal owners who had been forced to leave their pets and livestock behind. One post told of a herd of horses that had been turned loose on Hartmann Road in Hidden Valley Lake. By the time a team of volunteers reached the address, the horses had been rescued, but it turned out to be far from a wasted trip.

[Aktungbby]

http://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-ln-dispensaries-free-marijuana-valley-fire-20150929-story.html (http://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-ln-dispensaries-free-marijuana-valley-fire-20150929-story.html)
Medical marijuana dispensaries in Northern California are giving patients affected by a hugely destructive wildfire up to $200 in free cannabis per patient for the next week. Through Oct. 7, two marijuana-related product companies, Care By Design and AbsoluteXtracts, are offering free products at five dispensaries in San Francisco, Santa Rosa, Sebastopol and Lake County, the companies said in a joint statement.
I almost moved there (Cobb) myself as it is remote and beautiful; http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/image.php?u=329818&dateline=1442317273&type=profile "Honey let's rebuild in Cobb!":O: (after two 'quakes & drought, I need a change of pace...) UPDATE: 97% contained-76,067 acres consumed.:up: Firefighters continue to improve existing lines and mopping up hot spots across the fire area. Rehabilitation is underway to restore the natural landscape that may have been altered during initial firefighting efforts. Damage Inspection Teams have completed primary and secondary assessments of the structures destroyed by the Valley Fire. A total of 1958 structures have been destroyed including; 1280 homes, 27 multi-family structures, 66 commercial properties, and 585 other minor structures such as outbuildings and sheds. 93 structures have been damaged including; 41 homes, 7 commercial properties, and 45 other minor structures. All traffic restrictions denying access into the community of Cobb and the surrounding areas will be have been lifted.:yeah: Some utility services have not been restored. Schools in Middletown are open.

[Aktungbby]

AFTERMATH: 76,067 acres - 99% contained (110 sq. miles incinerated: 24th day)http://ww4.hdnux.com/photos/41/10/35/8685427/5/1024x1024.jpgFour firefighter Helitak team members barely escaped; deploying their personal last-ditch emergency shelters after fleeing to a barren goat corral; they suffered serious burns but were rescued. CalFire is reviewing procedures and equipment: the plastic container melted on one man's emergency shelter container: two men shared the same shelter. This indicates too much delay in deployment...and who needs plastic at a forest fire. One of my boat crew's family had a cabin for decades in Anderson Springs (in photo above); Don, now 69, doesn't want to go look to see if it survived-too many happy memories. http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/How-Valley-Fire-wall-of-flame-trapped-6549684.php (http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/How-Valley-Fire-wall-of-flame-trapped-6549684.php) One of the men went to take a drink from his hydration pack, but “the water from the mouth piece was too hot to drink,” the report said. Wiki is using one of the stunning aerial photos I already posted! for once, I'm ahead of Wiki!???:up: http://ww2.hdnux.com/photos/41/25/12/8737469/3/1024x1024.jpgHow really lucky we are. How bad it could have been :https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yarnell_Hill_Fire (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yarnell_Hill_Fire)

[Aktungbby]

^the shot in questionhttps://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a0/Valley_Fire_California_CALFIRE.jpgit really is a definitive shot at that!:o Supreme kudos to the pilot's multitasking! Flying in famous glider hilly up-thermal country with added ferocious heat from a fire like that ain't easy!:salute:

[fireftr18]

Nice pictures Aktung. How well did Middletown do in the mess. It looks as though it was surrounded.

[Aktungbby]

I've heard 30-80% residential (subdivisions) and structural damage. "sheer devastation and entire blocks of homes just gone"! Middletown at least is on a major highway (29) And fire equipment would converge there before deploying into the remote steep area of Anderson Springs & Harbin Springs. The aerial shots are just gruesome. Cobb, the epicenter, is much worse to the west of the aerial photo. But structures are still intact there too. Cal Fire anticipates the incident being fully contained by Tuesday night. (this evening) The fire, which began Sept. 12 in Cobb, also burned into Napa and Sonoma counties. Photos tend to overemphasize the worst and do not give the best clear perspective (tunnel vision) so I refrain from dwelling on them unduly; just the dwelling stats are bad enough.


Cal Fire said 248 personnel remain committed to the mop up, patrol and landscape rehabilitation activities that remain under way in the 118-square-mile fire area. El Niño rains aren't going to be good for barren hillsides with no ground-cover to prevent slides in fire scarred areas..

Other resources committed include 15 fire engines, 10 fire crews, three helicopters and two dozers, Cal Fire said. This fire, with the 20mph dry winds actually created its own weather pattern, causing burning in several directions.https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/12032121_10153546989000605_4929915382031319256_n.j pg?oh=308b891e04efbefe4dad8efe2f4b1320&oe=5684CDC6.
Weirdly, the Valley fire cannot have gotten too far to the east: that was 'backfired' in effect by the two previous Jerusalem & Rocky fires earlier in the month. Strategically speaking: http://wildfiretoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/September-13-2015-Jerusalem-Rocky-Valley.jpgLast update; the fire has been 100% contained.

[fireftr18]

This was posted on Facebook. It's a series of pictures of a firetruck from early stages of manufacturing to completed. It's extremely pic heavy, but is interesting to look through. Unfortunately, there are no explanations on the pictures.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.905161949564099.1073741859.474281792652119&type=3

[fireftr18]

Here's a link to fire truck too cool to not share.

https://www.facebook.com/StreetRodFireTucks/videos/711721512263259/?fref=nf

[Aktungbby]

http://www.ratfink.com/store/images/decal-rat-fink-5-in-green.jpg (http://www.ratfink.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=35) love the decal!:shucks:

[Jimbuna]

Here's a link to fire truck too cool to not share.

https://www.facebook.com/StreetRodFireTucks/videos/711721512263259/?fref=nf

Now that was cool :sunny:

[fireftr18]

Short video of fighting a brush fire.

https://www.facebook.com/perthnow/videos/10153787262716192/

[fireftr18]

The Lexington Stockyards burned today. It is a very large facility built mostly of wood timbers and is open air. The fire immediately went to 3 alarms and about 120 firefighters were on scene. On the fortunate side, no one was injured and only about 25 head of cattle were there. Apparently, they were expecting a delivery of about 1200 cattle, so I expect it was stock full of feed and hay.
I have actually made several various calls there, mostly first aid.

https://www.facebook.com/nigelhaarstadphotography/photos/a.1592451844343461.1073741857.1510514272537219/1592451851010127/?type=3&theater

[fireftr18]

More Stockyard pics
https://www.facebook.com/dustin.spillman.3/posts/10102938315713765

[fireftr18]

http://www.firerescue1.com/fire-attack/articles/55512018-Ky-fire-department-battles-largest-blaze-in-25-years/

[fireftr18]

http://www.kentucky.com/news/local/counties/fayette-county/article61312502.html

Over the years, I think I rode every position on this truck. I was never actually assigned to it. I was assigned to a twin to it, so to cover a shortage on that truck, they came to our truck frequently. It was in the end scene of the A-Team movie.

[Aktungbby]

ARE U doing 'extra work' where they need fire or EMT people for local productions? All my day- background extras on Trauma were often real life fire and emergency personnel. Assuming u can still fit in your turnout gear!:O: if you can help with scripts that'd be a plus; my show lasted 18 episodes due to poor writing! http://i1.wp.com/tvseriesfinale.com/assets/trauma19a.jpg

[fireftr18]

Not a whole lot of opportunity around me to work in some kind of production. I guess the closest I'll come to being in a movie or TV show is the remainder of my essence in Old Ladder 5.
:Kaleun_Sick:

[fireftr18]

Aktungbby, I was on IMDB looking for something and stumbled upon this actor. Read his bio, and scroll to the bottom of his list of jobs.
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm6164574/

[Aktungbby]

interesting!

[Aktungbby]

http://bigstory.ap.org/article/ff765c9513f4452b8295e6fa94d53063/most-states-do-bare-minimum-fire-foam-contamination (http://bigstory.ap.org/article/ff765c9513f4452b8295e6fa94d53063/most-states-do-bare-minimum-fire-foam-contamination) http://www.rcinet.ca/eye-on-the-arctic/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2015/06/firefighter_foam.png

The military is checking U.S. bases for potential groundwater contamination from a toxic firefighting foam, but most states so far show little inclination to examine civilian sites for the same threat.
The foam was likely used around the country at certain airports, refineries and other sites where catastrophic petroleum fires were a risk, but an Associated Press survey of emergency management, environmental and health agencies in all 50 states showed most haven't tracked its use and don't even know whether it was used, where or when.
Only five states — Alaska, Minnesota, New Jersey, Vermont and Wisconsin — are tracking the chemicals used in the foam and spilled from other sources through ongoing water monitoring or by looking for potentially contaminated sites. A dozen states are beginning or planning to investigate the chemicals — known as perfluorinated compounds, or PFCs — which have been linked to prostate, kidney and testicular cancer, along with other illnesses.
:Kaleun_Sick:http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-guernsey-22653453 (http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-guernsey-22653453) & http://www.rcinet.ca/eye-on-the-arctic/2016/01/19/agency-wants-limits-on-fire-foam-pollution-in-sweden/ (http://www.rcinet.ca/eye-on-the-arctic/2016/01/19/agency-wants-limits-on-fire-foam-pollution-in-sweden/)

[fireftr18]

Aktung, I read about that some time ago. It's from foam that has been used some time ago. Foam that has been used for the past 15/20 years is non-toxic and environmentally friendly.

[Aktungbby]

well, it just made the Napa papers yesterday apparently (4/30/2016) updated!:O: The stuff was invented by 3M in Minnesota! Good lord! if it got into the water table, the Hamm's could be affected:k_confused::Kaleun_Sick:http://rs738.pbsrc.com/albums/xx22/aktungbby/hamms_bear_zpsl7dhnvqr.jpg~c100 MINNESOTA
The state's 3M Co. invented PFOA. It began to phase it out in 2002 in response to health concerns raised by the EPA, but wells near the manufacturer's disposal sites were contaminated. The state used money from a settlement agreement and consent order with 3M to sample water statewide for PFCs.
State officials say they're still monitoring groundwater and evaluating clean-up options at the Duluth Air National Guard Base and in the city of Bemidji after contamination was discovered in 2008 from the foam. We could end up like Michigan breweries! http://static1.squarespace.com/static/545e5da1e4b042c56b59670e/t/545e5f89e4b0ccac6b541133/1454464205859/?format=1500w (http://www.deadbearbrewing.beer/)

[Aktungbby]

This is looking very bad: ....said the blaze so far has destroyed or damaged 1,600 buildings and homes in Fort McMurray. She flew over the area and tweeted photos of the fire, which grew to 85,000-hectares, or 330 square miles, on Thursday. “The view from the air is heartbreaking,” she wrote. Thousands of people who left Fort McMurray went north instead of south, bound for evacuation centers at the oil sands work camps there. Even though the camps were not directly threatened by the fire on Thursday, the severing of Highway 63 left them cut off from the rest of the country by land. Officials were organizing an airlift on Thursday to fly about 10,000 people out, using an air strip at one of the energy company sites.
By forcing some oil sands projects and pipeline companies to suspend operations and evacuate workers, the fire has begun to have an impact on the Canadian oil industry. Some analysts estimated that production had fallen by about one-third, or 640,000 barrels a day, according to Reuters.The upside: Fort McMurray fire chief Darby Allen appeared to fight back tears at one news conference as he discussed the evacuation effort. “No one is hurt, and no one has passed away right now,” he said. “I really hope we get to the end of this and we can still say that."https://static01.nyt.com/images/2016/05/06/world/wildfire3/wildfire3-master1050.jpghttp://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2016/05/04/world/americas/fort-mcmurray-canada-fire-photos-videos-map.html?_r=0 (http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2016/05/04/world/americas/fort-mcmurray-canada-fire-photos-videos-map.html?_r=0)

[fireftr18]

I've been following it. I don't think "very bad" really covers it. I think this is the worse I remember hearing about. Prayers for citizens and firefighters.
I saw an article today that firefighters are finally able to get some rest after 30 hours of straight work.

[Aktungbby]

Well my 'very bad' is held against the standard set by the Cobb Mtn-Middletown fire earlier in the thread; My impression is the Canadian fire has lots of air support but not enough ground troops as yet. It's a remoter location with few roads. the enormous fire that had already destroyed hundreds of homes and encircled a city and several communities was picked up by 70 kilometer-per-hour (44mph) winds and spread to 85,000 hectares.
The most severe part of the roaring front moved south of Fort McMurray, with no signs of stopping.
Over 1,110 firefighters, 145 helicopters, 138 pieces of heavy equipment, and 22 air tankers are fighting a total of 49 wildfires across Alberta, seven of which are currently considered to be out of control, according to the provincial government.the enormous fire that had already destroyed hundreds of homes and encircled a city and several communities was picked up by 70 kilometer-per-hour (44mph) winds and spread to 85,000 hectares.
Over 1,600 homes and buildings have been destroyed so far. The fire also reportedly caused major damage near the Fort McMurray International Airport overnight, and there are still no flights going in our out.
“It has begun to create its own weather, even creating its own high winds yesterday, and even lightning was coming from the smoke clouds,”
The most severe part of the roaring front moved south of Fort McMurray, with no signs of stopping. A bright spot there; it's moving away from the community. Only a lot of rain will put this blaze out.

[u crank]

http://i.imgur.com/sWg6lCd.jpg?1

It's hard to comprehend the scope of this disaster. A city of 80,000 people devastated. This natural disaster has likely caused more property damage than any other catastrophic event in Canadian history.

The generosity of Canadians is truly amazing. When cars fleeing Fort Mac ran out of gas along Highway 63, they were greeted by young volunteers with trucks full of jerry cans and gas containers, filling the tanks of anyone in need.

This disaster hits home here in the East where thousands of people regularly commute to the Oil Patch in the Ft. Mac area. Everybody knows somebody who lives or works there. Lots of them will lose their jobs.

It's going to be a long and expensive recovery. Sad. Thoughts and best wishes to all the victims and the firefighters battling the blaze.

http://i.imgur.com/C2D6AkB.jpg?1

[Commander Wallace]

The pictures are truly devastating. The generosity and bravery of those in the affected areas and volunteers coming in from other areas is certainly no surprise. It may take a while but Canada will rebuild.

Best wishes and prayers to those who have been displaced and to the safety of those fire fighting units battling this blaze.

[mako88sb]

I've been following it. I don't think "very bad" really covers it. I think this is the worse I remember hearing about. Prayers for citizens and firefighters.
I saw an article today that firefighters are finally able to get some rest after 30 hours of straight work.

A former co-worker lives up there and was able to haul his trailer to his job-site for now. Sounds like his home is ok and he's still able to work doing up-keep and maintenance. He's one of the few lucky ones as a lot of the main job providers have had to shut down because their workers are evacuated. Today, they said it could take months before people are allowed back into Ft. McMurray. Probably a worst case scenario behind that prediction but there certainly is not much in the way of rain in the forecast. They need several days worth of downpours before this fire can be brought under control.

[Aktungbby]

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/static/interactive/graphics/nw-fortmac-gif-0507/fire-saturday.gif?v=2http://www.theglobeandmail.com/incoming/article29933268.ece/BINARY/w620/MDB15R-CANADA-US-CANADA-WIL.JPG

[em2nought]

Need to replace that maple leaf with thishttps://www.colourbox.com/preview/1886518-fire-symbol-red.jpghttps://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1915263915/cf_symbol2_400x400.png

[fireftr18]

http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/retired-fdny-captain-catholic-priest-article-1.2651725

[Aktungbby]

Well fire season is upon us again just ten miles to the northeast at Lake Berryessa.http://ww1.hdnux.com/photos/50/65/64/10706208/3/1024x1024.jpg 4700 acres burned: fortunately no structures are consumed...yet, but some residential evacuations and lakeside campgrounds have been ordered evacuated. This one, dubbed the 'Cold Fire' is 15% contained with steep terrain, bone dry and winds. In the air and double shot...good to have lake at hand for the copter buckets.> http://ww4.hdnux.com/photos/50/65/22/10704003/7/1024x1024.jpg An army of roughly 700 firefighters from the California Department (http://www.sfgate.com/search/?action=search&channel=bayarea&inlineLink=1&searchindex=gsa&query=%22California+Department%22) of Forestry and Fire Protection and many other agencies attacked the flames with 86 engines, eight helicopters, six air tankers, five water trucks and nine bulldozers.http://ww2.hdnux.com/photos/50/65/57/10705881/5/1024x1024.jpg Just a tad further North at Lake conty The Rocky Fire has consumed 27,000 acres and 24 homes as of 8/2; About 6,300 structures continued to be threatened while 12,000 people were impacted by mandatory and voluntary evacuation orders. 5% containment at this posting. http://ww4.hdnux.com/photos/50/64/36/10700675/5/920x920.jpg

[fireftr18]

I've been following the fires out west. As always, they sound bad, with a lot of damage. Prayers for all of you Aktung.

[Aktungbby]

MOVE OVER MS O'LEARY'S COW! http://napavalleyregister.com/news/local/faulty-hot-tub-connection-blamed-for-last-fall-s-massive/article_5908efeb-f74f-5f11-9ea5-9e3e72e50896.html (http://napavalleyregister.com/news/local/faulty-hot-tub-connection-blamed-for-last-fall-s-massive/article_5908efeb-f74f-5f11-9ea5-9e3e72e50896.html) The cause of last September’s historic Valley Fire, the third-most destructive wildfire in California’s history, was a faulty electrical connection for a hot tub, Cal Fire announced Wednesday afternoon.
The connection arced and ignited surrounding dry grass on High Valley Road on Cobb Mountain, creating a wildfire that killed four people, burned 76,000 acres, destroyed 1,955 structures and cost nearly $57 million to extinguish, Cal Fire reported. (four people also died) The circuit was not up to national standards, it was not buried 18 inches deep and it shared a trench with a water line, Cal Fire said. An electrical engineer determined that the connection was loose in the wire nut and it arced and melted the copper wire. It took a temperature of 1,981 degrees to melt the wire, investigators said. Cal Fire will be submitting its 500-page investigative report to Lake County District Attorney Don Anderson who will determine if any criminal or civil charges will be filed, officials said. http://calfire.ca.gov/fire_protection/fire_protection_firereports (http://calfire.ca.gov/fire_protection/fire_protection_firereports)

[fireftr18]

http://www.firefightingnews.com/secret-fire-station-uncovered-60-years/

A SECRET 60-year-old fire station – complete with firefighting equipment and uniforms – has been discovered in the bowels of a Black Country factory.

Staff at shopfitting company The Alan Nuttall Partnership have carried out a thorough investigation of the hidden fire base.

It had been tucked away at the large Dudley factory which has been the company’s home since 1986.

The room contained perfectly preserved uniforms, with the names of the wearers chalked above them. Scrawled names include I Silk, W Price and A Round.

Documents suggest the items date back to the early 1950s, when the local Co-op, which had its own fire brigade, operated from the building.

[Schroeder]

Funny that it would be forgotten just like that.:doh:

[Aktungbby]

5:43 PM: THIS just PM'd from my boat captain: A 4-6 acre fire in the steep heavily wooded are not 6 mile NW from my home in an area known as Cambell Creek...Evacutions are in progress and the area is barred from thru traffic. This is definitely on my side of a barrier range known As the Mayacamas just to the West of Yountville. Fortunately 2 volunteer fire stations known as Lakoya and another known as MT Veeder station are right there. It's already making TV news.

[Aktungbby]

The fire as now has gained to 50 acres and is 25% contained-local churches are refugee centers for forced evacuations. Weather, always the big factor, is on our side for now: low winds, damp fall mornings' and rain from a Pacific front expected on Friday.:yeah:http://cdn.abclocal.go.com/content/kgo/images/cms/1549098_630x354.jpg http://cdn.abclocal.go.com/content/kgo/images/cms/1549089_630x354.jpghttp://cdn.abclocal.go.com/content/kgo/images/cms/1549102_630x354.jpg

[Catfish]

This looks a bit too close for comfort .. I hope all goes well and the fire be put out soon.
All the best!

[Aktungbby]

This looks a bit too close for comfort .. I hope all goes well and the fire be put out soon.
All the best!
Thanks. As per my boat captain on his way to meet the boat-rigger for a full day's rerigging and stay chainplates; the fire is now 75% contained and the Cal Fire chief who lives directly across the street from me has been out all night on this one. He's now generally in charge of radio-communications between all fire agency's coordination on these affairs and is a master at what he does. I was just there myself enroute to a job a week ago; Dry Creek RD/Trinity Rd. is a 1hr. 35-mph, winding 1 lane-bridged, deer & bicyclist-infested but less traffic'd route to Santa Rosa when I'm summoned...and the paid return-trip ends directly at my front doorway-I've been driving it for 25 years and it tests the ol' skills in a five-speed Corolla. Occasionally, in shorthanded traffic related emergencies: downed trees, stupid eighteen-wheelers etc.; even I've been pressed into impromptu service up there as cell phones do not operate. Dense manzanita underbrush and pine is thick and burns explosively; the weather (foggy/cool up there) is still really holding well for us.:Kaleun_Applaud: Local fire forces assembled to fight the blaze, including 12 engines, about 180 firefighters, three water tenders, six air tankers, four helicopters and three bulldozers, according to Cal Fire staff at the St. Helena station.

Smoke was visible from downtown Napa.

Despite a slowing in the fire’s rate of spread, Dry Creek Road was closed near the incident scene, and the county Office of Emergency Services advised drivers to avoid the area. EDIT: 8 AM : evacutions have been lifted.

[fireftr18]

Acktung, I saw this in the trade magazines and was wondering about you. I'm glad you posted with the information. Glad you're still okay.

[fireftr18]

Forest fire in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
The fire has been going on for several weeks now. It has now reached the town of Gatlinburg. For those who dont' know, Gatlinburg is a tourist town. It started as a "gateway" to the Smoky Mountains National Park. Many people go there not just for the tourist activities, but also a starting point for back country hiking and camping.

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10207897764422268&set=a.10207897762502220.1073741898.1241030450&type=3&theater

[fireftr18]

Here is a citizen video from my fire department. Lexington's bravest in action.
The kid did not set the fire. It was an accidental fire.

:Kaleun_Cheers:

https://youtu.be/KbaciXiMPDk

[August]

Here is a citizen video from my fire department. Lexington's bravest in action.
The kid did not set the fire. It was an accidental fire.

:Kaleun_Cheers:



The guys filming that were seriously drunk! :)

[ikalugin]

Some fires are harder to fight that others:
https://youtu.be/DzdiAW0ivys
munitions storage burning

[Commander Wallace]

It can't be easy dealing with fires and emergency situations like that on a regular basis fireftr . I'm glad though that we have people like you ready to answer the call. :Kaleun_Salute:

[Platapus]

When a man becomes a fireman his greatest act of bravery has been accomplished. What he does after that is all in the line of work. ~Edward F. Croker

[fireftr18]

ikalugin, nice compilation. I love the look on the newsman's face. Thanks for posting.
That's one of those where you don't even bother. Evacuate and let it burn itself out.
I think I read something about this. Was it in Kamchatka?

[ikalugin]

ikalugin, nice compilation. I love the look on the newsman's face. Thanks for posting.
That's one of those where you don't even bother. Evacuate and let it burn itself out.
I think I read something about this. Was it in Kamchatka?
There are special firefighting means, such as this vehicle:
http://www.abw.by/archive/457/1copy.jpg

Ukraine, recently. It was blamed on us (ofcourse) but I think it is more due to the old munitions and poor storage. One lit sigarette is all it takes.

We don't really get those anymore because we have dealt with the old munitions. The added benefit incidentally was tens of thousands freed up manpower (from warehouse security and munitions disposal duties), which was then placed to good use.

[fireftr18]

There are special firefighting means, such as this vehicle:
http://www.abw.by/archive/457/1copy.jpg
I've seen pictures of many of the Russian specialty vehicles. Great re-use concept. Using the hulls of old tanks for extremely large volume applications and for wildland fire.


Ukraine, recently. It was blamed on us (ofcourse) but I think it is more due to the old munitions and poor storage. One lit sigarette is all it takes.

We don't really get those anymore because we have dealt with the old munitions.
My fire department is set to respond first to new munition storage and old munition storage. The new is constantly in and out and is in well protected building. The old is kept in old bunkers, leaks constantly and is constantly monitored. It's a serious concern.

The added benefit incidentally was tens of thousands freed up manpower (from warehouse security and munitions disposal duties), which was then placed to good use.
:k_rofl:

[ikalugin]

For that specific storage area it was basically an ammo dump, exposed to the elements, etc. No bunkers/proper warehouses. You can see photos from 2013, not much has changed since:
http://ic.pics.livejournal.com/totalitat/67886964/1100/1100_900.jpghttp://ic.pics.livejournal.com/totalitat/67886964/1482/1482_900.jpghttp://ic.pics.livejournal.com/totalitat/67886964/3239/3239_900.jpghttp://ic.pics.livejournal.com/totalitat/67886964/3517/3517_900.jpg
More here:
http://totalitat.livejournal.com/1541.html

[fireftr18]

For that specific storage area it was basically an ammo dump, exposed to the elements, etc. No bunkers/proper warehouses. You can see photos from 2013, not much has changed since:
http://ic.pics.livejournal.com/totalitat/67886964/1100/1100_900.jpghttp://ic.pics.livejournal.com/totalitat/67886964/1482/1482_900.jpghttp://ic.pics.livejournal.com/totalitat/67886964/3239/3239_900.jpghttp://ic.pics.livejournal.com/totalitat/67886964/3517/3517_900.jpg
More here:
http://totalitat.livejournal.com/1541.html

Who in their right mind would think that was okay. Clearly, it wasn't. They don't have to worry about it now. Do you know any estimates from damage, aside from the base itself?

[ikalugin]

Who in their right mind would think that was okay. Clearly, it wasn't. They don't have to worry about it now. Do you know any estimates from damage, aside from the base itself?
No, but I can look for it, and this form of storage is common. It however requires vigilant control, especially in terms of fire prevention when say dry grass is very prone to combusting in the summer.

Such control apparently was not there due to the base being understaffed and poor discipline. And considering how 87 percent of their planned mil budget is to be spent on salaries I dont see the material conditions improving. And thank god that there was no major chem weps leakage during and after the fire.

[Eichhörnchen]

Hildenborough (Kent) Fire Brigade, 1923. My mother's family all came from Hildenborough (near Tonbridge, my home town) and she was 2 years old when this was taken.

http://i.imgur.com/x6JsoKB.jpg

[fireftr18]

Hildenborough (Kent) Fire Brigade, 1923. My mother's family all came from Hildenborough (near Tonbridge, my home town) and she was 2 years old when this was taken.

http://i.imgur.com/x6JsoKB.jpg

Cool! Thanks for sharing.
:Kaleun_Salute:

[August]

Lots of medals on those guys. Military vets or something FD related I wonder?

[Eichhörnchen]

They would've been won in the Great War I guess... they would have been allowed to wear them on their fire service tunics I've no doubt.

[August]

They would've been won in the Great War I guess... they would have been allowed to wear them on their fire service tunics I've no doubt.

That is pretty neat then. FWIW a couple of them have far more medals than the average Joe (for that time period). It looks like you have some real heroes on the HFD back in the day.

[Eichhörnchen]

Anyway... this thread's slipped down to page 4 so... to keep up the interest:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6YE4PCRNwc

[fireftr18]

Eichhörnchen
:Kaleun_Salute:

Neat little video. Thanks for sharing.

[Eichhörnchen]

Trumpton (and Camberwick Green) were favourites when we were kids. There's a real craft in these 'stop-go' animation shows but recent ones (like Fireman Sam and Bob the Builder) have been replaced by CGI.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGAr6E0_SM8

[Eichhörnchen]

These old photos turned up years ago in an album found in a junk shop. I've never been able to id. the unit precisely, or discover where they were taken. Note the Warrant Officer's badge on the motor cyclist's sleeve. It does appear from the other photos, however, that they were all taking turns on the bike.

http://i.imgur.com/BzAo9zb.jpg http://i.imgur.com/eGn3EOC.jpg

[Aktungbby]

well at least they practiced once in awhile http://www.britishpathe.com/video/army-fire-service-practice (http://www.britishpathe.com/video/army-fire-service-practice)
The history and structure of dedicated firefighting personnel within the Military is quite complex and an attempt is made here to add some clarity. A number of Military personnel with a dedicated firefighting role have lost their lives in the course of their duties, especially members of the Army Fire Service, during World War 2. Due to these deaths being recorded under their various Military units, records can prove to be difficult to find and confirm.
The Army
Prior to the outbreak of World War 2, the Army had no separate Fire Service as such, although ‘Garrison Fire Brigades’ were established at Aldershot, Blackdown, Bordon, Bulford, Catterick and Colchester. A further Brigade was later authorised for Bovington. These Fire Brigades were commanded by Non-Commissioned Officers, (NCOs), seconded from their regiments and supported by 16 to 30 civilians. Ordnance and other depots made their own arrangements for manning any fire engines they had.
In July 1941, a Fire Fighting Wing within the Pioneer Corps was formed. This Wing absorbed all the men engaged on full-time fire service duties. Members of the Army Fire Service, operating under the umbrella of the Pioneers Corps, were subsequently established throughout many theatres of war, including the operation of many fireboats.
On 1 July 1946, the Pioneer Corps Fire Fighting Wing was disbanded and the whole of the Army Fire Service absorbed into the Royal Army Service Corps (RASC). In 1961, it was civilianized and became part of the Royal Army Ordnance Corps.
The Army Fire Service continued in name until the creation of the Defence Fire Service in 1990 and later the Defence Fire & Rescue Service in 2004 At least the 104 Fire fighting Co of the Army Fire Service made it to Caen during D-day ops. http://media.iwm.org.uk/ciim5/21/339/mid_000000.jpg<A Bedford QL 3 ton truck, one of the tenders of 104 Fire Fighting Company (Army Fire Service), stationed in Caen. The functions of the Army Fire Service were to protect Army equipment, billets, barracks and ammunition dumps in case of fire. Civilian property in liberated towns and villages also came under the care of the Army Fire Service

[Eichhörnchen]

Thanks, Aktung. My dad drove for the RASC in Korea, but his Bedford QL wasn't a fire truck: http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showpost.php?p=2374250&postcount=1

[Aktungbby]

^ Well he's made it to this site as well http://www.naafi.co.uk/history (http://www.naafi.co.uk/history) My 1st LT dad, a five year WWII vet, was slated to be redrafted to fly in B-29's as a flight engineer, by then death traps for MIGs over Korea. His employer got him deferred as he was in development of practically all instant coffee and teas, including GI C-ration instant coffee, for the military....I wonder what NAAFI served?!! He made instant coffee for 17 years in Minneapolis MN until transferring to industrial dehydration of onions and garlic, used in most prepared food mixes etc. incl C-rations and moving to California as general manger. I worked two college 110-degree summers at that plant in Gilroy CA. unloading fleets of onion semi-tucks dropping their harvests into the bins...http://www.conagrabrands.com/news-room/news-conagra-foods-announces-agreement-to-sell-gilroy-foods-flavors-dehydrated-and-vegetable-product-operations-to-olam-international-1435547 (http://www.conagrabrands.com/news-room/news-conagra-foods-announces-agreement-to-sell-gilroy-foods-flavors-dehydrated-and-vegetable-product-operations-to-olam-international-1435547) Bon Apetit! and try to avoid the 'military-industrial' complex!:03:

[Eichhörnchen]

So the old guy is still getting around with his NAAFI Mobile Canteen! :haha:

[Aktungbby]

^ I knew you'd b pleased! (is there a possible copywrite infringement ...U struggling artists need all the help U can get....:O:)

[Eichhörnchen]

I expect they lifted it from that book. I suppose copyright died with the old man (he never left a will) but you'd only be asking a small fee for something like that.

[Aktungbby]

Well we're glued to our tv sets power outages permitting and I've tried to post this twice now. (4) big fires are at Napa with bone dry conditions and evacuations ordered. Firefighters are not attacking the fire yet, concentrating instead on more vital evacuations ...especially in a remote rugged are known as Atlas Peaks. House are clearly burning. Churches in town are setting up as evac centers and residents are advised to have a car prepped with food, clothes, etc ready-to-go. Embers are blowing all over from 30-50 mph winds and the smoke is evident at my abode with tree branches blown onto the roof with crashing sounds as I post my particular street is 10-15 miles from the worst blaze; at 01:45 the night will be long and fire is the devil's only friend. My CA fire chief neighbor,in charge of communication and coordination is already out somewhere and we've heard the (his) command center has already moved a few times as the situation shifts rapidly. More on this later....(edit: power went out 1 minute later, just after this post, till Tuesday PM fires all night Saturday to the East West and just North of my house.):o

[Schroeder]

A documentary about a huge fire in LA county in 1961: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jh5lh8Qdt4M

[Eichhörnchen]

... and now he's big we still can sit together and enjoy Fireman Sam... they literally don't make them like this any more

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aF4ipGVBxEQ

[fireftr18]

Nicely done Eichhörnchen. Do you know how old the program is? I saw a mixture of details that would put it about 15 to 20 years ago.

[Eichhörnchen]

The last of the original stop/go animated series was made in 1994 (unbelievable, really :hmmm:) but it continues as a CGI programme that has none of the charm of the original. One guy (John Alderton) did all of the voices back then and this also helped make it even more cosy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fireman_Sam

I sat and watched it with my boy yesterday while he ate his breakfast... it's still nice to watch and see how they put iut together; I thought you'd enjoy it :salute:

[Eichhörnchen]

https://i.imgur.com/BZvAwoX.jpg

This is the old Airfix construction kit (1:32 scale) built by me

[fireftr18]

Eichhörnchen, nice job. Looks good!
:Kaleun_Salute:

[Eichhörnchen]

Thanks. There's a veteran bus in this old series of Airfix kits... I may get around to that one day