September 29, 2006

All in a day's work

       Firefighters typically do more than just respond to emergency calls for help.  They spend an even greater time preparing for those calls and performing other job-related tasks such as inspections, pre-fire planning, and public relations activities.  Many of the public relations activities involve tours of fire stations and the equipment for both large groups as well as individuals who just stop by.  Today was no exception.  A township resident brought his grandson, Brenden, by Fire Station 51 on Runyon Road for a quick tour.  Firefighters gave them both a guided tour of the fire station as well as an up-close look at the fire engines and equipment.  Brenden says he loves the fire department and loves to talk about fire trucks and being a firefighter.  Throughout the course of the tour, Brenden got to see some tools up close as well as try on some firefighting turnout gear.

         Lieutenant Nick Alford of the C-shift is shown below showing Brenden the Thermal Imaging Camera that is used to find persons trapped in smoky environments with little or no visibility.
 

        
(Click on a thumbnail to enlarge photo)
 

---