Sat 5 Sep, 2009
Station Fire-Part II
Comments (4) Filed under: CERTTags: CERT, Fire fighters, Hot Shots, LAFD, Station Fire, US Forest Service
Hi,
First, to get an idea the size and scope of the Station Fire, CLICK HERE. It is an incredible photo essay of the fire. (Thanks Sharon for sending me the link!)
I attended another CERT call-out Thursday which was 6 pm to midnight. This one was much more manageable, especially with the sun going down and the heat dissipating. I got there early to walk around and take some photos.
I came to understand that some of the engines and support units had already been relocated. The sea of tents were fewer and the rows and rows of fire engines, tenders and trucks were less in number also. However, this time I had an opportunity to really see what was going on.
I did take some photos before my shift, but then as I was assigned to “foot patrol” I was able to shoot a few more. I was assigned with a fellow CERT volunteer, and a LA Sheriff’s Civilian Volunteer. Mostly our assignment was to answer questions, give directions and just have a presence there. It was basically just walking around, but I did enjoy it. The other positions were traffic control and a few positions were just to remind the police not carry their weapons into a specific area. Some CERT members had been there for days, going home for a few hours of sleep and then back again. Incredible dedication.
Click here for photos of the Station Fire base camp
Though the base camp was slightly less populated, it was still an amazing area. They had huge sleeper units, semis with air conditioners where the fire fighters could go and get some much deserved rest. There were shower units, sink units for shaving and brushing of teeth, a laundry facility and of course, what would base camp be without a chow line. This night they were serving steak and baked potatoes. Oh, a few of the support trucks had TV’s. Some firefighters had pulled up chairs to watch football on ESPN (I did hear a bit of snoring however.)
Right now the fire is about 50% contained, has burned 154,000 acres. It has been ruled arson and thus whoever set it when found will be charged with homicide for the deaths of the two fire fighters.
The U.S. Forest Service said that the fire has displaced countless animals that are hungry, thirsty and may well wander into neighborhoods searching for food and water. I don’t want to think about those hurt and injured…and worse. What kind of monster sets fires? I just can’t figure it out.
Thanks for reading. If you have the time, please look into volunteering.
Cheers,
Susan
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Ronald W Hodgson says:
Well done! As a member of the Benicia CERT (BERT, here) I appreciate your volunteer work. Our best to you and all of your fellow CERTs. We are thinking of you and the good work you do.
Susan says:
Thanks BERT! That is most appreciated! The call-outs stopped as of yesterday, though the fire is still only 55% contained. Good for you for also volunteering. We pray we don’t need to use our skills, but the more civilians that are trained, the better off everyone will be in case of a disaster. In Southern California, I’m afraid it is only a matter of time before that inevitable earthquake strikes.
Cheers,
Susan
Forex says:
Crazy pics…
Healty Diet says:
Right now the fire is about 50% contained, has burned 154,000 acres. It has been ruled arson and thus whoever set it when found will be charged with homicide for the deaths of the two fire fighters.