Talk about timing. Just yesterday morning I posted about the three quick decisions I have to make as a firefighter/PIO when I arrive at a scene. They were, perform the duties of a firefighter if manpower is lacking, perform my normal duties as the PIO, or watch to see the scene unfold to determine where I can best serve. I also mentioned that I occasionally go behind the lines to interact with bystanders. Little did I know that just a few hours later I would have to use all three options when we were toned out to a fully involved house fire.
The early afternoon fire was ripping when we got their, so an interior attack was impossible. We went the defensive route with a surround and drown. The air temperature was around 80 with decent humidity so some of our guys were getting beat up pretty good.
My order of duties –
Arrived on the scene with Engine 1. Surveyed the situation. Manpower was fresh and adequate so I reported to command and started to take scene photos.
It was a little difficult moving charged deuce and a half’s around the property, so I dropped my camera and started to help move hose.
Saw a photographer/reporter from Newsday, the major Long Island newspaper pull up. I asked if I could leave the line backup and talk to the photographer. I went up to the reporter, gave him a scene overview, and discussed the perimeters from where he could shoot. I work with this photographer often and know that he always follows my instructions, so I was able to walk away with no trepidations.
I returned to taking photos at the corner 3-4 exposure of the structure, when I noticed that some of the guys on a hose line were getting beat up. I told the officer at the line that I could replace one of the guys.
The line changed hands when some fresh guys arrived.
I got a message from command to report. I was told another photographer was looking for me. When I found him he acted like he was my long lost brother. I didn’t recognize him; he produced no credential or legitimate outlet he was shooting for, so I asked him to kindly leave the fireground.
A firefighter approached me and asked if I would speak to the homeowner. The owner wanted to know where we stood in the operation and if he could speak to a Chief. I filled him in and told him I would introduce him to the Chief for a briefing as soon as the scene was secure.
The fire was under control and overhaul was underway. I started to put the pieces of the puzzle together so I could formulate a press release and web posting when I returned to the Main House.
Most of the guys on scene were justifiably dragging at this point, so I worked with a couple of guys to start collecting tool and SCBA left around the site.
I was called to command to talk to some neighbors who had a question.
I returned to tool recovery. When that was done I helped to break down hose line.
I got a cell phone call from the Suffolk County Police Department PAO asking if I needed any assistance.
I went back and helped pack hose.
We left the scene and headed back to the Main. I went to my desk to write a release, sort photos and do a web posting.
As a PS, overnight we had a car fire where I served as the Engine officer. It was a pretty spectacular fire. I was directing the hose line when one of the guys asked where my camera was! He was serious. The life of a firefighter/PIO!
Also on The Fire PIO…
- My Vacation – Being a Line Officer – September 23, 2010
- What’s in your Email Subject Line? – August 11, 2010
- 360 Degree Social Media – August 19, 2010
- Sketchy Characters on the Fireground – August 12, 2010
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