Ride out on Ladder 3 Saturday

Last week I had an Explorer class and we went over Ladders, It was a very good refresher and I also learned a few new things. The following Saturday, I rode on Ladder 3, this shift was very fun to me and was also very meaningful. It was very meaningful because for the first time, I went into work by myself. I usually ride with my dad and my mom picks me up because I don't have my own vehicle; but today my dad was off and I woke up early and drove into work. Doing this, made me fill like an actual firefighter going into work, it was an awesome feeling and I hope I get to feel the real thing one day!! The day started off with the regular truck/equipment check offs. I put my gear on the truck and then went on and looked through all the compartments(like I always do) just to make sure nothing is missing/anything that might have been added. Then I checked the radios and the Thermal Imaging Camera; then FF Dodd, who was driving for my dad, pulled the Ladder out and we set her up and tested the pump. After all that we had a quick breakfast and then proceeded to wash the trucks. We then did the daily station cleaning. Around that time Station 6 was dispatched to a Fire Alarm and Rescue 3 responded and we moved up for staging. The companies arrived on scene and declared an accidental activation. We stopped for fuel and got a quick lunch to go at Krystal. Later on that day, Station 3 was dispatched to a Fire Alarm at Grace Lutheran Church right down the street from the firehouse; Dispatched advised that the activation was coming from the sanctuary. We arrived on scene to find nothing showing and the Lt and other crew members went inside to find them about to have a concert in there and artificial smoke set off the alarm. Command was terminated and all units went back into service. Units responding we R3,L3,T6. Later on we went to the store and got stuff to make breakfast burritos and they were good. After dinner when the kitchen was clean FF Dodd and I went out and trained over the Hydrant Assist Valve and the High Rise Packs on Ladder 3 and what we would have to grab in a fire in a high rise. It was very good and informative training. That concluded my shift and I packed up and went home. Sorry no pictures this time!

Stay safe,
Beau Doss