When I think of firefighters and what it is they do on a daily basis, my perspective is primarily based on obvious observations. This includes fighting fires and being the first responders in emergency situations, as well as the portrayal of their work in television shows – a portrayal that often diverges from the actual daily operations of firefighters. I decided to venture behind the scenes and explore the inner workings of a firehouse, specifically Firehouse 51 in New Smyrna Beach.
We arrived on a rainy afternoon, and were greeted by Driver Engineer Adam Sarwi, who has dedicated 8 years of service to the fire department. I had the chance to ask the real questions, the ones that I thought were important and may not be known to the average person. Such as who is the station’s best cook, whether they wore socks to bed while on duty, and why more experienced firefighters are referred to as “salty.” Yes, those questions.
Adam shared that, in his opinion, Bubba was the best cook. However, Bubba humbly acknowledged that a few of the newer firefighters had been to culinary school, and they too could whip up some delicious meals. Typically, they take turns preparing meals with whoever is on duty that day. We actually interrupted lunchtime on our visit and they were enjoying pizza, I still don’t know if it was delivery or Digiorno.
The reason I asked about whether or not they sleep with socks on was because, in the event of an alarm, firefighters must swiftly get dressed and be ready to depart. I read that many firefighters sleep with their socks on to shorten the amount of time it takes them to get ready. Adam informed me that yes, he does sleep with his socks on, however that is a personal preference and not the case for everyone.
“Salty” is a term reserved for the most seasoned firefighters, earned through their dedication and love for their work. It signifies replacing the open seas with the fire floor. On that particular day, Bubba held the title of the “saltiest,” having been with the department for 22 years.
I always believed that a fire pole was an integral part of every firehouse. However, Adam pointed out that not all stations had them, especially the newer ones, and that Firehouse 51 only had one floor. Nothing escapes my attention. The living quarters of Station 51 has individual rooms set up like dorms, with bunk beds and private bathrooms, a gym, a fully equipped kitchen, a television area with comfortable recliners and a laundry room.
Most shifts span 24 hours, with a subsequent 48-hour break unless they opt for overtime. A typical day commences with ensuring the fire truck is clean and in optimal working condition. It falls upon the crew of that day to pass on the equipment and supplies to the next shift to help them in their daily duties.
The fire truck is like a toolbox on wheels, housing all the equipment such as axes, step chocks, cribbing for car stabilization, an assortment of saws, including the “jaws of life,” necessary medications because they also serve as paramedics and EMTs, and, of course, fire hoses. The center of the truck is a 750-gallon water tank, which depending on the hose being used can run out pretty quickly. There is technology on board assisting the drivers on the best route to get to the destination and where fire hydrants are located.
Who doesn’t want to be a firefighter when they are a kid? I know I did, it was either that or an astronaut, but I really wanted to put on the full regalia and just for a second see what it was like to literally be in their shoes. The gear weighs approximately 45 pounds, and envisioning them navigating flights of stairs in unthinkable situations in overwhelming heat only deepened my admiration for the dedication of these men and women.
As we were leaving Tiffany asked one last question, “Have any of the fire stations ever caught on fire?” My eyes lit up as he started laughing and replied, “Funny you should ask that.” Adam went on to explain there is a safety feature at every station that automatically turns off the stove and oven when the alarm sounds. It is the life of an on-duty firefighter to have to leave abruptly, even in the middle of making a meal. Once you return back to the fire station there is a reset button that turns everything back on, so if you left something cooking, it starts right back up. He went on to say there may have been an internal alarm set off caused by some burning eggs, but nothing more than that.
I want to thank Mike Greene for the story inspiration and for connecting me with Adam and Bubba who welcomed us into their “home,” so to speak. To all those who carry out these vital duties worldwide and here at home, I offer my sincerest thanks for your unwavering commitment and service.
Bobby G out!
