Firefighters Face Unusual and Varied Challenges: From Power Surges to Complex Structure Fires

Fighting fires is an inherently dangerous occupation filled with risks such as building collapses, burns, smoke inhalation, and accidents involving fire trucks. Yet, firefighters also encounter a wide variety of unusual and sometimes bizarre incidents that need addressing. These incidents can range from electrical surges to complex structural issues, reflecting the diverse nature of fire-related emergencies.

Unusual Incidents Encountered by Firefighters

One such incident involves a grass fire started by a squirrel shorting out power lines at a business. Another time, a call was made due to a burglary, which the firefighters anticipated resolving more quickly than the police. Then there was the time they found an unconscious person in a car, suspected to be a drunk individual who had pulled into a vacant lot to sleep. During a routine call involving water spraying from a hot water heater, they discovered that all the plumbing in the house was electrically charged, with 110V current arcing through the ground wires and causing holes in the copper water lines.

Common Issues in Apartment Complexes

Firefighters often deal with a significant number of apartment complexes in densely populated areas, particularly in rural or suburban settings. These complexes frequently have issues related to maintenance, such as plumbing leaks and electrical problems, which are often reported overnight. In one incident, a structure fire in a 120F heat index left firefighters sweating even before they arrived at the scene. The numerous apartment dwellers in these complexes often do not know how to properly maintain their units, leading to frequent calls for repair and maintenance support.

The Versatility of Firefighters: The "Catch-All" Public Service

The nature of the fire department in many communities means that they are often the "catch-all" for public service calls. If a dispatcher lacks guidelines on whom to call for an emergency, they will typically send the fire department. This versatility requires firefighters to be quick thinkers and creative problem solvers in dealing with unexpected situations ranging from herding animals from vehicle wrecks to hazardous material incidents.

Unique Experiences in Rural Firefighting

Rural firefighting presents its own set of unique challenges. These challenges include:

Driveway issues: Narrow or overgrown driveways can prevent fire engines from accessing the scene quickly. Borrowing tools: Firefighters may need to borrow specialized tools, such as an ice auger from an ice fishing shack to draft water from a frozen lake. Homeowner reactions: Some homeowners may be upset that the fire department has saved their property, as it would cost less to rebuild. Others may refuse to pay for driveway plowing because their antique alarm system frequently sounds, expecting the fire department to clear the way.

These examples highlight the multifaceted and varied nature of the work done by firefighters, beyond the typical image of battling flames and smoke. Their role as the "catch-all" service for public emergencies underscores their importance in community safety and well-being.