Notes from a Rookie Firefighter...June 27, 2011

Taking the Stairs

I work in NYC now and the building construction and equipment is really interesting - some old and some new. What better way to learn about standpipes?

At my last job, I took the stairwell all the time. I walked 5+ flights many times a day-got my energy out. It's so incredibly boring so each time I got to the next flight I would glance at the extinguisher and valves. After all what is there to look at in a cement staircase? I think I had the stickers memorized. And I can tell you that they are up for inspection soon.

In the City people use standpipes like seats outside each building. I didn't know there were so many different variations. I still take the stairs from time to time but only because I have to run for a train. Walking 2.5 miles to and from the train really kicks the heck out of my ADHD!  Our building has hoses on racks with weird old-fashioned red nozzles. Maybe I'll take a picture and show my kids - you don't see these type of hoses in our area at home.

Maybe it's time for me to actually visit a fire museum. Right now, too tired each day.