August 4th, 18:25 hours...

Right after shift change I was in my office reading email when the tones went off reporting a house fire at 31 Vine Street, dispatching Engines 1 and 3, Ladder 2, Rescue 1 and Car 2.

As I turend onto Vine Street, I spotted the hydrant for the first due engine company and pulled up just beyond the home. There was smoke puffing from around the dormer.

I struck the the first alarm on arrival, and radioed orders to the first due apparatus. I struck the second alarm, bring the remaining Engine company (Engine 2) to the scene and had Fire Alarm request mutual aid from the surrounding communities. In my community, striking the box recalls off duty personnel to man the reserve engines, but since annual Local 1714 outing was the same day, I knew I would not have much of an off duty response.

The troops did a hell of a job, containing the fire to the room of origin; there was extensive overhaul done and everything was back in service in two hours.

Car 1 (the Chief of Department arrived) and asked me for a situation report.

He commended me on making a good stop and said "well, you don't need me here... see you later."

One of my personnel ( the driver of Engine 1) came up to me and told me "Deputy.. you did a good job."

I replied to him "Jim, you are the guys who made me look good"

All in all.. all the residents were out and safe, we rescued their cat, nobody got hurt, and everyone returned to quarters.. a little tired, a lot dirty and hungrier than bears waking up after hibernation.

I gathered the troops at HQ and called both substations and had the company officer put on the speakerphone to thank them for a job well done!