Visiting stations is so fun

[u/WorldlyCommunity5591]

This is just a happy sappy ramble as I'm riding high from a recent visit, but ever since I developed an interest in firefighting, I've found a passion in visiting stations. I dont know why, but it's so appealing to see how each station operates depending on size and specialty, and everybody is so welcoming (granted there are some visits that don't end up on the nice list).

Also, the more you know means the more questions you have, so it's just an endless learning opportunity which I think is the main reasons I would love to be on the job. The things I've seen and the stories I've heard are always so memorable from the probie's first few months on the job to a senior or captain who's been on for years. Sometimes I find myself asking the same question I already know the answer to, but come to find out I dont because every answer is different.

But anyways, to the fellow firefighters who give out tours to people on the daily, thank you! I love it and I love rambling to my parents about it which they're probably sick of, lool. I hope you enjoy giving out tours just as much even if it does take time out of your day. Just know that it makes a big difference and something so small can mean so much. The person I was when I visited my first station would be proud to see how far I pushed myself all thanks to wanting to be on the career, and to think it started because of one probie who let me carry the SCBA pack.

Hope to work on the field someday, and again, thank you for everything you guys do! Y'all rock.

[u/Serious_Squash895]

Some people are just antisocial or antipeople in general, Im one of them. When people show up for visits I hide in the back. Seniority has it perks. I come to work, not being rude, but my job doesnt including entertaining people who show up at my JOB. 😂😂😂 The guys I work with enjoy it though, just dont be mad at the guys who dont. 😂

[u/WorldlyCommunity5591 → u/Serious_Squash895]

Oh I completely get it 😭 I found that calling them ahead of time works the best since usually then someone who's more willing to do the tour would be the one to give it and they expect it coming, it's a much more positive experience

[u/Serious_Squash895 → u/WorldlyCommunity5591]

Yes! Ty for doing that!!!

[u/Quint27A]

How old are you? If possible take a picture of the crews together. Then later take a copy to put on their ice box.

[u/Formlepotato457]

I also enjoy visiting fire stations

I’ve actually made some really cool friends doing that plus started a collection of gear and shirts and patches

[u/WorldlyCommunity5591 → u/Formlepotato457]

I've stared collecting patches! Two departments so far and ongoing🤞

[u/WorldlyCommunity5591 → u/[deleted]]

LOL I can't believe that people come up to you like that, that's crazy. 😭

I did notice that it's the smaller departments that pull out the red carpet, it's actually those ones that are so excited they give out gifts or patches. There's an island I visited that goes through 300 calls yearly, only two stations. Deputy Chief himself gave away an on-duty shirt. Another one gave away patches. Compare that to a downtown location, there is a difference!

But then again there are some stations that, not necessarily because they're a small department, but I've noticed it's the ones that are considered the "least busy" and sometimes they aren't too welcoming and it's rushed to a ten minute tour and I'm on my way. The kindest visits I've had came from Headquarters and the busiest crews. I think that just might be where I am, though 😭