Please, please do not recognize that mentally ill man anymore! I am a high school teacher..public servant and very grateful to the firefighters, police...all those who 'go in and brave the unthinkable"...hey, me too. Ignore the people that do not recognize the heroic behaviors that had to happen on those horrific days.
Thank you, thank you...a million times over guys and gals...we are sooo grateful. Nature is powerful...we forget. Many are hurt, people, animals, habitat, property...prepare next time...prepare! Again, prepare!
Do not buy in dangerous areas, no matter the price...not worth it!
Take care....and be safe in all that you do....

Golly, Gee, "259"! Since it is such a "FUN" and "Plush" job, why don't you "try" to give it a go? NO GUTS?

God Bless you all!

May God give strength to all the people and their families to recover from their losses and may God Bless All and Every Volunteer that assisted them.
Thank you to all the Firefighters and EMS personnel that assisted in the terrible fire.

My husband and I moved from Santa barbara to north east Washington 2 summers ago only to be surrounded by horriffic fires for weeks, the pen cannot express the taste of adrenoline, the rush of fear smoke carries or the terror of the emmense red glow, especially at night. Firefighters, paid, and volunteer, camped in our yard. It was to us as the hand of God's protection. We lost nothing but gained a new respect. I would hope that firemen would never have to face a fire ever and still get paid above what they do. It is never enough. Thank you's can not convey the depth of gratitude or respect.

Words in the English vocabulary are not adequate to express the horror and destruction, along with the heroism of the firemen and all others who helped to end that Dante's inferno. My prayers for the families who lost loved ones, and who lost their homes.
The only good, hopefully, if there IS any good to come out of such distruction, is that many involved will be the stronger in spirit for having survived it, and that life will have a much deeper meaning.
God bless,
Vern

The first time I saw photo 32 I thought it had to do with war. And, I wonder who that figurine was supposed to be?

what a pity!god consolate you all!god is working good for you.8romans8:28)

HEY 259... HARDLY EVER HUH?? THIS IS JUST THIS YEAR........Ryan, Jr., Robert J. Brooklyn, New York 11/23/2008
Kline, Steve D. Stone Park, Illinois 11/18/2008
Snowman, Michael David Hartland, Maine 11/17/2008
Harris, Walter P. Detroit, Michigan 11/15/2008
Taylor, Carol Irene Goldsboro, North Carolina 11/14/2008
Sears, Jamel M Brooklyn, New York 11/11/2008
Clasby, John Hull, Massachusetts 11/11/2008
Turnbough, Cecilia Dale City, Virginia 11/09/2008
Smith, Jr., Roy McGaheysville, Virginia 11/07/2008
Riggins, Leonard St. Louis, Missouri 11/05/2008
Brown, Wayne D. Bristol, Rhode Island 11/03/2008
Renfroe, Adam Cody Crossville, Alabama 10/29/2008
Neville, Brian D. Towson, Maryland 10/16/2008
Miller, William Joseph Blue Mound, Illinois 10/13/2008
Falconer, Douglas Globe, Arizona 10/01/2008
Arabie, Ralph P Gretna, Louisiana 09/29/2008
Grider, Dale Wayne DeKalb, Texas 09/29/2008
Junginger, Edward Levittown, New York 09/26/2008
Hillman, Sr., Curtis Ray Redding, California 09/11/2008
Northup, Greg Gallipolis, Ohio 09/03/2008
Wahlstrom, Calvin Gene Missoula, Montana 09/01/2008
Gonsioroski, Gregory Missoula, Montana 09/01/2008
Vander-Griend, Zachary Jake Missoula, Montana 09/01/2008
Jessen, Curtis Asheville, North Carolina 08/21/2008
Hales, Robert A. Scappoose, Oregon 08/17/2008
McGough, Tony Amity, Arkansas 08/14/2008
Whiten, Sean T. Roscoe, Pennsylvania 08/09/2008
Blazer, Shawn Merlin, Oregon 08/05/2008
Charlson, Scott Merlin, Oregon 08/05/2008
Hammer, Matthew Merlin, Oregon 08/05/2008
Gomez, Edrik Merlin, Oregon 08/05/2008
Rich, Bryan Merlin, Oregon 08/05/2008
Steele, David Merlin, Oregon 08/05/2008
Renno, Steven Merlin, Oregon 08/05/2008
Ramage, James Redding, California 08/05/2008
Schwanenberg, Roark Grants Pass, Oregon 08/05/2008
Leduc, Gerald R. Tiverton, Rhode Island 08/03/2008
Packer, Dan Bonney Lake, Washington 07/27/2008
Palmer, Andrew Port Angeles, Washington 07/25/2008
Wichlacz, Frank Pulaski, Wisconsin 07/23/2008
Munz, Brian J. Fairbury, Illinois 07/22/2008
Hummert, Ryan Saint Louis, Missouri 07/21/2008
Meron, David Hoosick Falls, New York 07/20/2008
Bajusz, Johnny Long Key, Florida 07/18/2008
Barker, Ryan T. Elmira, New York 07/08/2008
Kear, Richard L. Harpster, Ohio 07/07/2008
Knight, Robert Leland Teague, Texas 07/05/2008
Jordan, Joe Pat Pickton, Texas 07/04/2008
Roland, Robert Boonville, California 07/03/2008
MacDonald, Michael Browning, Montana 06/29/2008
Studer, Gary L. Whitehouse, Ohio 06/28/2008
Powers, Jeff Mill Valley, California 06/26/2008
Crocker, George E. Pine Level, North Carolina 06/22/2008
Pryor, Kevin Patrick Newport Beach, California 06/17/2008
Thomas, Colin Gene Jacksonville, North Carolina 06/14/2008
Brinson, Jr., Rufus E. New Bern, North Carolina 06/06/2008
Topping, Russell Thomas Barnsdall, Oklahoma 05/31/2008
Burns, Richard Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 05/24/2008
Maddy, Jay C. Eaton, Indiana 05/23/2008
Eusden, Raymond Aston, Pennsylvania 05/20/2008
Mixon, Joseph R. Birmingham, Alabama 05/13/2008
Casey, Tyler Racine, Missouri 05/12/2008
Jylka, Jeremy L. Pine City, Minnesota 04/29/2008
Terrebonne Jr., Riley J. Springfield, Louisiana 04/21/2008
Morris, Rick Sedalia, Missouri 04/17/2008
Marais, Gert Fort Collins, Colorado 04/15/2008
DeVore, Terry Olney Springs, Colorado 04/15/2008
Schwartz, Jr., John Olney Springs, Colorado 04/15/2008
Fraley, Charlie Macon, Mississippi 04/12/2008
Crotty, Michael D. Erie, Pennsylvania 04/08/2008
Broxterman, Robin Cincinnati, Ohio 04/04/2008
Schira, Brian Cincinnati, Ohio 04/04/2008
Speed, Eric Shreveport, Louisiana 03/28/2008
Lovrien, Brent A. Los Angeles, California 03/26/2008
Grubor, Donald "Lee" Lewistown, Illinois 03/22/2008
Crockett, Terrance Kansas City, Missouri 03/17/2008
Delaney, John Mesa, Arizona 03/17/2008
Michl, Walter William Littleton, North Carolina 03/16/2008
Barrett, Sr., Raymond West Milford, New Jersey 03/09/2008
Monroe, Justin Salisbury, North Carolina 03/07/2008
Isler, Victor Salisbury, North Carolina 03/07/2008
Picozzi II, Nicholas V. Linwood, Pennsylvania 03/05/2008
Holmes, Brad Grove City, Pennsylvania 03/05/2008
Vazquez, Rafael West Palm Beach, Florida 03/03/2008
Dennis Jr., Roger San Antonio, Texas 02/29/2008
Stewart, Shane Ault, Colorado 02/23/2008
Turner, Joey Homerville, Georgia 02/22/2008
Tomaselli, Vance San Bernardino, California 02/21/2008
Hays, Michael J. Chama, New Mexico 02/19/2008
Lockhart, Jack Dayton, Pennsylvania 02/17/2008
Sheridan, Kerry Shorewood, Illinois 02/12/2008
Arthur, James Earl Concord, North Carolina 02/11/2008
Hubly, Matthew Kankakee, Illinois 02/07/2008
Sherfick, David Mooresville, Indiana 02/04/2008
Swander, Paul Ohio City, Ohio 02/02/2008
Hubbel, Donald W. Baltimore, Maryland 02/01/2008
Walker, Jr., Walter Clyde Collinsville, Mississippi 01/26/2008
Jones, Herman S. Raleigh, North Carolina 01/22/2008
Burchett, Christa Dawn Paintsville, Kentucky 01/22/2008
McAtee, Sr., Robert L. Huttonsville, West Virginia 01/20/2008
Berra, Louis P. Manchester, Missouri 01/18/2008
Dixon, Jarrett A Towson, Maryland 01/12/2008
Jordan, Harvey Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 01/07/2008
Robeson, James L. Scranton, Pennsylvania 01/06/2008
Martinson, John H. Brooklyn, New York 01/03/2008
Ellington, Paul Lewis Reidsville, North Carolina 01/01/2008
Paterson, Donald G. Kimball, Michigan 01/01/2008

My cousin Janet lives/lived in Yorba Linda. A letter sent after 11-15-08 remains unanswered. Her Father was a firefighter in Milw for many years. Families of firefighters are under constant suspense never knowing what a day will bring. #259 Dave should be doubly ashamed at his 'dumb' words at a time of such disaster.

Hey everyone...I truly hope that 259 didn't mean what he wrote. But, I have heard those idiotic words from people before. Most people seem to stereotype without knowing truly what goes on in these jobs. My parents are retired police officers. Most of my friends thought they just ate donuts. I've seen my mother come home with bruises and blood on her clothing many times. I'm a registered nurse. Most people think I just stand at a nurse's station, screw doctors and give shots. What I truly find amazing is that these same idiots that sterotype are the first ones who want our services (firefighters, police, nurses, etc), and will throw a fit if they feel they did not receive it properly! Why don' t you try spending your holidays without your family taking care of ingrates such as yourself ? And personally, I have known several firefighters, policeman, and nurses killed in the line of duty. To everyone else, I will speak for firefighters and thank you for your support! I included police and nurses because they are accused of similar things.

To Dave B., comment #259,
HOW DARE YOU?!!!
These firefighters ARE heroes. Just like all of our public safety employees. When was the last time you had to face down flames to try and keep the home of a perfect stranger from burning to the ground. How many more homes would have been lost if they firefighters truly acted the way your comment says? Maybe if your house is on fire, they should just stay at the station and play cards while you try to put out the fire with your garden hose? Have you considered the other dangers these dedicated people face? A person who is having a medical emergency. Is an otherwise healthy person having a heart attack, or is it the drug addict with AIDS who just overdosed on crack? What about running into a burning building to save a trapped child who would certainly burn to death otherwise? What about when they respond to a traffic accident and have to cut a car apart to remove a badly injured passenger in the middle of traffic with gasoline pouring from the ruptured fuel tank? What about the nurse who gets bit by a violent person who has Hepatitis? The doctor who has to treat a person with tuberculosis? What about the police officer who faces the very real possibility of being murdered simply because of the uniform he is wearing? What about the highway patrolman who may be pulling over a regular person who was just a little inattentive or is it really the loser on parole who faces the rest of his life in prison for his third strike because he has illegal drugs in the car and has nothing to lose if he kills the patrolman? What about the correctional officer who is simply trying to check the welfare of the inmates under his supervision but one angry inmate decides to throw feces and urine on him simply because of the uniform he is wearing?
I think your comments were immature, uninformed and just plain wrong!

I personally want to thank every man and woman who have answered the call to serve their fellow citizen to help our lives be better and to their families, thank you for supporting these brave heroes while they do these jobs for the meager salaries the taxpayers give them.

To Dave B., one final thought. If you hate the firefighters, next time your house is on fire, ask the child molester living at the local shelter to run into your burning house to save your family and see what happens. If you hate the police, next time your house is robbed, call the crack addict from the halfway house to investigate the theft and try to recover your stolen property. The next time you break your arm in a fall off the roof, go see the drug dealer on the street corner to set the break and put it in a cast. Oh, and the next time you have to explain to a judge why you are fighting a traffic ticket for speeding and the judge shows no sympathy, remember your coments here and don't be shocked when you pay the full fine and your insurance goes up because you are are a riskier driver on the road.

Would like to Thank All the people for helping all those who needed it.....I live in the South Carolina and all my Family live there in the middle of all the fire's....I am so Very Thankful....Bless all of you....

i praise all fire fighters for the job they do and would never say anything against them, but let nobody say that calfornia does not have four seasons, earthqakes
mudslides fires and crime.

i have friends from NM who went and helped out in Calif. id like to thank my brother fire fighters for not quitting. God knows this is a glimpse of what they saw.

All myy gratitude, praise and respect go to the fire fighters. I live in So Cal where we have these terrible fires every year and these brave individuals are there at a moments notice and some times for weeks at a time. They work in the worst conditions possible. Many times they have to sleep on the bare ground and miss meals to keep a fire at bay. The temperatures they work in at times are way over human endurence. They do this work knowing it is dangerous and they may not go home some day.
My prayers are with them on a daily bases and for the ungrateful who do not appreciate them I am more than sure God has a special place for you

David B who are you? This is too funny how you wrote what you wrote about firefighters. Do you know someone who is a firefighter that has given you this vision of what it is to be a firefighter? It may be that on a given day a fire fighter has fun doing what they love and gets paid to cook chili and play with cool equiptment and work out, get praise from old ladies and young sexy ones too.
But at the end of the day they would run into a burning building to save your dumb ass even if you are ahol and not very cool. It does not seem like you are capable of leading such a noble life. Or are you, why don't you expand on your thoughts for all of us whose attention you have so wonderfully captured.

FIRE FIGHTERS ARE WAY OVERRATED! I'm so sick of hearing them called "altruistic" and "angels." It's a JOB to them. They don't wake up every day with big, benevolent smiles, aching to protect your house and your car. They love what they do because it's FUN. They are boys who get paid very well to spend almost all

their time to working out, playing cards, and cooking chili. They love to play with all the expensive toys that the government (we taxpayers) give them. Half of them would be arsonists if they didn't have an acceptable way to play with fire. They are not heroes. But they sure don't shy away from all the glory or girls bestowed upon them by you sentimental dummies. Hardly any of them die or get hurt.
Posted by Dave B. November 21, 08 06:21 PM

David B. We do our job because we want to help YOU and everyone else no matter what you say or do. If your house caught fire or you were hurt...guess what....we'd still help if you even if you continue to spit in our face as you have with your bitter comment. We don't play cards. We train everyday to do our job better. We DO workout so we stay in shape to do our job better. Our "toys" are not toys to us but a tool to help save your house on fire and carry the equipment needed to save your life or someone you love. We don't play with fire. We put it out one way or another. Firefighters have lost their lives to save yours.

I can't believe anyone would think firefighters are "having fun"...in the Photos I've just looked at..I SALUTE YOUR COURAGE AND PROFESSINALISM!!

I agree with #691 that #259 you are a coward and a jerk and what ever else we can call you. My son is a fireman and every day he puts his life in danger helping out all you are in need. And no he is not making and eatting chilli all day long or having fun with all the little girlies out there that have nothing better to do with their lives. He is working his butt off to save people. And ya hopefully one day you don't need a fireman to save you because you do not deserve there help.

#259 is just plain and simple a JERK. I don't know how he or any one else could think that the Fire Fighters are not heros. Yes, sure that is their job, and under normal situations you could consider their actions all in a days work, but other times it is above and beyond the call of duty. Ask Dave where he was, when the towers fell, and the Fire Fighters, Police, and EMS workers rushed in, risking their lives to possible save just one life? I bet somewhere not being a hero!!! I am sure a Fire Fighter would risk their life to save even Daves' pitiful life.

To Dave ; (#259) // I totally understand your feelings of Jealousy, Ego, Hate and Pride. Such is the way of the Flesh. I'll do my best to pray to our Father in Heaven that He may convict you as He did me, that the ways of the world will go up in smoke just like the houses in these photos.

To YOU #259
Its quite obvious you do not have even the brains to know what what you are talking about. Best to stay off a blog intended for intelligence of comentary!
To say such a thing as karma just might burn your ass, is an understatement!

Wow! Thank you all for being so passionate about public service workers. I started 30 years ago as a volunteer in order to be able to help my neighbors out if needed. The only way I was able to make it a career was to work other jobs on my days off, as did most others at the time.
I knew my family would be impacted and that there would be retiement benefits in the end. After spinal fusion ten years ago (from loading a CHP officer who had wrecked) and light duty, I recovered to complete my career. I live with the pain everyday and realize I will never be able to build houses as I had planned, but I have a great feeling of accomplishment for all the people we've helped. I've seen the destruction all around me from broken families to suicide and cancer. I was on duty when my parents and little brother were severly burned in a plane crash. Helping them recover was just another part of my constant training, not ot mention stress.
Ultimately we do all go home. It's my mantra, "Omnis Cedo Domus." My mom suffered thru 25 years with complications of diabetes, blindness, dialysis and the skin grafts. It is very gratifying to know you have the ability to help others, even off duty. Like one wrote, "it's a lifestyle", could not be further from the truth. Having the training and presence of mind to help others under dire circumstances is what saves lives. I've witnessed it more times than I can remember.
My kids are now both successful adults and productive members of society with compassion for others, that I believe were instilled because of the examples we set for them. Again, I thank each and every one of you that appreciate and understand the need for public service/safety employees. WGL

Firefighters RULE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Dave B. #259 - I'm a VOLUNTEER, I don't receive money for helping and I'm a member of one of the best Fire Departments of the world, (LAFD). I'm not fight fires but I'm one of the members to support them while they are "working" but, men, what a job!! there is no money to pay what they do, you don't have any idea how hard is to fight a fire, or to provide emergency medical support or to rescue someone from a very bad traffic accident. You're right, it's a job, they get paid for what they do, but whatever work you do, you have to feel pasion for it, or you will quit. Oh yeah, they play cards, they do workout and funny things, but when the alarm sounds there is not a joke, will be the last one. My brother die in a fire as a VOLUNTEER while trying to rescue 2 kids from a house on fire. We don't received millions to cover the loss, we barely receive the money for the funeral but what he did is what any member of almost any Fire Department will do to preserve the life. I hope you never have a car accident, or suffer a fire in your house because if this happen you will have to "eat your words".

i think firefighters thru out cal. are really a group of super woman and men
thank god or whoever for the greatness they do!!!!!!!!!!!!!

bob from shasta county
redding,cal.

I live in Carbon Canyon, Chino Hills. I commend our AWESOME firefighters for their hard work and dedication to their job. My late brother-in-law, Richard Sewell started out as a volunteer fireman in Chino and ended up the first fire chief of the San Bernardino County Fire Department. Everytime there was a fire anywhere in California, if he wasn't there, he was on top of all the information, listening to the reports and ready at a moment's notice to help. He loved his work. I commend our firefighters...they risk their lives to save lives and our homes! I salute you!

259 you are such a idiot I wonder what you do for a livivg and I pray that you never need the help of our emergency crews beceause clearly you dont deserve it !

Comment to #715
I have know idea where in this country you must live. No matter where you are you will face a natural disaster be it flood, fire, hurricane, tornado, or earthquake whatever there is no part of the US immune to some kind of natural disaster!!! Oh and # 259 you really are an idoit withoiut a clue.

WHOEVER WROTE THE #259 COMMENT.......YOUR A TOTAL ASSH*LE. MY DAD WAS A NEW YORK FIREFIGHTER FOR 22 YEARS. THEY ARE THE BEST. YOU MUST BE SOME NOLOAD WITHOUT A JOB OR TOO STUPID TO GET ONE

All I know is GOD is in control and I am praying for all of our heroic firefighters and everyone who is out there saving lives and our houses! God bless you all and you will be rewarded in Heaven. Thank you all!

I am a former Calif. resident and I witnessed many natural and manmade disasters.I thank God every day for the men and women of the fire and police departments. My husband was a Los Angeles Policeman for 32 years. He had the priveledge to ride escort for the fire department during the Rodney King Riots. He might not have fought fires but he sure did save lives, they are ALL heros, God bless them and the families who support and pray for them everytime they walk out the door.

WOW! #259 you don't have a clue. Do you even know what's going on in the world and not your F*&@ed up little world? You are such an asshole its not funny. These guys are putting their lives on the line to save your sorry excuse for an ass. You better hope you never need help from a Firefighter. Un_ucking believable!

yo yo yo i love these pics! send to my myspace

Unbelieveable pictures, either brave or dumb photographer. God Bless the Firefighters, they do a job that not many men and women have the nerve to do, they don't get paid near enough to compensate their braveness. I will pray for all of them and pray God keeps them safe for their families.

i feel very bad for those ppl who had to evacuate adn those wildlife animals. That is just so sad to see a poor animal lose their homes cause of the fire including the ppl that got injured of the fire.It' so devasting to see that.

OKOKOK, They may not post my orignial message to Dave B...so just incase I will write a PG version.
Dear Dave,

You Suck

Sincerely,
Elisha

To Dave B. #259 it is obvious that you couldn't make the firefighter ranks! You don't know what the hell your talking about. It makes me sick to think there are people in this world who think like you do! Where the hell where you the day 343 FIREFIGHTERS DIED IN THE WORLD TRADE CENTERS trying to save lives! Did you forget about that tragic event!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I am grateful to come home to my family after making it though another shift. We cannot predict what is going to happen when we report for duty! Yes, we run many EMS calls and our major fires are few, but the dangers of the job are always present. I cannot count the number of times I have almost been hit on the freeway from some idiot trying to see who's body is lying on the ground covered up, instead of paying attention to their driving... or going on a brush fire such as the sesnon fire or sayre fire and being over run by embers and the extreme heat wave.... Many firefighters are injured or die every year from EMS and other fire related incidents! Why don't you do a little research on "near misses" in the fire service. I have seen to my fair share of firefighter funerals over the past 21 years as a Los Angeles Co. firefighter/Paramedic. And for you to make such stupid comments, it just sickens me! I have pitty for you, because it is individuals like you that we risk our lives for only to be looked upon as over paid, woman chasing pigs... Yes we are well compensated for what we do, so what! I chose this profession and what a rewarding one it is to save a life or protect someones property from fire! Unfortunately, our families are the ones who pay the ultimate price by us being gone 24, 48 hours or longer! We miss our childrens birthdays, ball games, school events etc... but that is something that goes with the job. I doubt if you can say the same, if you even have a job!!! So next time you see a fire engine going by, be thankful that in your time of need we will be there to save your sorry ass!

So sorry for all who had to experience this devastating fire.

Dave #259... You are partially right, we cook and eat and work out. We joke and give each other a hard time whenever possible. We love to play with our new expensive toy...even more so because our old truck was over 15 years old and didn't always work. We don't always show how we feel after we watch someone's history and belongings burn to the ground. Nor do we allow ourselves to just walk away after we see a dead child pulled from a building. The first time I saw that I wanted to never see it again, just quit. But that's not what the job is about. It's about showing up and doing your best and hoping in the end that it makes a difference. I doubt that is something you are able to grasp with your hate and envy filled mind. I go back every day because I love it, it makes me feel good to help someone, praise and thanks from an older couple who needed medical attention goes a long way, much further than a paycheck will take you. A homemade pie from someone whose house you saved tastes better than the best lobster on earth. And while we do make a good living doing it, as do so many other professions out there....it's much, much more than a job! Also Dave, if you ever needed me, even if I knew who you were...you would get the same service, to the best of my ability, that everyone else gets.

Dave #259... Where I live is no where near the fires. I've never even been close. But these men risk their lives like our men in the service. They don't have to do this as their vocation in life. They want to and do. I thank our God that they want to as the same for all the years of servicemen. I recommend you go on one of these runs with them and be part of of the solution. I'm grateful that they play with their expensive toys as by playing, they learn and by learning get experience and by experience "know" what to do. If they didn't, who would? Would You ?? Would you "know how" to put out a fire?

Thanks to the authors of BigPicture for collecting these amazing photos, tragic as they are for so many.

For those of you who question why some of us live in SoCal, where there are so many fires, I ask this:

- Why do so many of you live in the Mid-West, where there are so many tornadoes, lightning storms, and floods?

- Why do so many of you live in the Northeast, where there are so many storms: thunderstorms, snow-storms, blizzards, ice-storms?

- Why do so many of you live in the South, where there are tornadoes, heat-waves, hurricanes, floods?

- Why do so many of you live in the Southeast, where there are so many hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, etc.

In general, there are problems and dangers with living in any part of our beautiful country, and we choose to live there because of the better parts, not the dangers.

I have lived in OK, TX, WA, MD, DC, and now CA -- and each area has its wonders and beauty, interesting people and culture, and, of course, unique environmental issues to overcome.

As I look at the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean on a 68F "winter" day in Southern California, even with all the "fruits, flakes, and granola nuts" out here, I would not trade places with anyone, even if my house burnt down many times.

My husband is a volunteer firefighter and he loves it! I takes a special kind of person to be a firefighter. It may not always be bravery but just crazyness. I can see where #259 is coming from. They do love to play with fire and that is what usually attracts them to the job. I think God is just cleansing the earth of all the money drivin self-centered rich people in California. I'm not saying that is the case for everyone but it's something to think about. Repent for the end is near.

Please drop the Heroism part of the Firefighter. It is a chosen job/career whether it be volunteer or professional.It did it for 7 years . It was fun, it was tough,.and yes it put me to tears . But please knock this Heroism part out of it .It was my choice to do the work that is needed. It's a frikkin job.

I still call firefighters, paid or volunteer, "hero." Of course it is a job, and a choice.
But all heroes are put in a given situation by chance, but do what they do in that situation by choice. Making the choice is the hero part!!

Although this is devastating, I absolutely believe these are the best pictures I have ever seen. Great job photographers!

Victims, you are in my thoughts and prayers.

I consider what we as firefighters do vey important, however i do not believe that either my or any other firefighters life is worth property. The fact of the matter is that folks in So cal have decided to live in a fire plain, that is the fires WILL return every 2-5 years, the ecosystem in the area (mainly chaparell) has evolved to propagate burning. Many of the plants in this ecosystem exude volitile oils much like turpentine and readily ignite under normal summer and fall conditions (RH

#259…….First I would like to tell you that my fiancé is a fireman, and yes he does love being a fireman. Just as others choose their profession based on what they enjoy to do. They don’t get paid half as much as people would think. In fact I can guarantee that fire fighters, police officers, paramedics and all military personnel don’t get paid enough for what they do. Who are you to say who may or may not be a hero? Hero is defined as a person noted for feats (feat- a notable act or deed) of courage or nobility of purpose, a man celebrated for his bold exploits (exploit- an act or deed, esp. a heroic one). Everyone is considered a hero to someone. As to all the other comments towards firemen…..you may want to consider walking in their shoes before you judge them. How about you try working 48 hours straight and see how many times you get bored and decide to surf the internet or play cards. But first you need to understand that they have actual working hours. The same hours normal employees have. That time between 8-5 that work actually has to be done. It is only after that they are allowed to relax. But the day doesn’t end there. The station he is employed with, goes out on every medical call, responds to every wreck (minor and major) fires. Besides the constant trips out, they use their days to better themselves. They have to be able and ready for anything that comes their way. They are all EMT certified and have to go through one of the hardest fire academies in the United States every couple of years. They train every Monday and Saturday, whether it be in burn trailers, training using thermal imagers or packing up to see how long they can make their oxygen tanks last. Now you want to talk smack about them working out…..I guess we should take that away so they can be over weight and out of shape. I’m sure that would allow them to run up that flight of stairs or heck possibly carry your sorry butt out of a burning building in a timely manner. The expensive toys that we as tax payers provide them are out of date. But I guess we should take that away also. Wonder how long it would take to respond on bicycle carrying water? Define “getting hurt”? Because to me “hurt” is coming home after fighting a fire for 12+ hours with huge blisters on your feet, burns on your hands, heat marks on your face, huge bruises on your knees, or coming home with cracked ribs. So maybe they don’t wake up everyday with big, benevolent smiles, "aching " to protect your house, car or land, but you can guarantee that when that alarm rings, they are ready in less than 3 minutes to protect your belongings.

The socialistic political climate in California (and in Washington) has resulted in the restrictive, and generally bad enviornmental policies that prefers to protect trees more than the lives and properties of people. Sound enviornmental policies find a good balance between managing what God gave us with the needs of people. It was the absence of that balance that caused these fires, and we will continue to see more of the same. California's irrational enviornmental restriction on fire prevention resulted in destruction of people's lives, their properties, the trees and the enviornment. Thank you very much...you really smart representatives who were voted in by really smart citizens, huh? Socialism is merely Communism without a gun. The Obama Presidency is a guarantee that it will only get worse.

Sure everyone gets the message some of the fires were fought by the firefighters who are in the busiest stations in Los Angeles and don't just sit around. They are extremely busy and sometimes come home with no sleep from being out on fires, car accidents, gun shots, stabbings they don't ask for anything in return and it saddens me to think people would bash them. They risk their health firefighters are more likely to get ill from certain kinds of cancer due to the many chemicals exposure some more than other depending on the amount of exposure. Heck just having the truck idle the fumes of the diesel fuel has cancer causing chemicals in ti so everytime you see a fire truck next to a fire hydrant remember to thank those men and women for doing just a great job. Pray that the chemicals do not cause them to became ill. It is a job with many hazords most people are unware of. Thank you to all firefighters across the county if you are in a small stations with very little calls or if you are one of the busiest stations. LA City has some of the busiest stations along with NY and Chicago a big THANKS YOU GUYS DO A GREAT JOB!!!

I too am a fire fighter. We are not heros. It is arrogant for any of us to think we are heros. It is earned and a label for others to give. We chose this profession to help others. There 12 characteristics that define any first responder (fire, law enforcement, paramedic) and money is not one of them. These characteristics are very similar to those found in members of the military with the exception of the warrior crede. When we are called to stabilize an emergency, we go because we are needed. We also know we may not come back. Every year at least 100 fire fighters will die (Refer to #778). The stats are similar for law enforcment. We will see horrible things and be in bad situations that we will never forget. There will be more of the same....gauranteed. There are also heath risks that go with this job besides the accidents that can happen at any emergency ; increased risks of heart attacks and cancer. For us this is not just a job, it is a calling. This is especially true for volunteer fire fighters and paramedics who comprise 80% of the fire service. Our reward is knowing we made a difference when we were needed.

re: 153. I have had the same thought. With all the swimming pools one would think it prudent to utilize the water to wet the homes. Harbor Freight, Grainger and Honda sell stationary gasoline operated water pumps. I used to have one, about the size of a gasoline operated generator, easy to move, took a 2" water hose, 150 gal/min at 40 psi, just like standard house water pressure. A 12x24' pool has over 12,000 gal in it. That is almost 1.5 hours worth of water supply. Plumb the pump into a series of sprinkler heads on the roof and walls and one could wet down the home. High winds could be a problem, but the above is worth a try. I wish those affect the best of luck.

I live in NM but I think CA has some of the best firefighters in the world; I lived in Ca for 46 years so I saw and heard of their hard work and they saved many homes that others couldn't. They are the best!

This message is for #259. I am 71 years old and a retired police officer who worked very closely with firemen and I only have one comment for you. Come and meet me somewhere and I will really let you know what I think of you when I kick your flabby A--. Firemen and policemen really put their lives on the line and would would do the same for you even knowing that you are stupid.

I never read such hate as displayed in these comments. And most of the haters seem to believe in God, too. Wonder if they reserve their religion for Sundays only?

To # 259 and any other bashers. If ya don't like the Police or Firefighters, next time you have a fire or injury or someone steals from ya or is trying to hurt you, don't call them. I know they would still come to your aid if called upon.

For #259...I sincerely hope that you read the comments where people have responded to your post and hope that you rethink your position. Our firefighters and our police officers are here to support and protect us...and they put themselves in harms way every day for us! I have needed them in the past, and they were there for me and my loved ones. They are angels to me.

wow-#259-This Dave fellow is a dumbass.If firefighters aren't heroes to this guy, then who is?If his house ever burns down-I hope the firefighters crack open a package of Oscar Meyer's finest and cook up a feast, and let it burn. What a dipshit.

I would comment on Dave B (#259) but can not think of a response that would stoop to his level of class or inteeligence. As a former Hotshot who used to trench the firebreaks in the San Gabriels, you are scum of the earth.

To all the wonderful individuals in Orange County, and the many firemen, policemen, disaster relief volunteers, churches, girl scout troops, women’s groups, our loving neighbors, the Travis Ranch, Bryant Ranch, and Yorba Linda communities…………

THANK YOU from the bottom of our hearts.

We moved to Yorba Linda in the fall of 2001. This happened quite arbitrarily, as we moved from half-way around the world, and considered many cities between Irvine and Malibu. At a Christmas party on San Antonio Road that first year, a neighbor said quite seriously to us, “Do you know how lucky you are to have landed in Yorba Linda?” We realized our good fortune immediately and have loved living here since, despite the constant threat of earthquakes, landslides, and fire!

The Yorba Linda Wildfire took everything we had collected from here and around the world, over the course of twenty-some years. That Saturday, when we fled from the out of control wildfire heading directly at us, will stand out in our memories as the most frightening, surreal, bizarre experience. But more than this, what we will forever remember is the aftermath.

What happened during and after the fire lifted us in such an extraordinary way. Instead of being engulfed by feelings of great loss, helplessness, grief or frustration, our family was immediately blessed with an enormous outpouring of love, support, generosity, thoughtfulness, kindness and caring from neighbors, the huge amount of volunteers, and this community in general.

Because there have been SO many people who have reached out to lift us up, and many anonymously, we are writing this letter to hopefully reach everyone with our sincere gratitude and appreciation.

We are extremely thankful for the incredible amount of amazing kindness and support we have received from all of you……For the prayers, the offers of home-cooked meals and babysitting, help with sifting the debris and sandbagging, all the gift-cards, checks, clothing and hugs, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts,

the Allison family ~ Anita, Bob, Leigh, George, and Neka

wow

Wow 813. Your husband may be a special person but your true colors aren't so nice. I am a volunteer firefighter north of San Francisco. It is expensive where I live and there are a some rich people and some self-centered people but those don't always go hand-in-hand. Most folks I meet are kind and helpful. Nor is it exclusive to Califonians as you so well demonstrated by your remarks. So for you and others who are passing judgement on behalf of God and think we are going to burn, I will not be thinking of you while I eat my chili, play cards and count my piles of money.

omg god bless them

A big Bouquet goes to the Firemen & the men who fly those planes & helicopters.

#259 is right-!-
I have 7 years experience as a Firefighter E.M.T.
Those of us whom saw the job for what it was called it...
Grand Theft Paycheck!
They lived for the overtime pay in excess of $450.00 for the day and this was in the 1980's.
They had manipulative methods to keep the overtime hours from the paid-call Firefighters (volunteers) They complained constantly about petty creature comforts and were self rightouse, egomaniacal Demi-Gods.
Sorry but it's just a job to them and they DO NOT endanger themselves for others.
I heard many a firefighter say---"If It's me or them--?-- I choose them---

As a Fire Captain who was there in Carbon Canyon protecting homes during this horrific event, it truly hurts to hear some of the comments here directed at the firefighting profession. Thank you to those who stand behind us. On that terrible day, many of us put ourselves in front of that fire, protecting homes as if they were our own. As quite an ironic twist, my home WAS in the path of the flames, and as my wife and child waited to be evacuated, I stood my ground with my crew protecting homes one mile away from them, unable to get there. Luckily, my brothers and sisters were there and able to fend off the flames from my neighborhood.

To those who believe that firefighters are fake, overrated, overpaid, over-glorified and such.....I will simply say that I will pray for you. As a veteran of the fire department, I have seen the peaks and valleys of the fire service and its relationship with the community. The one constant that will always remain is our commitment to you, and each other. We are still the ones willing to run past fleeing citizens, toward the danger. We are still the ones holding the hand of dying patients, telling a parent their child did not survive , caring for the elderly, the less-fortunate and the ailing. Much of this we do while most people are snuggled in their beds, late at night in the security of your daily lives.

Despite the need for compensation in order to survive, most firefighters I know would perform these same duties for free. Yes, firefighters do make a decent living here in Orange County, but this is not the norm across the United States. I also don't know many other people willing or able, to provide the services we do to the community. Please know that we perform our duty with pride and dignity for the human race. Each person, regardless of their situation, is treated like a family member and shown respect. We do this because we are good people and we believe there is still good in the world.

I am saddened by the critics, but rest assured when they, themselves have an emergency, we will respond with honor, compassion and professionalism.

A So Cal Fire Captain

wow.

Are these areas in California so wonderful that people are willing to put up with the cost of living, fires, mud slides, & homeowners insurance prices? How many times do ya all have to go through all these crazy things before ya say I've had enough? How do ya replace all your pictures & other memories when ya lose them like this every year or two. Why would ya put your families in danger on a regular basis. What is so great about California that makes it worth all these risks? The rest of the country doesn't get it!!!!!

My son lives out there, and it is amazing how many fires have come so near to his home. His fence has been scorched. His truck has had melting in several areas, as well as terrible ash damage. Yet he and his property have been safe.
One time his whole neighborhood was the last one to be evacuated...then everything changed and once again they were safe.
Praise the Lord. Our son does NOT give credit to the Almighty...yet the fervent prayers of his parents and others...righteous men and women...have gone up and the Lord's safety and blessing have descended...again and again. Do YOU believe?Penny Williams

I live in Austin, Texas and the dummy that said all those things about firefighters not working, maybe he schould be made to work as afire fighter for 90 days and see what real work is, I admire all fire fighters for they put their lives on the line when they chose to be a firefighter.

God Bless all

IT IS VERY SAD TO HEARD THAT ALL THIS WAS PROVOQUED BY HUMAN HANDS........

wow

TO the guy that wrote comment 259,
im 15 and reading your message really pissed me off. my step dad is a firefighter and they really are heros, and they do die quite often, wen i was younger he broke his neck and we were lucky that he is still here with us and that same day he lost his best friend to the same fire that he broke his neck at. firefighters for what they do are great people and this might surprise you but they dont get paid very much there there are 6 of us kids, me being the oldest and he also has a daughter from a earlyier marriage and hes working to jobs and my mom works 2 jobs as well plus they have some of thier own businesses and we still have money problems. but i know alot of firefighters and they really are great people and they dont do it so they can be on tv or just cause they like fires its because they want to keep us safe. so next time you want to put someone down do all your research before hand. i hope you understand that they dont do it for the glory and they dont do it for the money cause lets face it they dont get paid much for what they do, they do it for you and the rest of the world.

I feel really bad about the fire alot of people got hurt and some were killed and all the houses are burned down and i bet a lot of familes are sad so my name is jasmine and i want to pray for you and i hope god blesses you very much i got this email from a friend of mine and i thought it was it was really really bad so i want to bless who evers family was in that fire i will pray for them my name is jasmine and i am 10 and god blessyou

I was looking at tha pictures my mother sent me and i feel so horribly bad about wut happened to ever i feel so bad i could cry which i am cring everyone who had died should be left alone in peace i bless all who were hurt or killed i bless all
Luv,
Micaela F. 10 years old

This was very sad. I am very sorry for the people who had to go through this.

those pictures were sick.. i hope to get out to cali in the spring to help stop those fires need some more training and then i will be out thwere trying my best to help... my brother ty and i tyler hope to be out there in the spring and hope to help and survive the whole way ..i envy those who have risked their lives already and i am sorry for those who lost everything....

Im sorry but #259 does have a point, I am a brother of a firefighter of over 25years as an L.A.F.D.. I have more stories than carter had liver pills way back when. Im just not sure he used the right words. When fire fighters work they work hard, and if you really want to be a F.F. you can, but you have to work hard to get it like any good job. They take pride in there work and the code of silence behind the doors. They might get away with more sh*t than others, there are some arrogant F.F., lets not talk about the L>A>P>D>which i also have stories about, the F.F. do some crazy sh*t and get away with it in deed. There job is cush at times, but they love what they do and they do it well. But you #259 may be a sh*t pumper and hate your job with no pride at all, now tell me have you ever had a beer at work, hit a doobe, screwed a chick in your truck or office, i think you get my drift, so listen ass h*le when your ready to harness up and stand next to my brother and i can trust you have his back without a question no matter what horrific cituation your in, shut the f*&k up get in your car, go buy a pie, go to your local fire station, invite your self to dinner, and get to know who will pull your ass out of a burning building or cut your sorry ass out of a car wreck and know what the f$#k they are doing to save your ass and their own so they too can go home and see their familes after a three day shift of burnt and bloody victims. They train hard to know how to respond, but maybe you havent seen the hard part of the job. Until you get to know them shut the f%*k up and let my brother and his F.F. brothers do their job without listening to crap like you have to say. My highst respect to all fire fighters around the globe.
And may god be with you,,,I got your back

For those who are so down on Firefighters then call someone else when you need help, having been a volunteer for 14 years and seeing first hand how selfless many men and women are in the line of duty it makes me sick that the people we strive to protect spit on the memory of those who gave their lives for them. GO BUY A LONG GARDEN HOSE AND DO IT YOURSELF!

It saddens me to read the low opinions that some have of firefighters. It is unfortunate that people belittle a group of people that are willing to do everything they can to save a life. However, regardless of your contempt, we will still be there for you and your family in your time of need, whether you believe in us or not.

i think that 259 you are the worst kind of person you dont realize the good that they do for you everyday firefighters are heros they put their lives on the line for us everyday and i respect what they do for us i have had many ppl i love and care abut dearly die because of fires.

I think how you guys reacted when the fire started was verry good.I think that next time theres a fire put more infromation.You firefighters really ROCKED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am only a teenager know, but I was in first grade when a fire in our San Benardino mountains went up in flames. My family and I evacuated, and went to a trailer park. Trust me, it was not fun!

Living in an area that is constantly under fire threat year after year, the last being in 2003 we live in a constant state of be "packed up" waitng for the next evacuation phone call. Believe me, this is no way to live but it is all we have and we love our community so much! As for the firefighter end of things, they are definitely heroes in my book. My son is one of them! Don't you think I don't panic when he is sent to ANY fire anywhere? He has been in most of those places you showed in those pictures. Hey #259 how would you like your son to be out there? I have never seen my son just sitting around polishing his car etc. THIS IS A JOB HE TAKES VERY SERIOUSLY1 OUR LIVES DEPEND ON IT, YOU FOOL! Kathie, California

"THIS IS A JOB HE TAKES VERY SERIOUSLY1 OUR LIVES DEPEND ON IT, YOU FOOL!", by Kathie, California

You life depends on many people from all professions, but you snub your nose at most of them and would stab them in the back if given the chance. Many people from all professions risk their lives in everyday jobs to keep you alive, yet none of them are ever labeled "heroes". Do I disrespect firefighters? No. But I'm not going to label them a hero for simply doing the job we pay them to do. More doctors have saved my life than firefighters ever have.

zD

All I have to say is #259.....W H A T ??????? Are you really that STUPID?

#855 Your almost as clueless as #259. Yes people may save your life. Doctors get paid a lot more money than fire fighters do and they don't always have to risk their lives in order save yours. You could give me all the money from a fire fighters yearly wage and I would probably watch your house burn and leave your family members in it. Fire Fighters are at work when you least expect them to be. The information they have provided over the years has saved many lives and homes simply by stating the obvious. Hey this coffee pot being left on caused another fire, hey people putting things too close to the heater caused a fire. Safety standards have been put in place by their feedback. They may have saved your life already.

Very nice site!

#259 - I wonder if you would have the courage to run into a burning building - knowing you may lose your life to save a strangers life. You sound like a very bitter individual. I hope that you are never in a situtation that requires a fire fighter to make the decision to put his or her life on the line to save you - do you think you deserve that kind of sacrifice?
#855 - Doctors save lives all the time - but not at the risk of their life. I say again...You sound like a very bitter individual. I hope that you are never in a situtation that requires a fire fighter to make the decision to put his or her life on the line to save you - do you think you deserve that kind of sacrifice?

update: my home survived intact in the oakridge park, this is day # 133 and i haven't moved back to it yet. you can't believe it? well it's true. if this is how long it takes to get people back to their lives after a major disaster then we are in big trouble. the federal state and local officials have closed the area and i can't even walk to my home, or i'll be arrested. i appreciate any comments on this as i am up to my ears in this crap, excuse me. it's great that everyone is so concerned at the moment it happens, then they forget some people who were affected are not
too happy to be locked out, when they could be repairing their homes for use.

THIS WAS A MAJOR DEVASTING CATASTROPHY

it is cool

it's now day #151 and there is still no return for residents of the park. that is 5 months including 2 months of FEMA action. many residents are fed up with this lock out . i am still wearing the same t shirt that i had on the night i left the park. all my clothes and personal items are not mine to use, the door is closed to the park.

hello everyone! i have read all your comments and i was wondering if someone couild email me this.world.is.ending@hotmail.com or add me on facebook chainie hamilton so i can get more information about what happened i am doing a project on this and begging for more information thank- you for nayone who could help me. chainie hamilton

# 259 is probably not a Californian, or he would have realized how vital firefighters are and they do get injured.sometimes they even die. my house would have been lost if not for the brave efforts of firefighters.

This is a great website... great explanations of every picture and showing extraordinary sites of wildfires and what they can do to us humans, but not just us. There are also animals and such with us and we need to find a way to protect them as well... But living in southern california and actually seeing the red sky over our cities and knowing that the fire is right behind those mountains is pretty scary and people don't panic, which is good, but others don't take this situation seriously and right when it hits them its nearly too late to get all your family members ready, or all their stuff and all the important things to them... If you see those red skies you need to know that it is time to start packing and get yourself ready and plan with your family when and how you are going to evacuate... Now don't evacuate until they tell you to because what if the fire doesn't even get to your home.... If you get lucky and don't have to evacuate, all you have to do is unpack... Anyways seeing all those firemen there, trying to help us, it is surprising what a fire can do... it destroyed million dollar homes and habitats and now we have to repair it... just try your best to do anything u want and you'll know as soon as you get there... :)

Very nice site!

#25 - amazing !!

wild fires are bad do not ever start a wildfire