If you hadn’t figured it out, I live in the gorgeous state of Utah. It is home to some of the most beautiful land in the world. Expand that out a bit, and Utah is one of the “Four-Corner” states. Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona are the only four US states that actually meet. And there is no prettier area.
Except right now. All four states seem to be under a permanent cloud of smoke. None more devastating than the Waldo Canyon Fire in Colorado, which has burned hundreds of homes. Firefighters here in Utah are trying to control 8 separate fires, and it is so dry, windy, and hot, more fires could pop up anytime, including in the dry brush surrounding my hillside home. It has made for a nerve-racking week, and you can rest assured we won’t be celebrating July 4th with fireworks around here.
I saw this fire start and go from a small plume of smoke to ravaging in about five minutes. That was Wednesday. It is 15% contained today:
This barren land used to full of beautiful ranches and tree-laden hillsides:
And this is from the front of my home. Note the brown haze from behind one of the distant hills:
My job has taken me by several of these Utah fires, and I have seen the firefighters and their equipment in action.
So, as a tribute, today’s Model of the Day post will feature my favorite Matchbox fire and emergency trucks. Yes, I know the posting pics doesn’t help fight the fires, but I do have a newfound appreciation for the men and equipment that can get up so close and fight these monsters. I just hope they don’t have to do it from my driveway.
Pierce Dash Fire Truck (Pasadena CA FD):
Hazard Squad (Gunnison CO Hazmat):
Ford F-550 Superduty Fire Truck (Forest Service):
Classic Seagrave Fire Engine:
And my two favorites:
Ford F-350 Super Duty Superlift Brush Fire Truck (SEMA exclusive):
International Workstar Brush Fire Truck (National Parks):
A fitting tribute. Some of my favorite models, too. I have good friends out in Price; planning to visit them on my way back from Albuquerque this year same as last year. Haven't talked to them yet, but think they're okay since they live in town. Hope things start cooling down soon and no fires get closer to you than what you've shown. As a former wildland firefighter and Engine Captain, I know these folks are doing their level best to protect lives and property. Send good thoughts out there for all the firefighters and all the folks who have lost their homes.
Bestaluck that side! I grew up in a town surrounded by Pine tree forests myself, so I know how devastating a fire could be. I can offer my Corgi Fire Bug to come and help!http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j315/DeadCanDanceR/ModelosJCK/Corgi/Corgi%20911/06-4.jpg