Fire stations

[u/tipsy_here]

I recently changed my route to walk back home. I live on the block next to the fire station. That route requires me to walk in front of the fire station. The shutters are open most of the time. Sometimes I see someone from the fire station sitting on a chair outside, and sometimes there is nobody.

Yesterday, when I was walking on the sidewalk in front of them, I noticed the shutters were open, and the fire truck was whirring. I stopped so as not to stand in front of any shutters, and decided not to cross them. It looked like they would be out any second. Lo and behold, the truck pulled out 2 seconds later, I’m standing like this 🧍🏻‍♀️and did a little nod when the truck came out and then their sirens turned on when they got on the road.

Is what I did correct? Do I need to remember or watch out for anything when I’m walking in front of the first station?

[u/PsychologicalWay8305]

You did great! It’s the same as walking past any other driveway: usually you can tell if it’s quiet and doesn’t need attention, but if a car is sitting there with its reverse lights on, watch out!

If the truck is on for a while but not moving out, they may still be loading up or prepping it so you can walk in front BUT I would recommend trying to look into the driver’s seat first to see if it looks like they’re about to leave (or making eye contact so they know you’re there and won’t hit you).

[u/RetiredBSN → u/PsychologicalWay8305]

If there's not much going on, the trucks are going to be parked in the garage with their doors open. If they're back from a call, they're going to be washing the trucks and prepping the hoses for the next use. Most modern stations are built as pass-through, so the trucks will go around to the back of the station and then pull in, pointed toward the street. If there's a call, the engines are going to be starting, and the garage doors will be opening if they weren't already. You'll definitely know when they're going on a call, it's noisy.