Was working at our slowest station just recently built in a newly annexed part of our city. There was several developments almost complete, but a large majority of our protection district was still semi "rural" compared to other parts. We were down a man due to a call out and running a 2 man engine. Just the driver and myself riding the "seat" as the officer in charge and the firefighter. We had just finished dinner, and we were trying to find a site with a free stream of the movie "fury" since it had just come out. Tones dropped for a house fire in our first due with 3 children trapped. I've been around for a little while, but it's hard to keep a level head when you here those words. To make things were the 2nd in crew was working a wreck on the interstate and we were going to be by ourselves for longer than expected. So... As we're enroute we are informed that the sheriffs department was on scene with heavy fire through the roof. I can't even explain that feeling. Your hearts going 1000 mph, your hands are shaking and all you're trying to do is calm yourself down so you can focus and do your job. I've never been so fucking scared in my entire life.

Fortunately we round the bend and see the blue lights, I remember thinking to myself it was odd. I could smell the fire, but the smoke was minimal and there was no glow. Kind of a what the fuck moment. Once we get our engine placed and I get a good look at the house, fire is most definitely coming out of the roof, except it's coming out of the FUCKING CHIMNEY. There's a parade of kids in the neighbors yard, that probably wanted nothing else but to see the fire truck. Granted, a chimney fire can be bad, but 9/10 times its a pretty easy fix.

I will always remember that night. I didn't know my stomach could sink that deep into the abyss.