New appreciation for police, fire departments

Published 12:45 am Friday, October 3, 2008

Tuesday [July] 16th, when that tanker caught fire on the highway in the middle of Issaquah, it happened right in front of me, there in our mini van with all three of my children. I was too close for comfort and seriously glad that I had slowed down and stopped in the middle of the highway when I did. That fire grew so fast, and the flames spread across all lanes. The black smoke was immense.

I tried to remain calm for the kids, telling them not to panic, but to pray. It was terrifying to be there watching that fire spread, and I found myself praying for firemen and policemen, praying to hear any sirens in the distance to tell me someone was on the way to help, to direct us, to get in there and take control.

I can’t put into words the relief I felt when at last the fire engines screamed past, and the troopers rolled in. It was so comforting to have the policeman come and ask how we were doing. Someone cared. After watching this fire blaze up close for what seemed like 40 minutes or more, we were directed to back up and get home. I have never seen so many cars on the highway. Traffic was stopped both ways and the cars were lined up for miles.

Since Sept. 11, I decided that I would never think another thing about seeing firemen washing cars a lot, or feel like the police were prowling around just waiting to ticket me. I have no idea what they do, nor can I comprehend the dangers of their job. What I do know is that they are only a phone call away, and that means a lot to me. They put their lives on the line for me and my family. Since Sept. 11, I stand up and clap when the fire engines and police go by in parades and festivals, this act is no longer reserved for the military or the veterans.

I was reminded again on Tuesday while watching that blaze, praying and scared and hoping for the emergency people to come, that we need the fire and police departments and have come to rely on them. Thank you to every fireman and woman, and to every policeman and woman, from the bottom of my heart. My family will learn to give respect and honor to those who risk their lives to help others.

It is the greatest calling we could answer, to help one another and lay our lives down for a stranger.

Sue Crabb

Snoqualmie

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