Any "9-1-1" call begins an emergency response.

But the real response begins years before that telephone call. In public safety, we practice making safe, effective responses to the sudden calls for "help!" that we receive. We train on a regular basis.

Harris County firefighters are working together so well. All of us are volunteers. We represent both municipal and privately incorporated agencies. We train together, using our brains and bodies to develop teamwork and personal relationships with our neighbors. We do it without salary. I'm grateful to be part of such a community-minded group. All our citizens are better served when neighboring FDs pool their resources and their great hearts for service.

Working together is a powerful thing, even in training times! On 8 Nov, we brought eight (8) fire departments to one place in Pine Mountain for another practical, congenial, and safe interior fire fighting training event.

I counted between 35 and 40 interior extinguishments as you all took turns on the nozzle thanks to the good guidance of Thomas Scott. I was very impressed by the concentration and discipline of fire fighters and team leaders in the hands of a good teacher.

There is so much more thanks to give to:

1. Mike McMillan (generous property owner)
2. Pine Mountain FD (house preparation/air)
3. Big Daddy & Pine Mountain Valley FD (fine lunch/rehab)
4. Engineers from Pine Mountain FD and Waverly Hall FD (100% water)
5. Northwest Harris FD and Pine Mountain Valley FD (water shuttles)
6. Brave Nozzleheads & Hosedraggers from ALL Depts. (It was real fire!)
7. HC EMS (paramedics on site)
8. Bonus Apparatus (Hopewell FD, Ellerslie FD)
9. Everyone (great attitudes/behaviors)

It's a pleasure working safely with you all,

Wayne Hollaway