Trending Topics

N.C. FD takes to social media for firehouse decoration contest

“We had no idea how many Griswolds worked for the Raleigh Fire Department,” the union president said describing the response by firefighters

RALEIGH, N.C. — Fire stations throughout Raleigh are competing for the prestigious title of the Capital City’s best-decorated firehouse.

Using their own funds, firefighters have begun stringing lights and hanging wreaths to bring the festive spirit to life, WTVD reported.

“I’m not sure there’s a breed out there more competitive than firefighters,” Raleigh Professional Firefighters Association President Andy Davi said. “We had no idea how many Griswolds worked for the Raleigh Fire Department, but quite a few came out of the woodwork.”

Davis mentioned that, given the many tragedies firefighters often face, this holiday decoration competition serves as a much-needed distraction and provides a significant boost to morale.

“We spend a third of our lives away from our families. So, you know, decorating for Christmas, sometimes we miss out on that at home. A lot of times we’ve missed Christmases at home,” Davis said. “We miss the family get-togethers. So, having this type of celebration here at work really means a lot to the guys and girls.”

Some stations added QR codes to guide passersby to the online competition, aiming to boost their votes.

Trending
Goldfeder, Bashoor, Moore-Merrell, Leeb and other U.S. fire service leaders urge reaching out to elected officials about the importance of National Fire Academy programs
Caffeine, supplements, cravings – our nutritionists break down their top tips
Two firefighters were injured and two structures damaged during the latest of several fires on Long Island
Captain Vernon Collett’s death is the first line-of-duty death during a fire that the Johnson County Fire Protection District has experienced

Bill Carey is the associate editor for FireRescue1.com and EMS1.com. A former Maryland volunteer firefighter, sergeant, and lieutenant, Bill has written for several fire service publications and platforms. His work on firefighter behavioral health garnered a 2014 Neal Award nomination. His ongoing research and writings about line-of-duty death data is frequently cited in articles, presentations, and trainings. Have a news tip? He can be reached at news@lexipol.com.