I worked the 4th also. Battalion Chief in the south end of Seattle. Was a pretty normal day until around 9 pm. I was out of quarters on a brush fire with two engines when I heard a short report from an engine company responding to a house fire. It was from a fairly seasoned Captain and it went something like this " We are in the area, Downtown Bagdad, Explosions, Fire, Smoke and we are no where near the location of the house fire. Taking friendly fire, send PD.

The house fire was contained to the building of origin. Fortunately no one was injured. I often wonder why people ask why do we ban fireworks. I just shake my head and say we have to protect the innocent ones.

I think I'll take the next 4th of July off.