Portland firefighters stay busy during Christmas out of 'desire to help other people'

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — T'was a quiet Christmas in the Rose City — for most at home. But for firefighters and first responders, they were in the zone.

For the second year in a row, KOIN 6 News Reporter Joelle Jones went on a ride along with Portland Fire and Rescue to get a look at how they are celebrating the holiday.

From a fire in North Portland to a medical emergency near Mt. Tabor, calls poured in for emergency responders.

While Wednesday marks a holiday for so many, it's just another workday for the more than 170 Portland Fire and Rescue members on duty — a sacrifice they say is worth it to keep people safe.

"While you're doing these tasks on a traditional holiday, where many are home relaxing, we get to go respond and make a difference when needed. So it's pretty cool, right?" said Rick Graves, a Portland Fire and Rescue spokesperson.

At Fire Station 2, recruits fresh from the academy have training to do.

With packs on their backs, a rig as fast and red as St. Nick's, a radio blasted — springing crews into action.

With a hose in hand, they headed out quick, dowsing a car fire in minutes. Showing off skills, the team took the day away from kids and parents to tackle the drills.

"You kind of adjust over holidays, and you just maybe celebrate them at times that others don't, because the career you've selected never shuts down. 24/7 365, Portland Fire, we're ready for you," Graves said.

That call to serve motivates Station 19, the busiest in the city. With no vacations taken, members celebrate early before a two-day shift — but don't want any pity.

"I've always had a deep desire to help other people," said Cody Finnegan, an EMT and firefighter with PF&R. "We're really close here. So, if I can't be with my immediate family, this is the next best thing."

"We just all know that's part of the job," added Dominic Frederickson, a lieutenant with PF&R. "My wife is also in the emergency field, she's a nurse over at Kaiser. So my family is kind of used to it. My kids don't know any different." 

Despite the time away from home, the stations were full of laughter and cheer.

A bond fused in flames, built in keeping Portland safe. They celebrate what they've built with the family right here.

"The times you picked up somebody inside a structure and brought them out, you remember the time that the person you were giving chest compressions to returns to the station to thank you? It is pretty wild." said Graves.

So again, remember when you're nuzzled with loved ones by the tree snug and sound, the sacrifices firefighters make to keep you safe year-round.