The Fighting of Fire
James L. Manniso
The startling ring of the fire bell
Sends firefighters rushing down pole and stairwell.
The doors spring open and out they go;
The night is alive with the engine's glow.
The siren screams, the bell is stirred.
The roar of the powerful engine is heard.
Down the street they travel fast
Stirring excitement as they pass.
From a distance there can be seen
A glow in the sky with a reddish gleam.
Drawing near to the brilliant light,
The night becomes day - it's a frightening sight.
All make ready for what must be done.
There's a battle to fight and it must be won.
With screeching brakes and shouting men,
The fighting of fire will soon begin.
Chief car, engines, ladder trucks, too,
Spring into action from every view.
Up go the ladders, the hose lines are laid.
All preparations are quickly made.
Firefighters with water line, axe, and steel bar
Go into the smoke and stifling fire.
There's coughing and shouting, the deluge of water,
The breaking of glass, the crumbling of mortar.
The flames, the smoke, the crackling fire,
Puff and hiss from the steaming pyre.
Rescues are made, people are helped,
Their expressions show the fear that is felt.
After some time the flames subside -
The path of the battle has changed its tide,
Grimy-faced firefighters wet down the debris.
The smoke has cleared and their breathing is free.
The battle won, the victors depart,
Only to wait for the next fire to start.
© 2000 James L. Manniso
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