HERRIMAN (ABC 4 News) - When it comes to the life of a firefighter, there is no "typical day." These brave men and women have to be ready for anything and everything and at every minute of the day.
For the past few weeks, thousands of firefighters have been putting their lives on the line to protect us and our homes all over the state. And with fire season just starting, the battle for firefighters has only begun.
"A lot of hard work and a lack of sleep," said Matthew Armantrout of the U.S. Forest Service when asked about the life of a firefighter.
They put in 16 hour days, with some wearing up to 70 pounds of gear, just to make sure we are out of harms way.
"They do enjoy what they do and they want to help," said Armantrout. "That's what really motivates them to keep pushing forward."
Our safety is their main concern. But let's not forget about their safety. Fire season is off to an early start in Utah and these long, extremely hot days will continue for the next few months.
"By the end of July a lot of these firefighters will be extremely fatigued," Armantrout added.
"We have to tell them it's OK to sit down," said West Valley City Fire Marshal, Bob Fitzgerald. "We tell them to go grab a water, sit down and rehydrate."
Our of the 498 homes evacuated for the Rose Crest Fire, four were lost. Without the heroic efforts of the men and women battling the fires, more homes would've been taken by the flames.
"We've been sitting over at Herriman High School, talking about how grateful we are for what they've done," said Larry Madsen, whose house survived the Rose Crest Fire.
"As I'm going down the hill through the flames...the firefighters are coming up the hill," said Tony Brady who had to evacuate because of the Rose Crest Fire. "If that isn't a hero I don't know what is."
Firefighters are a humble group. To you and me they're heroes. However, to them...
"We're just doing our job and we just do the best we can." said Armantrout.
