For years I was a fire apparatus nerd. I collected photos and specs; I knew all sorts of minute details. Over time the drive to shoot and collect has waned, but I can still identify most of the classic makes and models from a block away.
Today I look at fire engines differently when I visit places. The composition and condition of a fleet tells me interesting things about a department. The number and type of apparatus signifies a lot about the response conditions they face; the age tells a lot about the support they get from their community; and the condition tells me things about their pride and morale.
On day one of my Adirondack trip the Otter Lake Fire Department hosted us for lunch. I enjoyed nosing around their fleet. While a bit on the older side their 1 engine, 2 tankers, mini-pumper and rescue were well maintained and housed in a clean, modern station. They seemed to be a well-organized and proud rural department. Rock on, guys.
Camera: Leica M3
Lens: 50mm Summilux
Film: Ilford HP5+
Developed and scanned at home.
Notes from Mosquito Hill 