Cynematik • Cyndi Greening

Alec and I were on our way to Starbucks when we heard the sound of sirens and smelled acrid smoke. An apartment building at the end of the block was on fire. We watched as firetrucks seemed to materialize around the building in a matter of seconds. The elderly couple in the apartment of origin (see frame 4) were whisked out of the building and into a waiting ambulance.

Meanwhile, the sound of shattering glass as the firefighters in the apartment on the 6th or 7th floor gave the fire an escape route. The water cannon pummeled the fire through the opening. The ladder was lowered into place should other victims be found.

I’ve written about Alec’s fifth-floor walk-up. The street you’re looking at is his street. Had the fire gotten out of control and started consuming buildings, his home might have been one of the homes consumed. Having spent time in a New York apartment, I have a whole new respect for NYC firefighters. The compression of humanity into endless rows of towers makes every second count. I was amazed at how quickly and efficiently the contained the fire. It was awe-inspiring.

I thought of the firefighters in the twin towers and realize what they were trying to do and what they were trying to prevent. They’re amazing fellows.