r/Firefighting • u/Godslove777 • Jan 27 '25

Photos Whats this smoke tell you?

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Initial size up described conditions with “turbulent smoke”…

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u/FriskyFritos Jan 27 '25

As a normie who just saw this in my recommended can you explain what I’m seeing? I’m guessing color but I know nothing about fires lol

46

u/joeymittens PA-S, Firefighter, Paramedic Jan 27 '25

Yeah, dark brown color is commonly structural wood burning. Black smoke is indicative of synthetics and fuels burning (modern furniture, rubber, etc). White smoke is seen when water is put on the fire, or you’re dealing with a potentially hazardous chemical.

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u/FriskyFritos Jan 27 '25

Super interesting, thanks! Stay safe friend! 🤘

8

u/joeymittens PA-S, Firefighter, Paramedic Jan 27 '25

Thanks, I’m not firefighting anymore. Did it for 10 years. I made a career change last summer

1

u/fioreman Jan 28 '25

To EMS or something unrelated?

3

u/joeymittens PA-S, Firefighter, Paramedic Jan 28 '25

Physician Assistant

1

u/fioreman Jan 28 '25

Nice! I assumed it was that or nursing.

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u/joeymittens PA-S, Firefighter, Paramedic Jan 28 '25

That's funny lol, why'd you assume that? Out of curiousity

2

u/fioreman Jan 29 '25

I've seen paramedics become PA's before, and it seems like a natural fit after already having a background in medicine.