Crossposted from the DES Express

Airport travelers rarely see them, but a specialized team of firefighter-deputies stands ready every day for the worst-case scenario: an aircraft emergency. The crew also responds to structure, vehicle and dumpster fires on and around airport property. Call volume is much lower than in a typical fire district, but the stakes are high.

Most emergencies are medical. About 70% of calls involve passengers, airport staff or contractors needing medical help, according to Clint Herman, a sergeant in the Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting unit (ARFF) of the King County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO), based at King County International Airport-Boeing Field. Calls can also shift into problem-solving and customer service, such as helping with disabled aircraft that blocks a runway.

The sergeant said the most rewarding part of his job is the human side. Read more.