FDNY

For one night only I got to know what it feels like in a firefighter's uniform! My roommate James works at Squad 18 in the West Village so his girlfriend and I decided to stop by.

Just as I finished trying on the uniform the sirens started and they had to suit up themselves and leave (all within the space of a minute!). I didn't realize how heavy the outfit is. It's the equivalent of carrying my own body weight. I could hardly move while wearing the suit let alone carry someone up or down a flight of stairs! True heroes these firefighters really are...

Little do you notice how much my back is aching in the shot!
Me with James's girlfriend, Nicole.
James waiting for the truck to pull out...
Nicole (with James in the background sitting above the number 18 -- 'cos he's the "roof guy" this evening and that's where they sit.)