The alarm blared at the Dong District Fire Station in Dongguang City...
“Level-three fire alarm, level-three fire alarm. A fire has broken out on the 36th floor of the World Trade Building. Casualties have been confirmed. Dong District Fire Station, dispatch personnel to the scene immediately.”
Zhang Cheng’s heart tightened at the alarm. He quickly put on his turnout gear and ran with several fellow firefighters toward the fire engine.
“Hey, Brother Zhang, the World Trade Building’s on fire. Why is it only a level-three alarm?”
“Who knows? Just do the job. Don’t overthink it.”
Several fire engines roared through one street after another before finally reaching the World Trade Building.
“Damn, the entire 36th floor is on fire! Raise the alarm to level seven. Get the mobile command vehicle here, and call in the West District and Forest District fire stations. Get ready for rescue operations!”
Zhang Cheng hoisted a fire hose and quickly connected it to the foam truck. Suddenly, a deafening blast came from the building: the 36th floor had exploded.
“Teams One and Three, keep the fire down with water! Team Two, come with me to rescue people!” Zhang Cheng had no time to think. He strapped on an oxygen tank and led his team toward the 36th floor.
“Brother Zhang, the fire’s too intense! The stairs above the 35th floor are completely blocked!”
Zhang Cheng barely heard him. He connected another bundle of fire hose to the hydrant in the stairwell, but there was no water.
“Damn it, why is there no water? This is a fire hydrant! It’s supposed to save lives!” Zhang Cheng tried several more hydrants in succession, but they were all the same: no water...
The fire had already spread to the 35th floor, so Zhang Cheng had no choice but to lead his team back down. Suddenly, another deafening blast shook the building: a second explosion...
All they heard was the shattering of glass, followed by the dull thud of something heavy hitting the ground.
“Brother Zhang!…”
The more I look at it, the more uncomfortable I feel