Colorado Department of Transportation Emergency Response

Join me on a journey to Glenwood Canyon where I spent time with Colorado Department of Transportation's Deputy Director of Operations and the personnel who respond to emergencies in and around Hanging Lake Tunnel. Approximately 20,000 vehicles travel through the 17-mile stretch of Interstate 70 each day. Some of those vehicles may experience problems ranging from flat tires, overheating, traffic collisions and fires. CDOT's personnel are ready to respond to these all-hazard situations with a variety of response apparatus, including 2 fire engines.
I also got a behind the scenes tour of the 4-story control and infrastructure facility inside the mountain!

[@mkopin]

I have a feeling like this guy would be able to give the tour blindfolded. He is clearly intimately familiar with exactly what goes where.

[@AHomelessDorito]

Never knew CDOT did all this! Cool to see how the different tunnel crews adapt to their environment!

[@highplainslivingtv6835]

This firefighter giving the tour is top notch

[@22LR.addict]

Eric you have so much potential with this channel! There are plenty of response channels and folks doing walk-arounds of an apparatus, but very few if any getting this kind of in-depth behind the scenes content! Would love to see you do some with Miami-Dade or LAFD Heavy Rescue rotator trucks! Also, these guys seem to be on the ball and squared away pretty well!

[@211Gus]

I've only seen one rotater video and that was with LACoFD. It was a very bare bones walk around

[@22LR.addict]

@211Gus I believe I have seen that one as well. Would really like to know more as to when they are called out, how they are normally used, is it full time or as needed staffed, how many runs do they make, etc

[@WorkingFirePIO]

Thank you so much! I’m excited to see what unique and busy places I’ll be allowed to ride along and video!

[@jacobwright70]

@@WorkingFirePIOcome to pg county Maryland, bladensburg would love to have you.

[@WorkingFirePIO]

@@jacobwright70 Funny you mention that. I’ve been planning on contacting a few PG County volunteer departments to see if they’d allow me to ride and video, and 9 is on my list!

[@Magnetic_Spaceman]

Never worried much about driving through the tunnels, but I feel much better about it after seeing all the safety infrastructure hidden in the mountain. Absolutely fascinating!

[@johncozad7834]

I remember the canyon before all of the highway was finished. All the times I have driven through there never realized there was a fire house and a garage door. Very cool. Thanks for the video!

[@Tundralifted]

If there is any C DOT employees reading this your job is so awesome, Eric this was so eye opening for me that you did a video like this. Keep the awesome videos coming. 😊

[@joshuaknight311]

What c dot

[@jeffreykornspan9053]

great Video. Love all the mechanical equipment. A retired 45 year commercial Electrician.

[@slcpd6469]

Driving through the tunnel once, I was behind the mini pumper as it pulled in. I was surprised to see a Pierce sitting in the garage and have been looking for info on this ever since. I'm glad you were able to tour both stations. Are the CDOT employees certified FFs and paid as such?

[@WorkingFirePIO]

They’re trained in firefighting and hazmat but it’s only a fraction of their job. While I don’t know their pay scale, I don’t think it would be comparable to local career fire districts.

[@FernandoFlores-xi3mh]

​@@WorkingFirePIO they don't have EMS? What else are they responsible for?

[@WorkingFirePIO]

@@FernandoFlores-xi3mh EMS is provided by Eagle County Paramedics or Glenwood Springs Fire Rescue. CDOT is primarily responsible for mitigating hazards on Interstate 70.

[@thehaguefortnite_163]

Wow talking about "making an entrance". Love the last two video's Eric, nice to see these "tunnel" fire departments. Regards from 🇳🇱

[@WorkingFirePIO]

Thank you!

[@geminibear4985]

Great content so far! Enjoyed hearing about the little known fire depts. At Eisenhower/Johnson tunnel and Glenwood canyon. I would love to see other departments that are obscure like Suncor refinery, DIA ARFF, Buckley SFS, NORAD(unlikely)Air Force Academy, Ft Carson, TTCI (test track Pueblo) if you are taking requests. Also would love to see departments that have resident programs and how those work. Thanks for the good content so far.

[@WorkingFirePIO]

Thanks for all the great suggestions!

[@PMichaels]

Wow! Outstanding video! What a fascinating look into a world of firefighting I didn’t even know existed. Thanks so much for making this and sharing it. I love this channel!

[@WorkingFirePIO]

Thanks for watching!

[@highplainslivingtv6835]

Proud of CDOT - this stretch is the most rigorous portion of the entire interstate system. Thanks for the good videos.

[@joecody195]

Most interesting two video's I have seen on KZbin this one and the Eisenhower tunnel, thanks...

[@WorkingFirePIO]

Very cool, glad you enjoy them!

[@firefighterfan2010]

Love this video and how the Pierce Saber fire apparatus is orange.

[@samharrison5493]

Amazing video Eric, Love your content Keep it up!

[@WorkingFirePIO]

Thank you so much!

[@whuffer5103]

That state could spring for a better lighting package on that pumper. True guardians of mankind

[@Bse140]

I agree ! Those old rotators especially for high density traffic conditions is useless .

[@bethintexas9678]

Wow! That is awesome that they have the station complex entirely inside the mountain! Bless all those who keep the rest of us safe in accidents and disasters.

[@lorenanderson1]

Eric, Thank you for making these videos! I've always been curious about the behind the scenes of these tunnels but never was able to find a good video on them before. Can't wait for the next one!

[@WorkingFirePIO]

I felt the same way for years and years driving by and catching a glimpse of the rigs. Thanks for watching!

[@jeffpatch5]

Another awesome video Eric, I never knew that there was a FD in the Glenwood tunnels!! Pretty cool....

[@n150cz9]

The elite fire rescue team of Colorado!

[@Bobbyd0052]

THATS INSANE ! GREAT JOB BROTHER ERIC ! "DIGG ITT " ! 🇺🇲

[@WorkingFirePIO]

Thank you!

[@PowderMill]

Thanks Eric! I first joined my volunteer FD / rescue squad when I was 18, back in the late 1970”s. I was in one the third EMT course run in the (sadly… mostly leftie blue) state of New Jersey. & After binge-watching your video collection, I’ve come to the realization that more has changed in the past … I’m convinced that the Fire Service, EMS - BLS + ALS, Rescue, HazMat fields have advanced more in the past 40-50 years than in all of the previous history. Life safety, communications, mandated sprinklers and fire detection systems, 911 implementation, etc… have all improved far more than I could have ever imagined. Thanks again for giving us a peek inside this unique place, people and equipment. Your videos are fantastic! Not too long and not too short. 40-90 min is perfect! Btw - Great look inside the comm unit in Wichita. That was the most knowledgeable presentation and I stole a few ideas . 👍🏻😊

[@kBasarab]

Everything about this was so interesting and edited. So much better than the 10 second clips you tend to see about these types of operations. Love this content. Great job Eric.

[@airsearch1]

I'm really glad that you did these videos on the tunnels. Over the years that I drove semis, I've been through those tunnels so many times I can't count and never knew these things about the tunnels. LOVE your channel.

[@ricecakeFTW]

This is has to be the most unique tours you've done yet! Absolutely fascinating!

[@Winos_Seattle]

Great video, Eric! I don't think I've ever seen any of this type of content with firefighting. Between this one and the isenhower tunnel, it's been a real eye opener. This type of specialized FF/EMS content needs to be shown. Denver Intl. Airport units, a subway or mass transit, and what about high altitude sky lodges. I'm sure they all have unique departments and operations. Keep creating content. Thanks!

[@Winos_Seattle]

That's "ski" lodges.

[@WorkingFirePIO]

Thank you! And, I appreciate your suggestions!

[@krisheitmeyer7827]

Eric, awesome video! Really enjoying the channel! The videos have been top notch.

[@thunderbear0]

This whole infrastructure is amazing! When we are passing through tunnels we don't realize how massive these things are and how much things happening just to keep the tunnels operational Really impressed with the whole system

[@Phorhesa]

That was a good tour of the Facilities. Thanks.

[@dwaynecarroll6098]

Incredible! You really get to appreciate the very different environments and risks that FF’s work in and with. Also interesting to see the level of customization applied to the apparatus for different needs.

[@PCBill0622]

Fascinating stuff-thanks for posting!

[@cmcer1995]

I am impressed with this review, which was excellent. I have had several family members that have worked for CDOT for decades, and many retired and I never knew anything about CDOT's firefighting capabilities for the tunnels. CDOT seems to really have it figured out how to handle fires in tunnels. Then Swift Water Rescue equipment too. Great response procedures laid out too. The last few minutes of this video just blew my socks off, absolutely amazing what's inside the mountain, like a NORAD. Great video Eric. I thought you did well as being a PIO for SMFR, but this is fascinating, and I subscribed. Colorado DOT rocks!

[@BigDuke-md8ec]

Awesome video … very interesting look at a operation not many people see or even know exists. Great job - keep them coming

[@WorkingFirePIO]

Thank you!

[@thomasfriedmann8522]

Very nice. Glad to see that there is quality backside support.

[@Playsfor1]

Such an interesting aspect of the firefights industry. Very cool!

[@farmer8201]

Amazing how much I would take for granted just driving through that tunnel

[@shaneharpole3181]

That was an awesome experience! Thanks for the video! Very cool!

[@WorkingFirePIO]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@nathanielcooper3054]

Very cool video, keep up the amazing work!

[@2AToday]

Coolest video yet! Just outstanding, and so interesting.

[@WorkingFirePIO]

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it.

[@user-sb4ev1jf8g]

Very nice. Glad to see that there is quality backside support.. Wonderfull content. Keep it up!.

[@WorkingFirePIO]

Thank you!

[@wmspins]

when i clicked on this one i honestly thought it was going to be pretty boring (no offense). this was one of the most fascinating things I’ve seen in a long time. just goes to show you how much happens without anyone knowing. thanks for all you do!

[@willlock3644]

Love these videos!!!

[@jaredspear8140]

Very cool My wife has family In Glenwood Springs and Carbondale. Been through there many times and never knew all of that existed. Thanks for the cideo

[@WorkingFirePIO]

Truly a hidden gem. Thanks for watching!

[@brian7327]

That was very educational thank you

[@PierceFan]

Wow great videos man! I learn so much!

[@robertbissonnette4411]

Wow Colorado is amazing

[@everydayvideos604]

That video of the giant mud slide reminds me of BCs storm of 2021 along Highway 5

[@patspencer5649]

Wonderfull content. Keep it up!

[@shawnramsey8264]

Great video

[@RandysFiftySevenChevy]

Thats cool to see after traveling through those tunnels and wondering about that area of the tunnels. Its not like you can stop and visit. Im starting to ride along with my son. LAcoFD 167 and I'll tell ya what. The way these guys dodge in and out of traffic with those squads and engines just to get to the emergency is something else..On my last ride-along even I was yelling at drivers to move, some just freeze with not a clue on what to do when they see red lights flashing, sirens and horns blaring. Great job on this. Earned my sub.

[@LucasL512]

When I visited the USA and Denver (and a few SMFR stations) I drove to Salt Lake City through Wyoming, thinking just driving on the interstate would be boring. I see now that this was a missed chance :(

[@skippya1234]

That tunnel is definitely crazy. Love working with HLT crew when I’m doing traffic control though the canyon.

[@911_FROST]

I never really knew that dot could have a fire department or rescue Team

[@1000iller]

I used to ride on an engine exactly like that. We’d bungee open the rear doors. It was the coolest.

[@rusbelbautista7833]

You should visit the Milwaukee fire department in Milwaukee. Love your video content. 🙏🏻

[@zackarledge903]

polite colorado man casually shows eric the backrooms like its no big deal.

[@kevinborth2520]

that was very cool

[@CO.Boynton]

So cool

[@nicholasmakepeace8748]

I love your video ❤❤❤❤😊

[@EnjoyFirefighting]

11:50 like in the other video I'm surprised that they just loosely put their tools at the bottom of the drawer ... 14:13 so their apparatus aren't specifically equipped to be operated inside the tunnels? In terms of having a pressurized cab? Wow would have never thought that. If the cab was pressurized they wouldn't have to wear full gear right away But another very interesting video, thank you :)

[@RealNickTheCoolest]

Haven't seen a pierce with rear facing doors yet, pretty cool.

[@WorkingFirePIO]

I think it was an option on the Dash from 1992-1996. Surprisingly comfortable ride, but would probably be a back ache over time crouching in and out with a pack on.

[@ellafields9424]

Love the comment- its your side 🤣 Super great video. I never had a clue all that existed.

[@notobeanassbut]

Can’t wait to see where you go next!

[@markbickelhaupt4414]

Eric, Another great video! I just noticed that the Pierces are different years & cab types! No push/pull tow truck with fire fighting capacity? Just a rollback! Did you ask why? And why are the minis at both tunnel systems white & the Pierces orange? Thanks for the video ride along? Great work!!!

[@WorkingFirePIO]

Thank you! The Hanging Lake Pierce is a 1992, purchased in the same year the tunnel was completed. They also have a tow truck but it’s housed in a separate garage down the road. My understanding is they keep the most frequently used vehicles in the tunnel garage and can swap them out as needed. Although I didn’t ask about the color difference, I’m assuming the newer white vehicles were cheaper without orange paint. White seems to be the new CDOT trend for their smaller vehicles.

[@Pops_607]

How many calls do they respond to? Great video….

[@edsmetaldetecting31]

Wow truly amazing!! On the mini pumper the roll up doors need some wd40.

[@FFSkippy]

Pretty cool. Surprised they don't carry a combi tool for extrication.

[@ForestFox167]

"Here is our supply line, we actually use it to supply the truck with water, we don't use it to fight fires." That's literally why it's called a supply line.

[@EricWhiteTheGamer]

Question, would they respond to brush fires that happens in there area if any? I know there primary focus is tunnels though it seems like if there was a fire the road would be closed.

[@WorkingFirePIO]

Yes, they provide initial response to the 17-mile stretch of Interstate 70 through Glenwood Canyon. If they can suppress a wildland fire from the roadway they will, but they’re not equipped for progressive hose lays or hand-tool anchor, flank and pinch.

[@codygibson6236]

Please do mineral county fire protection district. In creede Colorado

[@bigmountain7561]

Happiness is First Out, Hanging Off the Back with My Hand on The Buzzer. Oops I just showed my age!!!

[@danieljames608]

You should do a video of them going on a call

[@WorkingFirePIO]

I would love to! Unfortunately my time there was limited.

[@davidgerecht9035]

Legit didn’t show anything of you all pulling in to the garage…. Just showed the guy.

[@WorkingFirePIO]

Unfortunately my second camera which was pointed forward stopped recording when we got into the tunnel. I didn’t realize that happened until I downloaded my memory cards.

[@MissZXC16]

​@@WorkingFirePIOI'm impressed you had two cameras. I thought it was just your cell phone.

[@SittingWithDogs]

Does the State FD ever get called out to assist the area municipal departments?

[@zairgonzalez4824]

Wonder how many miles on the rig

[@metsfan5161]

Do these guys do any kind of mutual aid? How much of the highway do they cover?

[@DizsLLS2197]

Can you explain why they wear their scba mask in the truck and great videos

[@erinandcory7812]

Hey do you come out of state?

[@kissfanbilly]

So are they certified firefighter/ hazmat personnel? This is so odd to me.

[@WorkingFirePIO]

They are training in firefighting and hazmat response, but that’s only a fraction of their job.

[@scottbruner9266]

19:05 Lol. “Dumbest” question ever. Of COURSE he (& we) wants to see the control room.

[@WorkingFirePIO]

Haha! Totally. Such an amazing place to see.

[@FDTgamingOffical]

Going to be a good video

[@johnlebzelter4208]

@FDTgamingOfficial And you know this how? This isn’t a video game…seems that’s all you watch. I know it will be good because I know his content and was a FF. You??

[@FDTgamingOffical]

@@johnlebzelter4208 I work for Bluffton Township Fire District and I have watched most of Eric’s videos mate.

[@johnlebzelter4208]

@@FDTgamingOffical ok goofy. Go back to playing your video games.

[@FDTgamingOffical]

@@johnlebzelter4208 will do, thank you for the life advice.

[@vadimarsenie9182]

what kind of agency is this?

[@samuelmyers6749]

Why do these guys love hose clamps so much? Every piece they have has one for some reason.

[@WorkingFirePIO]

I think they use hose clamps more than most fire departments because of their 1 or 2 person staffing level.

[@Ishamestupidpeopleonline99]

Do you work for pio no more ?

[@WorkingFirePIO]

Yes, I’m still a full time PIO.

[@Marks-Law]

So This is Where All of the cool guys disappeared to…

[@firemedic6509]

SCBAs and beards don't mix.

[@peterahjorter]

Too bad you did not film forward when driving into the station instead filming the driver 😞

[@WorkingFirePIO]

Unfortunately my forward facing camera stopped recording when we entered the tunnel and I didn’t realize that until I downloaded files. Sorry to let you down!

[@Jacob-mm8xq]

Love these videos but is anyone making SMFR vids?

[@pauludulutch2099]

So do you not work at south metro FD anymore? How am I to get my SMFD fix on?

[@WorkingFirePIO]

I still work at SMFR, this is just a fun side channel.

[@user-iq8zc7sy5k]

can u not show the road all the time could u show the road

[@kevindick3754]

wish we saw the tunnel and not the driver

[@WorkingFirePIO]

Unfortunately my forward facing camera stopped recording as we approached the tunnel and I didn't know that happened until I downloaded video later on.

[@shaunregan8995]

Cdot has this unit? Dude ive lived in Colorado for 11 years and I’m only 11 and never knew that existed

[@joshw1687]

Thats cool but leaving that garage is sketchy as hell😳

[@WorkingFirePIO]

My thought exactly!!

[@joshw1687]

​@WorkingFirePIO that's a cool department. Thanks for showing it to us

[@johnnyrebel11]

"ive worked here 9 years havent had a fire yet" thats fucking ridiculous. as a firefighter myself, as much as i hate seeing peoples property destroyed and the threat of injury, im not sure i could go 9 years without a working job. also not sure how you justify the cost to the state to have a full size engine, a mini pumper and full time staffing if there hasnt been a fire in 9 years

[@WorkingFirePIO]

To clarify, he said he hasn’t responded to a vehicle fire inside a tunnel bore. They cover 17 miles of Interstate where they regularly respond to vehicle collisions and fires.

[@EnjoyFirefighting]

once talked to a firefighter at a military base ... he didn't have a fire in his entire career, and he was just before his retirement

[@MoparGuy1625]

This is awesome

[@BACONndEGGS]

love the video's Eric

[@WorkingFirePIO]

Thank you!

[@erinandcory7812]

Hey do you come out of state?