Got this off the Costa Mesa fire departments website.


Q: Why do I see the fire engine at the grocery store everyday, and who pays for their food?
A: The firefighters pay for their own food each day. If time permits and they are not busy running calls, you may see them shopping at a grocery store that is within their first-in area--the area in the city that each individual engine or truck is responsible for providing service. Firefighters do not get lunch breaks, or time off during the day, so many times you will see them leave the store while shopping to respond to an emergency call.