Caring for Our Neighbors and Creation by Helping with the California Wildfires

On Labor Day weekend in 2011, the Spicewood Fire in western Travis County destroyed 45 homes and scorched almost 6,500 acres. There were other fires in the Austin area at the same time. The worst was in Bastrop County where flames spread to homes scattered among the trees in and around Bastrop, burning nearly 1,700 homes and businesses and claiming the lives of two people.

At that time, I was the Facilities Manager for the Pedernales Fire Department and an EMT. The Spicewood fire was in our district. It burned very quickly and traveled fast due to the long-term drought. All our Firefighters and EMS were fighting the fire. Within a few hours, Firefighters with equipment from departments north and west of us began arriving. The Auxiliary went into high gear, bringing food, water, and other supplies to our 2 stations that were south of the Pedernales River.

We were not able to reach the station across the river due to the fire. However, we were in touch by radio and cell phone and knew they were okay and fighting fire. We knew they were in a relatively safe position, but none of our vehicles could get to them for several long hours.

The fire lasted for 2 to 3 days due to our extended drought. Clean-up took a lot longer. One of our major expenses was the repair and replacement of equipment. That included repair on the engines and hose, replacement of all kinds of tools, and replacement of the Firefighters' protective clothing. There was a long list of repairs and replacements.

During the fire, we were extremely fortunate to have very thoughtful and generous neighbors. They began monetary donations immediately, brought cases and cases of water to the station, and anything else we needed. We published a "needs list" on our FaceBook page shortly after the fire started.

This is what I learned from that experience with a wildfire. The major expenses began after the big blaze was out and the fire was no longer dramatic. Firefighters were still patrolling the burned areas, looking for smoldering trees or logs, anywhere there might be potential for the fire to restart. Everyone was exhausted, and we needed to keep working the fire ground. Firefighters from other counties needed to get back to their departments. Because of the devastating fire in Bastrop County, east of Austin, we had difficulty getting some parts and equipment for repair and replacement. And, we were very fortunate and had tremendous support from all our local businesses and neighbors.

Our fire was dangerous and expensive, and we recovered over time. I can't even begin to imagine what it will take or how long it will take to recover from the fires in California.

The need for donations and all kinds of support continues long after the fires are out. I am including links for 3 foundations/charities that will put your donations to good use. I am also looking for organizations that will focus on re-foresting and re-planting following the fires. I will list those next month.

You may have your favorite foundation or charity that is working on recovery from these fires. I have included World Central Kitchen because they always show up for disasters and do such a great job of feeding people! Just remember, when the fires are finally out, the real work of recovery begins. Thank You for your contributions, your generosity, and your prayers !!!

Here are 3 links for contributions that will make a difference. Check them out and contribute where it feels right for you.

Caring for Our Neighbors and Creation by Helping with the California Wildfires

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