In Case of Fire

Earlier I went outside and smelled the strong odor of smoke. I felt a burning sensation in my throat. Curious as to how close the fire was and where it was located, I did an online search. It turns out that there are several wildfires and other fires burning right now in both Colorado and Arizona, and possibly other places also.

This really got me to thinking. How can we personally help in situations like this?

Years ago, I lived quite close to the Hayman Fire. It was the largest fire in Colorado history.
I wanted to help so checked around. The Red Cross was using an elementary school to house a large group of teenagers who were on a camping trip and had been trapped in the fire, but were now rescued. They were staying at the school until arrangements could be made for them to travel home. They didn't have anything to do, and were frightened by their experience thousands of miles from their homes.

I was able to help by bringing soap,towels,shampoo, toiletries,snacks, board games, and more. In addition I spent time talking with them, making sure that they all got to phone their parents and know that people cared about what they were going through. When I came back on the second day with more supplies I had rounded up, as soon as they saw me they ran up and hugged me!
They told me that I had made a really bad situation far more pleasant. That knowing a stranger cared about them and knew what kinds of things teenagers liked meant a lot.

This is just one example of how to help out when there are needs that can be filled. Natural disasters happen everywhere. House fires, burglaries, and many other traumatic experiences all happen every single day.

There are many ways both on the scene, and behind the scenes to help. Firefighters and paramedics are those who either volunteer or do help in a major way as a career or job choice. The Salvation Army and other organizations also offer opportunities to help. You can donate money, goods, food, and various other needed supplies depending what needs there are.

Please always ask someone in charge who knows what is needed. They are coordinating a relief effort and you want to be a help, not a hindrance. You certainly don't want to get in the way or get hurt. Many organizations have classes for volunteers and offer information on the needs that they have. You don't have to wait for disaster to strike to find out how to help. Be proactive and
find a charity or organization or group you feel good about, and get involved right now!

Many times animals have to be rescued when a disaster happens. People who can shelter and feed animals in their own homes or donate food, animal bedding and such are real life-savers. You can let your local animal shelter put you on a list to phone should the need ever arise.

What action can you take right now to be prepared to help others when the need arises? Think of what you would appreciate if it were you, and start being of service to others today. You will be so glad you did!