Dear editor:
As I write this, every window in my house is reflecting flashing red strobes.
My neighbor's house is on fire. As I passed through my dining room, I saw flames shooting out of an upper story window next door. I screamed for my son and called 911. They told me the Fire Department had already been notified. Within minutes, the trucks from Clarendon VFD were there.
Fortunately the family had gotten out safely. Soon, units from Sheffield and Pleasant Township showed up. With smoke billowing and flames shooting, my heart raced and I felt nauseous. A short time later, I saw two of the firefighters helping one of their comrades. It was my nephew. He was suffering from smoke inhalation. Suddenly, this was much more personal.
I had taken coffee, cookies and water outside and still felt completely worthless in this situation.
What's the point here? ... I never really realized what these men and women do ON A VOLUNTEER BASIS until I saw it first hand.
The next time your local Fire Department is having a fund raiser, GIVE GENEROUSLY. Better yet, do it NOW...don't wait until they are asking for your help. They don't wait when you ask for their help.
Sincerely,
Martha Bliss
Clarendon