Wildfire

 
This week was kind of terrifying.

I went outside to get something out of my truck, and noticed there was smoke in the air.  I called the fire department in the next town, and they said that a wildfire was burning near my home.  The wind was blowing it towards our property, and everything is dry as a bone.

 

I packed up everything valuable thing I could and was ready to leave.  I ran out to the porch every few minutes to see how things were progressing.  I also drove really quickly to our gate to open it.  In case the fire came onto our place from a different direction (wind does funny things) I wanted to be able to drive immediately through the road without having to stop to open a hot metal gate. 

Adam was on his way home to help in whatever way he could.  He drove separately to the fire area and I called the fire department again.  Fortunately, the forestry service was working with our local fire department to cut a fire break, and they were able to put the fire out.  It was less than a mile from our house, though. 
I don't think my adrenaline has stopped pumping yet.  I was so worried we were about to lose our home, the shop/studio we're building, and our lives might be about to change a LOT.

Fortunately, Adam and I may be two of the most plan-ahead control freaks on earth.  We already had a list made up of what to do in case of fire.  We store our checklist on top of a big duffel bag in a cabinet.   We each made a list of what we wanted loaded up first.  I wanted irreplaceable photos, a few pieces of family jewelry, art, and whatever musical instruments I could load.  Adam wants his family videos, and back up discs to all computer things.  I packed up our computer, financial records and important documents, and cameras, too.  Without saying, Violet and the pets were first on the list.  And Rascal the raccoon hat.

Anyway---I'm so relieved we didn't have to deal with a massive fire.  I AM glad that this served as a very real-feeling fire drill. 
Do you have an easy-to-locate plan for what to do in case of fire? (Or tornado, flood, or other major calamity?)  These things are super boring to plan for, but you will be GLAD you have a plan on the day something catastrophic happens.  PLEASE give it some thought.  It could make a really horrible day in your life go a little bit smoother.

Comments

[Maria]

Yikes! I'm so glad you are okay! I've alerted the RI National Guard through the Army Dude that in the event of an evacuation the cat and I go together. He swears he circulated the memo. But thanks for the reminder to have a more comprehensive plan. :)

[Monica]

Was that the fire on 69 on Wednesday? We drove past that on the way home from the lake. It was a good 'un for sure! Glad everyone is okay!