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My brain said our problem would soon be solved, but I couldn't escape contemplating all we stood to lose if the fire were to take hold. While reassuring wide-eyed shivering kids, and rushing to retrieve a favorite stuffed animal and blankets, I also thought about how very far it is from inconvenient to have an effective 911 system. But 1 had less than ten minutes to reflect before the sweet sound of sirens flew down the mountainside form the direction of Chester Gap. As I made a clumsy run down our icy drive to show the trucks our turn 1 was grateful to discover that a faithful neighbor, Garfield Burke, had, as on many other occasions through the years, plowed the steepest part of our lane. If not, I’d surely have ended up with bruises at least, and the many vehicles that ultimately arrived would have needed more than one running start up our hill.
We were lucky. Our fire was readily contained. Chris Salmon and his staff had enacted a 91 1 system that worked like a charm. Our children had been thoroughly prepared by their schools (CCLC and RCES) for the experience of an emergency. And, of course, the Chester Gap V.F.D. was magnificent. (I’m sure any of the other possible responding companies would have been the same). They were quick to arrive, reassuring and thorough. In the end even though some dozen people (including one mother of a kindergarten classmate of our daughter) went in and out, and up and down this house, almost no signs remained of the many unglamorous jobs these patient folks performed: put out the blaze, check the chimney on all floors, clean the chimney and stove top to bottom, draw out all smoke with an exhaust fan, and so on. Just as the fire department was finishing, other neighbors, Lesley and David Arnold, arrived having heard our commotion. They could have chosen to stay warm and safe, but, like the fire department, came ready to help if needed.
We are grateful our emergency was minor, but the experience of needing and receiving help under potentially dangerous conditions was overwhelming. It is unforgettable and uplifting to find your community coming to your aid. Many thanks to all of you who played a part in helping us.
, ROSA CROCKER, JAY,
FRANCES and OWEN MONROE
Flint Hill
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