As flames spread throughout California, devastation spreads even further. The immense destruction of the fire has left the community in shambles. Firefighters continue to work to get the fire under control in an attempt to save as many lives and as much land as possible. A great number of citizens, as well as the Federal Emergency Management Agency, have and continue to provide assistance for those in need of emergency supplies such as food, water and baby formula. The government has granted a temporary place to stay and replacements for damaged properties.
The direct cause for the fire is still in question. However, they know the fuel: the Santa Ana winds.
“The winds came with low vegetation and allowed the fire to take hold and move faster than firefighters can put them out. Once the fire got into homes and neighborhoods the amount of heat and flames became more than what could be handled,” Firefighter Robert Funk said.
The high wind speeds and temperatures continue to feed the flames. Over 82,400 people are under current evacuation orders. They are said to have the opportunity to return at the end of week.
The cities of Eaton, Kenneth, Hurst and the Palisades have faced the worst of it so far. In preparation for wildfires, many citizens have had their house built with fireproof materials in an attempt to keep it in place. It is important for all families or individuals to coordinate a plan for evacuation if necessary. To evacuate early will increase your chances of survival. Firefighters in areas for potential wildfires also have to prepare for these kinds of situations.
“Many firefighters in California will go through wildland firefighter training. Wildfires require different tactics and equipment to combat as compared to typical house fires. Fire departments also work proactively through public education on fire safety and habits to prevent the start of fires,” Firefighter Funk said.
The lives of citizens and their safety are predominant compared to property. Anything can be rebuilt, but no life can be remade.
About 40,000 acres have been burned. As if this is not mournful enough, at least 24 people have lost their lives due to the flames. Damage costs have risen to up to $250 to $275 billion.
“Those with bare minimum insurance policies have more struggle in these situations, some people may be fortunate enough to be able to pay off the full amount for their house, while others may only be able to afford 70 to 80% of their house’s original costs. However, even if they are able to pay off the full amount, those memories will never be rejoiced,” Personal Finance teacher Travis Weitthoff said.
An estimated total of about 12,000 lost their homes due to damage. This housing shortage has caused about 75,000 homeless residents throughout the state.
After many days passed, the fires began to subside. There has been irreversible damage done to California. The country needs to come together to fight and end this fire. Even with great distance from the fires, citizens have the utmost amount of sympathy for the locals. Sophomore Sydney Funk is one of them.
“I think the fires are devastating and I have great remorse for all the families whose lives are being altered,” S. Funk said.
Too many lives and too many houses have been lost. Situations similar to this teach us to value what we are given, as it could be taken any day, or any time.
