About this time last week, I was thinking about writing an article relating to Wyld Life and Hazard Mitigation.
I thought, “maybe I’ll throw in a chapter on what to expect when you ride your horse to town…”
But, the high water and flooding that began last Thursday evening puts many things in perspective. The plans of mice and men is one; and, truly, the fact that we do not know what tomorrow will bring, is another. But, we know that whatever comes, we can depend on our Volunteer Fire Departments and First Responders to do their part responding to any given emergency.
Once again, I am reminded how much our communities depend upon and take for granted the fact that Volunteer Fire Departments, EMS, and First Responders will be there when we need them.
How can we thank them enough for doing what they do? Except to say, “Thank You.”
Having said that, I want the people of Marlinton to know that a Notice to Evacuate is not taken lightly. Thursday night’s call was based upon what we already thought to be conflicting information. Certain patterns that have been seen in the past were not playing out in ways we have come to expect. When the Marlinton VFD saw that the existing conditions had risen to a level higher than the weather service had reported to expect, the Fire Chief called me. Together, the decision was made to err on the side of caution.
Marlinton understands how it feels to be hit by a devastating flood. We should all be thankful that we were spared this time.
Many of our neighboring communities were not as fortunate. Our thoughts and prayers should be with each of them. Particularly with those families who have lost loved ones.
So far, our fire company has assisted at White Sulphur Springs, Clintonville, and Rainelle.
Currently, a trailer at the firehouse is being filled with donations that will be delivered to our neighbors. Marlinton wants to do for these communities what they have already done for us.
Together we make a difference.
Also, you can thank our crew at the water plant, who kept an eye on intake water source conditions at the beginning of the rains. The storage tanks were full as the event began. They were able to quit pumping at just the right time. Communication took place between water plant and fire department. Water already in the fire trucks was used to begin cleanup. Bringing the water plant online again was put off long enough for turbidity levels in raw water to subside, thus, avoiding a boil-water advisory. The Town and the Health Department are pleased with the outcome.
On a lighter note:
Monday is the Fourth of July, and you are invited to celebrate with us at the gazebo area. The schedule begins around 5 or 6 p.m.
Food and music will be on-hand, and fireworks are planned for 10 p.m.
