With wildfires raging almost year-round, it’s no wonder we’re afraid.

Our elder offers some practical advice for fighting back the flames of fear.

Dear EWC:

Hi, I live in California, and there are a bunch of fires that have been happening nearby. I’ve recently become very worried that my house is going to burn down. I’m absolutely terrified of fire!

I’m scared that my family and/or my pets will die in a fire, and that my house will burn down and all of my work (writing, drawings, homemade stuffed animals, etc.) will be destroyed. My family has made a plan for what to do if there’s a fire, but I’m still terrified that something will go wrong and I won’t be able to save everything/everyone.
Can you help me? Thank you!

Good-Listener replies:

I hope that by now, the fires in your area have subsided or the immediate danger is over. You are not alone in your fears, but there are so many things that can happen to us that are out of our control. You and your family have taken as much control as you can which says a lot for all of you, and you’re ahead of the game. But of course there is fear. I lived in California at one point and the fires that particular year got entirely too close to my home. I didn’t have to evacuate but I knew a lot of folks who did.
Again, certain things we can’t control but taking steps “in case” is the best and most effective way to combat any possible disaster. You’ll be ok and, because you have a plan, should things get to the extreme, you’ll be ready. Because of your readiness, you and your family are likely to end up in a much better place. In life there are always things to scare us. Presently I live in a part of the country where we get our share of natural extreme weather conditions and it’s the same advice: PREPARATION. In a way, it’s a good lesson for you and in the future, you’ll be the one giving advice to others! I wish you the absolute best, and hope the danger has passed. Good luck.

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