‘Hell on the forest floor’

HOUSTON — It’s a beautiful day. The sun is shining, the weather is hot to some; warm to others. You are taking advantage of this ravishing day only to hear that you need to evacuate your home — because hell is on the forest floor.

This happened to many people in the Susitna Valley this week. The fires in Alaska are growing, closing in and forcing people to leave their homes in the woods. Some leave with a camper. Some take their sled dogs and flee. Others bring nothing.

This doesn’t stop the caring heart of the community though. Volunteers and service organizations, individuals and firefighters are on full assistance. Alaska Job Corps Center Protective Services students also are helping Red Cross secure the area.

Alaska Job Corps Protective Services student Timothy Price said they are helping out the community and getting hands-on training on how to work through an emergency situation.

“It’s quiet mainly, but not entirely slow,” he said. “We have been helping out by unloading some supplies — but mainly we patrol the grounds and building, inside and out.”

Job Corps Center Director Malyn Smith said she feels safe with her students being there, under the guidance of Protective Services Instructor Don McLeod and the American Red Cross Shelter manager.

“I’m very proud of our students. They wanted to help — without hesitation,” Smith said.

McLeod said just the presence of a security officer is a deterrent to criminal activity and chaos.

“Their presence makes it safer for everyone involved, including the firefighters and support personnel,” he said.

Student Dylan Wedyke said the evacuation center is sheltering about 25 people and their animals evacuated during the fire.

“We’re doing our best in making sure the people there feel safe and the Red Cross is taking care of every need,” he said. “Animals are being cared for. They are tied up outside and fed and watered. Some of the evacuees were lucky enough to have their campers; it is easier on them. For those that don’t have campers or trucks, the animals are having to be cared for by a vet, friend, musher or kennel.”

Smith said it’s good to test the students with confidence and competence during an actual community emergency.

“Although we are sad this event happened, we do recognize this is a time to practice for their career and this experience cannot be found in a classroom,” she said.