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Community Corner

Richmond Highlands Neighborhood Association Collects Donations After the Fire

Richmond Highlands comes together to support one of their own.

The goal of the Richmond Highlands Neighborhood Association (RHNA) is to have informed neighbors, who look out for each other and for the concerns of the residences and businesses in our area. The monthly meeting on Tuesday was dedicated to helping those affected by the Nov. 16 fire that destroyed one home and damaged two others on N.W. 177th St.

“People on the street want to know what kind of support they can give,” neighbor Mel Williamson said.

The desire to help out spread beyond the street. More people showed up for the donation drive than for any other RHNA meeting. There was even a donation made on behalf of the neighbors to the north from the Hillwood Neighborhood Association. Outside of the donation of toys and clothing, the RHNA raised $1,630 in cash and checks and $880 in gift cards.

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Anyone wanting to help is encouraged to visit the Midvale branch of Chase Bank. The Richmond Highlands Fire Fund has been set up to accept donations. The bank is not set up to divide donations, but residents can inform the RHNA that a donation split is desired or if it is intended to go to one household or the other by emailing richmondhighlandsNA@gmail.com. Even with the RHNA News and Events webpage updated, it is difficult to keep track of what clothing donations are still needed.

“Certain needs that have been put out have been fulfilled,” RHNA Co-chair Michelle Hickman said. While a lot of the clothing needs have been met, the families could still use the support of the neighborhood. “There are going to be a lot of expenses,” Hickman said.

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Fortunately, no one was injured in the fire. David and Karen Spring were able to get out of their house unharmed. Despite losing everything, with the support of the community the couple is keeping their spirits up.

“They are being positive staying with their daughter,” Williamson said. “They are comfortable.”

With the extent of the damage, the fire department was surprised that no one was hurt. Some of the responding fire fighters attended the meeting to discuss the event and answer any questions. Battalion Chief Rick Ashleman spoke at the association meeting and gave a few tips on how to stay safe in case of a fire.

Make sure fire hydrants are clear

The fire department have noticed that some people try to incorporate the fire hydrants into the landscape to avoid an eyesore, but at least two feet of clear space is needed to hook up a hose. Residents were surprised to hear that fire fighters will not move that is blocking a hydrant.

Ensure your address is clear from the street

When a house is engulfed in flames, it is easy to tell where to respond to. However, the fire department, aid cars and police respond to a number of emergencies. Having an address that is clearly visible from the street, especially at night will cut precious seconds off a response time.

Check smoke detectors regularly

There are many fires that were needlessly fatal said Captain Barnes of Station 65. Many brands of smoke detectors are inexpensive and well worth saving a life.

Keep doors closed

Keeping a fire contained can help limit the damage. Before going to sleep at night, make sure all the interior and bedroom doors are shut. 

Have an escape plan

Each member of the family should know how they are going to get out of the house and where to meet up in case of a fire. That plan should be practiced regularly.

Use a landline when reporting an emergency

When reporting a fire, a local dispatcher will have all the important information on a screen in front of him or her. When using a cell phone, the signal will be bounced around before getting through to the nearest agency. If using a cell phone, Ashleman recommends asking the dispatcher for Shoreline Fire to be transferred speed up reaction time.

Things can be replaced, people can not

Ashleman credits the Spring family that getting out right away saved their lives. In case of fire, it is important to get people out. The fire department can always be called from a neighbor’s house.

Anyone who has questions for Chief Ashleman  or just wants to show support can stop by N.W. 177th St. on Dec 10. For a tailboard session sponsored by the Shoreline Fire Department.

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