In 2007, I remember the 3:30 a.m. call from my husband’s SDPD Sgt. Art Bowen: “Scott needs to come now, fire, all hands on deck.”

I did not hear from Scott all day. Eighteen hours later, I got to hear about the harrowing firewalls, being trapped temporarily, the diligent evacuations, and the very brave San Diego firefighters risking their lives for San Diegans in need of guidance and safety. It was one of many days to follow.

Many lost everything but it would have been worse without our safety personnel. While politicians and agencies argued about airdrop clearances, heroes in boots were on the ground working hard.

We donated blankets and extra beds to the Salvation Army for exhausted firefighters who were sleeping on the ground in parking lots in the cold. They had limited time to sleep, if at all. It felt good to do at least something.

As the unfathomable LA fires are unfolding, many San Diegans are also doing something. Philanthropist Joan Waitt is collecting and delivering clothing and essentials for displaced LA residents (actually, she is in her second round of collections), Rock Church is gathering essential supplies and clothing, and the San Diego Humane Society is on the ground, rescuing and helping. Remember they help wildlife too. From my animal friends, if you can donate, foster, or adopt you help immeasurably. Please go to the SDHS website for more details.

A simple caring message to friends and emergency personnel of support, also services, and directed donations whether money or goods are all things each of us can easily do.

Preparedness. Have an organized plan and essentials ready to go. Make your environment as fire-safe as possible. Clear brush, and report items, like plants, in electrical wires.

I am contacting Mayor Gloria’s office, and Councilmember Joe La Cava’s office regarding prepared plans and necessary water availability for firefighters. Have they done due diligence to clear dead brush? In Balboa Park by the Mingei Museum, I saw a jungle of dead palm fronds on the trees and grounds last weekend. Driving down Hwy. 52 I saw a lot of dead shrubs. I am also contacting the local fire stations for their perspective on 911 preparedness.

Let’s work together and be safe. Meanwhile, I am praying for no wind and miracles for LA. Kindness matters.