To the Editor:
Fire! Fire! Fire!

The sounds of a home fire detector are loud, direct, potentially life saving, and completely terrifying.

In the early evening of Friday, June 3, in my Salem Hills home, my world tilted.

A loud chirping noise was soon followed by constant shrieks. Seconds later both hallway detectors flood the air with the alert, “Fire!” I can still hear that voice warning me of the danger. Heart racing, my shaking fingers manage to dial 9-1-1.

A calm voice directs me outside, away from the smoke billowing out of a device from a restoration company. I’m still giving information when I hear the Voorheesville Fire Department sirens. Only seconds have passed. Thank God, they’re already on the way.

Minutes later Assistant Fire Chief John Hensel jumps from his car, says three words, “Where is it?,” props open my front screen door, and races in. My cul-de-sac crowds with emergency vehicles. Fire personnel are grabbing their gear on my front lawn. Neighbors appear offering support.

As I watch this unfold, as if in a movie, my first thought is, “I’m saved.” I’m frightened, probably babbling, but I’m saved.

I’m given information and I repeat it. The devices have been removed. My house has been inspected. It’s safe now. Everything is safe now. I cling to those words and remember to breathe. They smile at me as they leave, waving away my thanks.

As a registered nurse, I faced many crises in my career. I know competent, caring professionals when I see them. The courage it takes to race into danger, with the unknown surrounding you, is a special gift.

The brave personnel of the Voorheesville Fire Department saved me, and my house, from a potential disaster.

I wish I knew all of your names so I could thank you in person.

Thank you all from my home, and my heart.

Roberta Garris

Voorheesville