Great posting,

Virginia also has many programs to help the needy during this time of the year.  The problem is that many people are scared or too proud to ask for help.  We see this all the time - it will be at the high point in the winter before they start to ask for help - or it will be after their utilities have been turned off for a couple of months.  We almost have to seek them out and offer a hand before they will do anything.  Knowledge would be our greatest gift.

Tragic... safety with candles and other home heating materials is essential during the winter months.  I always thought that it was illegal to shut off electric and heat in the winter months... i know it was in NY even if the people didn't pay the utility company had to eat it...

Sorry, I know this will sound harsh, and I hate to hear about anyone losing their lives, especially children who have not even had a chance to shine yet, but this is really Darwins Theory of Evolution at work. 

Using candles is great - we use them all the time (ambiance - not lighting) - but if your home is a tinderbox maybe its not such a good idea.  Theory of evolution - only the strong (in this case smart) survive.

A Generator inside the home - need I say more - Only the strong survive.

Sad, cold maybe, but thats the reality of it.

These things are always sad to read about, especially when they can be easily prevented.

It's unfortunate to hear about the two tragedies. Providing the link for heating assistance in the PA area will help some to stay warm. This information is valuable. Good post.

Vincent - I agree that many wait until it's too late. The first cold evening was a couple of weeks ago and there were several house fires due to faulty chimneys or poorly maintained furnaces.

Scott-There is a notification procedure that the utilities companies must adhere to here before a shutoff. In the fire case, the owner waited until late on a Friday when it had been shut off to try to get help. The neighbors were quoted that she was going door to door trying to sell some household possessions to raise cash quickly. Unfortunately, she never told anyone the purpose or someone would have helped her.

William - I call it the "Dumbing Down" effect, but it's the same idea. I have always felt adults are responsible for their actions, but children, unfortunately are at the mercy of the adults.

Danielle - It saddens me to read about things like this also.

Fred,

Great post.....and a reminder to all of us that we need to be very thankful for all that we have.

There are many organizations throughout Pennsylvania that tend to these situations....at our Chamber of Commerce we organize many such benefits, a very worthy cause.

Thanks for the very timely and important reminder. It really is a matter of life and death.

Williams comment above is exactly why many people don't ask for help....why would anyone ask someone that appears so  insensitive in understanding their situation.....how does he know if it is situational or chronic?  I found it to be quite audacious to say this is Darwin's theory of only the strong survive.....

He also said,  "Sad, cold maybe, but thats the reality of it."  No William, that is your version of reality.....

And what galls me is anyone that thinks like this, and is in our field, might want to take a few classes in sensitivity.  I am appalled!!! 

I am not sure the problem is either fear or pride - but ignorance.  People in need may not know where to go to ask for help. 

Unfortunately our neighborhoods have become statistical reporting elements and not communities in the traditional sense of the word.  If there is a good side to Florida hurricanes or California fires it may be that briefly, at least, we actually meet our neighbors and help each other through shared experiences.

Thanks Fred and Kathy for reminding us that some people need help and we are all in this together