OT:Slave Lake, Alberta Fire

[oilfan10]

I know this isn't hockey related, but I thought this deserves a topic. And if Tyson can post the topic on the flood, this should be allowed too right?

Yesterday there was a large wild fire that has essentially burned destroyed the town of Slave Lake, just north of Edmonton. Homes, offices and stores have all been destroyed. The entire town of 7000 people has had to evacuate, including the media. Terrible news for a town so close to my own home.

I just wanted to give my thoughts and prayers to all those who lived in Slave Lake. I wish everyone there safety and hope they are okay. If there are any members here from Slave Lake, or have relatives there, I wish you all the best and hope you are all safe.

Here is a video
http://watch.ctv.ca/news/latest/town...re/#clip467484

And one of many news articles:
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmont...wildfires.html

[flemingc04]

It wasn't until about an hour ago I actually realized how big of a fire it is and the kind of damage it is causing to Slave Lake. Sure, I've heard a bit about it from watching the news as I always watch the evening CTV news (although I missed last night's) and constantly check the Toronto Star's website. But it wasn't until I went to CNN's website (of all places ) that I found out just how bad it was. I clicked on a title "Wildfire burns half of town of 9,800" and see a picture of what looks to be a school or arena engulfed in flames. Prior to that, I thought it was another forest fire sweeping across the forest and Slave Lake was a reference point used to describe the rough area of where the fire is.

My heart goes out to anyone living in the area and/or affected by the fire and damage. I know at least one guy who got called from Peace River with a group of people to go help out. It's always sad to see all of the different natural tragedies that happen and ruin communities whether it's from a fire, flood, earth quake, you name it.

[MasonRaymond0320]

My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone that has lost everything...seems like nothing if you lose a single hockey card in the mail...compared to losing absolutely everything.

[CrosbyIsKing]

they really need to change the name of that lake

[marekschwarz33]

they really need to change the name of that lake

Why?



Very sad to hear, can't even imagine. Half a town destroyed...

[TysonX504]

That's terrible news, I just saw it on the weather network earlier tonight. Hope everyone got out ok

[parco10]

when something this tragic happens i think it is important to try and keep a positive attitude and try and look for a bright spot. according to the news not a single person was injured in the evacuation, which in itself is a small miracle.

[kroetche]

Close to home for me too!!! Thoughts and prayers go out to all the families of slave lake!!! Looked like a war zone in the pics!!

[OilersRule]

As I live and work in Slave Lake during the week, this has been a huge punch in the stomach for me. Thankfully for me, I was able to get out of there a day early.
But that doesn't even compare to all my friends and acquaintances that lost their homes on Sunday evening.
As soon as the roadblocks are cleared, I will be heading straight back and helping my friends the best I can.
I strongly urge anyone that is in Alberta to please see what you can do in donating any extra blankets and clothing you may have to the Red Cross outlets throughout the city and town areas. It will most definitely help someone in need!