It was about 15 minutes to 5:00 a.m…
(Saturday, May 24, 2014 – Memorial Day Weekend)
I awoke, as I often do, for what seemed to be no apparent reason – but this time was different; THIS time was life changing.
I heard a faint beeping and contemplated where it was coming from.
My first thought was that it was coming from outside, perhaps the distant beeping sound from construction machines notifying all passer-byers to use caution as the equipment was being driven in reverse.
Then suddenly, the thought entered my mind, “Smoke Alarm!”
I bolted out of my bed, leaving it in disarray.
I ran toward the stairs to find out what was going on.
As I got halfway up, I noticed the smoke billowing toward me.
I didn’t know where the fire was coming from, but it appeared to be in the kitchen area.
My mind began to race as I quickly thought of what to do, while at the same moment questioning myself, “Did I leave the stove burner on last night?” (realizing I didn’t use the stove for cooking dinner that night), and pondering how “this” could really be happening.
I immediately turned, headed back down the stairway and into the bedroom where my three sons were sound asleep, while yelling, “Get out of the house, it’s on fire!”
