On Saturday afternoon, outside the home of James and Rita Roper’s house, was three fire engines, four police cars and one ambulance. Moments after the emergency crews left it was immediately the neighbors turn to take over.
Gary Byte climbs a ladder while Madison Birdwell sweeps and Angie Byte hammers as they assist their neighbor. Over a dozen of neighbors have been seen lending their help.
The Roper’s saw 30 years of their belongings going up in flames as they sat and watch fireman take their fire hoses and axes into their home to put out a fire that had started near a window AC unit in the downstairs living room. Smoke could be seen escaping through the roof and eaves. Luckily, the fire crews were quick to act and kept the fire to the living room. Related story: Video: Homeowners of 30 years see house go up in smoke
However, there was damage done as you would expect: fire, smoke and water damage.
And as you would also expect, a Guthrie neighborhood and community went to work and continues to do so at 502 N. Broad. Neighbors helping neighbors, Guthrie helping Guthrie.
By the end of the evening, windows were boarded up, the carpet and sheet rock was removed as the recovery process was officially underway.
“I am just overwhelmed. I can not put into words how much I appreciate them,” Rita Roper said with a grin that you could tell would light up any guest into her home as she has been known to do.
“It’s truly a blessing.”
The owner of the property, Paul Harris of Oklahoma City, expected to have a project on his hands when he traveled down to Guthrie, but was surprised as to what he saw.
“I did not expect anything when I walked in and they have already ordered sheet rock and have it protected. It’s amazing, it’s Oklahoma.
Harris told Rita, “you obviously have been good to all your neighbors because they are being good to you.”
“Without that who knows where they would be,” Harris said.
At first it was thought to be the home was not insured, but thankfully turns out it is. However, the work has been put to a stop so that insurance adjusters can survey the damage.
“I feel kind of bad stifling their (neighbors) good work,” Harris reluctantly said.
“We are looking to get it cleaned up and get them back in here.”
I work for a fire and water restoration company, things can be saved and home can be put back together! I love my job.