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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 4 – Masters)
Topic: Barbeque/Cookout (09/06/12)
It's such a lovely day for a barbeque. Not a cloud in the sky! Of course it's been quite a while since we had clouds in the sky. It's a bit windy, perhaps, but oh, that wind feels so good. I hope it doesn't put out the flames.

I listen to all kids playing as I grill, gently reminding them not to get too close. We don't want anyone to get hurt today.

We sit down to eat, as I try to keep an eye on the grill. It should be fine, though. The flames are mostly out, and the wind isn't that heavy.

Suddenly, the wind picks up, and out of the corner of my eye, I see the grill start to fall. I pray it would somehow twist and pivot and land on the concrete. No such luck.

We all jump back. The grass smolders and then breaks into flames.

"RUN! Honey, get yourself and the kids into the car. I'll be right behind you."

In the drought conditions, the flames quickly intensify, and it is soon too much for me to try to stomp out. If only I had responded more quickly...

I run to the car, cell phone in hand. I hesitate. What if this gets out of control? I could be in serious trouble for barbequing during a burn ban. I know it was a stupid idea, but it started out as such a nice day. Besides, a grill wasn't the same as an open fire, right? That's what I told myself, anyway.

I could just run to the car, and we could go home. No one would have to knew I started this. But any delay in a reported fire puts more and more things and people in danger. Maybe I could pretend I just happened upon the fire. But they'd know, wouldn’t they?

I took one last look back before taking off in a run.

"9-1-1. What's your emergency?"
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This article has been read 1118 times
Member Comments
Member
Date
C D Swanson 
09/13/12
Wow - I was so into this! It was intense and moved quickly. Thanks.

God Bless~
Ellen Carr 
09/14/12
I enjoyed your story and the choice the MC had to make. Fire is so fierce and powerful. Thanks.
Leola Ogle
09/19/12
Wow! This happens every year in dry Arizona! My husband hates to go camping in the high country when there's fire restrictions (what's camping without a fire? he says) Good job! God bless!
Shann Hall-LochmannVanBennekom 
09/21/12
This is a great story. I'm not sure how you did it but you mastered the calm before the storm feeling. I often get it while watching TV and the background music alerts the viewer that danger is approaching. I feel like I could almost hear the music as I read. Congratulations on placing 18 overall!