The article recounts the rescue of Isabel Bond, an 89-year-old woman, by a high-water rescue team during the flooding caused by Hurricane Milton. Despite initial reluctance to leave her home without her cats, Bond was safely evacuated alongside her pets. The piece highlights the coordinated efforts between emergency responders, their bravery, and the compassionate service they provide in times of crisis.
Isabel Bond, 89 years old, experienced a harrowing scenario on October 12 when Hurricane Milton’s floodwaters began to encroach upon her property in Samsula, Florida. With power outages and communication failures complicating her situation, Bond was relieved when a high-water rescue team from the Volusia Sheriff’s Office and Volusia County Fire Rescue arrived at her doorstep, effectively responding to a distress call from a family member. Initially reluctant to evacuate due to her two cats, Bond was reassured by the responders that provisions would be made for her pets.
Bond’s rescue was part of a coordinated effort by local first responders who undertook numerous operations to save residents during Hurricane Milton, which resulted in severe flooding in Daytona Beach and its surroundings. Over the course of the storm, hundreds of individuals were rescued utilizing high-water vehicles. Nadia Zomorodian, a freelance photographer, documented the volunteers’ critical efforts, highlighting their bravery and dedication despite personal risks.
Fire Rescue Battalion Chief Kara Haun noted the collaboration between the fire department’s Technical Rescue team and the sheriff’s office, which proved vital in conducting rescues under perilous conditions. The rescuers faced many dangerous obstacles, including unstable power lines and treacherous floodwaters, often necessitating protective gear for their safety. “It is actually one of the more dangerous things we do as firefighters is go out and work in these storms,” Haun stated.
The rescue teams were not only reactive but proactive, responding to requests while also addressing emerging situations, such as assisting a house with eleven stranded individuals, including infants and a person in a wheelchair. The teams were known for their attentiveness and willingness to provide comfort, which was evident from Bond’s experience.
Eventually, the team successfully maneuvered Bond’s cats into carriers and escorted her through the flooded area to safety. Once transported, a friend was able to take her home, allowing Bond to return to her residence after about a week. Reflecting on her experience during the approaching Thanksgiving season, Bond expressed her heartfelt gratitude: “Just thank you very much… I appreciate the way you treated the cats, also.”
This incident underscores the critical role that first responders play during disasters, as they often put their own safety aside to assist those in need. As Bond’s story exemplifies, the dedication and compassion exhibited by these individuals serve as a lifeline for those affected by natural calamities.
The article discusses the heroic actions of a high-water rescue team from Volusia County during Hurricane Milton, a storm that caused significant flooding across the area on October 12. The rescue mission highlighted the efforts of local first responders, who successfully saved numerous individuals while ensuring their safety in hazardous conditions. The narrative focuses on the experience of Isabel Bond, an 89-year-old woman, who was hesitant to leave her home due to her pets but ultimately rescued and safely evacuated, showcasing the compassionate nature of emergency response teams.
In summary, the rescue operation following Hurricane Milton exemplifies the exceptional efforts of first responders, who prioritize the safety of community members during emergencies. Isabel Bond’s experience illustrates both the challenges faced during such rescues and the dedication of those providing assistance, ensuring not only human safety but the care of pets as well. Their selflessness and commitment during crises significantly alter the lives of individuals impacted by natural disasters, reinforcing the importance of community support in times of need.
Original Source: www.news-journalonline.com
