Coping with a Community Crisis

I moved to West Virginia for the tranquility. Nothing tragic ever happens here, or so I thought until the explosion at a Massey Energy coal mine in Montcoal. The coal mine is about ten minutes away from my house. Our small community is now being invaded by news crews, all of the signs outside of local business ask "Pray for our miners", and the citizens of this community are in shock. No one knows what to do as the search for those last for men continues. I have organized a guide to help you cope with a crisis in your own community.

When something terrible happens, like the coal mine explosion in West Virginia, everyone around is worried about the safety of their loved ones and friends. It is difficult, but never rush to the scene of the tragedy. You may miss an important call letting you know that your family member is safe, it can also impede the rescue efforts aimed at finding those who are injured. First, call the person that you are concerned about, if you are still unable to reach them, call spokesmen or contact personnel for the company.

Unless you are a trained paramedic, EMT, or firefighter, do not try to insinuate yourself into the rescue effort. Everyone wants to help when their community is in a crisis, but as with the coal mine explosion in Montcoal, unless you are trained about dangers like the methane gas that allegedly caused the explosion, you could also end up on the injured list.

It is very difficult to stand idly by when something befalls your community. You can donate food, water, or blankets for the rescue team and the families of the victims.

Be careful about who you talk to. Reporters have a job to do, and every story in the community that has been touched by tragedy is news. Unless you want your personal pain broadcast to the entire country, keep conversations about your losses contained within your community circle, or family. You will all know best how to support one another during a community crisis.

Contact your local branch of the Red Cross to see if you can donate blood, food, water, or your time. Often, smaller communities can be unprepared when a crisis strikes.

When something like the coal mine explosion in West Virginia happens, the entire community is affected. It is very difficult to sit at home and wait for news of survivors alone. Call the pastor of your church, or local community groups too find an appropriate place to gather and wait. This place should be out of harms way, and also out of the way of the rescue and law enforcement teams.

It is obvious that those families who lose loved ones during a community crisis are hit the hardest. While you may want to rush in to comfort these members of your community, it may be best until a formal wake or funeral is announced. It is acceptable, however, to send flowers, food, or condolence cards.

Above everything, I know it may seem like a cliche, but remain calm. You will be notified if and when your loved ones are found. It is very hard on everyone in the community when a crisis occurs, but panic never helps the rescue efforts.