How do you say "I'm Sorry Your House Burned Down"? :(

[Sherri, Sophie, Winston, & Kitty]

A very good long time friend's house burned to the ground this afternoon. Her and her hubby are fine but they got out with the clothes on their back and lost everything they own. They are staying at her parents' house.

I can't even imagine what this is like. I have no idea what to say or how to comfort someone who has just lost everything, her memories, her clothing and jewlery, all the time, labour and money they put into upgrading their home, all their precious artifacts and everyday essentials, photos, everything. I will be heading home this week-end (neice's birthday party) so I will be able to see her. I'd like to put together a care package for them and am looking for suggestions on what to include other than wine and chocolate, of which there will be plenty. Has anyone had any experience with this kind of a thing? How do you support someone in this situation?

[Christine & Camus]

How devastating.  I have no personal experience with such a huge loss.  To me, like everyone else has said, photos are a wonderful idea, perhaps one in a nice frame and maybe some comfy pajamas to go along with the comfy throw.

[Colleen, Jake & Baxter]

What a sad thing to happen but glad to know they are safe.  I think lots of good feedback has been given.  I think one of the best things is to be there for them for the long haul.  Just a kind word, card or email during the months ahead will let them know you are thinking about them.  I know a family that lost everything including their beloved pets...it's just a hard, hard thing to have to go through and I hope I never have to.  I think you are one that knows how to be a friend! 

[Janie, Jackson and Jilly]

I am so sorry to hear about your friend and all the DKers here who have experienced such a loss. What great suggestions from such thoughtful folks here on DK.

[Leigh & Allie]

I just have two things to add. A neighbor just had their house burn down. Their fire place had not been cleaned out in three years since their house was built. Christmas night they had a fire burning and the fire burned through the fire flew. A neighbor saw the fire coming out of the roof! They were totally unaware!! A fabulous idea is to put a fire alarm in your attic!! The home owner grabbed a fire extinguisher and went up to the attic opened the door and their house was gone in 6 minutes! Do not open ANY doors where there is a fire!! Second suggestion is to go through each room in your house and take pictures! Develop the pictures and keep the pictures in a separate location. This would help if you unfortunately are ever in this situation.

[F, Calla & Luca]

And I'm always reading about houses burning down because of improper disposal of ashes. I don't light fires very often so my solution is to leave the ashes alone until they are well and truly out and then clean out the ashes. They can stay warn for at least a couple of days.

[Leigh & Allie]

Yes! Very true! With the weather still cold in my neck of the woods, I think that is a very good suggestion!!