By By Lisa Tindell – news writer
Rising from the ashes is sometimes easier said than done. The Mitchell family in the Riverview community plans to rise from the ashes after losing their home to fire.
During a series of storms that passed through the area last Sunday, the Mitchell home located on Travis Road was struck by lightning and was consumed in flames.
Ironically, Mitchell works as a firefighter with the Dixonville Volunteer Fire Department, where he has been involved for the past two years. Both George and Martha were part of the Escambia Rescue Squad for nine years.
Norma Jerkins, the Mitchells' daughter, placed a call to 911 to report the fire, George said.
Migas, chief of the Dixonville Volunteer Fire Department, found himself answering a call at one of his fellow firefighters' home after he received the call.
Migas said assistance from the East Brewton Fire Department, the Escambia Rescue Squad and the Roberts Volunteer Fire Department was appreciated in fighting the blaze.
Migas said in his experience in fighting fires, mobile home fires take less than 10 minutes for full involvement with little chance to save the dwelling.
A small portion of the kitchen area was not lost to the fire but was still considered a loss due to smoke and heat damage.
Although the family has had a storage shed put into place on their property to store salvageable items, George doesn't think there is much to salvage.
George said his family has already been blessed by area agencies and individuals.
Some donations of clothing and household items have been made to help the family to recuperate from their loss. However, since the couple had no insurance on the dwelling, cash donations are being accepted to help with the purchase of a new home.
A fund has been established at BankTrust of Brewton to accept cash donations for the family.
Contributions may be made at any branch of the bank to the George Mitchell Charity Fund.