Rob Caves, a model train enthusiast, found himself facing a harrowing experience when the Eaton Fire swept through Altadena. After evacuating his home, he returned to find his friends already working to protect his property. Together, they fought the fire, saved the model train collection, and then turned their efforts to helping their community. Caves became a crucial support for evacuated residents, offering assistance, comfort, and a sense of unity during a time of crisis.
Rob Caves is a model train hobbyist who built a massive train set in his Altadena backyard. Every year, during the winter holidays, his model train club opens their private universe to the public. This year, however, the festive season was overshadowed by the raging Eaton Fire . When the winds reached hurricane force, pushing massive wildfires through the city, Caves and his partner evacuated their home on Christmas Tree Lane, a mile long street nestled at the bottom of a densely wooded area.
They had lived there for years and never considered the threat of fire so close. As they watched the news from his parents' house, a friend called, alerting him to the flames engulfing Altadena. He immediately drove back, the air filled with the booms of exploding propane tanks and cars. Upon arriving, he found his model train friends hosing down his house, summoned to defend their shared passion and his home. Caves, realizing the gravity of the situation, rallied his fellow train enthusiasts, forming a human shield against the encroaching fire. They cleared brush, soaked the exterior of the house, and meticulously removed all the trains, loading them into waiting trucks. By the next day, they were actively helping the community, putting out hotspots, checking on a local maintenance truck, and offering support to their neighbors. Caves became a point of contact for evacuated residents, connecting them with updates and helping them with tasks like finding their pets and tending to their chickens. He organized meals, shared supplies, and strengthened the community spirit amidst the devastation. As the flames subsided, Caves and his partner decided to stay on, becoming custodians of their ravaged neighborhood. They provided assistance, comfort, and a sense of normalcy in the face of chaos.
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