Dear Members,
As psychologists and trained disaster workers know, there are emotional phases that we all experience following a disaster — The Six Psychological Stages of a Disaster. For those impacted by the LA Fires, the initial weeklong heroic phase ("I need to do something useful.") and two-month long honeymoon phase ("I'm going to be OK, we're going to get through this together.") are nearing their end.
The next phase is a tough one and may last for 36 months. The disillusionment phase begins after the adrenaline wears off, and the work of rebuilding takes an emotional toll. As described in a recent Psychology Today article, "Frustration, exhaustion, anger, and rage are common… The time it will take to have some semblance of normalcy feels massive, and the emotional toll of dealing with the aftermath may feel insurmountable."
As structural engineers, our work in responding to this disaster is just beginning. Although the emotional disillusionment phase is normal and needed in the emotional recovery process, this is likely the phase in which we encounter those reaching out for our assistance.
Our expertise is desperately needed and SEAOSC is committed to helping fill this need. To that end, we have updated our website to highlight the availability and expertise of our members in the specific areas that will be of most helpat seaosc.org/LA-Fire-Recovery. If you can be of service, please fill out the form here.
Additionally, we continue the efforts that I outlined in my message last month:
Policy: our committee members are engaged directly in conversations with building officials and affiliated AEC organizations in forming policies for the recovery process.
Technical expertise: The document RECOMMENDED INVESTIGATION AND DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR FOUNDATIONS EXPOSED TO FIRE is posted on the SEAOC website. I have personally discussed the guidelines with building officials at City of LA, County of LA, City of Malibu, and City of Pasadena and I pass on their sincere thanks to the SEAOC Wildfire Task Group to put this together. This is an ongoing effort, and our local committees are working to develop the document further. We are also working on technical review and guidance for efficient home construction that could expedite the permitting process.
Reconnaissance: Visits to areas affected by the Eaton Fire and to the Palisades Fire have begun and will continue in the months ahead. The work following the reconnaissance will continue to develop the resources for future wildfire preparedness and recovery efforts.
There is a place for all of us in the recovery efforts. For some, that is policy, technical, reconnaissance, but for all of us, that is to be a trusted resource, advisor, advocate, and leader. To be equipped in this role takes developing the skills needed to engage, communicate, and enter the emotional space where we encounter those in need. I love the theme of next week's Leadership Symposium to be held Wednesday in downtown LA: Leading with Purpose, Inspiring with Passion, Connecting with Impact. I know for myself and all those attending the Symposium that we will leave better equipped to be of service in this time of great need and I look forward to seeing you all there.
Garrett W. Mills, S.E.
SEAOSC President 2024-25
