From the outside looking in, last week would look familiar to anyone who knows about the American Red Cross Prepare with Pedro program: Volunteers arriving in Rye, Colo., to help teach students about disaster preparedness.
Pedro was there, of course, along with Red Cross of Southern Colorado volunteers as part of Rye Elementary School's annual Science Day. Themed "Bouncing Back After the Fire," the day brought students to Rye Mountain Park — just 10 miles from where the Aspen Acres Fire began.
But the lesson wasn't just about the wildfire these kids had already lived through; it was about what could come next. This time, Pedro talked about flooding.
For these students, flash flooding isn't just something that could happen after a wildfire. It already has and will for many years.
Since the Aspen Acres Fire, burn scars above Rye and nearby Beulah, Colo., have produced repeated flash flooding. On July 28, 1 to 3 inches of rain fell over portions of the scar, triggering flooding, debris flows, road closures and water rescues.
With that in mind, the Red Cross team tailored Prepare with Pedro to what families need right now — recognizing flood danger, knowing what to do when heavy rain moves in and staying safer around a wildfire burn scar.
Judging by all those hands in the air, the kids were ready.
Red Cross volunteer Cora Davis spearheaded the Red Cross participation, with Community Disaster Program Manager Hunter DeSario facilitating. Volunteers Ralph Waters, Robin Madera, Darlene Avery and Vanessa Hoener joined them, along with young Angelo Madera, who brought Pedro to life. Ralph also proved to be a naturally spectacular penguin.
And preparedness wasn't the only thing the Red Cross brought to the mountain.
At the Disaster Mental Health station, volunteers focused on another important part of recovery that isn't always visible. They gave students a safe place to talk about the wildfire, the flooding that followed and the emotions those experiences can bring. Through interactive activities, the team helped children recognize feelings of stress and anxiety, practice healthy coping skills and learn that asking for help is a sign of strength. While Pedro taught preparedness, these volunteers helped teach resilience.
"Programs like Science Day help turn a difficult experience into an opportunity for learning and growth," DeSario said. "By helping students understand the science behind wildfires, the recovery process and the ongoing risks that can follow a wildfire burn scar, we're empowering families with knowledge to better prepare for future disasters while supporting their resilience and connection to their community after the Aspen Acres Fire. That's what we're here for today."
Just days after Science Day, heavy rain is once again in the forecast for southern Colorado — making those conversations especially timely.
These kids have already learned more about disasters than any elementary school student should have to.
But on this day, they were laughing with Pedro, raising their hands and learning that being prepared doesn't have to mean being afraid.
Want to bring Prepare with Pedro to your school, Scout troop, 4-H club or youth organization? Email PrepareColorado@redcross.org or visit redcross.org/YouthPrep to learn more.
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