Recent fires that torched parts of Los Angeles, raise critical questions about living in regions prone to earthquakes and wildfires. California’s struggles are not unique. Last year, a fire in Texas matched the scale of those in California, burning uncontrollably for days. Fortunately, the death toll here was two.

The destruction in Los Angeles is profoundly upsetting, impacting countless lives and leaving families devastated. However, it also showcases the community’s resilience as they support each other in these trying times. The anguish of losing everything is a stark reminder of the risks inherent in disaster-prone areas. While the situation in Texas was equally tragic, it sheds light on how vastly different outcomes can be, depending on the location and preparedness. My thoughts are with all those affected and I hope they receive the help and capacity needed to recover quickly and rebuild their lives.

Rebuilding may involve using fire-resistant materials to enhance safety. Firefighting is a huge call and adhering to the California fire code by using non-flammable components in construction can increasingly ease the burden. But the high costs associated with these materials can be prohibitive for many – this is a crucial consideration we must address for the future safety of our communities.

Investing in fire-resistant materials, even if the cost is high, is prudent. It is a resolution many could not make. Ultimately, the safety and peace of mind it can provide are invaluable knowing your home is protected from the threat of fire, gives you a priceless sense of reassurance and security.

In July 2002, a costly and beautiful home on North Dallas’ Billionaires’ Row was gutted by fire no number of firefighters could put out. About 300 firemen were rendered useless by a fire that saw the Chateau Du Triomphe razed to where bulldozers were left to do the rest.

This three-story mansion, valued at $45 million at the time , had things that make life pleasant, such as four bedroom suites, an Olympic-styled swimming pool, a 2,566-square-foot gate/guard house, a 20,000-bottle wine room, a butler’s pantry, a 21-seat home theatre, a 16-car garage, an indoor car washing facility, a 17,000-square-foot basement and a scenic ground with lush pastures and panoramic views. And the list goes on and on.

A few houses down the street from where the Chateau once stood, is a home whose owner may have learned a valuable lesson. By observing the catastrophic effects of the fire on the Chateau, they have taken proactive steps to ensure their home is better prepared. Steel and concrete have been utilized in its construction, a testament to the power of learning from past disasters and taking action to prevent future tragedies.

PS: As the Chateau burned, the owner, a Mauritian businessman, Jean-Raymond Boulle told The Dallas Morning News, “I got to go to Sierra Leone.”

“What makes Boulle’s story possibly sinister is that he is profiting essentially from Africa’s misery.” Forbes– (August 10, 1998, updated June 6, 2013) – Titled, “Friends in high places” He is described as “immensely charming and utterly ruthless.”