With both my daughters living and breathing the horse world for many years, I've always been concerned about the possibility of fires and trapped animals.

Just thoughts of any living thing not able to escape a fire can be horrifying.

The Greenmoor blaze came about quickly, just as the center prepared to close for the evening. Barn workers were filling feed bins with night hay for the boarded horses and a few riders were saying goodnight to their equine pals. The stench of smoke first became evident, then the fire was spotted.

Lawrence firemen responded quickly, then Cecil, Upper St. Clair, Peters, Fairview and the Rapid Intervention Team from North Strabane. All are commended for their tireless efforts in containing the fire to a single structure.

"I wasn't at the center when the fire started," Fran Mocker, manager of the equine center said. "I'm grateful to all those who helped. Vivian Harbison has been wonderful. Without hesitation, she trailered most of the evacuated 13 horses to her Mingo Creek Farm in Finleyville."

But there was one horse, "Pearl," who panicked. She was frightened and wouldn't run outdoors to safety. A North Strabane firefighter, Paul Williams, also a farrier who is familiar with Pearl, knew her to be skittish at times. A racehorse trainer for about 30 years and certified in large animal rescue, handling horses is second nature to him. Paul entered the stall braving the smoke and fire, took hold of Pearl and led her into the night air.

"I felt confident about taking control and going in the stall after Pearl," said Paul. "A big concern was if the building collapsed, but I knew Ed Childers and the RIT was close by to provide immediate assistance."

One saving grace was the blanket Pearl wore covering her against the night's cold. Water pouring through the ceiling kept her and the covering wet as firemen hosed the barn above and the flooded stall kept the walls from burning. Even with this, Pearl was singed through the blanket and suffered smoke damage.

"I'm a former professional jockey from Wales," Paul added. "After an accident in 1994, I came to the U.S. for a bit of change."

Armand Dellovade, owner of the Cecil Township property at Greenmoor, was quick to say what was left standing after the fire would soon be torn down.

"Construction for a new horse stable will begin soon. And it will be better than the old facility," continued Armand. "I own the property but Fran (Mocker) has leased the barns and pasture for the past six months."

"I feel the blessing service we held for the animals the day before is what protected them," said Fran. "I was laid off a little over a year ago and going through a life-changing experience. I love horses and always wanted to run a stable and work with riders and horses. After hearing that Greenmoor was available, my husband and I agreed to give this opportunity a try."

The barns needed a lot of clean-up and the Mocker's worked hard to get them ready for the 32 horses boarded at the Cecil Township site.

A fairly new rider, Fran's husband Bill was just getting comfortable on his saddle and riding Pearl. His saddle and other tack were lost in the fire. But Bill is ready for this new challenge as long as Pearl is OK.

My heart goes out to all those affected by this Greenmoor fire and the firefighters who put their lives on the line every time a fire whistle blows. They can never be given enough thanks for their sacrifice and the job they do.