Linking in Lincoln: May 29, 2008

If you’re an avid follower of current events, then you must be aware that in addition to spring, it’s also wildfire season. This month from the University of Nebraska Press is Wildfire and Americans, by Roger G. Kennedy. The book is a desperate plea to Humans to re-evaluate our place in the larger ecosystem. Kennedy’s unique perspective on natural disasters and the moral role of humans, mixed with his suspicions of the political system create a very compelling read. This week, Linking in Lincoln will throw themselves into the fire…the wildfire that is, and find out just how informed we should be on the subject!

Are you curious what a wildfire consists of? How they start? Just how dangerous they are? The United States Geological Survey (USGS) provides a great explanation, which you can find here.

How can you protect you and your family from wildfire? State Farm provides a detailed list of what to do before and during the fire.

One of Kennedy’s arguments is that there are no natural disasters, only human disasters. Check out this Newsday article by Wolf Schafer to see how “Humans create, worsen natural disasters.”

Well this may not be the same kind of bad weather, but check out Jazz Goddess Lena Horne’s stunning rendition of “Stormy Weather” here on youtube.

Since we’re on the subject of youtube, and if you don’t scare easily, check out real footage of the 1999 Willow Fire in Apple Valley, California.

Are you like me, and a sucker for a natural disaster movie? I won’t lie, Twister both terrifies and delights me. If you too like to be thrust into a world where nature, and not man has all the control then check out disasterflicks.com.

On a more serious note, wildfires are incredibly dangerous. In addition to protecting you and your family, take a look at the MRSC website to check out wildfire prevention.

The effects of wildfire damage are considerable to say the least, the loss of lives, personal property, and homes take their toll each year. Here, CBSNews takes a closer look at the devastating effect.

What do you think bloggers, are you now a wildfire authority? Well, I hope so! At any rate, check back on Friday for This Day in History!