Date: Fri 22-Aug-1997

Publication: Bee

Author: CURT

Quick Words:

edink-disaster-photos-accident

Full Text:

Images Of Disaster

We are sometimes asked why we photograph highway accidents, or house fires, or

other events where people must face great stress, injury, and even death. The

images are often unpleasant and evoke a strong response in our readers.

We do not offer these images to sensationalize the loss and pain of others; we

take great care never to intrude on the privacy of those who must deal,

suddenly and unexpectedly, with pain and grievous loss. We do think such

images reflect a reality that arises far too often, even in our hometown,

where the most innocent of miscues, slight lapses of attention, and

happenstance conspire to spark horrendous calamities. The photos, more than

words ever could, convey a reminder to all of us that we should pay close

attention to the small details of safety for ourselves and those we love -

details that can determine whether we live fulfilling lives or lives filled

with regret.

We also feel duty bound to offer the community graphic evidence of the

strength and courage of the people who provide emergency services in Newtown.

Most of us can push away the horrible realities of disasters simply by putting

the paper down. These people, most of whom are volunteers, must deal

intimately with the most gruesome and distressing realities of victims in

extreme distress. And they do it with care and compassion, night and day, fair

weather and foul, often at the risk of injury to themselves. They are more

than models of good citizenship. In the line of duty, they come close to being

saints. We think Newtown should see who they are and what they do.