"Dick Van Dyke rescued from the flames in Malibu by brave neighbors."

"Dick Van Dyke rescued from the flames in Malibu by brave neighbors."

The actor, who turns 99 years old this Friday, had to evacuate his home due to the advance of the fire.

Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros

Juan Brignardello Vela

Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, se especializa en brindar asesoramiento y gestión comercial en el ámbito de seguros y reclamaciones por siniestros para destacadas empresas en el mercado peruano e internacional.

Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, y Vargas Llosa, premio Nobel Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, en celebración de Alianza Lima Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, Central Hidro Eléctrica Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, Central Hidro
Natural Disasters 6 HOURS AGO

In a striking reminder of the dangers of wildfires, Hollywood legend Dick Van Dyke was rescued from the flames in Malibu thanks to the bravery of his neighbors. The actor, who is preparing to celebrate his 99th birthday on December 13, shared his terrifying experience after escaping the devastating blaze known as the Franklin Fire, which has ravaged over 4,000 acres and is only 7% contained.


On the night of December 9, as the flames consumed the hillside near his home, Van Dyke found himself in a desperate situation. "I went out of the house and tried to untangle a hose that connects to my pool," he explained in an interview with NBC News. However, time was running out, and the actor realized that his advanced age and lack of preparedness had put his life at risk. His attempt to fix the hose left him exhausted, with no strength left to escape.


As the flames approached, Van Dyke was forced to crawl to his car. It was at that critical moment that three of his neighbors came to the rescue. "My neighbors saved me," he recounted gratefully on the Today show, where he also highlighted the bravery of those who did not hesitate to enter the fire to protect their homes and lives. "They carried me to the car and then went back to put out a small fire at the guest house. They saved my life and my home. I don't think I would have made it without them."


The Franklin Fire has wreaked havoc in the community, forcing tens of thousands of residents to evacuate and destroying at least nine structures. Celebrities like Cher and Mira Sorvino were also forced to leave their homes, underscoring the magnitude of the disaster. Sorvino shared on social media the terror of evacuating in the middle of the night with her family, a testament to the fear many residents faced in those critical moments.


Despite the chaos and distress, Van Dyke was able to evacuate in time with his wife, Arlene Silver, and their pets. However, the anguish did not end there, as one of their cats, Bobo, went missing in the turmoil. With a glimmer of hope, Van Dyke updated his followers on Facebook, informing them that Bobo was found safe and sound, a relief amid the tragedy.


The celebrated actor, known for his eternal optimism and energy, also expressed his admiration for the firefighters who tirelessly fought to contain the blaze. "They arrived immediately and started spraying water on my house. They are exhausted, but they deserve all the praise possible," he commented, recalling the heroism they displayed during the crisis.


While Van Dyke's main house suffered no serious damage, his guest house was partially affected. After the evacuation, the actor and his wife spent the night in a hotel in Santa Monica, a place that evoked memories of his youth in acting. This experience reminded them of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.


Just days before his birthday, Van Dyke reflected on his longevity in a recent interview. "I am very aware that I could die at any moment, but I am not worried. I have the feeling, contrary to any intellectual logic, that I will be okay," he stated, showing a positive attitude towards the inevitable.


This incident also highlights the resilience of the Malibu community, where neighbors came together to help those in need amid the disaster. Through his personal experience, Van Dyke sends a message of gratitude and unity that resonates in times of crisis.


Earlier in December, the iconic artist had been in the spotlight for his appearance in Coldplay's music video, "All My Love," where his energy and charisma shone once again. As his birthday approaches, the community and his admirers celebrate not only his life but also his ability to inspire others, even in the darkest moments.

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