Tens of thousands of Southern Californians were ordered to evacuate their homes after wildfires devastated several parts of the Los Angeles area.
The largest of the wildfires has already burned through approximately 3,000 acres of Pacific Palisades, a neighborhood between the Santa Monica Mountains and the Pacific Ocean.
Fires threaten homes, and destructive wind gusts are expected to peak at 100 mph throughout Wednesday. Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone warned that the National Weather Service has forecast an ongoing red flag weather event with high winds and low humidity “that will endanger all residents of Los Angeles County.” ”.
If you have been told to evacuate, officials advise you to do so immediately, don’t wait.
Otherwise, a small amount of preparation can make a big difference if things change. And again, don’t wait to be told to evacuate if you feel you are at risk.
What is the first step to be prepared?
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, or Cal Fire, says residents should plan a place to meet other family members, know who to call and how to flee safely if they are forced to evacuate. U.S. Department of Homeland Security guidelines emphasize that all members of your household must agree on a single plan.
There should also be subsequent evacuation plans for spaces you frequent, including your office or childcare, if you are not home when you need to flee, federal officials advise.
Residents should stay informed about road closures to plan evacuation routes and know which evacuation centers are nearby.
As of Wednesday morning, the Los Angeles Fire Department was operating evacuation shelters in the area, including the Westwood Recreation Center for Palisades Fire evacuees and the Ritchie Valens Recreation Center for Hurst Fire evacuees.
Monitor updates closely
To receive real-time updates and alerts from the National Weather Service, residents can download the FEMA app. In emergencies, the Department of Homeland Security also sends real-time alerts to broadcast networks and all mobile phones, which do not require registration.
The Los Angeles Fire Department posts real-time updates to its X account and website.
What to pack in a ‘go bag’
Cal Fire advises residents to prepare a “go bag” that includes the following:
a three-day supply of non-perishable food
three gallons of water per person
a map with at least two evacuation routes
necessary prescription medications
a change of clothes, extra glasses
an extra set of keys
credit cards and cash
a first aid kit
a flashlight
a battery-powered radio with extra batteries
copies of important documents such as passports or birth certificates
pet food and water
Only if time permits, evacuees can consider taking family photographs and other irreplaceable items, computer hard drives, and cell phone and laptop chargers.
What should you do if you are trapped?
In the unfortunate event of getting trapped, the first thing experts advise is to stay calm.
If you are at home, Cal Fire recommends filling sinks and bathtubs with cold water, keeping doors and windows closed but unlocked, and staying inside, away from outside walls and windows.
If you go by car, park in an area free of vegetation, close the windows and vents and cover yourself with a blanket or wool jacket.
If fleeing on foot, the department suggests moving to a clear area, such as a ditch or flat ground, lying face down and covering your body.
In all of these scenarios, the department recommends calling 911 if possible.
