Tens of thousands of people in Southern California have been told to leave their homes because of flames that have spread to several areas around Los Angeles.
The Pacific Palisades is a neighborhood between the Santa Monica Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. The biggest of the wildfires has already burned through about 3,000 acres of land.
The fires are putting homes in danger, and damaging wind gusts are expected to reach 100 mph all day Wednesday. Chief of Police for Los Angeles County Anthony C. Marrone said that the National Weather Service has warned of a continuing red flag weather event with high winds and low humidity that “puts all residents of Los Angeles County in danger.”
It’s important to leave right away if you’ve been told to do so by officials.
If not, getting ready ahead of time can make a big difference if things go wrong. Also, once more, if you feel like you’re in danger, don’t wait to be told to leave.
What shouldWhere should you go?
People who live in the area should know about road closures so they can plan their escape routes and know which evacuation sites are close by.
As of Wednesday morning, the Los Angeles Fire Department was running evacuation centers in the area. The Westwood Recreation Center was open for people fleeing the Palisades Fire, and the Ritchie Valens Recreation Center was open for people fleeing the Hurst Fire.
Closely watch for updates
Downloading the FEMA app is how people can get real-time information and alerts from the National Weather Service. The Department of Homeland Security also sends real-time messages to all cell phones and broadcast networks, and you don’t have to sign up for these.
The Los Angeles Fire Department is reporting news in real-time on its website and X account.
What to put in a “go-bag”
Cal Fire suggests that people put together a “go-bag” with the following items:
- three days’ worth of food that doesn’t go bad
- three gallons of water for each person and a plan with at least two ways to get out of the area
- prescription drugs that are needed
- extra glasses and a change of clothes
- an extra set of keys
- ATM cards and cash
- a kit for first help
- a flashlight
- a radio that runs on batteries and extra batteries
- pictures of important papers like birth certificates and passports
- Water and food for pets
Evacuees should only take family photos and other irreplaceable things, as well as computer hard drives and chargers for laptops and cell phones if they have time.
What should you do if you’re locked up?
Experts say that the first thing you should do if you get stuck is to stay calm.
If you’re at home, Cal Fire says to fill sinks and tubs with cold water, keep doors and windows closed but not locked, and stay inside, away from walls and windows on the outside.
When you park your car, make sure there are no plants around, close the windows and fans, and wrap yourself in a wool blanket or jacket.
If you’re running away on foot, the police say to find a clear space, like a ditch or flat ground, lie down face down, and hide your body.
In all of these cases, the department says to call 911 if you can.
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