Preparedness and Prevention Tips

Fire safety is critical, especially in fire-prone areas. Here are some actionable steps:

1. For Homeowners

• Create Defensible Space:
  • Maintain at least 100 feet of defensible space around your home.
  • Remove dry vegetation, prune trees, and clear gutters of debris.
• Fire-Resistant Landscaping:
  • Use fire-resistant plants and materials.
  • Keep flammable items like propane tanks and wood piles away from your house.
• Fireproof Home Materials:
  • Install ember-resistant vents and non-combustible roofing materials.
  • Use fire-resistant siding like stucco or brick.

2. Emergency Preparedness

• Evacuation Plan:
  • Know multiple evacuation routes.
  • Pack a "go-bag" with essentials: medications, documents, food, water, clothing, and chargers.
• Emergency Alerts:
  • Sign up for LA County’s Alert LA County or Nixle for real-time updates.
• Insurance Check:
  • Review homeowners’ insurance to ensure wildfire coverage.

3. Community-Level Measures

• Utility Safety:
  • Advocate for underground power lines in fire-prone areas.
  • Report downed power lines or sparking equipment immediately.
• Evacuation Drills:
  • Participate in community fire drills and public safety campaigns.
• Fuel Breaks:
  • Support local efforts to create fuel breaks in heavily vegetated areas.

4. Personal Safety During a Fire

• Wear long sleeves, goggles, and a mask to protect against heat and smoke.
• Keep vehicles fueled and ready for evacuation.
• If trapped, stay in the center of a cleared area or shelter in place, avoiding areas with dense vegetation.