How To Stay Safe And Aid In Wildfire Relief Efforts
Photo: Ethan Swope/ AP
As a resident of Los Angeles, I have been heartbroken to see the destruction the recent wildfires have caused. It’s been a devastating blow to the city I love, and my heart goes out to everyone who has been impacted. In the face of this tragedy, it’s imperative that we stay safe and do all that we can to aid those who are working tirelessly to fight these fires as well as help those who have lost so much.
I’m sharing a number of resources to help everyone in the Los Angeles area stay safe, as well as ways to aid the relief efforts both locally and from afar. In the face of a tragedy like this, it’s so important that we stay informed, and all come together to do what we can.
CALIFORNIA WILDFIRES
It’s crucial to stay informed when dealing with wildfires. You can sign up for emergency alerts from LA County HERE, and also download the Watch Duty App to monitor the fires, see perimeters, weather conditions, and red flag warnings.
Stay ready by packing an emergency bag with clothes, toiletries, passports, and medications and filling your car with gas in the event you need to evacuate quickly.
CALIFORNIA WILDFIRES
To ensure you and your loved ones are staying safe, follow these guidelines.
Try to conserve water and boil your tap water to drink and use at home. To keep out smoke and unhealthy air, make sure to close all your windows and doors and use an air purifier if you can.
If you do go outside, always wear a KN95 mask. Air quality index levels are extremely high, and it’s hazardous to your health to breathe.
CALIFORNIA WILDFIRES
If you are in the Los Angeles area, there are a number of organizations accepting donations in person.
The LA Regional Food Bank is working with government agencies, non-profit and faith-based partners to assist, and is accepting non-perishable donations.
It’s Bigger Than Us is partnering with Perfect Hydration and Baby2Baby to administer supplies to those in need. They are accepting household supplies, comfort items, clothing, and personal care (all new and in packaging).
Pasadena Humane has taken n over 300 animals displaced by the wildfires. They are seeking pet food, water bowls, crates, and blankets.
CALIFORNIA WILDFIRES
You can lend a hand from afar by offering your support to many worthy organizations that are on the ground aiding the relief effort.
