For years, the Los Angeles Fire Department has consistently urged residents to be well-prepared in case of major emergencies such as earthquakes or large-scale brush fires. Particularly for those residing in high fire severity zones, recent global events underscore the heightened importance of readiness. In these times, utmost vigilance and staying informed through monitoring social media, local TV channels, or preferred news radio stations become crucial. Should evacuation become necessary, it’s imperative to have essential family documents, phone data, pets, and valuables ready for departure.
Emergencies can arise unexpectedly, anywhere, and anytime. Being poised to respond when the situation demands is an absolute necessity. To facilitate the memory of necessary steps and accompanying items during evacuations, a simple acronym, the “Six P’s,” can be employed:
• People and Pets
• Papers, Phone Numbers, and Important Documents
• Prescriptions, Vitamins, and Eyeglasses
• Pictures and Irreplaceable Memorabilia
• Personal Computers (Information on Hard Drives and Disks)
• “Plastic” (Credit Cards, ATM Cards) and Cash
• Prepare old shoes and a flashlight for nighttime evacuations.
The Ready, Set, Go program assumes a pivotal role in aiding your family’s safety. The latest information on preparedness includes the following:
Are You Prepared?
A natural disaster can strike suddenly. While some occurrences are man-made, major brush fires can bring the full force of Mother Nature right to your doorstep within moments. During such instances, quick and decisive action is paramount; there are no second chances. Unlike video games, real life doesn’t allow do-overs, and fires show no mercy. In Southern California, brush fires have become commonplace, with projections pointing to increased fire activity. These fires are often unpredictable and hazardous, particularly when propelled by winds. As wind patterns shift in intensity and direction, wildfires can either smolder or transform into destructive infernos. Knowing how to safeguard your home, family, and when to evacuate becomes pivotal when facing such disasters.
To enhance community understanding regarding wind-driven wildfire preparation in Los Angeles, the Los Angeles City Fire Department collaborates with entities like Cal Fire, the Orange County Fire Authority, and others to establish Ready, Set, Go, LA!
Getting Prepared:
The initial step involves readying your property, residence, and family for wildfire scenarios. As firefighters, we’re well-versed in emergency responses, yet, time and again, fellow community members neglect experts’ advice, putting even firefighter’s home at risk. The journey begins with education. Access your neighborhood, identify potential hazards, and take appropriate measures to mitigate them. Community engagement is pivotal; discuss strategies to prevent future catastrophes. While brush clearance is mandated, adherence can be inconsistent and challenging to enforce. Addressing ornamental vegetation is essential, as green plants can burn, whether five feet from your roofline or not. Recent fires underscore the need for change from the status quo.
Are You Set?
Television often features individuals observing fires from nearby neighborhoods. However, fire doesn’t require crosswalks to advance. A brief gust of wind in the right direction can spell disaster. Rather than mere observers, during a major fire, one should be “Set,” ready to vacate upon command. This means having loved ones nearby, your vehicle equipped with the Six “P’s,” and a predetermined escape route established well in advance. Panic can alter thinking, so practicing evacuations beforehand is paramount. Familiarize yourself with routes, including alternatives, as plans and fire conditions may shift.
Go:
Does a law enforcement officer need to direct you to evacuate? If such persuasion is required, so be it. When the time comes, take immediate action. Waiting until roadways are congested isn’t wise. Past conventions advised awaiting authoritative evacuation orders. However, times have evolved; our approach must as well. Exercise common sense. Prioritize your family’s welfare and leave early. Congested roads delay emergency responders, hampering their ability to protect your property. Swift evacuation is key to expediting their response.
This information might be familiar to you as a first responder, but your friends and family can undoubtedly benefit from this insightful piece. You might not be home when the next fire or disaster strikes your neighborhood. Share this knowledge with them; empower them to be Ready and Set to Go!
Education is pivotal. Explore the Ready, Set, Go plans online at https://www.lafd.org/ready-set-go. Equip yourself with preparedness—Ready, Set, and then Go!
Source: Los Angeles City Fire Department
