Los Angeles Wildfires Continue To Devastate City

Fueled by powerful Santa Ana winds, wildfires around Los Angeles continue to grow, causing widespread destruction and forcing thousands to evacuate.

The Palisades Fire, which began on the morning of Tuesday, Jan 7, in Pacific Palisades, has rapidly burned thousands of acres in Malibu and Santa Monica. Despite the efforts of the Los Angeles Fire Department and other responders, the fire’s growth remains challenging to control. Evacuation orders are in effect for several nearby neighborhoods.

Meanwhile, the Eaton Fire, originating in the San Bernardino Mountains, has forced evacuations in the Altadena area. The fire has spread quickly and has put homes and businesses at risk.

To the north, the Hurst Fire threatens areas near Santa Clarita Woodlands Park and Elsmere Canyon. Both fires, fueled by the same extreme conditions, continue to grow as emergency crews are working relentlessly to protect residents and contain the flames.

How To Stay Safe In A Fire Alert Situation

As city officials continue to investigate the cause of these fires and first responders work to control the situation, here’s a list of things you can do to stay safe:

Don’t Wait To Protect Yourself Or Your Home

Even if you reside outside of an evacuation zone, it’s still a good idea to do what you can to protect yourself or your property. For example:

• Start by signing up to receive emergency alerts and warnings on your phone
• Plan an evacuation route away from fires that you and your loved ones can take in case of emergency
• Gather and take pictures of all of your important documents, including identification, medical records, or even pet paperwork
• Pack a go-bag that includes a first aid kit, medicine, food and water for at least 3 days, a change of clothes, cash and credit cards, flashlights, etc.
• Make sure your gas tank is full

You’ve Been Told To Evacuate, Now What?

Remain calm and follow these steps to make sure you and your loved ones get away safely:

• Follow evacuation orders immediately
• Gather all of your pre-packed items, like your go-bag and documentation.
• Close all windows and doors and move flammable items, like curtains or wooden furniture, away from windows
• Leave your lights on for firefighters to easily see your house through the smoke
• Take pictures of your home and valuables
• Alert your emergency contacts, family, and friends

Remember, your safety comes first — material things can be replaced, but lives cannot. As we continue to face these catastrophic events, our thoughts are with everyone affected by the Los Angeles wildfires. If you’ve been impacted, injured, or suffered property damage or loss, know that there are resources available to assist you, and don’t hesitate to reach out to Adamson Ahdoot for help.