How to prepare for the next fire in LA

As growth slows in the Palisades and Eaton Fires, the question for many Los Angeles homeowners will be how to prepare for the next blaze.

Though fire season usually ends in October, the National Interagency Fire Center projects that elevated fire risk will continue until rains fall across Southern California. As such, it is important for area residents to take precautions to protect themselves and their property.

Cal Fire maintains a list of steps to reduce your risk of wildfires.

Prepare your home and car

Maintaining a fire extinguisher in an accessible location can stop fires before they grow out of control. Make sure you and your family know how to properly operate the device, and check regularly to make sure it still works and is not expired.

Additionally, make a “go bag” and keep it in your vehicle. These kits should contain everything you need for a few days away from home with no notice. Make sure that you have Cal Fire recommends having three days’ supply of non-perishable food, a map with at least two evacuation routes, emergency contacts, and any prescription medications and important documents, among other things.

Be ready to go

Make sure that you are registered for emergency updates. The sign-up page for L.A. County alerts can be found here. NotifyLA is the system for those within the City of Los Angeles. Those in other municipalities should check with their local governments.

During an emergency, electricity and cell phone access may be limited. As such, it is important to have a battery-powered radio in order to keep up with evacuation orders which may be issued.

Individual needs may differ. If you are part of a vulnerable group, you may need to prepare N95 masks or mobility aids. Know your needs, and prepare accordingly.