**Essential Items to Pack During an Emergency Evacuation**
Fire has ravaged large parts of Los Angeles County, prompting the urgent evacuation of thousands of residents in the Pacific Palisades, Altadena, and Pasadena communities. Since Tuesday morning, firefighters have been battling three significant blazes, with the Palisades fire scorching more than 11,000 acres by Wednesday morning. Simultaneously, the Eaton fire in the Altadena hills has consumed over 10,000 acres. The Hurst fire near Sylmar, though not yet under evacuation orders as of Wednesday afternoon, has burned through more than 500 acres.
**The Urgency of Evacuation**
Experts stress the importance of heeding evacuation warnings promptly to ensure your safety. Leaving early not only grants you more time to reach safety but also aids in keeping roads clear for emergency responders, as highlighted by the Los Angeles Emergency Management Department. There are three types of evacuation alerts: shelter-in-place, evacuation warning, and evacuation order, as outlined by Ready L.A. County.
– **Shelter-in-place:** Requires individuals to stay indoors, close all windows and doors, and prepare to self-sustain until further notice or until contacted by emergency officials.
– **Evacuation warning:** Indicates a potential threat to life or property, urging those with pets, livestock, or needing additional time to evacuate to leave immediately.
– **Evacuation order:** Signifies an immediate threat to life, mandating an immediate departure while closing off the area to public access.
If you receive a shelter-in-place or evacuation warning, it is crucial to prepare a “go-bag” containing essential items for a swift evacuation.
**What to Pack in Your “Go-Bag”**
When assembling your “go-bag,” include the following items:
– Water and nonperishable food with utensils and a can opener
– A flashlight with extra batteries
– A first aid kit and a fire extinguisher
– Sanitation essentials like moist towelettes, garbage bags, and toilet paper
– A whistle for signaling help
– A battery-operated or hand-crank radio
– A printed map of your area in case of GPS failure
Additionally, ensure your bag contains:
– Face masks (N95 or KN95 for smoke and air pollution)
– Batteries and chargers for devices
– Clothing, including coats, pajamas, and sturdy shoes
– A blanket, comfort items, and entertainment for prolonged stays
**Los Angeles Fire Department’s “6 P’s”**
In addition to your go-bag, pack the “6 P’s” recommended by the Los Angeles Fire Department:
– **People and pets**
– **Papers and phone numbers**
– **Prescriptions and health-related items**
– **Pictures and personal items**
– **Personal computers**
– **Plastics (ID, cards, cash)**
**Stay Informed and Prepared**
To stay informed, sign up for local emergency mass notification systems like Alert L.A. County, Notify L.A., and Nixle. Stay updated on weather forecasts through local news broadcasts and the National Weather Service Los Angeles office website.
In times of crisis, preparedness can make all the difference. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Make sure you have your go-bag ready and packed with all the essentials, including the 6 P’s, to ensure a smooth evacuation process for you and your loved ones. Stay informed and stay safe.
