As of today, multiple wildfires are actively burning across California. With more than 30 years of wildfire litigation experience, the team at Danko Meredith Fire Lawyers is always monitoring active fires in California. We have represented thousands of people who have lost their homes to fires caused by others’ negligent or reckless behavior. We practice where we live, in Northern California, and have represented clients from Contra Costa County to Mendocino County, including Butte County, Napa County, Sonoma County, Calaveras County, and Lake County. Here are some of the tips our clients have told us they wish they had known about evacuating before they were affected by a fire. If you have lost a home or property to a wildfire caused by others, contact us for a free and confidential consultation.
Essential Wildfire Preparedness Tips
Danko Meredith attorneys, with years of experience representing fire survivors, have compiled the following tips for those who may be affected by wildfires:
- Prepare for Utility Outages: Water and power may be cut off during an emergency. Gather flashlights, headlamps, and batteries during daylight hours, and fill your water bottles. If you plan to water your property as a precaution, do it now.
- Vehicle Readiness: Fill your gas tank and leave your garage door open if you garage your vehicle. Position your car in the driveway or on the street, facing out.
- Pack Essential Items: Gather all essential items into one easily accessible bag. This should include clothing, medication, identification, and emergency supplies.
- Prepare Your Pets: Locate your pets and place them in carriers early. Animals can become easily frightened by the smell of smoke, sirens, and heightened anxiety levels in the environment.
- Check on Neighbors: If you have neighbors who may need assistance, offer help, and ensure they are aware of the need to evacuate.
- Document Your Property: Take a video walkthrough of your home, capturing unique features, furniture, and fixtures. This will be useful for insurance claims.
- Stay Calm: Evacuations can be stressful, but taking time to mentally prepare for worst-case scenarios will help you stay focused when the time comes.
- Heed Evacuation Orders: Always follow evacuation instructions from emergency responders. Ignoring them can endanger not only your life but also the lives of first responders.
- Seek Mental Health Support: After an evacuation, talking to a mental health professional can be crucial. Fire-related trauma can have delayed effects, and it is essential to address your emotional well-being.
Wildfires can change direction rapidly due to wind or weather. Being prepared ensures that when an evacuation order comes, you are ready to leave without delay.
Packing Checklist for Wildfire Evacuation
In the event of an evacuation, pack quickly and efficiently. Below is a list of essential items to consider.
Necessities
- Identification: Passports, driver’s licenses, and important documents (insurance papers, deeds).
- Cash/Credit Cards: ATMs may not be available in evacuation zones.
- Clothing: Pack a few days’ worth of clothes, including layers and comfortable shoes.
- Medications: Bring a week’s supply of any required medications and medical devices (e.g., inhalers, EpiPens).
- Water and Food: At least a three-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day) and non-perishable snacks.
Emergency Kit
- First Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and any specialized medical supplies.
- Flashlights and Batteries: Ensure reliable light sources in case of power outages.
- Portable Phone Chargers: Bring fully charged power banks for electronic devices.
- Masks: N95 masks or cloth face coverings to filter out smoke.
Communication and Information
- Radio: Battery-powered or hand-crank radio for emergency updates.
For Children and Pets
- Comfort Items for Children: Bring toys, blankets, or books to reduce stress.
- Pet Supplies: Food, water, medications, leashes, crates, and vaccination records.
Miscellaneous
- Blankets or Sleeping Bags: In case you need to stay in a shelter.
- Emergency Contact List: Keep a written copy of important phone numbers in case your phone becomes inaccessible.
The Airport Fire, spanning Riverside and Orange counties, has scorched over 23,000 acres and is currently 31% contained. If you are affected by the Airport Fire, there are active evacuation orders and warnings in place for both Orange County and Riverside County. Click here to find your evacuation zone.
To assist displaced residents, several shelters have been established:
Designated Shelters
- Foothill Ranch Library (West of the fire)
27002 Cabriole Way, Foothill Ranch, 92610
Small pets are allowed with their owners.
- Temescal Canyon High School (West of the fire)
28755 El Toro Rd, Lake Elsinore, CA 92532
- Santiago High School (North of the fire)
1395 E Foothill Pkwy, Corona, CA 92881
- Saddleback Church (East of the fire)
1 Purpose Dr, Lake Forest, CA
Animal Shelters
- Nohl Ranch Saddle Club (Northwest of the fire)
6352 Nohl Ranch Rd, Anaheim, CA 92807
- Murrieta Equestrian Center (Southeast of the fire)
42670 Juniper St, Murrieta, CA 92562
- OC Animal Care (Small Animals Only)
1630 Victory Rd, Tustin, CA 92782
When bringing pets to shelters, please bring photo identification, veterinary/vaccination records, special food, and medications.
Your safety comes first. Once you are in a secure location, you can address other concerns. If you believe a public utility or public works department may have contributed to the wildfire, it is important to act quickly. Document your expenses, gather relevant information, and consult an experienced wildfire attorney. They can help you navigate the legal process and seek compensation for your losses. Though it may be a lengthy journey, pursuing justice is a crucial step toward rebuilding your life.
