We’re heartbroken to witness the devastating LA wildfires that have destroyed so many homes in our neighboring community of Los Angeles. Watching the firestorm burn through the city is a sight too unfathomable to comprehend. The sparks that have whipped through canyons and streets on the Santa Ana winds have destroyed so much history and beauty, turning entire communities to ash before our eyes.
Autumn Brands has friends and industry partners who have been affected by the Palisades, Sunset and Eaton fires. Our hearts go out to everyone in those areas and the wider community.
When natural disasters such as these happen, the community really bonds together to help; we have witnessed this firsthand while living and managing our family farm in California.
For LA-surrounding area residents, it’s recommended that you follow these precautions:
- Try to stay inside with your doors and windows closed. If you’re going outside, wear a high-quality KN95 or N95 facemask that fits properly on your face.
- Make use of your air filters and purifiers.
- Support the homeless in your community by sharing masks, water bottles, food, goggles, and eyedrops with them.
- Support vulnerable neighbors like the elderly or those with disabilities. Offer to grab their medications, groceries, batteries, and other necessities for them.
Resource Links
The Watch Duty app has real-time alerts, fire maps, and a list of shelters.
Airbnb.org has partnered with 211 LA to offer temporary housing to people impacted by the LA wildfires. They are currently focusing on residents who have lost their homes or been forced to evacuate in the Altadena, Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Pasadena, Santa Monica and Sylmar areas. Affected residents can request assistance for temporary housing support from Airbnb.org by filling out this intake form with 211 LA or dialing 2-1-1.
American Red Cross: On-the-ground support to Southern California residents, helping to provide safe shelter, food, emotional support, and health services.
California Community Foundation: Working to strengthen Los Angeles County since 1915, the organization’s Wildfire Recovery Fund targets the most underserved and hard-to-reach communities in the region.
Direct Relief: A Southern California-based relief organization that does disaster relief work worldwide and provides support in LA, too.
California Fire Foundation: Works with local fire agencies and community-based organizations to provide ongoing support to California communities affected by wildfires and other natural disasters.
Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation: Provides equipment for firefighters and funds critical programs to help the Los Angeles Fire Department protect communities and save lives.
Salvation Army – Southern California Division: Operates a disaster services fund that supports evacuees and first responders of California wildfires.
Please see here for more mutual aid resources in the area.
Be Prepared
With emergency evacuations still taking place, you must create a “go back” of essential items should you need to evacuate quickly.
Firefighters have created a phonetic list, dubbed the “6 P’s of Evacuation,” to remember everything that should go with you in your emergency kit:
- People, pets and papers
- Phone numbers and important documents
- Prescriptions, vitamins, eyeglasses
- Pictures and irreplaceable memorabilia
- Personal computer, hard drive and disks
- “Plastic” (credit cards, ATM cards) and cash
Other things to include are:
- ID and important documents
- Clothing and warm blankets
- Food and water
- Personal protection
- Toiletries and personal sanitation (toilet paper, hand sanitizer, soap)
- KN95 masks and filters
- First aid kit
- Pet supplies
- Flashlight, batteries, manual can opener
- Portable chargers and power banks
- Back up power like a generator
We are in solidarity with everyone in Los Angeles and surrounding areas where these devastating wildfires are raging. Stay safe and stay connected with your loved ones.
Thank you to all the emergency services and volunteers working tirelessly to save the city and its residents.
