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California’s Largest Wildfire Ever Is Burning Now. Are You Ready?

As wildfires continue to burn thousands of acres throughout California, the Los Angeles County Fire Department is encouraging Santa Clarita residents to be prepared for brush fires in the area.


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Currently, there are 20 active fires burning in California, including the largest in the state’s history.

The Mendocino Complex Fire, with more than 280,000 acres, is the largest wildfire as of Monday night after the blaze nearly doubled in size in just a few days, authorities said.

No one has been injured in the Mendocino Complex Fire, which consists of two fires, the Ranch Fire and the River Fire, burning in several counties in Northern California.

A red flag warning is currently in effect for the Santa Clarita Valley through Tuesday.

A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions are expected because of strong winds, low humidity and hot temperatures, according to the National Weather Service.

If a fire ignites, it is highly possible for it to rapidly spread, which could threaten property and lives.

With Santa Clarita’s vulnerability for wildfires, the Los Angeles County Fire Department urges residents to have a plan.

“For those of you living near the current incidents, be vigilant and keep your TV or radio on. Make certain you have your family’s critical papers, phone data, pets and other valuables ready to evacuate if so directed,” said the department in a statement.

Related: UPDATE: Railroad Fire 95 Percent Contained, Several Families Still Without Homes

Here are some instructions from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection on making an effective family disaster plan:

  1. Create a family disaster plan that includes meeting locations and communication

plans and practice it regularly. Include in your plan the evacuation of large animals.

  1. Have fire extinguishers on hand and train your family how to use them.
  2. Ensure that your family knows where your gas, electric and water main shut-off

controls are and how to use them.

  1. Plan different evacuation routes and a meeting location outside the fire hazard area.
  2. Appoint an out-of-area friend or relative as a point of contact so you can communicate

with family members who have relocated.

  1. Maintain a list of emergency contact numbers posted near your phone and in your

emergency supply kit.

  1. Assemble an emergency supply kit.

Many residents fleeing a wildfire are unable to take time to prepare for evacuation. Here are some supplies to keep in a “go-bag” to take if you need to evacuate:

– Water—one gallon per person, per day (3-day supply)

– Food—non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items (3-day supply)

– Flashlight

– Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)

– Extra batteries

– First aid kit

– Medications (7-day supply) and medical items

– Multi-purpose tool

– Sanitation and personal hygiene items

– Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information,

deed/lease to home, birth certificates, insurance policies)

– Cell phone with chargers

– Family and emergency contact information

– Extra cash

– Emergency blanket

– Map(s) of the area

– Other essential items that could not be replaced if they were destroyed

Fire officials also encourage residents in fire-prone areas such as Santa Clarita to keep an extra emergency supply kit in their car in case they can’t get to their home because of a fire.

Other tips include:

Having a portable radio or scanner to stay updated on a fire. When a wildfire warning is issued, listen to the radio for reports and evacuation information and instructions.

Leave early enough to avoid getting caught in fire, smoke or road congestion. Don’t wait to be told by authorities to leave. In an intense wildfire, they may not have time to knock on every door. If you are advised to leave, don’t hesitate.

Do you have a news tip? Call us at (661) 298-1220, or send an email to newstip@hometownstation.com.
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California’s Largest Wildfire Ever Is Burning Now. Are You Ready?

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About Lorena Mejia

Lorena was born and raised in the San Fernando Valley. She attended California State University Northridge where she double majored in Journalism and Chicano Studies and minored in Spanish Language Journalism. While at CSUN, she worked for the university's television and radio newscast. Through her journalistic work, she earned membership to Kappa Tau Alpha, a national honor society for selected journalists. Her passion for the community has introduced her to new people, ideas, and issues that have helped shape the person she is today. Lorena’s skills include using cameras as a tool to empower people by informing them and creating change in their communities. Some of her hobbies include reading the news, exploring the outdoors, and being an avid animal lover. To contact Lorena, send your messages to lorena@hometownstation.com.