Fire evacuation tips are proving to be vital as three large fires burn through southern California Thursday, with over 110,000 people fleeing ahead of the flames.

In the event of a fire, the Los Angeles Fire Department encourages residents to be prepared using their “Ready, Set, Go!” plan.

Here are a few ways you can prepare your home and your family for potential evacuation.

Immediate Evacuations

If you only have a few minutes to gather the things you need, the LA County Fire Department suggests this checklist:

–       Keep a pair of old shoes and a flashlight handy for a night evacuation

–       Remember your pets and everyone in your home

–       Gather phone numbers and important documents

–       Gather prescriptions, vitamins, and eyeglasses

–       Gather pictures and irreplaceable memorabilia

–       Gather personal computers (information on hard drive and disks)

–       Gather “plastic” (credit cards, ATM cards) and cash

Planned Evacuations

If you are not in danger from a fire, but are close to an area that is, take time to evaluate your home’s fire defenses. Last year, more that $65 million of property and structure losses were reported by the LA County Fire Department.

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.
2. Have fire extinguishers on hand and train your family how to use them.
3. Ensure that your family knows where your gas, electric and water main shut-off controls are and how to use them.
4. Plan different evacuation routes and a meeting location outside the fire hazard area.
5. Appoint an out-of-area friend or relative as a point of contact so you can communicate with family members who have relocated.
6. Maintain a list of emergency contact numbers posted near your phone and in your emergency supply kit.
7. Assemble an emergency supply kit.

Things to Take During Planned Evacuations

Supplies to take with you 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

–       Keep an extra emergency supply kit in your car in case you can’t get to your home because of fire.

–       Have a portable radio or scanner so you can stay updated on the 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, GO!

Evacuation Shelters and Animal Shelters

Mandatory evacuation orders are currently being issued by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Please follow the Sheriff’s Department’s Twitter accounts (@LASDHQ and @SCVSheriff) for details on evacuations. Evacuation centers have been set up at the following locations:

–       SYLMAR RECREATION CENTER – (818) 367 – 5656

       13109 Borden Ave. Los Angeles, CA 91342, Accepting evacuees and pets with owner.

–       BRANFORD RECREATION CENTER – (818) 893-4923

       13306 Branford St. Arleta, CA 91331. Accepting evacuees and pets with owner.

–       STONEHURST RECREATION CENTER – (818) 767 – 0314

       9901 Dronfield Ave. Sun Valley, CA 91352. Accepting evacuees and pets with owner.

–       VAN NUYS SHERMAN OAKS RECREATION CENTER – (818) 783 – 5121

        14201 Huston St. Sherman Oaks, CA 91423. Accepting evacuees and pets with owner.

–        BALBOA RECREATION CENTER – (8 18) 756 – 9642

        17015 Burbank Blvd. Encino, CA 91316. Accepting evacuees and pets with owner.

–        DELANO RECREATION CENTER

        15100 Erwin St. Van Nuys, CA 91411. Accepting evacuees and pets with owner.

–       FOR SMALL ANIMALS: West Valley Animal Shelter (20655 Plummer St., Chatsworth)

       and East Valley Animal Shelter (14409 Vanowen St., Van Nuys)

–       FOR LARGE ANIMALS: Antelope Valley Fairgrounds (6201 Winnetka Ave., Woodland Hills) and Hansen Dam Equestrian Center (11798 Foothill Blvd., Sylmar)

Related: Thomas Fire Scorches 96,000 Acres In Ventura County, Historic Fire Danger Reported – #ThomasFire

Southern California firefighters are actively fighting the Rye Fire, Creek Fire and Thomas Fire.

Firefighters at the Rye Fire have made progress throughout the night. That fire is now 15 percent contained, and has burned over 7,000 acres.

Firefighters have constructed and held perimeter fire lines, but the return of strong offshore winds are a major concern Thursday, according to Cal Fire officials.

Related: Rye Fire Now 15 Percent Contained, Still Burning West Of Santa Clarita – #RyeFire

The Creek Fire is challenging firefighters because of high winds, poor access and steep, rugged terrain, according to Cal Fire.

There has been very little overnight recovery, but the Creek Fire is now 10 percent contained, burning over 12,605 acres.

Strong Santa Ana winds are expected to blow throughout the day with wind speeds ranging from 50-70 MPH, according to Cal Fire.

Related: Creek Fire Burning 12,000 Acres, 10 Percent Containment – #CreekFire

The Thomas Fire is the largest of the three fires, and has scorched over 96,000 acres. Most of the residents being asked to leave are evacuating ahead of the Thomas Fire.

The cause of the Rye Fire, Creek Fire and Thomas Fire are all under investigation.

Residents near the three fires are reminded to stay vigilant as conditions can quickly change.

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