California wildfires: What to take when evacuating
More than 30K residents are under evacuation orders
FOX Business' Cheryl Casone breaks down the potential economic impact of the wildfires in Los Angeles as the flames continue to engulf local communities.
In the event of a wildfire, the Red Cross implores residents to have an evacuation plan that includes multiple escape routes from their home and community. They also need to be equipped with a slew of emergency items, including masks and baby food, for their "go-kit."
The Red Cross told FOX Business that currently hundreds of residents are already seeking safe refuge at evacuation centers across the Los Angeles County area, as at least four fires burn in the area.
More than 30,000 residents are under evacuation orders.
Firefighters run as a brush fire burns in Pacific Palisades, California, on Jan. 7, 2025. (Photo by DAVID SWANSON/AFP via Getty Images / Getty Images)
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Once they receive an official evacuation order, they need to "heed the orders of local authorities and follow instructions," according to the Red Cross. However, even if residents do not receive an order, they should leave if they feel threatened or unsafe, according to the organization.
The Red Cross said the most up-to-date listing of shelters can be found on the free Red Cross Emergency App or by calling 1-800-Red-Cross.
The Red Cross said that it is important to plan an evacuation route ahead of time because you may have to leave at a moment's notice.
People evacuate their home as a brush fire burns in Pacific Palisades, California, on Jan. 7, 2025. (DAVID SWANSON/AFP via Getty Images / Getty Images)
Residents in impacted areas should back their car into the garage or park it outside in the direction of their evacuation route, the Red Cross said.
What you need to bring in a "go-kit," according to the Red Cross:
A "go-kit" should be three days of supplies that you can easily carry with you, while a stay-at-home kit should be two weeks of supplies.
- The emergency kit should be in the car. If there is time, residents should replenish items in short supply, especially medications or medical supplies
- A 1-month supply of medication in a child-proof container
- A mask and hand sanitizer
- Special items for children, like food, formula, diapers, extra clothing and toys
- Items for pets, including a leash, pet medications and pet food
- Personal hygiene items, pillows, blankets, towels, change of clothing or other items you may want to have at a shelter
- Cell phone charger or external battery packs.
Elderly patients are quickly evacuated in emergency vehicles as embers and flames approach during the Eaton fire in Pasadena, California, on Jan. 7, 2025. (JOSH EDELSON/AFP via Getty Images / Getty Images)
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Shelters in the Los Angeles area that the Red Cross is supporting:
Palisades Fire
- Westwood Recreation Center: 1350 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles, 90025 (domestic family pets welcome in carriers and crates)
- El Camino Real Charter High School: 5440 Valley Circle Blvd., Woodland Hills, 91367.
Eaton Fire
- Pasadena Civic Auditorium: 300 E. Green St., Pasadena, 91101
Hurst Fire
- Ritchie Valens Recreation Center: 10736 Laurel Canyon Blvd., Pacoima, 91331