The Wildfire Prep Edition
On present and future tragedies.
Chris Papasadero (CP) is a professional dilettante, former Green Beret, and co-author of one of WITI’s most popular articles, The Go Bag Edition.
Building on our previous go-bag edition, we're focusing today on specific preparations for Los Angeles residents facing increasing wildfire risks, both given the tragic events of this week and in the future. While the original guide's principles remain sound, the unique challenges of urban wildfires in LA require additional prep. In the meantime, the California Community Foundation’s Wildfire Recovery Fund supports both intermediate and long-term relief in underserved areas.
Chris here. LA presents a unique challenge when it comes to emergency preparedness. The city's sprawling nature, combined with its vulnerability to wildfires, creates scenarios where you might need to evacuate quickly or shelter in place while dealing with severe air quality issues. The traditional “nothing you aren’t willing to walk out on in 30 seconds flat" rule becomes even more critical when facing a rapidly advancing fire front.
Additional Go-Bag Items for LA Residents:
Not just one, but several. During fire season, air quality can remain hazardous for days or weeks. The cheap surgical masks won't cut it for wildfire smoke - you need proper particulate protection. You’ll want several per person.
A portable air quality monitor can help you make informed decisions about when to evacuate or when it's safe to venture outside. Look for ones that measure PM2.5 particles, which are the most dangerous component of wildfire smoke.
Fire smoke is incredibly irritating to eyes. Include sealed goggles that can protect against smoke and ash. Swimming goggles work in a pinch.
Fire-resistant clothing
Having a long-sleeve shirt and pants made from natural fibers (wool or cotton) is crucial. Synthetic materials can melt and cause severe burns. Don’t forget spare socks and shoes you can move out in.
Vehicle Fire Safety Kit:
Useful for more than just wildfire scenarios, be sure you get an extinguisher rated for vehicles (2.5 lb ABC dry chemical minimum), ideally securely mounted within reach of the driver's seat. Check the pressure gauge monthly and get one with a metal (not plastic) head. Consider a second extinguisher in the trunk along with a fire blanket (can be used for vehicle or personal protection). An emergency window breaker/seatbelt cutter tool shouldn’t be missed, either.
Documentation Package:
Beyond cash, keep digital and physical copies of:
- Insurance policies (especially fire insurance, if you can get it)
- Property inventory (photos and list of valuables)
- Local fire evacuation zone information
- Multiple evacuation routes mapped out (your preferred route might be blocked)
Additional Considerations for LA:
Multiple Exit Routes
LA's traffic is legendary on a good day - during an evacuation, it becomes critical. Map out at least four different routes from your common locations (home, work, etc.) that head in different directions. Include less-obvious routes that might not be your first choice normally. A printed map or even the more detailed Thomas Guide in case of network failure.
Safe Zones:
Identify and map multiple "safe zones" in different directions from your home. These could be:
- Large parking lots (especially underground ones)
- Shopping malls
- Public buildings with good air filtration
- Friends' homes in different parts of the city
Home Prep:
Keep your car's gas tank at least half-full during fire season. When evacuations are ordered, gas stations quickly become overwhelmed.
Create a "defensible space" around your home:
- Clear vegetation within 30 feet of structures
- Remove dead plants and tree branches
- Keep gutters clean and free of debris
- Consider installing ember-resistant vents and screens
Indoor Air Quality Kit:
- Box fans with MERV-13 filters taped to them (make a DIY air purifier)
- Plastic sheeting and tape to seal windows and doors
- Portable air purifiers with HEPA filters
Communication Plan:
- Establish an out-of-state contact who can relay messages between family members
- Know your evacuation zone and sign up for local emergency alerts
- Join local community groups or neighborhood watch programs that share real-time information
- Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank emergency radio
The reality is that LA's fire season is becoming longer and more intense. The best defense is preparation and awareness. Practice your evacuation plan with family members, keep your go-bag updated (ideally in your car - obviously Los Angelenos commute), and stay informed about fire conditions, especially during wind events.
Remember: The goal isn't to become a "crazy prepper" but to be sensibly prepared for realistic scenarios. In LA, urban wildfires aren't a matter of if, but when. Having these preparations in place means you can focus on taking action rather than scrambling to gather supplies when minutes count.
Quick Links:
- Cal Fire's Ready for Wildfire app
- LA County Emergency Alert System signup
- PurpleAir map for real-time air quality monitoring
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Incredibly helpful and relevant--thank you!