FOX Business’ Cheryl Casone analyzes the potential economic impact of the Los Angeles wildfires as flames continue to engulf local communities.
In the event of a forest fire, the Red Cross implores residents have an evacuation plan that includes multiple escape routes from their home and community. They should also be equipped with a host 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 shelter in evacuation centers across the Los Angeles County area as at least four fires burn in the region.
More than 30,000 residents are under evacuation orders.
Firefighters run as a brush fire burns in Pacific Palisades, California on January 7, 2025. (Photo by DAVID SWANSON/AFP via Getty Images / Getty Images)
UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD CLOSED DUE TO CALIFORNIA WILDFIRES
Once they receive an official evacuation order, they must “heed orders from local authorities and follow instructions,” according to the Red Cross. However, even if residents do not receive orders, they should leave if they feel threatened or unsafe, according to the organization.
The Red Cross said the most up-to-date list of shelters can be found on the free Red Cross emergency app or by calling 1-800-Red Cross.
The Red Cross said it is important to plan an evacuation route in advance because you may have leave at any time.
People evacuate their homes as a brush fire burns in Pacific Palisades, California, January 7, 2025. (DAVID SWANSON/AFP via Getty Images / Getty Images)
Residents in affected areas should back their cars into the garage or park them outside in the direction of their evacuation route, the Red Cross said.
What you need to bring a go-kit, according to the Red Cross:
A “travel kit” should contain three days of supplies that you can easily take with you, while a stay-at-home kit should contain two weeks of supplies.
- The emergency kit must be in the car. If there is time, residents should restock items in shortage, especially medications or medical supplies.
- A month’s supply of medication in a child-resistant container
- A mask and hand sanitizer
- Special items for children, such as food, formula, diapers, extra clothing, and toys
- Pet items including leash, pet medications and pet food
- Personal hygiene items, pillows, blankets, towels, change of clothes or other items you may want to have in a shelter.
- Mobile phone charger or external batteries.
Elderly patients are quickly evacuated into emergency vehicles as embers and flames approach during the Eaton Fire in Pasadena, California, January 7, 2025. (JOSH EDELSON/AFP via Getty Images / Getty Images)
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Los Angeles area shelters supported by the Red Cross:
Palisades fire
- Westwood Recreation Center: 1350 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles, 90025 (pets are allowed 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 Boulevard, Pacoima, 91331
