Our hearts are heavy this week and our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected by the devastating fires across the city of angels. The destruction is overwhelming, and we are deeply saddened for those who have lost their homes, been displaced, or are enduring the uncertainty and challenges the fires bring. This tragedy has hit close to home for us as well.
Passing along a few useful resources.
For those concerned about overall air quality, consider the AirNow app. A dear friend highly recommended Austin air purifiers after much consultation with an environmental consultant. This has been echoed by other trusted sources. Filters last 5 years so the Austin pay off as most systems suggest filter replacement every 6-12 months.
We are also changing our HVAC filters more frequently in the coming weeks.
From the Hancock Park Homeowners Assocation (HPHOA)
The week as the Sunset Fire/Runyon Canyon blazed many of you asked if the HPHOA could share ideas of what to put in a “Go Bag”. Below are great suggestions from our Councilmember Katy Yaroslavsky on how to get prepared. Also have a look at this website: https://www.wildfirela.org/set/ ; We arranged to have the CD5 Clean Team clear the Highland Median of all the fallen Palm fronds. Special thanks to District Director George Hakopiants!
Steps You Can Take to Be Prepared
- Have Your GO Bag Ready: Pack essentials like clothing, medications, important documents, water, non-perishable food, phone chargers, and a flashlight. Include masks and any supplies you’d need for children, pets, or elderly family members.
- Charge Up and Fuel Up: Fully charge your phones and backup batteries. Ensure your vehicle’s gas tank is full or your electric car is fully charged.
- Stay Alert: Sign up for NotifyLA for real-time updates. Download the Watch Duty app to monitor active wildfires. Monitor LAFD alerts, weather reports, and local news. If you are an iPhone user, make sure your emergency, public safety, and government alerts are turned on.
- Plan Your Route: Know multiple ways to leave your neighborhood in case of an evacuation. Have a plan to reunite with family or loved ones if you’re separated.
- Prepare Your Home: Clear debris, dead leaves, and other flammable materials from around your home. Ensure garden hoses are connected and ready to use. Close windows and vents to prevent embers from entering your home.
- Help Emergency Services: Park off the street whenever possible to leave roads clear for first responders. Stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel during peak winds, especially after 10 PM tonight. Stay clear of the
Power Outages
If power outages occur, report them via LADWP Outages or call 1-800-DIAL-DWP (1-800-342-5397).
Stay Informed and Ready to Act
Even if you’re not in an evacuation area, being prepared can save lives. Fires can start and spread in an instant under these conditions, and it’s better to act early than to be caught off guard. For additional tips and resources, visit Ready, Set, Go!. If at any point our team can be of assistance, please contact us by calling 323-866-1828 or emailing [email protected]
Stay safe!