FOX Business’ Cheryl Casone breaks down the potential economic impact of the Los Angeles wildfires as flames continue to engulf local communities.
In the event of a wildfire, the Red Cross urges residents to have an evacuation plan that includes multiple escape routes for homes and communities. They also need to be equipped with a number of emergency items, including masks and baby food, in their “go-kit”.
The Red Cross told FOX Business that hundreds of residents are currently seeking safe shelter at evacuation centers in Los Angeles County, as at least four fires are burning in the area.
More than 30,000 residents are under evacuation orders.
Firefighters race 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 “obey 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 latest 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’s important to plan your evacuation route ahead of time because you may need to leave quickly.
People evacuate their homes as a brush fire burns in Pacific Palisades, California, on Jan. 7, 2025. (DAVID SWANSON/AFP via Getty Images/Getty Images)
Residents in affected areas should return their car to the garage or park outside where they will be leaving, said the Red Cross.
All you need to bring is a “go-kit,” according to the Red Cross:
A “go-kit” should be three days’ worth of carry-on items, while a stay-at-home kit should be two weeks’ worth of supplies.
- An emergency kit should be in the car. If there is time, residents should fill in shortages, especially medicine or medical supplies
- 1 month’s supply of medication in a childproof container
- Mask and hand sanitizer
- Special baby items, such as food, formula, diapers, extra clothes and toys
- Pet supplies, including leashes, pet medication and pet food
- Toiletries, pillows, blankets, towels, a change of clothes or other items you would like to have in the shelter.
- Cell phone charger or external battery packs.
Elderly patients are rushed out of 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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Los Angeles area shelters supported by the Red Cross:
The Palisades Fire
- Westwood Recreation Center: 1350 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles, 90025 (family pets welcome in carriers and crates)
- El Camino Real Charter High School: 5440 Valley Circle Blvd., Woodland Hills, 91367.
The Eaton Fire
- Pasadena Civic Auditorium: 300 E. Green St., Pasadena, 91101
Hurst Fire
- Ritchie Valens Recreation Center: 10736 Laurel Canyon Blvd., Pacoima, 91331