CC SR 20190716 03 - Fuel Modification (ATTACHMENTS FORTHCOMING)RANCHO PALOS VERDES CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: 07/16/2019
AGENDA REPORT AGENDA HEADING: Regular Business
AGENDA DESCRIPTION:
Consideration and possible action to receive and file a presentation on expanded
wildfire prevention efforts within City-owned properties, and authorization of additional
funding related to those additional efforts
RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:
(1) Receive and file a presentation on a Fuel Modification Plan for City-owned
properties in order to expand wildfire prevention efforts on a regular basis;
(2) Approve an additional appropriation of $50,000 to fund monitoring of protected
flora and fauna by the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy and/or a City-
approved biologist related to fuel modification;
(3) Approve an amendment to the Professional Service s Agreement with Stay Green
Inc. in a form approved by the City Attorney’s office;
(4) Approve an amendment to the Professional Services Agreement with Hardy and
Harper to scarify and compact the Burma Road Trail;
(5) Approve an additional appropriation of $24,700 to fund the additional services to
be performed by Hardy & Harper, Inc. for the related Burma Road Trail repairs;
and
(6) No action on a budget appropriation of $200,000 to expand the removal of non-
native vegetation to further reduce fuel load within the Palos Verdes Nature
Preserve.
FISCAL IMPACT: $74,000
Amount Budgeted: $310,000
Additional Appropriation: $74,000
Account Number(s): 101-400-3150-5201
Public Works – Trails and Open Space Maintenance Services
(Fuel Modification)
ORIGINATED BY: James O’Neill, Engineering Assistant
REVIEWED BY: Elias Sassoon, Director of Public Works
Ara Mihranian, Director of Community Development
APPROVED BY: Doug Willmore, City Manager
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
A. Fuel Modification Plan Map for City-owned Properties (page A-1 forthcoming)
B. Fuel Modification Plan Table (page B-1 forthcoming)
1
C. Amendment No. 3 to the Professional Services Agreement with Stay Green Inc.
(page C-1 forthcoming)
D. Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement with Hardy & Harper, Inc.
(page E-1 forthcoming)
E. Los Angeles County “Ready! Set! Go!” program booklet (F-1)
BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION:
On June 18, 2019, the City Council received a presentation from the Los Angeles
County Fire Department and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department on emergency
protocols, and discussed lessons learned from the Woolsey Fire in Malibu. That same
evening, Staff provided the council with a presentation on proposed expanded fuel
modification efforts within City-owned properties. In response, the City Council directed
Staff to develop a more specific plan that identifies how and when fuel modification will
be performed at City-owned properties.
Since the June 18 meeting, Staff has prepared a Fuel Modification Plan (Plan) and this
staff report summarizes its various components. Staff is also requesting additional
appropriation to allow necessary work to promptly commence on Burma Road and for
fuel modification at an area in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve (PVNP) adjacent to
apartment buildings near Hawthorne Boulevard and Crest Road.
Fuel Modification Plan for City-owned Properties
According to Staff’s research of various documents, there are 118 City-owned parcels
that total 1,604 acres, of which 1,424 acres are within the City-designated PVNP.
Staff has prepared the Plan in the spirit of wildfire prevention that is intended to guide
the City and its contracted vendors on fuel modification efforts on a regular basis in
consultation with the following agencies and interested parties:
The local stations and Forestry Division of the Los Angeles County Fire
Department (LA County Fire)
Los Angeles County Department of Agricultural Commissioner/Weights and
Measures (LADAC)
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW)
United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy (PVPLC)
The Plan reflects the following factors and considerations:
City-owned property within the PVNP
PVPLC-owned property and other property within the PVNP
LADAC fuel modification notices
2
Natural Community Conservation Plan/Habitat Conservation Plan (NCCP/HCP)
Protected species and vegetation
Minimization efforts
Tracking loss of coastal sage scrub
Approved and mapped areas for fuel modification within the PVNP
LA County Fire’s fuel modification requirements
Trimming
Thinning
Clearance
Topography and potential for slope erosion
Fuel modification methods
Goats
Human-operated machinery
The Plan is comprised of a map (Page A-1) and a corresponding table (Page B-1) that
outlines the City’s anticipated future approach to fuel modification, including expanded
efforts.
The Plan identifies the specific fuel modification zones drawn in 2004 in collaboration
with LA County Fire, LADAC, CDFW, USFWS and the PVPLC as part of the City
Council-approved NCCP/HCP, as well as an additional 40 parcels identified in recent
months by LADAC that require analysis for fuel modification mapping. Staff anticipates
updating the Plan to identify additional fuel modification zones and anticipated efforts to
perform fuel modification in those areas, once mapping and necessary analysis is
concluded. It is important to note that five of the identified 42 specific fuel modification
zones are within the PVNP but not owned by the City, and one is owned by the City but
not in the PVNP.
It is also important to note that some historical landscape maintenance has been
performed by the same means as fuel modification (e.g. utilizing goats) and therefore
those areas may have been misunderstood to be fuel modification areas. These areas
include:
Larger areas around “the switchbacks” on Palos Verdes Drive East (only 10 feet
on each side of the road is a designated fuel modification zone, and the use of
goats would not be practical given fencing requirements)
The larger area at Point Vicente Interpretive Center (although a much smaller
section close to adjacent homes is a designated fuel modification zone)
An area close to Sunnyside Ridge Road
An area at the intersection of Narcissa Drive and Vanderlip Road
Generally, fuel modification zones are identified to create defensible space around
structures. Although typically defined as within 100 feet of a structure, LA County Fire
requires 200 feet of defensible space in Rancho Palos Verdes due to the fact that the
City is located in a State-designated Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. The
defensible space is further divided into two zones, Zone 1 and Zone 2. The fuel
modification requirements of these zones should be carefully studied to determine if
3
“thinning” or “trimming” can accomplish the creation of required defensible space,
instead of “clearing.” A summary of requirements for fuel modification zones are
detailed in the Los Angeles County “Ready! Set! Go!” program (Page F-1).
In response to the City Council’s June 18 direction, the Plan clarifies the anticipated fuel
modification method and approximate schedule.
The City has historically utilized a number of methods to conduct fuel modification:
Goats
Hand-operated machinery (i.e. trimmers, “weed eaters,” chain saws, etc.)
through:
Los Angeles Conservation Corps
Conservation Corps of Long Beach
Stay Green Inc. and other vendors
“Disking” performed by the LADAC and its vendors
Goats
Goats are an effective and cost-effective way of performing fuel modification in areas of
steep and difficult terrain that would otherwise be difficult and/or costly to have
performed by human-operated machinery. However, goats are often not the fastest
way to address flat areas, require addition al fencing to protect habitat and U.S.
Department of Agriculture Covered Species, and are not practical for addressing narrow
areas (such as the 10-foot-wide areas adjacent to roadways). Moreover, areas where
goats are utilized will often require additional efforts (e.g. mowing, disking or trimming)
to address stalks left after the grazing, as trampling or “stampeding” efforts prove
leaving the area less slightly than desired.
Scheduling
The City desires to have fuel modification performed in each fuel modification zone in
an expeditious and efficient manner, and the plan reflects utilizing various methods to
have fuel modification performed efficiently. Staff will continue to look for ways to
increase efficiencies and have work performed as close to April 1 (effectively the start of
fuel modification season) as is practical given ecological, biological and environmental
concerns. While frustrating to some residents, it is important to note the obvious: all of
the work cannot be done at once. We will continue to attempt to prioritize, and perform
all of the increased work as quickly as possible during the appropriate time frames.
Ecological, Biological and Environmental concerns
According to the NCCP/HCP,
“The City and PVPLC are responsible for performing fuel modification on
their respective lands in the Preserve. While fire and fuel modification will
be carried out with a priority for human safety, where practical, the City
and PVPLC shall also consider the minimization of impacts to biological
4
resources, where appropriate (i.e. habitat types and Covered Species,
proximity to developed areas, and types of development).” With both
biological resources and human safety considerations in mind, the
following summarized management guidelines should be implemented for
performing the required fuel modification within the PVNP:
— Maintain fuel modification zones for human safety by mowing, grazing,
chopping, crushing, chaining, vegetation removal, and herbicide
application (consistent with the labels) when recommended by a
licensed pest control adviser in areas that do not support the Palos
Verdes Blue Butterfly or El Segundo Blue Butterfly.
— Convert trimmings into mulch by a chipping machine and evenly
dispersed on site to a maximum depth of 6 inches.
— Use goats to clear brush provided that the goats are physically
restricted to the required fuel modification areas with appropriate
fencing and closely monitored.
Furthermore, cactus is required to be retained to the maximum extent practicable, and a
biologist should monitor efforts that will occur during bird breeding/nesting season
(February 15 – August 30).
Appropriate $50,000 to fund monitoring of protected flora and fauna by the PVPLC
and/or a City-approved biologist
According to vegetation maps conducted as part of the preparation of the City’s
NCCP/HCP, many of the City-owned properties contain native vegetation that provide
habitat to protected species. The City’s NCCP/HCP allows “take” of protected species
for fuel modification within the PVNP (and on private property) provided that efforts are
taken to minimize potential impacts, such as monitoring by a biologist. As fuel
modification primarily begins in early April, and the bird breeding season for the coastal
California gnatcatcher is between February 15 and August 31, additional funding is
needed for monitoring services of a biologist to ensure protected vegetation is tracked
and nesting birds are protected.
At an estimated hourly rate of $100 per hour, a biolo gist already approved by the CDFW
and USFWS and currently under contract with the City (i.e. the PVPLC or LSA
Associates, Inc.), would be utilized to perform required surveys and help City staff
ensure potential impacts to native vegetation that habitat of protected species is
minimized in existing and proposed fuel modification zones.
Amendment to Professional Services Agreement with Stay Green Inc.
At the meeting on June 18, the City Council approved an amendment with Stay Green
Inc. for fuel modification efforts up to $99,715, which was based on a rate of $1,295 per
acre and an estimated 77 acres. Stay Green Inc. has informed the City that it can only
provide fuel modification at that rate for areas where the terrain is sloped betwe en 15
5
and 35 degrees, however, they can provide services on such terrain at a rate of $4,250
per acre.
Staff is requesting authorization to utilize Stay Green Inc. at this revised rate in sloped
areas, chosen by Staff, as utilization of goats for such nee ded areas in 2019 is not
practical given scheduling constraint concerns. Staff is not requesting additional
appropriation for this authorization, just an authorization for a higher rate to be added to
the agreement, and the resulting amendment to the cont ract with Stay Green Inc. is
attached (Page C-1).
Burma Road Trail
Formerly a part of Crenshaw Boulevard, this road in the Portuguese Bend Reserve is
utilized by LA County Fire for access to areas, and includes a number of fire hydrants.
The condition of the road has deteriorated with rainfall this year, and the Fire
Department is requiring that the trail, which also serves as a road, be repaired to ensure
that a fire engine can safely navigate it.
Staff has obtained a quote from Hardy & Harper, Inc. (Page E-1) to scarify and compact
Burma Road to eliminate existing ruts and provide an even surface that would allow for
a fire engine (in addition to patrol vehicles) to properly traverse the road. This quote is
above the $25,000 originally budgeted for such work, and therefore Staff is requesting
and an additional appropriation of $24,700 to fund th is necessary work.
PVPLC Request
On June 18, the City Council was presented with a proposal from P VPLC regarding the
removal of non-native species from areas of the PVNP that would assist in fuel
reduction. Staff was directed work with PVPLC to refine the proposal. Additional time is
needed for Staff to work with PVPLC.
ALTERNATIVES:
In addition to the Staff recommendation, the following action is available for the City
Council consideration:
1. Take other action as deemed appropriate by the City Council
6
YOUR PERSONALWILDFIRE ACTION PLAN
fire.lacounty.gov
E-1
The Ready!Set!Go! program is supported by the following partner agencies:
MESSAGE FROM FIRE CHIEF DARYL L. OSBY
Dear Residents,
Los Angeles County is one of the most
beautiful places to live, but for those
living in “wildland urban interface
areas,” it does not come without risks.
Climate change has made fire season year-round and increased our
ever-growing number of wildfires. Firefighters and residents alike
are now constantly on heightened alert for the threat of wildfires.
The Los Angeles County Fire Department, along with our
partnering agencies, stand ready to quickly respond to contain
wildfires, utilizing our firefighting resources from the air and
ground to help protect you and your property from wildfire.
But, we can’t do this without your cooperation. Preparation and
prevention go hand-in-hand. This Ready! Set! Go! brochure was
designed to provide you with critical information on creating
defensible space around your home, retrofitting your home with
fire-resistant materials, and preparing you to safely evacuate well
ahead of a wildfire. Please protect yourself, your family, and your
property from a devastating wildfire by taking the time to learn
about Ready! Set! Go!
In Los Angeles County, wildfires will continue to be fueled by a
build-up of seasonal dry vegetation and driven by dry conditions
and locally strong winds, making them extremely dangerous and
challenging for firefighters to control. Yet, many homeowners
don’t consider how a wildfire could affect them, and very few
residents have properly prepared for evacuation until it is too late.
You play the most important role in protecting yourself, family,
and property. Through planning and preparation, we can all be
ready for the next wildfire. I hope you find the information in
this brochure helpful as you prepare your home and family for
a wildfire.
As always, if you need additional information about preparing
for a wildfire or any other natural disaster, please contact your
nearest fire station or visit us at fire.lacounty.gov.
Daryl L. Osby
Los Angeles County Fire Chief
INSIDE
READY!
Wildland Urban Interface
Create a Defensible Home
Fuel Modification 3
Defensible Space 4
Ornamental Vegetation 5
Hardening Your Home 6-7
Tour a Wildfire-Ready Home
SET!
Create Your Own Wildfire Action Plan 8-9
Emergency Supply Kit 10
Pre-Evacuation Preparation Steps 11
GO!
Take Action Immediately 13
When Wildfire Strikes
What to Do if You Become Trapped 14
Returning Home After a Wildfire
Additional Resources 15
E-2
Ready! Set! Go! Wildfire Action Plan | fire.lacounty.gov 3
Create a Defensible Home
A defensible home is a home that has the greatest potential
for surviving a wildfire. Defensible homes are those
that are in compliance with the Los Angeles County Fire
Department’s Defensible Space requirements or have been
through the Fire Department’s Fuel Modification Plan Review
Program, and have been constructed in accordance with the
latest building standards for the fire zones.
What Is Fuel Modification?
The Fuel Modification Plan Review Program affects new
structures and developments built in the fire hazard severity
zones. A Fuel Modification Plan, submitted by applicants,
reviews landscaping plans and identifies areas of defensible
space within all fuel modification zones around structures.
For further information please visit: bit.ly/fuelmod
Zone A
• Vines and climbing plants
shall not be allowed on any
combustible structure.
• Irrigated area consisting of low-
growing, small herbaceous plants
with high-moisture content
immediately around structures.
• Occasional accents of woody shrubs
or an occasional small patio tree
ten feet from structure, if widely
spaced and zone appropriate as well
as eliminating annual grasses and
leaf litter help prevent direct-flame
impingement on the structure.
Zone B
• Also irrigated with an approved
slightly dense planting avoiding
woody plant species larger than 3 feet
at maturity beneath any tree canopy.
• Introducing shade trees that are zone
appropriate with adequate spacing
by eliminating continuous canopy
coverage and continuous fuels to
minimize fire transmission.
• Screen plantings can be used;
however, continuous hedging is
discouraged as it promotes the
accumulation of dead litter inside the
live hedge.
Zone C
• Thinned to remove dead vegetation
and prevent overgrowth.
• Designed to slow the fire’s
progress and reduce its intensity
by decreasing the availability of
continuous fuels.
• Native vegetation thinned 30 to 50
percent in Zone C.
EXTENDS 20 FEET
FROM STRUCTURE
EXTENDS UP TO 100 FEET
FROM STRUCTURE
EXTENDS FROM ZONE B
OUTER EDGE UP TO 200 FEET
FROM STRUCTURE
Living in the Wildland Urban Interface
Ready! Set! Go! begins with a house that firefighters can defend.
Ideal Fuel Modification Landscape:
Limited woody plant material, high moisture content,
adequate spacing and inorganic mulch thoughout Zone A.
Fuel Modification Zones
FEET
WILDLAND/
OPEN SPACE
E-3
4 LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT
Defensible Space
Creating and maintaining defensible space are essential for increasing your home’s chance of
surviving a wildfire. It’s the buffer that homeowners are required to create on their property
between a structure and the plants, brush, and trees or other items surrounding the structure that
could catch fire. This space is needed to slow the spread of wildfire and improves the safety of
firefighters defending your home. The defensible space for each structure varies, depending on the
type of vegetation and topography.
Two zones make up the required 100 feet of defensible space (and, in some cases, 200 feet due to
high fire hazard).
Zone 1
Extends 30 feet out from buildings,
structures, decks, etc.
• Remove all dead or dying vegetation.
• Remove dead or dry leaves and pine needles from your
yard, roof, and rain gutters.
• Trim trees regularly to keep branches a minimum of 10
feet from other trees.
• Remove dead branches that hang over your roof. And,
keep branches 10 feet away from your chimney.
• Relocate exposed woodpiles outside of Zone 1 unless they
are completely covered in a fire-resistant material.
• Remove vines and climbing plants from combustible
structures (e.g. bougainvillea, wisteria)
• Remove or prune vegetation near windows.
• Remove vegetation and items that could catch fire from
around and under decks.
• Create a separation between trees, shrubs, and items that
could catch fire, such as patio furniture, swing sets, etc.
Zone 2
Extends 30 to 100 feet from buildings
and other structures.
(Note: The inspecting officer may require an additional 100 feet of
thinning or removal, for a total of 200 feet due to high-fire hazard.)
• Cut or move annual grass down to a maximum height
of four inches.
• Create horizontal spacing between shrubs and trees.
• Create vertical spacing between grass, shrubs, and trees.
• Remove fallen leaves, needles, twigs, bark, cones, and small
branches. However, they may be permitted to a depth of 4
inches if erosion control is an issue.
Note: Special attention should be given to the use and
maintenance of ornamental plants known or thought to be
high-hazard plants when used in close proximity to structures.
Examples include Acacia, Cedar, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Italian
Cypress, Juniper, Palms (remove all dead fronds), Pine
(removal within 20’ of structures) and, pampas grass. These
plantings should be properly maintained and not allowed to
be in mass plantings that could transmit fire from the native
growth to any structure.
30 FEET
30 FEET
30 FEET
70 FEET
Zone 1
Zone 2
Zone 1
Defensible Space
(ZONE 1+ ZONE 2 = 100 FEET)
E-4
Ready! Set! Go! Wildfire Action Plan | fire.lacounty.gov 5
ORNAMENTAL LANDSCAPE
Preventing conditions where fire can travel from
adjacent fuels, through an ornamental landscape to your
structure, is the key to creating defensible space. Fire
spreads through convection, conduction, radiation, or
embers. Proper maintenance of ornamental vegetation
reduces ember production, fire propagation, intensity, and
duration of the approaching flames.
70 FEET
Zone 2
This home provides a good example of defensible space.Firefighters in defensible space during a wildfire.
Acacia (Shrub)Eucalyptus Juniper
Palm Pine Pampas Grass
HIGH-HAZARD PLANTS
E-5
6 LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT
3
4
5
6
1
2Safeguard or “Harden” Your Home
The ability of your home to survive a wildfire
depends on its construction materials and the
quality of the “defensible space” surrounding
it. Windblown embers from a wildfire will find
the weak link in your home’s fire protection
scheme and gain the upper hand because of a
small, overlooked or seemingly inconsequential
factor. However, there are measures you can take
to safeguard your home from wildfire. While you
may not be able to accomplish all of the measures
listed below, each will increase your home’s - and
possibly your family’s - safety and survival.
Address
• Make sure your address is clearly visible from the road.
Chimney
• Cover your chimney and stovepipe outlets with a non-
flammable screen of ¼-inch wire mesh or smaller to
prevent embers from escaping and igniting a fire.
• Make sure that your chimney is at least 10 feet away from
any tree branches.
Deck/Patio Cover
• Use heavy timber or non-flammable construction
material for decks and patio covers.
• Enclose the underside of balconies and decks with
fire-resistant materials to prevent embers from
blowing underneath.
• Keep your deck clear of combustible items, such as baskets,
dried flower arrangements, and other debris.
• The decking surface must be ignition-resistant if it’s within
10 feet of the home.
Driveways and
Access Roads
• Driveways should be designed to allow fire and emergency
vehicles and equipment to reach your home.
• Access roads should have a minimum 10-foot clearance on
either side of the traveled section of the roadway and should
allow for two-way traffic.
• Ensure that all gates open inward and are wide enough to
accommodate emergency equipment.
• Trim trees and shrubs overhanging the road to a minimum
of 13-½ (or 13.5) feet to allow emergency vehicles to pass.
Garage
• Have a fire extinguisher and tools, such as a shovel, rake,
bucket, and hoe, available for fire emergencies.
• Install a solid door with self-closing hinges between
living areas and the garage. Install weather stripping
around and under the doors to prevent ember intrusion.
• Store all combustibles and flammable liquids away from
ignition sources.
Home Site and Yard
• Ensure you have at least a 100-foot radius of defensible
space (cleared vegetation) around your home. This means
looking past what you own to determine the impact
a common slope or neighbor’s yard will have on your
property during a wildfire.
• Cut dry weeds and grass before noon when temperatures
are cooler to reduce the chance of sparking a fire.
• Landscape with fire-resistant plants that are low-growing
with high-moisture content.
• Keep woodpiles, propane tanks, and combustible materials
away from your home and other structures, such as
garages, barns, and sheds.
• Ensure trees are far away from power lines.
1
5
6
2
3
4
Tour a Wildfire-Ready Home
E-6
Ready! Set! Go! Wildfire Action Plan | fire.lacounty.gov 7
Inside
• Keep working fire extinguishers on hand and train
your family how to use them (check expiration
dates regularly).
• Install smoke alarms on each level of your home
and near bedrooms. Test them monthly and change
the batteries twice a year.
Non-Combustible
Boxed-In (Soffit)Eaves
• Box-in eaves with non-combustible
materials to prevent accumulation
of embers.
Non-Combustible Fencing
• Make sure to use non-combustible fencing to protect your
home during a wildfire.
Rain Gutters
• Screen or enclose rain gutters to prevent
accumulation of plant debris.
Roof
• Your roof is the most vulnerable part of your home
because it can easily catch fire from windblown embers.
• Homes with wood shake or shingle roofs are at a higher risk
of being destroyed during a wildfire.
• Build your roof or re-roof with fire-resistant materials that
include composition, metal, or tile.
• Block any spaces between roof decking and covering to
prevent ember intrusion.
• Clear pine needles, leaves, and other debris from your roof
and gutters.
• Cut any tree branches within 10 feet of your roof.
Vents
• Vents on homes are particularly vulnerable
to flying embers.
• All vent openings should be covered with
¼-inch or smaller metal mesh. Do not use
fiberglass or plastic mesh because they can
melt and burn.
• Attic vents in eaves or cornices should be
baffled or otherwise prevent ember intrusion (mesh is
not enough).
Walls
• Wood products, such as boards, panels, or shingles, are
common siding materials. However, they are combustible
and not good choices for fire-prone areas.
• Build or remodel with fire-resistant building materials, such
as brick, cement, masonry, or stucco.
• Be sure to extend materials from foundation to roof.
Water Supply
• Have multiple garden hoses that are long
enough to reach any area of your home and
other structures on your property.
• If you have a pool or well, consider a pump.
Windows
• Heat from a wildfire can cause windows to break even
before the home ignites. This allows burning embers
to enter and start internal fires. Single-paned and large
windows are particularly vulnerable.
• Install dual-paned windows with an exterior pane of
tempered glass to reduce the chance of breakage in a fire.
• Limit the size and number of windows in your home that
face large areas of vegetation.
Utilities
• Ensure that your family knows where your gas, electric,
and water main shut-off controls are and how to safely shut
them down in an emergency.
7
8
9
10
11
8
9
11
10 7
E-7
8 LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT
Important Phone Numbers
A family communication plan that designates an out-of-area
friend or relative as a point-of-contact to act as a single source
of communication among family members in case of separation.
Maintain a list of emergency contact numbers posted near your
phone and in your Emergency Supply Kit.
What to Take
Assemble an Emergency Supply Kit (see page 10 in this guide).
Keep an extra Emergency Supply Kit in your car in case you
can’t get to your home because of fire.
Have a portable radio or scanner, so that you can stay updated
on the fire.
Prepare to Evacuate
Designate an emergency meeting location, outside the fire or
hazard area. It is critical to determine who has safely evacuated
from the affected area.
Several different escape routes from your home and
community. Practice these often so everyone in your family
is familiar in case of emergency.
Necessities and boarding options for your pets and large
animals, such as horse and other livestock.
Create Your Own Wildfire Action Plan
Now that you have done everything you can to protect
your home, it’s time to prepare your family. Your
Wildfire Action Plan must be prepared with all
members of your household well in advance of a
wildfire. Each family’s plan will be different, depending
on their situation. Once you finish your plan, practice
it regularly with your family, and post in a safe and
accessible place for quick implementation.
1
2
3
E-8
Ready! Set! Go! Wildfire Action Plan | fire.lacounty.gov 9
Your PersonalWILDFIRE ACTION PLAN
WHEN TO GO
WHERE TO GO
HOW TO GET THERE
WHAT TO TAKEIMPORTANTPHONE NUMBERS1
3
2
During High Fire Danger days in your area, monitor your local media for information on wildfires and be ready
to implement your plan. Hot, dry, and windy conditions create the perfect environment for a wildfire.
Insurance
Papers Photos
Prescriptions Important
Documents
EVACUATION
EMERGENCY CONTACTS
DESTINATION WHO TO TELL (BEFORE AND AFTER)
Name
Name
Phone
Phone
( )
ANIMAL SHELTER
Name
Phone
( )
( )
FAMILY & FRIENDS
Name
Name
Phone
Phone
( )
( )
SCHOOLS
Name
Name
Phone
Phone
( )
( )
LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT
IF YOU HAVE AN EMERGENCY, CALL 9-1-1
Public Information Office: (323) 881-2411
fire.lacounty.gov
Emergency
Supply Kit
E-9
10 LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT
Assemble Your Emergency Supply Kit
Put together your emergency supply kit long before a wildfire
or other disaster occurs, and keep it easily accessible, so you
can take it with you when you have to evacuate. Plan to be
away from your home for an extended period of time. Each
person should have a readily accessible emergency supply kit.
Backpacks work great for storing these items (except for food and
water) and are easy to grab. Storing food and water in a tub or
chest on wheels will make it easier to transport. Keep it light to be
able to easily lift it into your car.
Essential Supplies
Three-day supply of non-perishable food and three gallons of water
per person.
Map marked with at least two evacuation routes
Prescriptions or special medications
Change of clothing
Closed-toe shoes
Extra eyeglasses or contact lenses
An extra set of car keys, credit cards, cash, or travelers checks
First aid kit
Flashlight
Battery-powered radio and extra batteries
Sanitation supplies
Copies of important documents (e.g., birth certificates, passports, etc.)
Don’t forget pet food and water!
If Time Allows
Easy-to-carry valuables
Family photos and other irreplaceable items
Personal computer information on hard drives and flash drives
Chargers for cell phones, laptops, etc.
EMERGENCYSUPPLY KIT
E-10
Ready! Set! Go! Wildfire Action Plan | fire.lacounty.gov 11
Pre-Evacuation Preparation Steps
When an evacuation is anticipated and if time permits, follow these checklists to give your home the
best chance of surviving a wildfire:
Animals
Locate your pets and keep them nearby.
Prepare farm animals for transport and think about
moving them to a safe location early.
Inside
Shut all windows and doors, leaving them unlocked.
Remove flammable window shades, lightweight
curtains, and close metal shutters.
Move flammable furniture to the center of the room,
away from windows and doors.
Leave your lights on so firefighters can see your home
under smoky conditions.
Shut off the air conditioning.
Shut off the gas meter. Turn off pilot lights.
Outside
Gather up flammable items from the exterior
of the house and bring them inside (e.g., patio
furniture, children’s toys, doormats, etc.) or place
them in your pool.
Turn off propane tanks. Move propane BBQ
appliances away from structures.
Connect garden hoses to outside water valves or
spigots for use by firefighters. Fill water buckets and
place them around the house.
Don’t leave sprinklers on or water running. They can
affect critical water pressure.
Leave exterior lights on.
Put your emergency supply kit in your vehicle.
Back your loaded vehicle into the driveway with
all doors and windows closed. Carry your car
keys with you.
Have a ladder available.
Seal attic and ground vents with pre-cut plywood or
commercial seals, if time permits.
Monitor your property and the wildfire situation.
Don’t wait for an evacuation order, if you feel
threatened and need to leave.
Check on neighbors and make sure they are
preparing to leave.
E-11
12 LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT
Remember the Six P’s
People and pets
Papers, phone numbers, and important documents
Prescriptions, vitamins, and eyeglasses
Pictures and irreplaceable memorabilia
Personal computer hard drivesand flash drives
P lastic
(e.g., credit cards, ATM cards)and cash
12 LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT E-12
Ready! Set! Go! Wildfire Action Plan | fire.lacounty.gov 13
Go Early
By leaving early, you will give your family the best chance
of surviving a wildfire. You also help firefighters by keeping
roads clear of congestion, enabling them to move more
freely and do their job.
When to Evacuate
Leave as soon as evacuation is recommended by emergency
personnel to avoid being caught in fire, smoke, or road
congestion. Don’t wait to be ordered by authorities to
leave. In an intense wildfire, they may not have time to
knock on every door. If you are advised to leave, don’t
hesitate! Go!
• Emergency personnel will determine the areas to be
evacuated and escape routes to use, depending upon
the fire’s location, behavior, winds, terrain, etc.
• Emergency personnel make every effort to advise
you of potential evacuations as early as possible. You
must take the initiative to stay informed and aware.
Monitor social media and listen to your local radio/TV
for announcements from law enforcement and other
emergency personnel.
• You may be directed to temporary assembly areas to
await transfer to a safe location.
The terms “Voluntary” and “Mandatory” are used to
describe evacuation orders. However, local jurisdictions
may use other terminology such as “Precautionary” and
“Immediate Threat.” These terms are used to alert you to
the significance of the danger. All evacuation instructions
provided by emergency personnel should be followed
immediately for your safety.
Where to Go
Leave for a pre-determined location. It should be a low-
risk area, such as a well-prepared neighbor or relative’s
house, a Red Cross shelter or evacuation center, Motel, etc.
How to Get There
Have several travel routes in case one route is blocked by
the fire or by emergency vehicles and equipment. Choose
an escape route away from the fire.
TAKE ACTION IMMEDIATELY WHEN WILDFIRE STRIKES
Follow these steps as soon as possible to get ready to GO!
• Review your
Wildfire Action
Plan evacuation
checklist.
• Ensure your Emergency Supply Kit is in
your vehicle.
• Cover up to protect against heat and
flying embers. Wear long pants, a long-
sleeve shirt, heavy shoes/boots, a cap, dry
bandanna (for face cover), goggles, or
glasses. 100% cotton is preferable.
• Locate your pets and take them with you.
Ready! Set! Go! Wildfire Action Plan | fire.lacounty.gov 9
Your PersonalWILDFIRE ACTION PLAN
WHEN TO GO
WHERE TO GO
HOW TO GET THERE
WHAT TO TAKEIMPORTANTPHONE NUMBERS1
3
2
During High Fire Danger days in your area, monitor your local media for information on brush fires and be ready to implement your plan. Hot, dry, and windy conditions create the perfect environment for a wildfire.
InsurancePapers Photos
Prescriptions ImportantDocuments
EVACUATION
EMERGENCY CONTACTS
DESTINATION WHO TO TELL (BEFORE AND AFTER)
Name
Name
Phone
Phone
( )
ANIMAL SHELTER
Name
Phone
( )
( )
FAMILY & FRIENDS
Name
Name
Phone
Phone
( )
( )
SCHOOL
Name
Name
Phone
Phone
( )
( )
LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT
IF YOU HAVE AN EMERGENCY, CALL 9-1-1
Public Information Office: (323) 881-2411
www.fire.lacounty.gov
Emergency Supply Kit
E-13
14 LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT
Survival Tips if You Become Trapped
In Your Home
Stay calm and keep your family together.
Call 9-1-1 and inform authorities of your location.
Fill sinks and tubs with cold water.
Keep doors and windows closed, but unlocked.
Stay inside your home.
Stay away from outside walls.
In Your Vehicle
Stay calm.
Park your vehicle in an area clear of vegetation.
Close all vehicle windows and vents.
Cover yourself with a wool or cotton blanket or jacket.
Lie on the vehicle floor.
Use your cell phone and call 9-1-1 to inform authorities of your location.
On Foot
Stay calm.
Go to an area clear of vegetation, a ditch or depression on level
ground if possible.
Lie face down and cover up your body.
Use your cell phone and call 9-1-1 to inform authorities of your location.
Returning Home After a Wildfire
Do not return home until emergency officials determine
it is safe. You will receive proper notification to do so as
soon as it is possible, considering safety and accessibility.
When You Return Home
Be alert for downed power lines and other hazards.
Check propane tanks, regulators, and lines before turning gas on.
Check your residence carefully for hidden embers or smoldering fires.
E-14
Ready! Set! Go! Wildfire Action Plan | fire.lacounty.gov 15
Preparing for a wildfire starts with three simple steps:
Please keep this plan on hand as a quick reference for helping your
family and property be safe in the event of a wildfire.
Ready! Set! Go! Wildfire Action Plan | fire.lacounty.gov 15
PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE
twitter.com/lacofdpio
twitter.com/lacofdespanol
OFFICIAL
facebook.com/LACoFD
twitter.com/LACoFD
instagram.com/lacountyfd
youtube.com/user/LosAngelesCountyFD
vimeo.com/user4029934
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
SHEILA KUEHL
Chair and Supervisor, Third District
supervisorkuehl.com
HILDA L. SOLIS
Supervisor, First District
hildasolis.org
MARK RIDLEY-THOMAS
Supervisor, Second District
ridley-thomas.lacounty.gov
JANICE HAHN
Supervisor, Fourth District
hahn.lacounty.gov
KATHRYN BARGER
Supervisor, Fifth District
kathrynbarger.lacounty.gov
Download the
Ready! Set! Go!
Wildfire Action Plan at
fire.lacounty.gov/rsg
or by scanning this
QR code with your
smart phone.
E-15
fire.lacounty.gov
LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT
Public Information Office
1320 N. Eastern Avenue
Los Angeles, California 90063
Produced by the Communications Section
of the Executive Support Division.
Revised September 25, 2018.
E-16