CC SR 20190917 03 - Fuel Modification and Acacia Removal
RANCHO PALOS VERDES CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: 09/17/2019
AGENDA REPORT AGENDA HEADING: Regular Business
AGENDA DESCRIPTION:
Consideration and possible action to appropriate additional funding in support of the City’s
fuel modification efforts and to support the City’s new goal to eradicate acacia ; award a
three-year contract to Fire Grazers; award a contract amendment to Hardy & Harper;
authorize Staff to negotiate contracts for tree trimming and removal; and authorize Staff
to negotiate a contract with Interwest Consulting Group to oversee and manage the City’s
efforts, and coordinate with associated agencies and manage associated contracts.
RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:
(1) Authorize an additional appropriation of $399,800 in support of the City’s Fuel
Modification efforts;
(2) Award a three-year contract amendment to Fire Grazers for two goat herds to be
utilized for Fuel Modification in the amount of $450,000 (with an annual
expenditure of $150,000, of which $140,000 is already included in the adopted
budget);
(3) Authorize staff to negotiate contracts up to $200,000 for tree trimming, “up -limbing”
and tree removal related to Fuel Modification, as well as removal of Acacia shrubs;
(4) Authorize staff to negotiate an agreement with a geologist for tree trimming, “up-
limbing” and tree removal related to Fuel Modification, as well as removal of Acacia
shrubs, not to exceed $25,000;
(5) Award a contract amendment to the Hardy & Harper contract to make necessary
repairs to the Peppertree Trail and Water Tank trails in the amount of $39,800;
(6) Authorize staff to negotiate a contract up to $1 25,000 with Interwest Consulting
Group to oversee and manage the City’s Fuel Modification efforts and associated
contracts;
(7) Alternately discuss and take other action related to this item.
FISCAL IMPACT: $399,800
Amount Budgeted: $0
Additional Appropriation: $399,800
Account Number(s): 101-400-3230-5101 ($150,000)
(General Fund - Fuel Modification/Professional &Technical Services)
101-400-3230-5201 ($249,800)
(General Fund - Fuel Modification/Repair & Maintenance Services)
ORIGINATED BY: James O'Neill, Engineering Assistant
REVIEWED BY: Elias Sassoon, Director of Public Works
APPROVED BY: Doug Willmore, City Manager
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
A. Los Angeles County Fire Department’s “Ready! Set! Go!” brochure (page A-1)
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B. “Trimming Requirements” graphic provided by County of Los Angeles
Department of Agricultural Commissioner / Weights and Measures (page B-1)
C. Check List of Brush Clearance Requirements provided by County of Los
Angeles Department of Agricultural Commissioner / Weights and Measures
(page C-1)
D. Agreement with Fire Grazers (page D-1) (forthcoming)
E. Amendment to the agreement with Hardy & Harper agreement (page E-1)
(forthcoming)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
Staff is requesting the City Council to approve new contracts and contract amendments,
along with $399,800 in additional funding for this fiscal year, in support of the City’s Fuel
Modification efforts, including:
1. $150,000 for the first year of a new 3-year contract with Fire Grazers (a.k.a. the
goats) for two goat herds for weed and brush abatement in identified Fuel
Modification zones ($140,000 is already included in the adopted budget,
therefore and additional appropriation of $10,000 is requested for this service)
2. $200,000 for tree trimming, “up-limbing” and tree removal related to Fuel
Modification, as well as removal of Acacia shrubs
3. $25,000 for geologic assessments of sloped areas where Fuel Modification is
prescribed
4. $39,800 for necessary repairs to two trails that accommodate vehicular access
for proper Fire Department accessibility
5. $125,000 for consultant services to oversee and manage the City’s Fuel
Modification efforts and associated vendor contracts
BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION:
At the City Council meeting on July 16, 2019, staff presented an initial Fuel modification
Plan for City-owned properties to expand the City’s efforts on a n on-going basis. Staff
continues to evaluate City-owned parcels identified in that presentation to determine the
proper boundaries for Fuel Modification zones and appropriate Fuel Modification
requirements for those areas.
As part of this evaluation process, staff has digitally traced over 1,000 homes that are
located within 200 feet of City parcels and digitally mapped 30 feet and 200 feet buffers
around each of those homes within the past few months. Those zones (“Zone 1” and
“Zone 2” of defensible space, as defined by the Los Angeles County Fire Department’s
“Ready! Set! Go!” brochure, page A-1) define the Fuel Modification zones on City
property, along with brush clearance within 10 feet of roadways.
The majority of those zones on City parcels are located in the Palos Verdes Nature
Preserve (the Nature Preserve), which covers over 1,400 acres and represents
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approximately 17% of the entire City. Other zones are located on City parcels outside of
the Nature Preserve.
It is important to note that Fuel Modification and creating and maintaining defensible
space around homes is every property owner’s responsibility.
The City has historically addressed the requirement to remove, trim or thin out flammable
vegetation in Fuel Modification zones by contracting with Fire Grazers to provide a goat
herd that consumes vegetation, or with other vendors to manually cut vegetation, primarily
with line trimmers. These efforts do not address the need for tree trimming or tree
removal, nor address potential erosion concerns in sloped areas where vegetation is
being removed.
Governing Regulation with regards to Native Habitat
The City and all property owners are governed by federal and state requirements, such
as the Endangered Species Act, and therefore required to protect certain species and
their native habitat. Although this requirement does not prevent property owners from
creating and maintaining defensible space around their homes, the removal of such
habitat is regulated.
As a property owner, the City complies with regulations for the removal, trimming or
thinning of native habitat on City property, including but not limited to the Nature P reserve,
through the City’s draft Natural Communities Conservation Plan/ Habitat Conservation
Plan (NCCP/HCP). This agreement, even in its current draft form, helps the City expedite
Fuel Modification efforts because Fuel Modification is a covered activity in the
NCCP/HCP. As part of the City’s Fuel Modification efforts, staff coordinates with
California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) and the United States Fish and Wildlife
Service (USFG) in quantifying losses to native habitat. Without the NCCP/HCP, the City
would be subject to federal and state permitting requirements.
The City maintains its properties, including contracting with vendors to perform services
to create and maintain defensible space, and contracts with the Palos Verdes Peninsul a
Land Conservancy to manage the habitat in the Nature Preserve.
As a quick aside, the Nature Preserve serves as the City’s habitat “bank,” drastically
streamlining the City’s environmental permitting process and permitting costs for City
projects.
Expedited weed and brush abatement by goats
The initial Fuel Modification plan presented on July 16 reflected Fire Grazers providing
two goat herds, compared to the one herd historically provided. In order for Fire Grazers
to offer that option in a cost effective proposal, they are requesting a three-year contract.
Staff met with Fire Grazers’ management, and recommend awarding a three -year
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contract. Utilizing two herds simultaneously will substantially expedite fuel modification at
City properties and allow for site revisits through the summer as necessary.
The three-year contract reflects an anticipated expenditure of $150,000 annually, of which
$140,000 was already included in the adopted 2019/2020 Fiscal Year budget.
Staff is recommending that Fire Grazers be awarded a new three-year contract for those
services. (page D-1)
Tree trimming, “Up-limbing” and tree removal
As part of the Los Angeles County Fire Department’s (LA County Fire) and County of Los
Angeles Department of Agricultural Commissioner / Weights and Measures’ (LA County
Agricultural Commissioner) Fuel Modification requirements for creating defensible space
around structures, trees and brush to remain must be trimmed. Trimming up (or “limbing
up”) requires that lower limbs of trees and brush be removed to up to 1/3 their height or
to a maximum clearance of 6 feet from the ground. (See Attachments B-1 and C-1)
This work is not currently performed by other contracted vendors when working in Fuel
Modification zones.
Staff is requesting authorization to negotiate contracts totaling no more than $200,000 to
provide necessary tree trimming, including “limbing up,” and tree removal for the City to
comply with Fuel Modification requirements on City-owned properties and in the public
right-of-way. This amount also includes anticipated expenses to remove Acacia shrubs
from the public right-of-way along roadways.
Staff will direct contracted vendors to remove Acacia shrubs (commonly mistaken for
trees in many instances) found in Fuel Modification zones and the City’s right-of-way,
rather that trimming such “trees.”
Geotechnical assessment(s)
The City has a 2009 Geologic Assessment to assess potential impacts from Fuel
Modification, however staff recommends contracting for a new report due to the time
elapsed since that analysis was performed. Such an assessment will make
recommendations on fuel modification in sloped areas.
Staff anticipates the costs of such services to not exceed $25,000.
Peppertree Trail and Water Tank Trail
The Peppertree Trail and Water Tank trail are in need of repair, and the Los Angeles
County Fire Department is requesting their repair for proper access to those areas of the
Portuguese Bend Reserve. Peppertree Trail sustained substantial erosion damage
during last winter’s storms, and is currently unpassable by vehicle. Water Tank Trail also
has damage from erosion.
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Recent photos of the Peppertree Trail:
Recent photos of the Water Tank Trail:
Hardy & Harper has provided a proposal to make the necessary repairs by adding new
dirt and/or scarifying and compacting the damaged areas of the trails . All dirt brought to
the sites will be required to be certified as “clean.”
Staff is recommending awarding an amendment to Hardy & Harper’s current contract to
perform these necessary repairs at a cost not to exceed $39,800. (page E-1)
Management of Fuel Modification efforts
Managing Fuel Modification for City properties, both inside and outside of the Nature
Preserve, and associated coordination with property owners and various agencies
(including PVPLC, LA County Fire, LA County Agricultural Commissioner, and State and
Federal Wildlife Agencies), is an effort that requires a large and growing amount of
attention and staff time. With the peninsula’s designation as a Very High Fire Hazard
Severity Zone, staff believes that the City needs assistance to handle this rapidly growing
area. Rather than propose a new employee for work that should be focused on 4 -5
months, staff is proposing a contracted position that would focus exclusively on the City’s
efforts and associated coordination during the critical clearing months. A dedicated
consultant position might also identify opportunities to address concerns and further the
City’s preparation, including coordination with Southern California Edison and potential
training for staff and residents.
Staff is requesting authorization to negotiate a contract of no more than $1 25,000
annually to provide a contracted position for such management and coordination.
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Eradication of Acacia in Rancho Palos Verdes
At its September 3, 2019, meeting, the City Council expressed its desire for staff to pursue
the eradication of Acacia within the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. This effort would build
upon an effort by the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy (PVPLC) funded by a
City grant approved at that meeting.
Currently, staff estimates there are about 300 Acacia in the public right -of-way, with a to-
be-determined number in the Nature Preserve. Due to easier accessibility, and a clearer
understanding of the scope of work, this work in the right-of-way is recommended to be
started first while the locations and number of Acacia in the Nature Preserve is being
determined.
As reported by PVPLC in their presentation to City Council on September 3, they are in
the process of identifying and determining the number of Acacia shrubs in the Preserve.
The removal of Acacia shrubs that their vendors will be performing at 22 acres of the
Nature Preserve is expected to be completed in 4-6 weeks, and is viewed as a “proof of
concept” project that Public Works will monitor. Staff will compare the success and
related costs of PVPLC’s vendors on that project and the success and related costs of
removing Acacia shrubs from the right-of-way along roadways to determine the
recommendation for continued eradication of Acacia shrub efforts.
The removal of Acacia shrubs in the public right-of-way will be performed under the
contract(s) negotiated for tree trimming, “limbing up” and tree removal.
ALTERNATIVES:
In addition to the Staff recommendations, the following alternative actions are available
for the City Council’s consideration:
1. Receive and file this report and take no further action at this time.
2. Direct staff to work with PVPLC for a quote to remove remaining Acacia in the
Nature Preserve as an alternative to WCA performing such services
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YOUR PERSONALWILDFIRE ACTION PLAN
fire.lacounty.gov A-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
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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
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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)
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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
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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.
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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 A-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
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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.
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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.
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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.A-16
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