As wildfire season approaches during the dry summer months, it’s important to be ready. Wildfires are unpredictable, and Southern California is currently experiencing moderate to severe drought conditions, increasing the risk of fire-related emergencies.
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) recommends the following wildfire preparedness steps:
Before a Wildfire
- Know your fire extinguishers: where they are, how to use them and check expiration dates.
- Learn utility controls. Make sure everyone in your household knows how to safely shut off gas, electricity and water.
- Prepare a “go bag” with at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food, water and necessary medications, a change of clothes, extra cash, first aid and sanitation supplies, batteries, flashlight, copies of important documents, pet food and water.
- Build a wildfire action plan. This plan details meeting points, evacuation routes, arrangements for pets and a communication plan for family members.
Read more wildfire preparations tips from CAL FIRE aquí.
Stay Informed
Residents can use the following resources to get real-time updates during fire season:
- AlertOC notification system: Enroll in the county’s mass notification system, AlertOC, at ocgov.com/about-county/emergency. This service delivers time-sensitive messages directly to your home, mobile or business phone with options for text and email notifications.
- Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA): Visit OCFA.org or follow OCFA on social media at x.com/OCFireAuthority for timely updates and information.
- Statewide wildfire updates: Access comprehensive information about California wildfires at fire.ca.gov/incidents.
The Role of CodeRED Emergency Alerts
Orange County’s primary mass notification system, AlertOC, is the official source for real-time updates from OCFA and other emergency agencies. All residents are strongly encouraged to enroll at alertoc.org to receive critical alerts during fire, weather and public safety emergencies.
To supplement countywide updates, Village Management Services (VMS) uses the CodeRED notification system to share brief, community-specific alerts when needed. CodeRED messages may include urgent local instructions or reinforce guidance from county agencies.
To sign up for CodeRED, visit lagunawoodsvillage.com, click “Sign up today” under the red and black CodeRED icon (bottom right of any page), or register through the resident portal.
Air Quality Alerts During Wildfire Incidents
Wildfires can affect air quality, so it’s important to stay informed to protect your health. If you’re in an affected area, check air quality updates and follow health tips, especially if you have heart or lung problems. Key steps include:
- Staying indoors with windows and doors closed
- Using air conditioning set to recirculate
- Drinking plenty of water
- Getting medical help if you have serious symptoms
For up-to-date air quality information and health advice, visit the South Coast Air Quality Management District website, which offers tools to help you stay safe during wildfires.
Para más noticias del Village, haga clic en la etiqueta “Qué pasa en el Village” a continuación.
