As we acknowledge the profound impact of the devastating Los Angeles County fires on countless individuals and communities, our thoughts remain with all those affected during this challenging time. We also express our deepest gratitude to the first responders—firefighters, law enforcement, and medical professionals—who continue to work tirelessly to protect lives and property.

This serves as an important reminder for Village residents to stay informed about local fire events by utilizing the following resources:

• 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.
• 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.

By staying connected to these trusted sources, residents can receive critical updates and ensure their safety during emergencies.

Enroll in CodeRED Emergency Alerts

Village Management Services (VMS) relays county messaging to keep residents informed of potential dangers. In emergencies or situations requiring urgent communication, the CodeRED system delivers brief, critical alerts via phone, text or email to Village residents.

To enroll in CodeRED, visit lagunawoodsvillage.com, click “Sign up today” under the red and black CodeRED icon located at the bottom right corner of any page, and complete the form. Residents can also register through the resident portal.

Clarification of Disaster Evacuations and VMS Security Services Roles

The Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) oversees mass evacuations during disasters, with Laguna Woods Village Security Services assisting as directed by OCSD.

Evacuation sites are chosen by OCSD based on the type of disaster, how many people need shelter, and the safest locations at the time. These decisions depend on the situation and can change quickly.

For example, in a wildfire, evacuation centers would be set up away from the fire’s path. Exact locations can’t be decided ahead of time because they depend on real-time conditions.

Evacuation sites might include schools or large shopping center parking lots, as long as they are safe. The main goal is always to protect evacuees.

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, are older or caring for children. 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.

The Orange County Health Care Agency also may share updates and advice during wildfire smoke or air pollution events.

For more Village news, click on the tag “What’s Up in the Village” below.

Small fires are common in households, especially in the kitchen. The leading cause is leaving the stove unattended, even just for a minute, which can cause major damage. Practicing safe cooking can help prevent accidents:

• Never leave the stove unattended. Turn it off if you leave the kitchen.
• Keep flammable items away from the stovetop, like towels and packaging.
• Turn pot handles inward to avoid spills.
• Clean cooking equipment to prevent grease and crumbs from catching fire.
• Dispose of grease properly. Let it cool before discarding, and never pour it down the drain.
• Avoid cooking when tired or after drinking. Unplug small appliances when not in use.
• Have a fire extinguisher handy and know how to use it.
• Contain oven or microwave fires. Turn off the heat and keep the door closed until flames are out.

Stay alert and follow these steps to keep your kitchen safe.

Using a Fire Extinguisher

Fire extinguishers can prevent fires from spreading if placed correctly. Keep one near your kitchen, where most fires start, and another near your home’s exit for safe escape. The Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) recommends multipurpose ABC extinguishers for home use:

• A: For fires from wood, cloth, or paper.
• B: For fires from flammable liquids like cooking sprays.
• C: For fires caused by live electricity.

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Fire extinguishers are easy to use. OCFA provides guidance and recommends following the PASS technique:

• Pull the pin
• Aim at the base of the fire
• Squeeze the lever slowly
• Sweep from side-to-side

Click here to watch an instructional video from OCFA on how to use a fire extinguisher.

Click here to view OCFA flyers on fire safety in Chinese, English, Farsi, Korean, Spanish and Vietnamese.

If you cannot safely extinguish a fire, get outside quickly, close the door behind you to contain the fire, and call 9-1-1.

For more Village news, click on the tag “What’s Up in the Village” below.