Southern California is currently battling major wildfires in the Moorpark and Camarillo areas of Ventura County. They have already caused injuries and scorched about 20,000 acres of land.
Even if you’re not in the direct path of these fires, the smoke and pollutants can severely affect air quality throughout the region. To help you stay safe and informed, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide with essential information. This guide also includes details on evacuation centers for both people and animals, as well as resources to keep you connected and up-to-date during this challenging time.
How To Stay Safe During Wildfires
- Stay Informed: Keep up to date with local news, weather reports, and emergency notifications. You can sign up for alerts from Listos California here.
- Prepare Your Home: If possible, you can take precautions by creating a defensible space by clearing flammable vegetation and debris. Use fire-resistant materials for roofing and siding.
- Create an Evacuation Plan: Note multiple evacuation routes and establish a communication plan with family members and/or housemates. Prepare an emergency kit with essentials.
- Follow Evacuation Orders: If authorities issue evacuation orders, leave immediately. Do not wait for further instructions. You can stay up to date with such notifications and orders for L.A. County here. You can find San Bernardino County fire resources here. For Ventura County wildfire resources, you can find them here.
You can find active wildfires on CAL FIRE here.
Evacuation Centers
In response to the fire situation, Ventura County officials have set up several evacuation centers to ensure the safety of residents and their animals. You can find the full list of vacation orders for Ventura County here.
Evacuation Centers:
- Padre Serra Parish — 5205 Upland Rd., Camarillo, CA 93012
- Ventura County Fairgrounds (for large animals) — 10 E. Harbor Blvd., Ventura, CA 93001
- Ventura County Animal Services (for small animals) — 600 Aviation Dr. Camarillo, 93010
Emergency Animal Evacuation:
Those in need of immediate evacuation assistance for their large animals should call Ventura County Animal Services (VCAS) at 805-388-4341. Visit vcemergency.com for up-to-date information on this ongoing emergency.
Please make sure to follow any specific instructions provided by the evacuation centers and stay safe.
How Wildfires Can Impact Air Quality
Wildfires impact air quality — and spread these pollutants over the region, impacting even communities far from the fire itself. Vulnerable populations — such as children, the elderly, and those with preexisting health conditions, are especially at risk when this happens. To protect yourself and those around you, it is recommended to monitor air quality reports, stay indoors with windows closed, and use air purifiers if available. For more detailed information and updates, always refer to official sources like the L.A. County Emergency Serviceshere and CAL FIRE here.
By following these guidelines and staying informed, you can enhance your safety during a wildfire.
How You Can Help Those In Need
You can support those directly affected by these wildfires by donating to the verified GoFundMe fundraisers here.