The Los Angeles County Fire Department extends thoughts and prayers to all of those affected by the devastating fires in Sonoma, Napa, Mendocino, and Orange counties.

The wildfires gave little, to no notice, for those in the path of the fast-moving flames.

These fires serve as a reminder for all Los Angeles County residents to be on alert as we are now in the most critical time of our fire season.

In light of the current wildfire threat, Los Angeles County Fire Chief Daryl L. Osby urges residents to immediately prepare to protect themselves, their loved ones, and their property.

“The five-year drought followed by last winter’s rain has resulted in critical fuel conditions,” Osby said. “If a wind-driven fire were to start, we will be faced with the same volatile and dangerous fire behavior that has imperiled Northern California. Even though temperatures are cooler, live fuel moistures are now at critical levels and they will remain unchanged until significant winter rainfall is received.”

Please take the time to prepare yourself and your loved ones before the fire by developing your own Ready! Set! Go! Wildfire Action Plan. This document is available for download on our website at https://www.fire.lacounty.gov/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/ReadySetGo-Supp-Broch.pdf. The Plan provides guidance on how to retrofit homes with fire-resistant features, create defensible space and develop a family wildfire preparation and evacuation plan.

Please remember – it takes cooperation, communication, and community action to ensure the safety and survival of residents during a wildfire. Being prepared will increase your chances of surviving a major wildland fire.