Returning home after the fires: What LA residents need to know
Returning home after the Los Angeles County wildfires? Learn about the phased recovery process, damage assessments, cleanup efforts, and rebuilding resources to help you get back on your feet.
The recent wildfires in Los Angeles County have left many residents eager to return to their properties and begin the rebuilding process. However, local, state, and federal agencies are working tirelessly to ensure that all neighborhoods are safe for residents to re-enter. Here’s what you need to know about the phased recovery process, safety measures, and resources available as you prepare to return home.
Timeline for Returning Home
The process of assessing neighborhoods and removing hazards is complex and requires time. Local response teams, in coordination with state and federal agencies, are working around the clock to clear toxic and explosive materials. These inspections are vital to ensure that areas are safe for residents and families to return.
Residents in some evacuated areas are already being permitted to return, but for those in heavily impacted communities, the wait may be longer. Field incident management teams are evaluating each neighborhood daily to determine when it is safe to lift evacuation orders. Updates are posted regularly on the Los Angeles County Emergency page and the recovery website, recovery.lacounty.gov.
The fire damage map for your area will tell you if inspectors have visited your property:
Damage Assessment and Insurance Claims
If you are unsure about the status of your property, the Los Angeles County recovery website offers an interactive mapping tool that provides damage assessments. Simply enter your address to see:
- A photo of your property.
- An icon indicating the extent of damage:
- No Damage
- Minor Damage
- Greater than 50% Damage
- Destroyed
If no icon appears, inspectors have not yet assessed your property. Inspection data is updated daily, so it’s important to check back regularly. Most major insurance companies accept the assessments conducted by government inspection teams, allowing residents to use these reports as a basis for filing claims. Be sure to confirm with your insurance provider.
Cleanup Efforts and Safety Precautions
Cleanup is a two-phase process designed to ensure the safety of returning residents.
- Phase 1: Conducted automatically at no cost to property owners, this phase focuses on removing hazardous materials like asbestos, lead, and chemicals from household products. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) leads this effort.
- Phase 2: Once Phase 1 is complete, property owners can choose between government-managed cleanup services or hiring private contractors for debris removal. Local governments prioritize cleanup in areas near public facilities, schools, and environmental hotspots like creeks.
Residents should avoid attempting to remove debris themselves, as post-fire debris can contain toxic substances that pose serious health risks. Always wait for clearance from local authorities before re-entering fire-affected areas.
Preparing to Return Safely
Once evacuation orders are lifted, residents should take several precautions to ensure their safety when entering fire-affected areas:
- Protective Gear: Wear an N95 mask, safety goggles, gloves, and durable clothing, including long-sleeved shirts, pants, and sturdy shoes. These items help shield you from harmful particles, ash, and debris.
- Daylight Entry: Enter your property during daylight hours to better identify potential hazards like sharp debris or unstable structures.
- Avoid Hazardous Materials: Do not touch or move hazardous waste, including propane tanks, pool chemicals, and car batteries. These items should be reported to local authorities for proper removal.
Los Angeles County’s Department of Public Health provides a detailed checklist to guide residents through the process of safely re-entering their properties. Visit their website for the latest updates and resources.
Rebuilding and Support Services
Rebuilding after a wildfire can be an overwhelming process, but several resources are available to assist residents:
- Permits and Planning: The Department of Regional Planning offers a one-stop shop for rebuilding permits and zoning guidance. Visit their disaster recovery page for details.
- Vital Records Replacement: Residents impacted by the fires can request property and vital records free of charge from the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk’s Office.
- Financial Assistance: Local, state, and federal agencies are offering aid programs to help with rebuilding costs. Check the recovery website for a list of available resources.
Los Angeles County’s commitment to recovery ensures that residents have the tools and support needed to rebuild their lives. Continue to check official updates for the latest information as recovery efforts progress.
