Message from Fire Chief Niko King: Preparedness Efforts Amid Fire Risks
First and foremost, our thoughts are with all those affected by the ongoing fires, especially the firefighters and residents whose lives have been impacted. We understand the toll these fires take, and I want to assure our community that Laguna Beach remains committed to protecting our residents and resources.
On Sunday, I joined our Mayor and City Manager to visit our two fire crews working tirelessly on the front lines in the Palisades fire area. Our teams are fully engaged in efforts to contain the fire and ensure the safety of the Palisades community. I am incredibly proud of their dedication and professionalism during this challenging time. Our crews are committed to staying on the scene and working 24 hour shifts until the fire threat is under control.
In addition to the ongoing operations in Palisades, we are increasing our preparedness for the heightened fire risks in Laguna Beach. While the city is not currently under a Red Flag Warning, nearby areas in Orange County Inland are, placing us on heightened alert. Given the dry conditions and low humidity, we are treating this situation as if we are under a Red Flag Warning, especially with winds expected through Wednesday and Thursday. Fortunately, more favorable conditions are expected starting Friday.
To bolster our readiness, we’ve increased staffing, adding additional fire engines, fire squads, and personnel for fire watch patrol. Two additional Police Department park rangers have been brought on to assist with fire risk monitoring, and a second person in Public Works is on call to support operations. This heightened fire weather risk will continue through Wednesday evening, and we are ready to respond swiftly if necessary.
We are working closely with neighboring agencies, including the Orange County Fire Authority, to ensure there are sufficient resources in place. Should a fire break out in Laguna's open spaces, we are prepared for a swift and coordinated response that includes helicopters. These helicopters will utilize our helicopter water refilling stations, ensuring quick turnaround for each water drop.
Additionally, the possibility of power outages due to Edison’s Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) remains a concern. While Laguna Beach could be impacted, SCE is providing proactive updates. These decisions are based on real-time weather data and circuit inspections, and power restoration efforts may sometimes take longer. For the latest updates on PSPS, visit www.sce.com/psps.
I encourage all residents to take the following steps to prepare for fire risks:
- Create an Emergency Kit: Ensure you have essential items like water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, and a first-aid kit.
- Create a Wildfire Evacuation Plan: Know multiple evacuation routes from your home and ensure all family members are familiar with the plan. Familiarize yourself with your evacuation zones.
- Prepare for Power Outages: If you live in an area that could be affected by Public Safety Power Shutoffs, prepare for a loss of power. Keep your cell phone charged and have a plan to manage without electricity.
- Prepare Your Home: Clear vegetation and debris from around your property, trim trees, and ensure your home has defensible space.
- Stay Informed: To stay informed about emergency situations, including fire risks and power outages, I urge residents to sign up for local alert systems including
AlertOC: Sign up for emergency notifications at www.AlertOC.com. This service provides important alerts for emergencies such as fires, floods, and other significant events.
City of Laguna Beach Nixle Alerts: Receive local updates and public safety information directly to your phone or email. To subscribe, text 92651 to 888-777 or visit www.Nixle.com.
Southern California Edison Alerts: For updates on power outages and Public Safety Power Shutoffs, visit www.sce.com/psps or sign up for email or text alerts.
These combined efforts ensure that Laguna Beach is well-prepared for the elevated fire risks in the coming days. If you see something - say something. Report any sign of smoke or fire immediately by calling 911. Your vigilance and support remain critical as we navigate this period of heightened alert. Return to full list >>
