Why this matters
San Diego has had multiple fire outbreaks near residential areas. Information on how to prepare and stay safe in an evacuation area can save lives and reduce the spread of future wildfires.
Smelling smoke? With recent high winds and dry conditions, Southern California has seen an increase in fires, often displacing nearby residents.
In recent weeks, numerous fires, including the Palisades, Eaton and Hughes fires have burned over 47,700 acres in Los Angeles. With San Diego just 120 miles south, the regions share many of the same weather conditions and natural disaster risks.
San Diego has also had wildfires in recent weeks, though not as severe as what LA is experiencing. Still, officials warn that dry and windy conditions in the region increase the risk for wildfires — and they’re warning residents to take precautions.
In a news release from the city of San Diego, Mayor Todd Gloria shared with residents the critical nature of some of these wildfires.
“I urge all San Diegans to take proactive steps now — create your emergency plans, assemble a supply kit, and stay informed,” Gloria said. “Being ready today can make all the difference when faced with wildfire danger.”
The National Weather Service has issued red flag and high wind warnings for large portions of San Diego County through 10 a.m. Friday. The NWS issues red flag warnings when “warm temperatures, very low humidities, and stronger winds are expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire danger.”
A fire erupted Thursday on Otay Mountain in South County and as of 3:20 p.m. had grown to about 50 acres.
Others had broke out this week. The Lilac Fire burned about 85 acres in Bonsall, near Pala Mesa. It was fully contained by Wednesday.
Midday Tuesday, a brush fire broke out in the Fashion Valley area near Friars Road, burning around 15-20 acres near apartment housing.
On Wednesday morning, another fire started near Black Mountain, just south of Rancho Bernardo, burned 7 acres.
Here is information to help you prepare.
How to prepare for an evacuation
In the case of an evacuation warning, residents can take steps to reduce risk to their homes.
The San Diego Fire-Rescue advises residents near fires to move any flammable objects inside their house to prevent stray embers from igniting. Flammable materials can include umbrellas, furniture, door mats, trash cans and lawn decorations.
Officials also recommend that individuals near fire evacuation areas keep at least a half-tank of gas in their vehicles and back vehicles into their driveway or parking space for easy exit.
They also advise residents to turn off gas at their meter and any air conditioning units. Residents should not leave their sprinklers running, as it may create water pressure issues for Fire-Rescue personnel working to stop the fire.
Residents should keep the lights on both inside and outside of their homes or apartments to help Fire-Rescue personnel see in smoky conditions.
What’s a ‘go bag’ and what you need in it
CAL Fire recommends building an emergency supply kit – or a “go-bag” – well before you ever need it. In the case of an actual emergency, being prepared will reduce uncertainty or forgetting to bring helpful supplies.
So what should you put in a go-bag?
CAL Fire recommends:
- A three-day supply of non-perishable food and 3 gallons of water per person
- A map with at least two evacuation routes
- Necessary prescriptions or medications
- A change of clothes and extra eyeglasses/contact lenses
- Extra car keys, credit cards, cash or traveler’s checks
- A first aid kit and sanitation supplies
- A flashlight and battery-powered radio with extra batteries
- Copies of important documents (birth certificates, passports, etc.)
- Pet food and water
They recommend packing items in easy-to-carry backpacks, bags or coolers.
How to prepare for future fires
While it may not be at the top of your to-do list, there are numerous things you can do around your own home before or during wildfire season.
San Diego Fire-Rescue recommends clearing shrubbery and other flammable objects away from the sides of your home and creating accessible paths around your property.
Keep fire extinguishers and fire blankets readily accessible in your home in the case of a fire igniting in or near your home. Individuals should learn how to properly use a fire extinguisher.
Create an action plan with household members on where to meet up if you were to get separated during an emergency.
In your plan, San Diego Fire-Rescue recommends considering in advance how you will evacuate pets or livestock and take into account reasonable meeting places with consideration to what you may be bringing with you.
How to stay informed
San Diego has an emergency notification mobile app called Alert San Diego which provides information and planning materials in the event of an emergency.
CAL Fire maintains a live map which updates incidents of fire to help inform residents when a fire may be near. San Diegans can use this resource by visiting: https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/?os=http&ref=app
For real-time reports, the app Watch Duty also provides real-time updates and information regarding evacuation areas.
San Diego County residents can also follow the San Diego Sheriff’s Office on the social platform X for frequent updates on ongoing fires.
City of San Diego residents can also follow San Diego Fire-Rescue on X for fire updates within the city.
Type of Content
News: Based on facts, either observed and verified directly by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
