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Wildfires are currently raging through coastal Pacific Palisades and Pasadena, causing significant destruction and estimated damages of around $50 billion. Hundreds of thousands of residents in Los Angeles County are under evacuation orders as efforts to contain the fires continue. Whether you’ve been following the news closely or know someone directly affected, fire safety—along with how to protect yourself and your loved ones—is a top concern for many Americans right now.
“A lot of people ask what clever tools and devices they can buy online for fire prevention and safety. Some of them are good to have, but there are a few basic necessities that can actually make a true difference,” New York-based Firefighter and EMT, Tyler Mendelson, tells Rolling Stone. ” The most important tools are smoke alarms throughout the house (one in each bedroom, hallway, and floor, including the basement — remember, batteries need to be changed every six months), and ABC fire extinguishers. But don’t ever hesitate, if you see, smell, or suspect a fire, call 9-1-1 right away — every second counts.”
To help keep you prepared, we’ve compiled a guide of the top 10 fire safety tools to always have on hand. Shop them all below.
Editor’s Note: We’ve put together a list of important resources to help those affected by the Los Angeles Wildfires (along with ways you can assist). Click here to view more or scroll to the bottom of this page for additional information.
Kidde Fire Escape Ladder
If you live in a home with more than one story, you should always have a fire safety ladder. This type of tool is essential for those worst-case-scenario situations when dangerous fumes or flames block your main exit. All you have to do is open the window, attach the hooks of the ladder to a stable platform, and you’ll be able to propel down to safety. This option from Kidde is 25 feet long, can hold up to 1,000 pounds, and will give you added peace of mind.
Prepared Hero Emergency Fire Blanket
Fire safety blankets can be used for putting out small fires around your house (think common kitchen mishaps) or for helping someone whose clothes become engulfed in flames. That said, they should never be used to replace traditional fire extinguishers. Sold in a 2-pack on Amazon, the Prepared Hero Fire Blanket will work to cut off a fire’s oxygen supply before it can spread into a potentially disastrous situation.
First Alert Pro5 Fire Extinguisher
A fire extinguisher is the number one fire safety tool you should own in your household. Made by First Alert (a brand that’s been offering top-grade fire protection for over 65 years), the Pro5 fire extinguisher is easy to install, comes with a 12-year warranty, and is rechargeable after each use.
SimpliSafe Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector
This should go without saying, but every home needs a dual smoke and carbon monoxide detector. According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), “Around two-thirds of home fire deaths occur in homes without working smoke alarms.” Available for less than $70 on Amazon, this option by SimpliSafe is able to connect to an app (so you can get alerts when you’re not at your residence), has a loud, alerting siren, and will automatically dispatch emergency personnel when alarmed.
Premium 420 Piece First Aid Kit
While this 420-piece First Aid Kit won’t help prevent fires, it can be used to treat burns and provide aid until emergency services arrive. Featuring bandages, tourniquets, antiseptic wipes, and so much more, you can keep this bag in your home, car, or office, so you’re always prepared — no matter the location.
Midland ER40 Emergency Crank Radio
A crank radio might seem like something out of a doomsday film, but when it comes down to it, this tool is extremely useful in everyday emergencies. Made by Midland, it can be generated by the sun, reusable batteries, or by hand, and it can provide critical alerts when you lose access to your other high-tech gadgets.
Cotopaxi Allpa 70L Duffel Bag
While some fires can be contained, there are situations — like in California right now — where evacuations are mandatory for safety. If you live in an area prone to wildfires or other natural disasters, it’s essential to have a to-go bag ready. The Cotopaxi duffel bag, with a capacity of 70 liters, features multiple pockets, is easy to carry, and will help keep your personal belongings secure.
ZYfire Fire Hose
While it’s important to note that we are not suggesting you try to combat a fire yourself — that responsibility should be left to the professionals — we are suggesting that a firehose can be used as an initial response to flames while waiting for the fire department to arrive. This 50-foot-long hose is made from 100% polyester (a thick and durable material), can easily connect to any faucet or spigot, and is simple to operate.
SentrySafe Fireproof and Waterproof Safe
Made of durable steel, this fireproof and waterproof safe will keep your important documents and belongings secure in the event of an emergency. With the ability to withstand temperatures up to 1700 degrees Fahrenheit, it features a digital keypad and a convenient LED light, and can even survive up to a 15-foot fall.
As wildfires continue to roar through coastal Pacific Palisades and Pasadena, we’ve put together a list of important resources to help those affected (along with ways you can assist). Click here to view more.
At a Glance: Shelters, Evacuation Centers, Additional Aid, and More:
• Westwood Recreation Center (pets welcomed)
1350 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90025
• El Camino Real Charter High School
5440 Valley Circle Blvd., Woodland Hills, CA 91367
• Pasadena Convention Center
300 E Green St, Pasadena, CA 91101
• Airbnb.org and 211 LA, Free Temporary Housing
Start by filling out this intake form
• Agoura Animal Care Center
29525 Agoura Road, Agoura Hills, CA 91301
• Uber (free rides to shelters, up to $40)
Use code WILDFIRE25
• Lyft (free rides to shelters, up to $25 off)
Use promo code: CAFIRERELIEF25
• Ritchie Valens Recreation Center
10736 Laurel Canyon Blvd., Pacoima, CA 91331
Whether you’re able to make a monetary donation or send medical supplies, here’s how to assist those in Los Angeles County:
• American Red Cross Los Angeles Region
This organization helps to provide disaster relief, food, shelter, and humanitarian aid to those in need. Find out how you can volunteer today.
• YMCA Locations in Koreatown
The YMCA in Koreatown is currently accepting donations of KN95 masks, along with tarps and tents. The drop-off location is: 433 S. Vermont Ave. in Los Angeles. Closes at 7 p.m.
• Wildfire Relief Fund
Donate to the Wildlife Relief Fund (a group that helps support wildlife conservation) through their GoFundMe page.
• California Fire Foundation
The California Fire Foundation helps support the families of fallen firefighters — through financial and emotional means. Donate at their page linked above.
• Los Angeles Regional Food Bank
Provide food and aid to those affected by the wildfires with the help of the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. You can make a monetary donation of your choosing above.
• Baby2Baby
Baby2Baby is a non–profit organization that provides diapers, food, and formula to families in Los Angeles. Visit their website to make a donation or learn more.
• World Central Kitchen
Partnering alongside restaurants and food trucks, World Central Kitchen delivers meals to first responders assisting with the Los Angeles fires and their families. Support their cause with a one-time donation via the link above.
• Animal Wellness Foundation
The Animal Wellness Foundation is currently filling empty vet hospitals with pets that had to be left behind, along with providing them food and aid. Donate on their site.
• You’re Just My Type
An organization for those living with Type 1 Diabetes, You’re Just My Type is currently accepting supplies of life-saving insulin, CGMs, pumps, and more. To donate (or to get help), visit @yourejustmytype1 on Instagram, or fill out this Google form here.
• Pasadena Humane
Help treat injured animals with a donation to the Pasadena Humane. Click on the link above to learn more — every amount counts.
