
Community Meeting Update: Eaton Fire Recovery Efforts
The Eaton Fire remains a critical concern for our community. During today’s meeting, officials provided important updates on fire containment, ongoing firefighting efforts, recovery resources, and public health. Here’s a comprehensive summary:
Fire Status and Containment
• Size and Containment: The fire has reached 14,117 acres and is 27% contained.
• Personnel: Over 3,155 firefighting personnel are working tirelessly to contain the blaze.
Operations Update
• Firefighting Progress:
• West side containment is improving with handlines in place.
• In rugged terrain like Bear Canyon and Mount Markham, aircraft are critical for fire suppression.
• Areas near Mount Wilson are secured, but work continues along the northeast and southwest edges of the fire.
• Challenges: The fire remains active in Altadena, requiring significant long-term recovery efforts.
• Preparedness: Mobile retardant tanks and contingency plans are ready for potential wind events.
Weather and Fire Behavior
• Dry, windy conditions are expected, with ridge-top gusts up to 50 mph by early Tuesday morning.
• Spot fires could occur up to 2 miles away due to heat in wildland areas, though urban Altadena spotting is less likely.
Health and Air Quality Concerns
• Air Quality: While the LA Basin air is generally good, hazardous particulates from damaged structures pose risks.
• Precautions: Residents are urged to use P100 or N95 respirators (consult a doctor for safety). Avoid using leaf blowers to minimize exposure to lead, arsenic, and asbestos.
• Support:
• Free N95 masks are available at evacuation shelters.
• A new Telehealth program will launch tomorrow to assist with medical needs.
• Medication prescriptions can be filled at the Pasadena Civic Center Pharmacy Team.
Recovery and Rebuilding
• Damage Inspections: Ongoing assessments can be tracked via the Eaton Fire Recovery Page: https://recovery.lacounty.gov/eaton-fire.
• Rebuilding Efforts:
• Local leaders are prioritizing rebuilding while preserving Altadena’s character.
• A one-stop permitting center will streamline the process for affected residents.
• Governor Newsom’s executive order has eased environmental requirements for rebuilding.
Repopulation and Utilities
• Safety First: Fire-impacted areas remain hazardous due to lingering heat and debris. Professionals should inspect utilities before residents return.
• Water: Five water districts serving the area remain under a no-use order. Updates can be found at Water Alerts.
• Power and Gas: Utilities are being restored in stages. Residents are encouraged to consult professionals for safe reconnections.
Public Assistance
• FEMA Aid: Residents can apply for federal assistance at disasterassistance.gov.
• Small Business Loans: Low-interest loans are available via the Small Business Administration.
• Local Support: FEMA staff are stationed at libraries and the Pasadena Convention Center.
• Price Gouging Protections: Report any violations to the LA County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs.
Community Updates
• Schools: Food centers at Wilson Middle, Madison Elementary, and McKinley schools are available to all children.
• Debris Removal: Hazardous materials must be cleared before rebuilding. Free county programs are available to assist.
• Curfew: A nightly curfew is in effect in Altadena from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m..
This meeting emphasized the collaborative efforts of firefighters, community leaders, and government agencies to address the immediate needs and long-term recovery of our community. Stay safe, stay informed, and utilize the available resources to navigate this challenging time. For updates, visit Eaton Fire Recovery Page.
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