Supporting Seniors During California Wildfires: Resources and Tips for Staying Safe

At WelbeHealth, we are committed to supporting the health and well-being of all seniors and their families, especially during challenging times like the current wildfires affecting California. Seniors are among the most vulnerable during natural disasters, particularly those experiencing displacement or health concerns related to air quality.

To assist seniors and their caregivers in the LA Community, we’ve compiled essential resources and practical tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy during wildfire events.

Emergency Resources for Seniors in Los Angeles County as of January 8, 2025

(*Please note, some of these resources are time-sensitive, such as live monitoring of active fires, and may change quickly depending on the situation.)

The following resources can provide immediate assistance if you or a loved one is affected by the fires:

Evacuation Centers and Shelters

Red Cross Evacuation Center Locator: https://www.redcross.org/get-help/disaster-relief-and-recovery-services/find-an-open-shelter.html

Los Angeles County Emergency Information: https://www.lacounty.gov/emergency/

Cal OES Evacuation Map and Updates: https://www.caloes.ca.gov/

Air Quality Information

AirNow Current Conditions: https://www.airnow.gov/

South Coast AQMD Alerts and Recommendations: http://www.aqmd.gov/

Health and Medical Assistance

211 LA County: Call 211 or visit https://www.211la.org/ for local resources, including healthcare access and transportation to shelters.

California Health and Human Services Wildfire Resources: https://www.chhs.ca.gov/

App to Receive Real-Time Notifications

Watch Duty App: Alerts you of nearby wildfire and firefighting efforts in real-time. It is operated by real people – not machines or crowdsourcing. They are active and retired wildland firefighters, dispatchers, first responders, etc. You can access this app by downloading it here: https://app.watchduty.org/

Genasys App: Helps you stay safe in an emergency. You can download it here: https://protect.genasys.com/download

Tips for Keeping Seniors Safe and Healthy During Wildfires

Wildfires can pose significant risks to health and safety, especially for seniors. Here are practical tips to help you stay safe and prepared during wildfire season.

1. Wear an N95 Mask

If you must go outside, wear a properly fitted N95 mask to protect yourself from harmful particles in wildfire smoke.

N95 masks are the most effective option, but if unavailable, use a surgical mask or scarf as a temporary measure.
(*Resource: Healthline on N95 Masks for Wildfire Smoke)

2. Stay Indoors and Keep Indoor Air Clean

Close windows and doors to prevent smoke from entering your home.

Use an air purifier if you have one, or create a DIY air filter using a box fan and a HEPA filter.
(*Resource: EPA Guide to HEPA Filters)

Avoid vacuuming or other activities that stir up dust inside your home.

3. Monitor Health Conditions

Seniors with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions should exercise extra caution.

Keep all medications and medical devices easily accessible and ensure they are functioning.

Be alert for signs of smoke-related illness, such as coughing, shortness of breath, or fatigue.
If you experience severe symptoms or are in immediate danger, call 911.

4. Stay Hydrated and Cool

Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Use cooling towels or fans to regulate body temperature if your home becomes warm.

Consider adding a few bottles of water to your emergency “go bag.”

5. Check on Your Neighbors

If you or anyone in your neighborhood lives alone, take a moment to check on them by phone or in person.

6. Plan for Emergency Evacuations

Prepare a “Go Bag”: Include medications, essential documents, contact information, and a few bottles of water.

Plan for Transportation: Arrange a way to evacuate, especially if you have mobility challenges.

Evacuate Immediately: If an evacuation is ordered, do not delay. Leaving quickly can save lives.

7. Resources for Real-Time Alerts

Watch Duty App: Receive real-time notifications about nearby wildfires and firefighting efforts. This app is managed by active and retired first responders, offering reliable updates. Download it here: https://app.watchduty.org/

Genasys Protect App: helps you stay safe in an emergency. Download it here: https://protect.genasys.com/download

Additional Notes for Seniors with Disabilities or Limited Mobility

Make evacuation plans with family, friends, or caregivers to ensure you can leave quickly when needed.

Call 911 for assistance if you are unable to evacuate on your own.

Supporting our WelbeHealth Seniors

WelbeHealth is closely monitoring the wildfire situation and remains committed to supporting our participants and their families. At this time, our Pasadena and North Hollywood centers are operating in a limited capacity for any participants who need a safe place to shelter. (**Please contact your local center to confirm as this could change.)

All other centers are open with normal operations at this time.

If you need to evacuate, turning off water and gas before evacuating can reduce the risk of explosion and help firefighters as they work to protect homes and communities. However, your safety is the top priority—please evacuate immediately if told to do so.

**To our WelbeHealth participants only – for further assistance, please contact your local center and our team is here to help our WelbeHealth participants navigate this challenging time and ensure the safety and well-being of our seniors.

Carson: (424) 444-5097

Long Beach: (562) 206-1681

North Hollywood Location: (818) 835-2880

Pasadena: (626) 314-1411

Rosemead Location: (626) 773-8436

Stay Informed and Safe

These tips are designed to help you prepare and protect yourself during wildfire season. Always prioritize your safety. If you find yourself in immediate danger, call 911 without hesitation.