Driving back from Fresno yesterday evening, I could see the hazy, hot pink sky and billowing smoke as I headed towards LA proper.  Nasty.  And scary.  If you’re within striking distance of any of the four major fires and are packing your things in case of a forced (or unforced) evacuation, the Red Cross has a handy guide of important items to pack.  Please don’t forget that your pets need evacuation kits too – the ASPCA has a great list here.

The Red Cross’ list includes:

MATERIALS

• Flashlight + batteries
• Radio (battery powered) + batteries
• First aid kit
• Medications (prescription and non-prescription) & glasses
• Water (at least one gallon per person is recommended; more is better) and non-perishable foods
• Change of clothes and sleeping bag for each household member
• Checkbook, cash, and credit cards
• Map (i.e., dust off that Thomas guide and if you have a portable GPS, now would be the time to charge it)
• I also recommend that you grab your portable external hard drive if you can (i.e., back up your computer NOW)

DOCUMENTS

• Driver’s license or personal identification
• Social Security card
• Proof of residence (deed or lease)
• Birth and marriage certificates
• Stocks, bonds, and other negotiable certificates

Feel free to make additional suggestions in the comments.  Good luck to everyone – stay safe!

Related posts:

1. Century City Evacuation! (drill, that is.)
2. Evacuation info; Dante’s View destroyed
3. Thar’s A Fire (Evacuation Drill) in Them Thar Hollywood Hills
4. Sweatin’ Bullets: Grab your floaties!
5. Minuteman Mudslinging Match: Grab a Beer