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Better weather won't keep California from grim fire landmark

California Wildfires
Posted at 8:11 AM, Oct 03, 2020
and last updated 2020-10-03 11:17:57-04

SAN FRANCISCO — Firefighters may get a reprieve from the weather as red flag warnings of extreme fire danger expire. But the state is still poised to reach a grim milestone: 4 million acres burned this year by wildfires.

The warnings expired Saturday morning, but fire officials say California is only about 20,000 acres from reaching an unprecedented figure.

Better weather won't keep California from grim fire landmark

Meanwhile, two major fires that have killed four people and incinerated hundreds of homes in the wine country and the far north continue to burn.

The Glass Fire in Sonoma and Napa counties still threatens about 29,000 homes.

ASSEMBLE AN EMERGENCY SUPPLY KIT

Put together your emergency supply kit long before a wildfire or other disaster occurs and keep it easily accessible so you can take it with you when you have to evacuate.

Emergency Supply Kit Checklist:

  • Face masks or coverings
  • Three-day supply of non-perishable food and three gallons of water per person
  • Map marked with at least two evacuation routes
  • Prescriptions or special medications
  • Change of clothing
  • Extra eyeglasses or contact lenses
  • An extra set of car keys, credit cards, cash or traveler’s checks
  • First aid kit
  • Flashlight
  • Battery-powered radio and extra batteries
  • Sanitation supplies
  • Copies of important documents (birth certificates, passports, etc.)
  • Don’t forget pet food and water!

Items to take if time allows:

  • Easily carried valuables
  • Family photos and other irreplaceable items
  • Personal computer information on hard drives and disks
  • Chargers for cell phones, laptops, etc.

Always keep a sturdy pair of shoes and a flashlight near your bed and handy in case of a sudden evacuation at night.