LOS ANGELES, Jan. 7, 2025 — The American Red Cross Los Angeles Region and our partners are working tirelessly to support those affected by the Palisades fire. Red Cross LA has opened an emergency shelter providing shelter, food, water, health and emotional support services.

The emergency shelter is located at the Westwood Recreation Center (1350 S. Sepulveda, Los Angeles, 90025). Domestic family pets are welcomed and must be in a travel carrier or pet crate. Large animals and livestock are welcome at Pierce College (6201 Winnetka Ave., Woodland Hills, CA 91371).

For those seeking refuge, please bring your emergency kit and any supplies you need to help make yourself feel comfortable and safe, such as medication and pet food. Wildfires can spread rapidly, and it is important to prepare now and have your car ready; do not wait until there is not enough time to grab your essentials.

The Palisades fire is a reminder of the importance of being prepared for disasters big and small. The Red Cross offers these safety tips you should follow:

WILDFIRE SAFETY

Wildfire can spread very quickly, leaving you little time to get to safety. Be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice and obey all instructions from officials.

• Know where you will go, how you will get there and where you will stay. Plan well in advance if you need help leaving or using public transportation.
• If you have a car, ensure the gas tank is full and park it facing out in the direction of your evacuation route.
• Keep your pets in one room, so you can find them if you need to evacuate quickly.
• Monitor local weather and fires near you. Sign up for free emergency alerts from your local government. Stay up to date on evacuation routes and road closures that could impact your plans.
• If you feel you are in danger leave immediately. You might not get an official notice to evacuate.
• Limit exposure to smoke and dust. Keep indoor air clean by closing windows and doors to prevent outside smoke from getting in.
• Don’t use anything that burns, such as candles, fireplaces and gas stoves to help keep your indoor air clean.

Download the free Red Cross Emergency app for real-time weather alerts, open shelter locations and expert advice in both English and Spanish.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.