Fillmore, CA – Local Red Cross volunteers opened a Temporary Evacuation Point in anticipation of assisting those forced to evacuate their homes due to the Holser Fire. The evacuation point was established at the Fillmore Middle School as a rest site for those affected, to access their needs and for the Red Cross to present lodging options. In order to follow CDC COVID-19 safety protocols, the Red Cross is working with community partners to secure accommodations, which may include a dormitory-type shelter or hotels.

“We are prepared to provide food, water and COVID-19 safety resources here at this evacuation point,” said Red Cross volunteer Michael McGehee. “Normally we would open a shelter for all the evacuees, but due to COVID-19, we will provide individual spaces with more social distancing.”

HOW TO STAY SAFE DURING WILDFIRES
Be Prepared – Have a Plan – Stay Informed
• Check your emergency kit and replenish any items missing or in short supply.
• Add masks, hand sanitizer and gloves to your kit as well to protect you from COVID-19
• Listen to local radio and television stations for updated emergency information.
• Be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice. You don’t have to wait for an official evacuation order. If you feel threatened, be sure that you leave with time to spare.
• Confine all pets to one room so you can quickly and easily take them and go if you need to evacuate. Keep pets on leashes or in carriers, as they can scare easily and run-away during disasters.
• Back your car into the driveway for a safer and more efficient way out. Park in an open space facing the direction of escape. Make sure you have at least a ½ tank of gas.
• Visit redcross.org or download the free Red Cross Emergency App for more preparedness tips and safety checklists, localizable alerts, Shelter Locator and more.

HOW YOU CAN HELP
All Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from the American people.

Help people affected by disasters like earthquakes, wildfires and countless other crises by making a gift to American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small. Visit redcross.org/donate, or call 1-800-REDCROSS. Contributions may also be sent to your local Red Cross chapter, or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.