Deadly wildfires are burning out of control in both northern and southern California, threatening entire communities and forcing evacuations. The American Red Cross is on the ground working with partners to provide shelter, food and comfort for people forced to leave their homes with little notice.

• The Camp Fire—the deadliest fire in California history—has burned more than 125,000 acres and already destroyed 6,500 homes. The fire is only 30% contained and is still threatening 15,000 more homes.

• In southern California, the Woolsey Fire, has burned more than 96,000 acres and has already destroyed more than 430 homes.

• The exceptionally dry weather and high winds in California could help these fires spread even more. There is also a danger of new fires sparking.

Red Cross volunteers are supporting evacuation centers to provide safe refuge for people impacted by these devastating fires. The Red Cross is also providing meals, health services, comfort and other support for affected residents.

• Monday night, more than 1,000 people sought refuge from the wildfires in 12 Red Cross and community evacuation centers across California. People are welcome to come to shelters for help even if they don’t stay overnight.

• The Red Cross does not turn people away who need assistance after a disaster. We are committed to helping all those in need.

• The Red Cross has deployed enough supplies to shelter as many as 7,000 people, including special equipment to support people with disabilities.

• We are also mobilizing enough relief supplies to serve as many as 15,000 households. Supplies include sifters, personal protective equipment, respiratory masks, rakes, shovels, work gloves, tarps and other resources.

Disasters are upsetting experiences for everyone involved—especially when they cause such massive devastation so close to the holidays. This is a time for people to come together and support one another.

• Mental health experts recommend finding a balance in regards to media coverage. It’s important to stay informed while also limiting exposure, especially for children.

• Also, be patient with yourself and others. It’s common to have any number of temporary stress reactions such as anger, frustration and anxiety.

• To reach out for free 24/7 counseling or support, contact the SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 or text ‘TalkWithUs’ to 66746.

Entire communities and families have been left reeling from deadly wildfires. Help people affected by the California wildfires by visiting redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or texting the word CAWILDFIRES to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

Donations enable the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from these disasters.

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