Wildfires here in Southern California are caused by a variety of factors, both human and natural, and usually occur in late summer/early fall. At ACS Security, we want to assure you that our team monitors conditions and closely observes any type of incident that could trigger a fire alert. ACS Patrol Officers are instructed to pay close attention to any suspicious persons or unusual circumstances, and notify the proper authorities if necessary.

Meanwhile, should the need arise to evacuate your home, please be prepared. We offer the following tips to help ensure your safety:

• Plan to leave as soon as evacuation is recommended by fire officials rather than wait until the mandatory order is issued
• Ensure your vehicle has sufficient fuel for several days and back into your garage heading out with the windows closed
• Gather your important documents (driver’s license, the deed to your home, insurance, medical records, medications, birth certificates and passports, etc.) in a fireproof container that is accessible and portable to take with you
• Have pet carriers prepared and ready to go
• Establish a predetermined, centralized meeting location for your family outside of threat zones in case you get separated
• Be prepared for power loss and know how to manually open your garage doors, or where to park your vehicle during wildfire season
• Always have appropriate footwear and clothing stored in your vehicle in case you cannot get to your home or have to leave your home quickly, along with a portable radio and flashlight
• Close exterior windows and doors to prevent sparks from blowing inside your home
• Close doors within the house to slow the spread of fire
• Turn on all the lights in and around your home so it’s visible through smoke or darkness
• Do not leave sprinklers or hoses on when you evacuate as it reduces water pressure that firefighters need
• Do not attempt to stay and protect your home with garden tools as it endangers yourself and neighbors, and can interfere with firefighter efforts
• Do not call 911 to ask about evacuation zones or non-threatening emergencies; fire alerts can be found at lafd.org/alerts
• Store 43362 (4FEMA) in your mobile phone so you can use it to find shelter if necessary

We value the safety and security of our community and appreciate the opportunity to protect your home and family. We hope that these tips give you a measure of comfort and protection.