Evacuations Ordered Near San Diego Blazes

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Post on Jan 22, 2025

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Evacuations Ordered Near San Diego Blazes: A Wildfire Survivor's Story

So, wildfires. Yeah, I’ve been there. Not fun. Actually, terrifying. This whole San Diego evacuation thing? It brought it all right back. I’m talking about the smell of smoke, the frantic packing, the knot in your stomach that just won't quit. Let me tell you, it's a rollercoaster. A really, really scary rollercoaster.

My brush with the flames (and the frantic escape)

A few years back, a wildfire – a massive one – ripped through the hills near my then-home. I remember it like it was yesterday. It started small, just a little wisp of smoke on the horizon. "Probably nothing," I thought, foolishly. My then-neighbor, bless her heart, was freaking out though – and she was right to be. She’d lived through similar incidents. She’s the one who made me finally get serious. She’d already got her “go-bag” packed, ready for the whole evacuation deal. She'd also prepared her property for wildfire.

Within hours, those little wisps turned into raging infernos. The sky turned this awful orange color, like something out of a horror movie. The air got thick with smoke, making it hard to breathe. I frantically started throwing stuff into boxes – photos, important documents, my cat, Mr. Fluffernutter (he was NOT happy). I completely forgot about my irreplaceable baseball card collection. Ugh. Lesson learned.

Preparing for the Unexpected: Creating Your Go-Bag

Let me tell you, creating a “go-bag,” or emergency kit, is essential. Don't be like me; don't wait until you're knee-deep in smoke and ashes. Seriously, it’s a total game-changer. Here's what I'd suggest adding to yours:

• Important Documents: Passports, birth certificates, insurance policies – anything vital. Keep digital copies too, stored securely in the cloud.
• Medications: A week's supply, at minimum.
• First-aid Kit: Band-aids, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes – the works. You might also consider including some basic tools.
• Water and Non-Perishable Food: Enough for several days.
• Cash: ATMs might be down.
• Warm Clothes: Even in summer, temperatures can drop dramatically at night.
• Pet Supplies: Food, water, carrier, leash – whatever your furry friend needs.
• Face Masks: Crucial for protecting your lungs from smoke.

What I wish I’d known:

One thing that really hit home? Communication is key during a wildfire evacuation. Cell service can be spotty, so having a plan B for contacting loved ones is super important. I really wish I had some sort of offline communication device on hand. Think a walkie-talkie or something similar. I know, a little old school – but extremely practical.

I nearly lost Mr. Fluffernutter. My pet carrier was too small. It would be useful to have multiple carriers and have them packed at all times with your pet's supplies. He nearly suffocated and I had to improvise with whatever I could find in the car. We eventually made it out safely, but it was a scary experience. I was so glad I had a couple of carrier options in the car, although neither was ideal.

Another thing that people often forget about is the aftermath of the wildfire. It's not just about getting out safely; it's about what happens after you've evacuated. Having a plan for shelter, food, and how to check on your home and property later is essential.

Staying Informed

Remember: Stay informed. Pay attention to local news, weather alerts, and official channels for updates and instructions. Don't rely on social media as your primary source of information.

The San Diego wildfires serve as a harsh reminder of how quickly things can change. Preparation and awareness are key to surviving these events. Don’t be like me. Be prepared. Seriously. Get that go-bag packed. You won't regret it.