Catching up with Cottie - 01/14

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Welcome to “Catching Up With Cottie” - a weekly update about what I am working on as your representative in the California State Assembly.
Like many of you, I have watched the fires sweeping across Los Angeles with tremendous shock and sadness. My heart goes out to the communities that have been devastated and to everyone who has been impacted by this tragedy.
I want to thank the firefighters, paramedics, police, and National Guard who are on the lines for your bravery and dedication. You are an inspiration to all of us and we are incredibly grateful.
As we rally together to support family, friends, and loved ones across Southern California, I want to share some helpful resources and information.

Yours faithfully,

Cottie Petrie-Norris
California State Assemblywoman

WILDFIRE UPDATE

Palisades Fire: 23,713 acres, 17% containment.
Eaton Fire: 14,117 acres, 35% containment.
Hurst Fire: 799 acres, 97% containment.
The Orange County Fire Authority, Costa Mesa Fire and Rescue – alongside local fire departments from across California, the United States and countries around the world – are stepping up to support our neighbors in Los Angeles County – providing personnel and resources during this critical time.

The situation on the ground is changing rapidly, these figures were updated Tuesday 1/14/25, source Governor's Office.

RESOURCES

California has launched a dedicated website to provide comprehensive support for everyone impacted by the wildfires. This centralized hub offers real-time updates on fire conditions, evacuation orders, and air quality, ensuring you stay informed during these critical times. In addition, the website serves as a vital resource for those seeking assistance, whether you need to apply for disaster relief, locate emergency shelters, or find support for rebuilding and recovery efforts. 
Additional Resources:

• Cal Fire Incident Information: Get updates on wildfires, evacuation orders, and safety tips at www.fire.ca.gov.
• Alert Systems: Sign up for local alerts (e.g., AlertOC for Orange County) and ensure your phone is set to receive Wireless Emergency Alerts.
• Shelters: Locate evacuation shelters online through the Red Cross or call them directly at (855) 891-7325.
• Department of Insurance: Check these resources if you’ve suffered a loss in the recent wildfires.
• Relief Accommodations & Resources: A list of hotels and restaurants in OC offering discounted meals for those impacted by the fires in LA at Travel Costa Mesa.
• Business Resources: If your business has been impacted by the wildfires check these resources from CalOSBA.
• Donations: A list of local and regional organizations supporting wildfire relief efforts.
• Public Safety Power Shutoff: to receive alerts or to report an outage on SCE.

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

As we stay vigilant in the face of devastating wildfires, we are reminded that natural disasters—whether wildfires, earthquakes, or other emergencies—are a constant threat.
Please take a moment to review these emergency preparedness resources, create a plan, and take the necessary steps to stay prepared. Take a look at the checklist below:

As we witness another Red Flag warning this week, please take the time to review this comprehensive guide from CAL FIRE that ranges from power outages to evacuation orders.
I also hope you find this webinar on Emergency Preparedness that I hosted with Chief Fennessey from the Orange County Fire Authority helpful.