Residents who evacuated their homes in the Los Angeles County area due to the wildfires are eager to go home, but significant safety barriers remain, according to Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Kristin Crowley.
During a news conference on Wednesday, Crowley emphasized the importance of prioritizing safety before returning to the affected communities. She highlighted various safety and infrastructure issues that persist, such as downed power lines, broken gas lines, hazardous materials, and unsafe water.
Officials are actively working to address these challenges, but Crowley cautioned that the fire risk is still present. She explained that the combination of low humidity and strong winds has further dried out the brush, increasing the potential for fires to reignite.
Despite the residents' eagerness to return home, Crowley urged them to remain patient and prioritize their safety above all else. She emphasized that the danger has not yet passed and that it is crucial for individuals to heed the warnings and instructions provided by authorities.
As efforts continue to mitigate the safety hazards in the area, residents are advised to stay informed through official channels and to follow any evacuation orders that may still be in place. The collaboration between emergency responders and the community is essential in ensuring a safe and successful return to normalcy in the aftermath of the devastating wildfires.
