- Once evacuations lifted, State (Cal OES) with County and City will sponsor a LAC (Local Assistance Center). State and local government will provide resources and info – as well how to get important documents that may have been lost.
- Getting back to your property – they will warn you of hazardous materials so be careful when going back. CalRecycle (State agency) https://calrecycle.ca.gov/disaster/wildfires/ often is mobilized by the State to remove hazardous materials from fire debris first , and then later can help remove other fire debris.
- Rebuilding – Hopefully LA will have special planners assigned to help property owners understand steps in rebuilding when the time is right. We also had local architects volunteer to help homeowners.
- Insurance – biggest issue for most. They will be slow because of the extent of the issues but hang in there and keep all receipts of what you’ve spent.
- Mental health – your whole community just went through collective trauma and are still going through it. Find local resources for yourself, your family and neighbors if County or City aren’t helping. See what nonprofits are doing that could help.
- Neighborhood connections – Right now everyone is in shock. That will turn into community closeness as everyone grieves together and comes together for comfort. But soon enough, those emotions turn into anger and frustration, likely directed at the local government, whether that’s deserved or not, and that causes lot of conflict and interruption in helping move through the impacts. Helping people move through it one step at a time is important.