More than 11,000 people in southern California were ordered to evacuate as the fast-growing Line Fire gained ground in San Bernardino County, driven by dry conditions and high temperatures in the region.
As of Monday, the wildfire had grown above 20,500 acres and was threatening more than 36,000 homes and other structures. Despite official efforts — CAL FIRE reports that more than 1,700 firefighters are assigned to the Line Fire — the blaze was only 3% contained. Although the heat wave that has swept southern California is expected to fade after Monday, vegetation in the area remains dangerously dry.
The blaze follows several days of triple-digit temperatures and power outages that have affected southern California communities, including in San Bernardino County.
Additional wildfires in populated areas, such as the Boyles Fire in California’s Lake County, have burned structures and placed tens of thousands of people under evacuation orders and warnings. The South Coast Air Quality Management District has warned millions of people at risk from “unhealthy,” “very unhealthy,” or “hazardous” air quality to stay indoors, and to wear N95 masks for protection if outside.
Health Risks and Wildfires
Wildfires bring a host of health risks that range from immediate to long-term. Smoke, particulates, and ash can cause asthma attacks or acute distress in individuals with respiratory and cardiovascular issues, and eye and lung issues are a risk for everyone exposed to wildfire smoke.
Evacuations, such as those mandated by the Line Fire, cause interruptions to lifesaving health care and seriously increase the risk that chronic conditions like diabetes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease will become unmanaged. Because people frequently evacuate without medications and essential supplies, first responders frequently request chronic disease treatments as part of an emergency response.
Over the long term, displacement, trauma, and the socioeconomic consequences of fire can create or worsen health conditions.
Direct Relief’s Response
Direct Relief is headquartered in California and responds to wildfires throughout the country. The organization maintains an extensive inventory of fire-related supplies, such as N95 masks, inhalers, eye drops, first aid items, chronic disease medications, blood sugar monitoring equipment, and personal protective equipment.
In response to the current wildfires, Direct Relief is in contact with the California Office of Emergency Services, the California Primary Care Association, and community health centers and free clinics near the fire to offer support and determine healthcare needs.
The organization will continue to monitor the fire’s spread and work with partners to evaluate appropriate response measures.
