Emergency Contacts & Support Resources
Comprehensive emergency contacts, evacuation centers, disaster relief resources, and support services for wildfire situations. Get help when you need it most.
π¨ Critical Emergency Contacts
Emergency Services
Fire, Police, Medical Emergency
Crisis & Mental Health Support
Suicide Prevention & Crisis Counseling
Information & Referral
Local Services & Resources
Disaster Relief
American Red Cross
FEMA Disaster Assistance
Federal Emergency Support
Poison Control
Smoke Inhalation & Poisoning
State Emergency Management Agencies
Contact your state emergency management agency for local evacuation information, shelter locations, and state-specific emergency resources.
π Evacuation Centers & Shelters
Find emergency shelters, evacuation centers, and temporary housing resources during wildfire evacuations. Centers are activated based on current emergency conditions.
Emergency Shelters
Immediate temporary housing with basic necessities including food, water, cots, and restroom facilities. Pet-friendly options often available.
RV Parks & Campgrounds
Alternative housing for those with RVs or camping equipment. Many offer discounted rates during emergencies.
Emergency Housing
Temporary housing assistance through FEMA, Red Cross, and local organizations for displaced families.
How to Find Open Shelters
Red Cross Shelter Finder
Use the Red Cross "Find Open Shelters" tool online or call their hotline
Local Emergency Broadcasts
Monitor local radio and TV stations for evacuation center announcements
Emergency Management
Contact your county or state emergency management office
Emergency Alert Apps
Download your county's emergency alert app for real-time shelter information
π‘ Evacuation Shelter Tips
What to Bring
- Government-issued ID
- Medications and medical supplies
- Change of clothes and personal items
- Important documents (copies)
- Cash and credit cards
- Pet supplies and carriers
- Phone chargers
What's Typically Provided
- Cots or sleeping arrangements
- Meals and snacks
- Drinking water
- Restroom and shower facilities
- Basic first aid
- Information and referral services
- Communication access
Special Needs
- Medical equipment and oxygen
- Wheelchair accessibility
- Service animal accommodation
- Interpreter services
- Dietary restrictions
- Mental health support
- Children's needs and activities
π§ Mental Health & Crisis Support
Wildfire emergencies can cause significant stress, anxiety, and trauma. Professional mental health support is available 24/7 for those affected by wildfires.
If you're having thoughts of suicide or self-harm
Call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) immediately or go to your nearest emergency room. You are not alone.
π Crisis Support
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
98824/7 crisis support, suicide prevention, and emotional support. Free, confidential, and available nationwide.
Crisis Text Line
Text HOME to 741741Free crisis counseling via text message. Trained counselors available 24/7 for anyone in crisis.
SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline
(800) 985-599024/7 counseling for disaster-related emotional distress. Specifically trained for disaster situations.
π¨ββοΈ Professional Support
Psychology Today Provider Directory
Find TherapistsSearch for mental health professionals in your area who specialize in trauma, PTSD, and disaster recovery.
Your Insurance Provider
Call member services number on your insurance cardMost insurance plans cover mental health services. Many offer telehealth options during emergencies.
Community Health Centers
Find Health CentersFederally qualified health centers often provide mental health services on a sliding fee scale.
π¨βπ©βπ§βπ¦ Support Groups
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
(800) 950-NAMIFree support groups, education programs, and helpline for mental health support.
Local Faith Communities
Contact your local religious organizationsMany faith communities offer counseling services, support groups, and pastoral care during crises.
Disaster Recovery Support Groups
Check with local mental health centersSpecialized support groups for people affected by natural disasters and traumatic events.
π Self-Care During Wildfire Stress
Manage Information Intake
Limit news consumption to prevent overwhelm. Get updates from official sources only.
Maintain Routines
Keep regular sleep, meal, and exercise schedules when possible to provide stability.
Stay Connected
Maintain contact with family and friends for emotional support and practical help.
Practice Relaxation
Use deep breathing, meditation, or other calming techniques to manage stress.
Take Care of Physical Health
Stay hydrated, eat regular meals, and take medications as prescribed.
Avoid Unhealthy Coping
Limit alcohol and avoid drugs, which can worsen anxiety and depression.
π° Insurance & Financial Resources
Navigate insurance claims, find financial assistance, and access emergency funds after wildfire damage. Document everything and act quickly to protect your rights.
π Insurance Claims Process
Contact Your Insurance Company Immediately
Report the loss as soon as possible. Many insurers have 24/7 claim reporting hotlines.
Document Everything
Take photos and videos of all damage. Keep receipts for any emergency expenses.
Prevent Further Damage
Take reasonable steps to protect property from additional damage when safe to do so.
Work with Insurance Adjuster
Cooperate with the adjuster but know your rights. Consider hiring a public adjuster for major losses.
Key Insurance Resources
California Department of Insurance
National Association of Insurance Commissioners
United Policyholders
ποΈ Federal Financial Assistance
FEMA Individual Assistance
Federal grants for temporary housing, home repairs, and other disaster-related expenses.
What's Covered:
- Temporary housing assistance
- Home repair and replacement
- Personal property replacement
- Medical and funeral expenses
- Transportation costs
SBA Disaster Loans
Low-interest loans for homeowners, renters, and businesses to repair or replace property.
Loan Types:
- Home disaster loans (up to $200,000)
- Personal property loans (up to $40,000)
- Business loans (up to $2 million)
- Economic injury loans
π€ Non-Profit Financial Assistance
American Red Cross
Emergency financial assistance for immediate needs like food, clothing, and temporary lodging.
Salvation Army
Financial assistance, food, clothing, and shelter services for disaster victims.
United Way
Local United Way chapters often provide disaster relief funds and connect victims with resources.
Catholic Charities USA
Emergency assistance regardless of religious affiliation, including financial aid and case management.
π Pet & Animal Emergency Resources
Protect your pets and livestock during wildfire emergencies. Find pet-friendly shelters, evacuation resources, and animal rescue services.
π¨ Pet Emergency Preparedness
Emergency Kit for Pets
- 3-day supply of food and water
- Medications and medical records
- Collar with ID tags and current contact info
- Pet carriers or crates (one per pet)
- Leashes and harnesses
- Comfort items (toys, blankets)
- Waste bags and litter
- Recent photos of your pets
Important Documents
- Vaccination records
- Medical history and medications
- Registration and license information
- Microchip information
- Contact info for veterinarian
- Pet insurance policies
- Emergency contact for pet care
Evacuation Planning
- Identify pet-friendly hotels/motels
- Research boarding facilities outside fire zones
- Connect with friends/family who can help
- Know location of animal shelters
- Plan multiple evacuation routes
- Practice loading pets into carriers
π₯ Pet Emergency Services
ASPCA Disaster Relief
Emergency sheltering, search and rescue, and veterinary care for animals affected by disasters.
American Humane Rescue
Emergency animal sheltering and reunification services during natural disasters.
Best Friends Animal Society
Rapid response team providing emergency sheltering and veterinary care.
RedRover Emergency Boarding
Grants for emergency boarding when families are displaced by disasters.
π Livestock & Large Animal Resources
Evacuation Planning for Large Animals
- Transportation: Arrange for trailers, trucks, or professional livestock haulers in advance
- Destination: Identify fairgrounds, farms, or facilities willing to house evacuated animals
- Documentation: Keep health certificates, ownership papers, and identification readily available
- Feed and Water: Plan for 3-day supply at minimum, transport containers if possible
- Emergency Contacts: Maintain list of veterinarians, haulers, and temporary housing options
Key Livestock Resources
UC Davis Veterinary Emergency Response Team
Emergency veterinary care and animal evacuation assistance
vetmed.ucdavis.edu/vertCalifornia Animal Response Emergency System (CARES)
Coordinates animal emergency response throughout California
oes.ca.gov/animal-safetyLocal County Fair Grounds
Many fairgrounds serve as evacuation sites for livestock during emergencies
Contact your county agricultural extension officeπ Lost Pet Resources
Finding Lost Pets After Disasters
- Report immediately: Contact local animal control and shelters within 24 hours
- Use technology: Post on social media, PawBoost, Finding Rover, and Petco Love Lost
- Visit shelters in person: Animals may look different after trauma, visit frequently
- Expand search area: Scared animals can travel far from home
- Leave familiar scents: Place your clothing or pet's bedding outside your home
Petco Love Lost
petcolove.org/lostDatabase connecting lost pets with local shelters using photo matching
βΏ Special Needs & Accessibility Resources
Emergency assistance and resources for individuals with disabilities, medical needs, and those requiring special accommodations during wildfire evacuations.
Mobility & Physical Disabilities
Emergency Planning Considerations
- Register with local emergency management for priority assistance
- Plan accessible evacuation routes and transportation
- Ensure emergency supplies include backup power for medical equipment
- Identify accessible shelters and accommodations
- Maintain list of personal care attendants and backup providers
Key Resources
Vision & Hearing Impairments
Communication & Alert Systems
- Sign up for text-based emergency alerts
- Ensure access to battery-powered radio with NOAA weather alerts
- Plan for guide dog or service animal evacuation needs
- Identify friends/family who can provide emergency communication assistance
- Keep extra batteries for hearing aids and communication devices
Key Resources
Cognitive & Developmental Disabilities
Special Considerations
- Create visual emergency plans and practice evacuation procedures
- Ensure identification includes emergency contact and medical information
- Plan for comfort items and familiar objects during displacement
- Identify caregivers and support staff who can assist during emergencies
- Prepare clear instructions for any special care needs
Key Resources
Medical Needs & Chronic Conditions
Medical Emergency Planning
- Maintain 7-14 day supply of all medications
- Keep medical equipment backup power sources charged
- Create medical information cards with conditions, medications, and emergency contacts
- Identify healthcare providers and pharmacies in potential evacuation areas
- Plan for oxygen, dialysis, or other life-sustaining treatment needs
Medical Emergency Contacts
π Emergency Registry Programs
Many counties maintain registries of residents who may need special assistance during emergencies. Registration helps ensure you receive priority assistance during evacuations.
Benefits of Registration:
- Priority notification of evacuation orders
- Assistance with evacuation transportation
- Connection to accessible emergency shelters
- Coordination with medical equipment providers
- Family notification assistance
How to Register:
- Contact your county emergency management office
- Visit your county's official website and search for "special needs registry"
- Call 211 for referral to local registry programs
- Contact your local fire department for guidance
βοΈ Your Rights During Emergencies
Under federal law, individuals with disabilities have the right to equal access to emergency services and accommodations.
Key Rights Include:
- Accessible emergency shelters and facilities
- Communication assistance (interpreters, accessible formats)
- Service animal accommodation in shelters
- Assistance with evacuation if needed
- Access to medical care and equipment
- Reasonable modifications to policies and procedures
Advocacy & Legal Support:
π 24/7 Emergency Hotlines Directory
Comprehensive directory of emergency hotlines available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for immediate assistance during wildfire emergencies.
π¨ Emergency Services
Emergency Services
Fire, Police, Medical Emergency
Poison Control Center
Poisoning & Toxic Exposure
π§ Mental Health & Crisis Support
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Suicide Prevention & Crisis Counseling
Crisis Text Line
Text-Based Crisis Support
SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline
Disaster-Related Emotional Support
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Domestic Violence Support
SAMHSA Substance Abuse Helpline
Addiction & Substance Abuse Support
π Disaster Relief & Assistance
American Red Cross
Disaster Relief & Emergency Assistance
FEMA Disaster Assistance
Federal Emergency Support
Salvation Army
Emergency Assistance & Support
211 Information & Referral
Local Services & Resources
π¨βπ©βπ§βπ¦ Family & Child Services
National Child Abuse Hotline
Child Protection & Support
National Elder Abuse Hotline
Elder Protection & Support
National Runaway Safeline
Youth Crisis Support
π° Financial & Legal Assistance
SBA Disaster Loans
Low-Interest Disaster Loans
Legal Aid Association
Free Legal Assistance
HUD Housing Counseling
Housing Assistance & Counseling
π Tips for Calling Emergency Hotlines
Before You Call
- Find a quiet location if possible
- Have pen and paper ready to take notes
- Gather relevant information (ID numbers, addresses, etc.)
- Be prepared to wait - hotlines may have high call volumes during disasters
During the Call
- Stay calm and speak clearly
- Provide your location and contact information
- Be specific about your needs or situation
- Ask for a reference number if available
- Write down any instructions or follow-up steps
Language & Accessibility
- Most hotlines offer multilingual support
- TTY services available for hearing impaired (dial 711 for relay)
- Ask for interpreter services if needed
- Many hotlines also offer text or online chat options