Fires continue to burn, however with the weather getting better, the humidity going up and additional resources being brought in to help, the overall situation is improving. People are being allowed back into previously evacuated areas. Here is some useful information for all San Diego County residents:
Information on air quality is available from the county Air Pollution Control District at (858) 586-2800, press 2, and sdapcd.org/air/forecasts/otoday.html. The telephone recording is updated daily at 4:30 p.m.
To minimize problems:
- Stay indoors.
- Keep physical activity to a minimum.
- Drink plenty of fluids to moisten the respiratory tract.
- If you have one, wear a filter mask that covers your nose and mouth.
- Keep windows and doors closed.
- Keep particle levels lower indoors by not using anything that burns, such as wood stoves, gas stoves and candles.
American Red Cross Tips for Returning Home
Do not cut or walk past colored tape over doors or windows unless authorities advise it is safe.
Check outside and inside for loose power lines, broken or damaged gas lines, foundation cracks or other damage. Find another way to enter if door is jammed, as it may be providing support.
If you detect the odor of natural or propane gas, or hear a hissing noise, leave the property immediately and call the fire department.
Open windows and doors for ventilation.
If you see sparks, broken or frayed wires, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker.
SDG&E cautions residents not to handle downed lines of any kind.
Residents should also call the utility if they smell gas near their property and before connecting any electric generators. Generators plugged into home outlets can cause hazards for crews working to restore power to nearby homes and businesses.
SDG&E recommends calling (800) 411-7343 to have natural gas lines turned back on if you shut them off yourself. The company shut off service to about 1,600 gas customers in affected areas and will restore it automatically.
For more information call (800) 411-SDGE.
For updates, call 511 or go to dot.ca.gov/sdtraffic or 511sd.com
City of San Diego residents can register their cell phones to receive emergency alerts – such as an evacuation notice – from the city’s Reverse 911 system. Go to sandiego.gov/ohs/reverse911. Residents will need to provide their cell number, address and e-mail.
Donations
American Red Cross
Online at sdarc.org/donate; choose Option 2, San Diego/Imperial Counties local disaster fund
By phone: (858) 309-1200
By mail: American Red Cross, 3950 Calle Fortunada, San Diego, CA, 92123
Donors who wish their money to be used locally should specify the funds are for the San Diego local disaster fund to support the Harris/Witch Creek response operations.
To make a donation of clothing or household goods, please inquire with the following organizations:
St. Vincent De Paul: (619) 446-2100
Goodwill: (888) 446-6394
Salvation Army: (619) 231-6000, or donate online at sandiego.salvationarmy.org
To donate food, please contact the San Diego Food Bank at (866) 340-3663.
Individuals are asked not to make donations at Qualcomm stadium. Corporate and bulk donations can be coordinated by calling (619) 236-6175.