Cal Fire San Diego provides safety tips after LA wildfire response report

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- On January 7, Los Angeles experienced a fire for the ages.

Over the next three days the region’s emergency systems were tested in every way by a hurricane-force firestorm, claiming the lives of 31 people and destroying an estimated 16,000 structures.

In a new report released by the McChrystal Group, the after-action report pointed to a series of weaknesses in communications, breakdowns in warning systems and outdated protocols and standard operating procedures which lead to an ambiguity in authority and leadership.

While the report says there is no smoking gun to the failures during the historic Los Angeles fires, lessons have been hard learned for the entire state of California.

“As we saw earlier this year in January, as well as in years past, we are now in a year-round fire season,” said Capt. Robert Johnson from Cal Fire San Diego.

While Cal Fire declined to discuss the report, their advice on San Diego’s early warning system is a first step in staying safe if a firestorm hits San Diego County.

“One thing we want residents to have is the Genasys Protect app downloaded on their phone. That’s going to provide residents with the most up-to-date current information on evacuation orders, warnings as well as road closures,” Johnson said.

Cal Fire San Diego is equipped with a powerful air attack team responsible for saving countless homes over the last few decades, but if the winds get over 50 mph, fixed wing and helicopters simply won’t be effective. Cal Fire says on red flag warning days with strong Santa Ana winds, everyone needs to be on their guard and be ready to move.

“You should have a go-bag prepared, that go-bag should be prepared at all times and you shouldn’t be packing that go-bag in the event you are under an evacuation order or warning,” Johnson said.