The deadly fires in Napa and Sonoma Counties have us all asking how we can help. Read below for what EMD is doing and how you can help. 

Riverside County's response

As the local resources in Napa and Sonoma Counties became exhausted, a system known as emergency management mutual aid was activated with the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services. Hearing the call for help, the County of Riverside Emergency Management Department deployed five personnel to assist with emergency management logistics and public information activities. Many other counties throughout California also sent personnel. Banding together, we help out wherever we can. 

How you can help

It's human nature for everyone in the community to want to help. The best way for you to give to the victims of the Northern California wildfires is through a trusted nonprofit charity. Each disaster is different, as is each family in need. Monetary donations are the easiest, cleanest, most efficient way to help people get exactly what they need most.

Unfortunately, donating extra clothes and food from around the house creates significant challenges. These items need to be trucked in to the disaster area, warehoused, cleaned, sorted and distributed.  

As you see the news coverage regarding the fires in Northern California, it's important to understand that wildfires are a top threat in Riverside County too. The time to prepare is now - before a disaster strikes. Visit CALFIRE's Ready for Wildfire website for information on how to prepare for wildfires.