What to Do When Franklin Fire Hits Near Pepperdine: 5 Essential Tips

Wildfires are an ever-present threat in California, and when the Franklin Fire ignites near Pepperdine University, it sends shockwaves through the community. As residents, students, and staff brace for the unpredictable, knowing how to respond can save lives and property. This guide provides 5 essential tips for staying safe when a wildfire strikes, tailored to the unique challenges posed by fires near Pepperdine University.

Understanding the Threat of the Franklin Fire

The Franklin Fire has quickly become a significant concern in Malibu, especially given its proximity to Pepperdine University. With strong winds and dry conditions fueling its spread, local authorities have declared an emergency. Residents are being advised to prepare for potential evacuations as fire crews battle to contain the blaze.

1. Stay Informed with Reliable Updates

When the Franklin Fire is near, the first step is to stay updated with accurate and timely information.

Sources for Reliable Information:

• Local News Stations: Tune into live broadcasts from NNC News for the latest developments, including evacuation orders and containment updates.
• Official Alerts: Sign up for alerts from the Los Angeles County Fire Department and the City of Malibu. These notifications will provide real-time updates on fire activity.
• Pepperdine University Alerts: If you are a student, faculty member, or staff, monitor communications from Pepperdine’s emergency response team via email, text, or their official website.

Avoid relying on unverified social media posts, as misinformation can spread quickly during emergencies.

2. Prepare for Evacuation

Wildfires can move unpredictably, so being prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice is crucial.

How to Prepare:

• Create a Go-Bag: Include essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, important documents, flashlights, batteries, and a first-aid kit.
• Plan Your Route: Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes. In Malibu, routes such as the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and Malibu Canyon Road are commonly used during emergencies.
• Know Shelter Locations: Pepperdine University often activates its emergency shelter-in-place protocols for students, but if you are off-campus, identify local evacuation centers set up by the Red Cross or city officials.

If evacuation orders are issued, leave immediately. Delays can put your life and the lives of first responders at risk.

3. Protect Your Property

While the safety of yourself and your loved ones should always be the priority, taking steps to protect your property can mitigate damage.

Defensible Space:

• Clear Flammable Materials: Remove dry vegetation, leaves, and debris from around your home.
• Use Fire-Resistant Materials: If possible, reinforce your roof and exterior walls with fire-resistant materials to reduce susceptibility to embers.
• Install Sprinklers: Outdoor sprinkler systems can help keep vegetation moist and less likely to ignite.

Backup Important Files:

• Digitally back up vital documents like birth certificates, insurance policies, and property deeds. Store physical copies in a fireproof safe.

For residents near Pepperdine, these measures can provide additional peace of mind during wildfire season.

4. Stay Safe During the Fire

If the Franklin Fire approaches your area, follow these safety tips to minimize risk:

Indoors:

• Keep windows and doors closed to prevent smoke from entering.
• Turn off air conditioning units unless they have a HEPA filter to avoid circulating smoke indoors.
• Stay low to the ground if smoke infiltrates your home, as clean air is closer to the floor.

Outdoors:

• Wear a mask (preferably an N95) to protect yourself from inhaling hazardous particles in the smoke.
• Avoid areas with heavy smoke, flames, or embers.
• Follow the instructions of emergency personnel. If asked to leave an area, do so promptly.

Pepperdine University has its own emergency protocols, including designated evacuation zones and safety shelters, so students and staff should adhere to these guidelines.

5. Recover and Rebuild Safely

Once the fire is contained, the recovery process begins. Returning to normalcy after a wildfire can be challenging, but taking deliberate steps can ease the transition.

Inspect Your Property:

• Only return to your property when authorities have declared it safe.
• Document damage for insurance claims by taking photos and videos.
• Contact your insurance provider immediately to start the claims process.

Emotional Recovery:

Wildfires are traumatic events, and it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Seek support from counselors or local community groups if needed. Pepperdine University often provides counseling services for students and staff affected by disasters.

The Role of Pepperdine University in Wildfire Preparedness

Pepperdine University, located in the heart of wildfire-prone Malibu, has robust systems in place to protect its community during incidents like the Franklin Fire.

Shelter-in-Place Protocol:

The university’s shelter-in-place protocol involves relocating students to secure buildings with fire-resistant features, such as the Payson Library and the Tyler Campus Center. These structures are equipped with air filtration systems and emergency supplies.

Community Engagement:

Pepperdine also collaborates with local fire departments to host wildfire preparedness workshops and drills. These initiatives aim to educate students and residents about proactive safety measures.

How NNC News Helps Keep You Informed

For comprehensive coverage of the Franklin Fire and other emergencies, NNC News remains a trusted source. From live updates to expert analysis, NNC News ensures that you have the information you need to stay safe and informed.

Why Choose NNC News?

• Real-Time Alerts: Get breaking news delivered straight to your phone or email.
• Expert Commentary: Hear from fire safety professionals and meteorologists who explain the evolving situation.
• Community Focus: NNC News highlights local voices and stories, giving you a personal connection to the events unfolding.

Conclusion

When the Franklin Fire threatens the Malibu area and Pepperdine University, preparation and quick action are essential. By staying informed, planning for evacuation, protecting your property, and following safety guidelines, you can navigate this challenging situation with resilience.

Remember, your safety is the top priority. Stay connected with trusted sources like NNC News for accurate updates and guidance.