The LA wildfires sparked a wave of citizen volunteers, but miscommunication highlights the need for better emergency preparedness and volunteer coordination.
The destructive winds and devastating fires sweeping through the Los Angeles area this week drove many to their phones seeking information and help. Downloads of apps like Watch Duty soared as Angelenos anxiously searched for information about evacuation boundaries, evacuation sites, and the fate of their neighborhoods. On social media, people shared photos and news stories, and reposted TV screenshots about the Palisades and Eaton fires.
Reliable information was mixed with mistaken secondhand reports, spreading confusion. On Tuesday evening, the Los Angeles Fire Department issued a routine request for off-duty firefighters to report their availability. Some misinterpreted this as a call for any willing volunteers, leading to misinformation spread by celebrities, restaurants, and even journalists. The Fire Department tried to correct the record, but the damage was done. Even by midday Wednesday, solicitations for volunteers were still circulating, directing people to call the LAFD duty number. Angelenos want to help, but engaging in fire suppression without coordination is dangerous and can hinder efforts. While neighbors can help with evacuations, official structures are needed to prepare and coordinate volunteers. Imagine if untrained volunteers showed up on the front lines with no tactical plan, potentially putting firefighters at risk and disrupting operations. It's understandable that Angelenos showed a selfless desire to help, but official emergency communications need to improve, and volunteer training should be expanded. Social media has become a primary source of information during emergencies, but it's crucial to discern reliable guidance from unreliable posts. Los Angeles can take the lead in building a new model of emergency assistance and communication, ensuring people with well-meaning energy have helpful channels to direct it
WILDFIRES MISINFORMATION VOLUNTEERS EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COMMUNICATION
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