Hundreds are displaced or have lost their homes to the Butte and Valley fires that ripped through Northern California over the weekend.
Several groups have put together relief funds that residents can access. And other agencies are putting together helpful guides for those returning to their homes and properties.
Capital Public Radio compiled a list of resources for those impacted by the fires:
- PG&E offers a guide for those returning to their homes, including checking for damaged electric wirings and gas lines.
- Cal Fire released this statement highlighting safety issues that may arise for people returning to their homes. This release also has information on emergency filling stations for those who have lost access to water.
- Calaveras County created this website for information specific to the Butte Fire
- Helpful Guide For Returning Home After A Wildfire
Cal Fire released these following tips:
- If you see trees on a highway, please call Cal-Trans at 209-948-7543.
- If you see trees on a County road, please call Public Works at 209-754-6402.
- If you see any hazardous material or waste, please call Environmental Health at 209-754-6399.
- If you see any fire danger or criminal activity, please call 911.
- If you need to speak to a grief counselor, please call our local 24 hour mental health crisis line at (800) 499-3030.
- Remember, there may still be many hazards to your health and safety as you return to your homes. Stay vigilant and aware. Click here for more.
Several companies have created relief funds and programs for victims of the fire.
- Golden 1 Credit Union activated its Natural Disaster Relief Loan Program. The company is offering short-term loans for up to $5,000 to help with expenses. More information here.
- The MendoLake Credit Union also has a Fire Relief Fund. Applications can be found here.
The Contractors State License Board activated its disaster support for residents in Amador, Calaveras and Lake counties whose homes were destroyed by the blazes.
- The CSLB has information on rebuilding. CSLB's Diaster Hotline is 800.962.1125, information line 800.321.CSLB (2752). In addition, the group has a Disaster Help Center with links and more information.
Many have turned to social media as one of the places to get information for those looking for lost pets or livestocks:
- Butte Fire Lost & Found Pets And Livestock
- Valley Fire Lake County Lost And Found Pets
- Residents affected by the Butte Fire have been sharing this Google Spreadsheet on social media. It's a robust list of volunteer locations, donation needs and groups to contact for missing/found animals.
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