Lori Preldakaj, Emily Carbajal, and Emma Zeiger’s Disaster Plan: Wildfire Emergency Plan for Los Angeles Major Trauma Centers

Wildfires burning at night.

Introduction: Los Angeles County is one of the most wildfire-prone regions in Southern California due to its steep terrain, dry vegetation, and widespread-urban interface near the Santa Monica Mountains. These conditions make the area especially vulnerable to fast-moving, wind-driven fires. In 2021, the Palisades Fire scorched over 1,200 acres and prompted widespread evacuations, demonstrating how quickly these incidents can escalate. In 2025, multiple wildfires reignited regional concern after fires threatened hillside neighborhoods and strained emergency services.

This disaster plan leans on the expertise of the staff at the UCLA Ronald Regan Medical Center as well as multiple city departments in Los Angeles. The authors define roles and standardize protocols to reduce loss of life and property due to wildfires.