Here’s how to get help removing debris before it becomes a fire hazard

Los Angeles County has three major fires burning Wednesday amid a severe bout of Santa Ana winds. With wind speeds gusting up to 80 mph, area residents may find debris from trees littering the roads and sidewalks. 

This is both an obstruction of the street — which could hold up firefighters or evacuees — and a fire hazard. Resources are available if you need help.

In the city of L.A., residents can call 311 or use the MyLA 311 website and app to request assistance. 

Those living in other parts of the county can call the Department of Public Works’ 24-hour dispatch center at 800-675-4357.

County resources are only available for debris and traffic signal outages on public land and roads, so if the obstruction is on private property, a private contractor may be required.

Those looking to remove debris from a fire themselves must first contact the L.A. County Fire-Health Hazmat Division, or another hazardous materials agency, in order to arrange an inspection. Fire debris may contain hazardous materials that can threaten the safety of those in its vicinity.

The County also recommends appropriate use of Personal Protective Equipment such as masks, gloves, eye protection and long clothes, as well as caution around potentially sharp objects.