(BPT) - As wildfire events increase in frequency and severity across the United States, the Everything Lifesaving Foundation (EL) and portable power leader Jackery are partnering to enhance community resilience and emergency response capabilities. The organizations' recent collaboration during Los Angeles County wildfires demonstrated the critical importance of reliable power solutions during disasters.
"When disasters strike, the first 72 hours are crucial for saving lives and protecting property," said Paul Herrera, Director of Everything Lifesaving Foundation. "Having dependable power sources becomes essential when infrastructure fails, which is why our partnership with Jackery has been transformative for disaster response."
Rising wildfire threats nationwide
Wildfires are no longer just a concern for Western states. According to recent data, nearly half of all U.S. wildfires in 2023 occurred in the Southeast, driven by factors like hurricane debris and development in fire-prone areas. The U.S. experienced 27 separate billion-dollar weather and climate disasters in 2024 - nearly triple the long-term annual average.
At-risk populations include:
- Residents in the wildland-urban interface, where development meets natural areas
- Communities in drought-affected regions, which have expanded beyond traditional fire zones
- Elderly and medically vulnerable individuals dependent on powered medical equipment
- Rural communities with limited evacuation routes and emergency resources
Power solutions in action: The LA wildfire response
During the recent Los Angeles County wildfires, EL deployed Jackery portable power stations and solar generators throughout affected areas. This allowed for continuous operation of essential medical devices for vulnerable residents, charging stations for communication devices at emergency shelters, power for critical equipment at first responder command posts, and reliable electricity for the refrigeration of medications and food.
"We've seen firsthand how portable power solutions make a life-saving difference," said Herrera. "In one instance, we powered a resident's nebulizer and refrigeration for 72 hours until utility services could be restored. In another case, solar generators kept oxygen concentrators operational during extended power outages, preventing medical emergencies."
Essential wildfire preparedness for homeowners
Whether it's preparing for wildfire season, hurricane season or summer blackouts, EL and Jackery recommend homeowners take these crucial steps:
1. Create defensible space: Clear flammable vegetation at least 30 feet from structures.
2. Develop a power resilience plan: Invest in solar generators that can:
- Keep phones charged for emergency communications
- Power medical devices during evacuations
- Preserve refrigerated medications
- Provide lighting and device charging during extended power outages
3. Prepare evacuation kits: Include essential documents, medications, first aid supplies, and portable power sources.
4. Establish communication protocols: Ensure all family members know how to contact each other during emergencies.
"Disasters don't wait for convenient times to strike," said Herrera. "Our work with Jackery has shown that having reliable, portable power can make the difference between a manageable emergency and a life-threatening crisis."
For more information about wildfire preparedness or to contribute to Everything Lifesaving Foundation's efforts, visit www.everythinglifesavingfoundation.org.
