2-1-1 Disaster Response

In October 2007, 20 wildfires raged across Southern California, forcing the evacuation of over 500,000 people and resulting in the loss of at least 1,500 homes. Fires burned for 19 days, creating simultaneous challenges of evacuation, response, and early recovery. All six impacted counties had active 2-1-1 service at the time of the fires, responding together to answer nearly 130,000 calls in five days. On the peak day, Southern California 2-1-1s answered over 41,000 calls, representing 764% of baseline.

The Trial by Fire report recounts the role 2-1-1s played in responding to the fires, supporting first responders, and getting accurate information to the public. The report opens with a letter from Sara Matta, national leader in building 2-1-1 as a partner in disasters, sharing the story of her personal experiences during the wildfires. Throughout, the report reinforces the need for an integrated, statewide network of 2-1-1 centers capable of providing uninterrupted, high quality services during a disaster anywhere in the state.

Please share this report widely.