January 30, 2025

In response to the Southern California wildfires, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) issued a release on actions being taken to aid recovery, including issuing widespread approval for expanded response, eliminating or limiting fees and processes, expanding areas of coverage, and more. Key actions include:

• Supporting Expanded Capacity at Health Care Facilities: CDPH issued blanket approval for facilities in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties to quickly add bed capacity and services to their licenses. The blanket approval also allows facilities to set up additional beds in areas not traditionally used for patient rooms.  CDPH is providing guidance through All Facilities Letters for these facilities on how to submit additional waiver requests. These waivers are designed to support all facilities experiencing fire and windstorm-related surges in capacity, as well as those dealing with staffing shortages due to impacted personnel.

• Supporting Replacement of Vital Documents: CDPH is waving all fees for the replacement of certificates of birth, death, marriage, and dissolution of marriage records for any individual or family who loses these items as a result of the fires. CDPH can process requests to replace documents in as little as two to three days and is offering expanded on-site services at Disaster Recovery Centers and Local Assistance Centers across Southern California. Learn more about how to replace lost vital records.
• Ensuring Continued Benefits to WIC Families Impacted by the Fires: WIC participants who have lost their WIC Card or WIC foods should contact their local WIC office which can be found online at MyFamily.WIC.ca.gov. WIC families who have been dislocated by the fires and are staying in an area that is not near their regular WIC office or WIC grocer can find a nearby location finder at MyFamily.WIC.ca.gov.
• Addressing Health Risks Posed by Wildfires: CDPH staff are on the ground in affected areas, working with local, state, and federal partners to assess and mitigate the risks posed by the aftermath of a fire. This includes supporting coordinated guidance on soil, air, water quality and the safe handling of debris.
• Coordinating Emergency Response and Recovery Efforts:
  • CDPH activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program. People affected by the wildfire who need help filling prescriptions or getting medical equipment can locate participating pharmacies online.
  • CDPH has provided resource requests for personal protective equipment (PPE) such as N95 respirators, medical and health staffing resources and comfort kits.
  • CDPH is coordinating with state, local and federal partners on recovery efforts to restore healthcare facilities and to address the risks to public health caused by the wildfires.
  • CDPH shares mental health resources for people affected by the wildfires through CalHOPE Emotional Support Services and CalHOPE Mental Health Support for Youth & Families.

Additional information and resources can be found at CDPH’s wildfire webpage.