Red Cross volunteers from SC to help with disaster relief efforts as Los Angeles fires rage

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WCBD) – Disaster-trained volunteers from the American Red Cross of South Carolina are deploying to support disaster relief operations in Los Angeles where wildfires have forced thousands of people to evacuate.

Five volunteers from across the state, including one from Pawleys Island, will leave for the West Coast on Thursday to help disrupted communities.

Once there, the volunteers will work with partners to provide safe shelter, food, emotional support, and health services to the tens of thousands of people forced from their homes.

“There are a lot of people who need help,” said Dan Fiato, a Red Cross volunteer from Little River, who is deploying to Los Angeles on Thursday. “I’ve helped people my whole life and now that I’m retired, I figured this is the best way to really help.”

Very strong winds have caused fires to rapidly spread in the Los Angeles area, challenging firefighters’ efforts to contain the multiple fires that have consumed homes and businesses.

It’s unclear what caused the initial fires to start.

The Red Cross of South Carolina said it will coordinate with local officials and community partners in California to make sure people have the support they need and stands ready to deploy more disaster-trained workers if they are requested.