The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has reactivated its rumor response website to address misinformation about Southern California’s current spate of wildfires. The agency posted similar information after last fall’s hurricanes Helene and Milton.
These are some of the false claims the page is addressing:
- FEMA only provides a one-time payment when you apply for assistance: False
- FEMA will take my property and land after a disaster: False
- FEMA is handing out vouchers for disaster assistance: False
- I can be paid $3,000 a week to assist with storm cleanup: False
- If you receive a grant from FEMA you will get less money from Social Security: False
- Survivors can’t apply if they have insurance: False
- I am automatically registered for FEMA assistance if I reported damage to my local parish, county officials, or a disaster relief organization: False
- FEMA will reimburse me for a generator I purchase: It depends.
The FEMA helpline is 1-800-621-3362.
LAFD Is Also Addressing Misinformation
The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) has also been addressing misinformation about the fires the area is currently experiencing.
LAFD PIO Erick Scott posted the following information on Twitter:
“We have been made aware that there is an inaccurate social media posts circulating suggesting that people can come work in California as part of a clean-up crew in areas that burned in recent wildfires.
*There is no truth to this social media post, and there is no need to call and inquire.*
Another post that circulated starting on January 7 claimed that Los Angeles-based fire agencies were seeking help from the general public in fighting #wildfires sweeping through the area.
*This post is also baseless.*
Always confirm information by going directly to the official source.
For the latest official information on fires burning in Los Angeles County, visit the #CalFire Incident website at http://fire.ca.gov/incidents, visit the #LACoFD website at http://fire.lacounty.gov, and the #LAFD at http://lafd.org”
Related Article: False Los Angeles Wildfire Evacuation Warnings Spark Panic
Officials also dispelled the rumor spread by right-wing social media influencers that Oregon fire trucks were turned away due to California’s emissions regulations. Officials say the trucks were halted briefly for routine safety checks before they travelled to help put out the Los Angeles fires, reports CBS News.
Editor’s Note: To make donations to help out with recovery from the 2025 Los Angeles fires, visit the the city’s official donation website: LAWorks.com/2025Fires.
