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Maya Ortiz

Maya Ortiz is an urban resilience planner and wildfire mitigation specialist with fifteen years designing neighborhood hazard plans and defensible-space programs across Southern California. Based in Los Angeles, California, she has led community-driven neighborhood plan development for high-risk foothill communities, authored municipal guidance on home hardening and fuel reduction, and coordinated multi-agency wildfire exercises. Her expertise includes neighborhood evacuation routing, vegetation management, and community risk assessment. Recognized by the Los Angeles County Office of Emergency Management, Maya consults with city councils and neighborhood councils.

Tailoring Your Emergency Plan for LA’s Urban and Foothill Areas

Tailoring Your Emergency Plan for LA’s Urban and Foothill Areas

When it comes to emergency preparedness, Los Angeles presents a unique set of challenges. The city’s diverse geography, with urban sprawls and foothill communities, ...

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The Role of Community Firebreaks in Wildfire Prevention in LA

The Role of Community Firebreaks in Wildfire Prevention in LA

In Southern California, where wildfires are a constant threat, effective strategies for fire prevention and mitigation are essential. One of the most crucial methods ...

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Checklist for Homeowners What to Do Before, During, and After an Earthquake

Checklist for Homeowners: What to Do Before, During, and After an Earthquake

Living in an earthquake-prone area, like Southern California, means being prepared for the unexpected. Earthquakes can strike without warning, but with proper planning, you ...

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Preparing Local Businesses for Community-Wide Emergencies in LA

Preparing Local Businesses for Community-Wide Emergencies in LA

In a city as vast and diverse as Los Angeles, emergency preparedness isn’t just a concern for residents; local businesses must also be ready ...

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Preparing Pets and Livestock for Wildfires in Southern California

Preparing Pets and Livestock for Wildfires in Southern California

Wildfires are a harsh reality in Southern California, especially during the dry season when high winds and dry brush make fires unpredictable. As these ...

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The Best Apps for Keeping Your Emergency Plans Up-to-Date in Los Angeles

The Best Apps for Keeping Your Emergency Plans Up-to-Date in Los Angeles

In a city known for its diverse risks, including earthquakes, wildfires, and extreme weather, keeping an up-to-date emergency plan is critical. Thankfully, there are ...

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What LA Residents Should Know About Fire-Resistant Building Materials

What LA Residents Should Know About Fire-Resistant Building Materials

Los Angeles, with its proximity to wildfire-prone areas and its dry, hot climate, faces a constant threat from fires, especially during peak wildfire seasons. ...

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How to Create an Earthquake-Ready Emergency Kit for LA

How to Create an Earthquake-Ready Emergency Kit for LA

Living in Los Angeles means being prepared for the possibility of an earthquake. The region sits along the San Andreas Fault, making it prone ...

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The Importance of Defensible Space Around Homes in Los Angeles

The Importance of Defensible Space Around Homes in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is no stranger to wildfires, with many neighborhoods located in high-risk areas due to the dry conditions, urban sprawl, and mountainous terrain. ...

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