Understanding big fires and big feelings

Jan 14, 2025

Sanden Totten, a science reporter and Brains On! contributor, shares his firsthand experience of evacuating his home during the Los Angeles wildfires. He discusses the emotional impact of such crises and the importance of coping strategies for kids. They delve into the science behind smoke travel and the historical significance of indigenous fire management practices. The conversation also highlights the need for connection and resilience in children facing climate-related anxiety, making it both informative and uplifting.

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ANECDOTE

Sanden's Evacuation

Sanden Totten, his family, and dog Penelope evacuated their Los Angeles home due to nearby fires and power outage.
They felt a mix of fear, sadness for others' losses, and relief at being safe.

INSIGHT

Science Reporter Perspective

Sanden's prior experience as a science reporter provided knowledge about the area's fire history and climate change's impact.
He emphasizes that climate change is not a future problem but a present reality.

ADVICE

Supporting Those Affected

Reach out to friends and family in affected areas with a text or call to offer support.
Acknowledge the efforts of firefighters who work tirelessly to protect communities.

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Wildfires in Los Angeles County have burned homes, businesses, and schools. Many people have had to evacuate and there’s smoke and ash in the air. We know lots of Brains On listeners live in Los Angeles — and even if you don’t, there’s a good chance you know someone who lives there or have heard people talking about the fires. So, for today’s episode, we decided to talk about the fires in California.

First, you’ll hear from Sanden Totten, who lives in Los Angeles and had to evacuate with his family. Therapist Caroline Hickman will talk about how to process what’s happening, then we’ll learn about how smoke travels. Finally, you’ll hear parts of an episode we made a few years ago about how wildfires start and how people work to contain them.

Featured Guests:

Caroline Hickman is a psychotherapist and lecturer at the University of Bath in the U.K., who specializes in eco-anxiety and climate psychology. Find out more about her work here.

Margo Robbins, co-founder and executive director of the Cultural Fire Management Council and a member of the Yurok Tribe in northern California. Learn more about her work here.

Additional Resources for Parents:

A printable coloring and activity book and guide for supporting young children after a fire from Sesame Workshop.

Resources for parents processing the Los Angeles wildfires with their kids from Dr. Becky.

NPR created this printable cartoon ”A kid's guide to climate change” which focuses on how to manage climate change anxiety, and turn it into action. It also tells the story of a teen who was forced to evacuate his home during a wildfire.

The Big Burn episode from LAist gives advice on how to help kids (and adults!) move through fear and anxiety about wildfires.

How to talk to children about wildfires, evacuations and losing a home from LAist.

All About Feelings episodes from Brains On can help kids understand their emotions.

The LA Public Library has put together this list of books that can help kids process traumatic events.

Ways to Help:

The California Fire Foundation: The California Fire Foundation is working with local fire agencies and community organizations to support residents impacted by the blazes.

LAFD Wildfire Emergency Funding Alert: The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation provides equipment and funds critical programs to help the LAFD save lives and protect communities. They are seeking donations to provide additional gear for firefighters.

Support Immigrant Workers Impacted by the Los Angeles Fires: The National Day Laborer Organizing Network is fundraising for immigrant workers who have been impacted by the wildfires.

Verified Fundraisers on GoFundMe: Across California, wildfires have burned thousands of acres, destroying homes and businesses and forcing thousands to evacuate. You can support those affected by donating to the verified fundraisers on this page. GoFundMe’s Trust & Safety team will continue to update this page with more fundraisers as they are verified.

Pasadena Humane Society has taken in 300+ animals due to evacuations. They need monetary donations to help provide emergency resources to animals affected by the wildfires.

Baby2Baby- Baby2Baby is currently responding to the devastating wildfires raging across Los Angeles by providing critical items including diapers, food, formula and hygiene products for children and families who have lost everything. They are working with 470 partner organizations in LA County spanning schools, shelters and hospitals to fulfill requests coming in for essential items.