Mayor Edwin M. Lee today issued the following statement regarding the devastating Valley Fire in Lake, Napa and Sonoma counties that has burned 61,000 acres and has destroyed hundreds of homes:

“On behalf of the residents of San Francisco, my thoughts and prayers go out to the families affected by the devastating Valley Fire. San Francisco stands ready to support and assist the families and children in this region to recover and rebuild.

The best way to help those affected is to make a monetary donation to an organization responding to this disaster and providing aid to those most in need. You can find information at sfgivesback.org.

I thank all the brave first responders who are still fighting to beat back and contain this blaze, including members from our own San Francisco Fire Department.

This is another stark reminder that we must be prepared for any disaster or emergency to ensure our families and loved ones are safe and our cities remain resilient. We know disasters, whether it is a fire, earthquake, tsunami, or something human made, can happen at any time with little or no warning. That is why it is so important to take steps now so you are ready for any disaster or emergency.”

Mayor Lee urges all San Franciscans to visit sf72.org to learn how to prepare and to join your Neighborhood Emergency Response Team (NERT).