More than 10,000 homes have been obliterated by devastating fires that ripped through Los Angeles this week.

While California Gov. Gavin Newsom expresses optimism that firefighters can make headway into the weekend – with Santa Ana winds expected to die down, slowing the spread of the blaze – meteorologists say they are expected to pick up again next week.

A tragedy of this magnitude should really bring things to perspective for those of us here at home.

While Pennsylvania’s climate tends to make us less susceptible to fires of this intensity, we are not immune from similar disasters.

On Friday, a ravenous blaze tore through an Allensville home on Front Mountain Road, leaving its residents at a loss of what was likely a lifetime of memories.

Our sincerest thoughts go out to the residents.

When instances like this occur, we must look to our emergency responders and firefighters with gratitude and respect.

They’re sacrificing their time, safety — and in some very unfortunate circumstances their lives to ensure the well-being of civilians.

What’s more is that most – firefighters in particular – are volunteers.

While it may seem elementary, the best thing we can do to make their lives a little easier is by following basic fire prevention protocols to identify risks and mitigate them before tragedy strikes:

— Install smoke alarms and test them at least once a month. Remember to change the batteries at least once a year;

— Cook carefully. Don’t leave the stove unattended and clean pans and grills regularly;

— Unplug items when not in use. Use surge protectors and don’t overload outlets;

— Use candles carefully. Keep candles in a stable holder, away from fabrics and paper. Never leave unattended;

— Check for electrical issues. Look for flickering lights, frequent power outages, power surges, burning odors or worn-out outlets;

–Have your furnace checked regularly;

— Keep space heaters away from flammable items and turn them off when you leave the room or go to bed.