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Urban Fires – Your Mail & Unintended Consequences

Published January 16, 2025

Unintended Consequences: What Happens to Your Mail When You’re Evacuated?

Life can take unexpected turns, and evacuations often bring chaos and uncertainty. In the whirlwind of figuring out where to stay and what to do next, certain practicalities—like your mail—may not even cross your mind. But even in the midst of upheaval, ensuring your mail is secure and accessible doesn’t have to be a hassle. There’s a quick and easy solution, courtesy of the U.S. Postal Service (USPS).

What Happens to Your Mail During an Evacuation?

When you’ve been evacuated, your immediate focus is on safety and finding shelter. Your mail, understandably, is the last thing on your list of priorities. However, important documents, bills, and communications might still be heading to your now-empty home. Instead of leaving it to pile up or risking it getting lost, there’s a simple step you can take to stay on top of things.

The Quick Fix: USPS Hold Mail Service

The USPS offers a convenient option to hold your mail safely at your local post office until you’re ready to retrieve it. Here’s how you can set it up in just a few minutes:

1. Visit the USPS Website
   Head over to the USPS homepage.
2. Navigate to the ‘Receive’ Tab
   Across the top menu, you’ll find a section labeled “Receive.” Hover over it to access a dropdown menu.
3. Select ‘Hold Mail’
   Click on “Hold Mail” to begin the process of securing your deliveries.
4. Create an Account
   You’ll need to set up a free USPS account if you don’t already have one. While it doesn’t cost anything, you’ll need to provide a valid email address for communication and confirmation.
5. Follow the Instructions
   Complete the required information to schedule the hold on your mail. You can specify the start and end dates for the hold, giving you control over when your mail resumes delivery.

Why It’s Worth It

Taking a few moments to set this up can save you a lot of stress later. Whether you’re displaced for a few days or a longer period, knowing your mail is secure can provide peace of mind during an otherwise chaotic time.

So, while your mail might not seem like a priority right now, it’s a small detail that can make a big difference. With just a few clicks, you can ensure that important items won’t go missing, even when life feels out of control.

Take care of the basics, and let USPS handle the rest. You’ve got enough on your plate already! […and I want to thank Loren Sokolow. His recent evacuation experience was the impetus for this post….]

Also…..Make a donation to an organization like Our Big Kitchen Los Angeles. OBKLA unites volunteers to cook and package meals for those facing hardship alongside incredible chefs. These meals are then provided to social service organizations for distribution and this past week have been feeding the entire community.

Be well and stay safe.