Escape the Fire and Return with Water
A Reflection on Preparedness and Resilience
Over the last few days, we’ve witnessed the devastating effects of wildfires in the literal heart of LA, and it’s heartbreaking to see families forced from their homes, unsure of where to turn. In times like these, it’s clearly not enough to talk only about adventure and exploration when the journey isn't so kind to others. So, we must also talk about resilience—the ability to navigate unexpected challenges and come out on the other side ready to rebuild. When we designed the NS-1 at Campworks, we aimed to create more than just a stylish adventure trailer. We envisioned a tool for life—a self-sufficient hub that carries you off the grid when you seek the wild, but also supports you in an emergency when the wild feels far too close. I want to share why I believe the NS-1 can become part of a larger preparedness plan for you and your family.
A Tool for Adventure—and Emergencies
Sustainable Power
The NS-1’s onboard solar and battery system is designed for off-grid living. But in a crisis, that same renewable energy source keeps essential devices charged—cell phones, radios, medical equipment—so you and your family can stay informed and connected.
Water Storage and Management
Having clean water available can mean the difference between danger and survival in wildfire conditions. The NS-1’s integrated water system allows you to store and filter water for cooking, cleaning, and hydration. In an evacuation scenario, this capability becomes a lifeline.
A Place to Sleep and Regroup
When you’re forced to leave your home, you need a safe, comfortable place to rest. The NS-1 can function as a temporary shelter—complete with a bed, refrigeration, and protection from the elements. It’s about maintaining a sense of stability during a time of deep uncertainty.
Resiliency Planning: Simple Steps
Create a Family Emergency Action Plan
- Sit down as a family and outline what to do if a wildfire or other disaster strikes. Identify escape routes, designate a rendezvous point, and assign roles to each family member (e.g., who gathers vital and cherished items, who grabs the emergency supplies).
Build a Go-Bag
- Keep a backpack for each family member with essentials: clothes, toiletries, personal medication, important documents, and a first-aid kit. For households with pets, include food and veterinary items for them as well.
Stay Informed
- Wildfire conditions can change rapidly. Sign up for local alerts and keep your phone charged. In an emergency, rely on credible news sources or local government channels for real-time updates.
Practice Regularly
- Go through the evacuation drill at least once or twice a year. Familiarity with your plan can reduce panic and confusion when time is of the essence. Call it a spontaneous camping trip! We all need more of that.
Safeguard Your Home
- Clear brush, dry leaves, and other flammable materials from around your residence. If you know a severe fire season is on the way, consider proactive home hardening measures—like installing fire-resistant siding and using ember-resistant vents.
A Shared Responsibility
We know wildfires are part of a broader, complex conversation about climate, land management, and personal preparedness. It’s a conversation that goes beyond trailer design or technology; it’s about how we collectively adapt to a changing environment and support one another in times of crisis. And that time is upon a great many of our friends in LA today.
At Campworks, our purpose is to design resilient tools that enrich the journey, whether that journey is a weekend away or a fight for survival. As blunt as that sounds. The NS-1 stands ready to help your family navigate both weekend escapes and critical evacuations. It’s a small part of a much bigger mission: to reshape how we live and move in the world, fostering not just comfort and adventure, but real security and peace of mind.
So, as we witness the intensity of these recent fires, let’s take the opportunity to plan, prepare, and stand together. My hope is that with a little foresight, the right tools, and a commitment to caring for each other, we can all learn to:
"Escape the fire and return with water."
That’s the guiding ethos behind our work—balancing the thrill of open spaces with the realities of a world that’s increasingly unpredictable. Let’s remain humble, resilient, and prepared to do whatever it takes to keep one another safe.
