Why did one janitor refuse to evacuate his home during LA wildfires?

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A Janitor's Decision to Remain During Wildfires

Jeff Ridgway, a 67-year-old janitor, chose not to evacuate his Pacific Palisades apartment building during recent wildfires due to a profound sense of responsibility towards his home, belongings, and the building's tenants. He had resided in the 18-unit complex for nearly 35 years and felt a personal obligation to defend it against the encroaching flames, employing garden hoses and buckets of water as his primary defense.
Defense of his Residence

Ridgway described the situation as a "war" but remained resolute in his decision not to be defeated by the fires. When the city's water supply became insufficient for firefighting efforts, he resorted to using water from the building's swimming pool to continue his defense. This commitment extended beyond his personal possessions to include the property and belongings of the building's other residents, whom he felt a duty to protect.
Sustaining Himself Amidst the Aftermath

Living without electricity, Ridgway has been managing with supplies delivered by tenants who had evacuated. These deliveries have included bottled water and food, such as clementines and tomatoes, which he estimates will last for at least two weeks. The challenging conditions, including the pervasive dirt, have led him to humorously refer to his dog, Abby, as "Smudge."
Familiarity with Rudimentary Conditions

His resilience in enduring basic living conditions is partly attributed to prior experiences. Ridgway has fond memories of camping trips to Yosemite National Park, which provided him with a familiarity with rudimentary living arrangements. This background likely contributed to his ability to cope with the lack of electricity and other amenities during the fire's aftermath.
Affection for Pacific Palisades

Ridgway's deep attachment to Pacific Palisades stems from his nearly 35 years of residency and his perception of the area as a "Shangri-la." He appreciates its rich history, its status as a community frequented by celebrities, and its notable landmarks such as the Getty Villa and the Eames studio. He believes the neighborhood's inherent value, characterized by its desirable land, proximity to mountains and the ocean, and good air quality, will ensure its recovery and continued appeal.

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Why did one janitor refuse to evacuate his home during LA wildfires?

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