During emergency events, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) collaborates with federal, state, local, and non-governmental partners to address the needs of affected areas. The ongoing fires in Los Angeles County have prompted DHS to emphasize their approach during such crises.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have reiterated that sites providing emergency response and relief are considered protected areas. "To the fullest extent possible, ICE and CBP do not conduct immigration enforcement activities at protected areas such as along evacuation routes, sites used for sheltering or the distribution of emergency supplies, food or water, or registration sites for disaster-related assistance or the reunification of families and loved ones," according to a statement from DHS.

In some instances, upon request by FEMA or local authorities, ICE and CBP may participate in search and rescue operations as well as public safety missions. They provide emergency aid regardless of an individual's immigration status. It was noted that "DHS officials do not and will not pose as individuals providing emergency-related information as part of any enforcement activities."

The department assures that it is committed to enabling everyone who seeks shelter or assistance during natural disasters to receive help without discrimination based on race, religion, gender identity or orientation, ethnicity, disability or political affiliations.

For those needing further information about filing a complaint regarding civil rights issues with DHS Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties can visit their website's Make a Civil Rights Complaint page.