GovernmentExecutive.com

In response to the wildfires raging in Southern California, the Office of Personnel Management has alerted agency heads to personnel flexibilities that can be used in times of emergency, and encouraged federal employees to make donations to charitable organizations assisting in response efforts.

Now the agency is launching a toll-free hotline for employees and federal retirees in affected areas (which are defined as the following counties: Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Santa Barbara, and Ventura). Employees and annuitants in those areas can call with questions about benefits, health insurance, pay and leave issues, teleworking, and disaster assistance.

The number is 1-800-307-8298.

OPM also is sending a representative to help the Greater Los Angeles Federal Executive Board provide information to federal employees and retirees.