At 6:11 pm this evening, your Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported "hydrant" at the residential intersection of North Edloft Avenue and East Twining Street in the neighborhood of El Sereno. First arriving units were guided to the scene by water being shot approximately 100 feet into the air from a high pressure fire hydrant. The hydrant had been sheared-off by a vehicle, whose driver had apparently lost control. The driver was treated and transported to a local hospital for observation.

Mass amounts of water then began to shower surrounding homes and fill the streets. Access to the hydrant shut-off valve was made difficult to Firefighters not only because they had to endure heavy water, but also due to the large, water-main shut-off valve being located deeper underground than what standard tools on our fire apparatus are capable of accessing. This particular hydrant shut-off valve required specialized tools available only to our partners at the Department of Water & Power (DWP).



As water continued to flow for nearly two hours, approximately 50 Firefighters quickly poured on-scene to assist, along with our specialized Urban Search & Rescue unit and our Heavy Rescue squad. The water flow initially prompted the Incident Commander (IC), Battalion Chief Kevin Pearson, to protect the residents of three homes in the area by sheltering them in place. When it became apparent this would be an extended incident, the IC, under the guidance of Assistant Chief Daryl Arbuthnott, made the decision to evacuate these structures to ensure their safety.

When the hydrant was ultimately shut-down, representatives from the Department of Building & Safety quickly moved in to assess and determined the homes had sustained minimal, structural damage. However, a retaining wall at the rear of one of the structures was severely compromised. As a result, one family was unfortunately displaced for at least that evening. The family was assisted by our friends at the local Red Cross.

We are pleased to report there were no additional injuries to any of the families impacted nor to any of our on-scene personnel.

The cause is under investigation and the dollar loss is still being tabulated.


Submitted by Matt Spence, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - 100 Foot Geyser in Residential Neighborhood Displaces Family

LOS ANGELES - An electrical issue is believed to have sparked a swift-moving building fire in the South Boyle Heights area of Los Angeles.

Ninety-two Los Angeles Firefighters were dispatched on Monday, July 11, 2011, following a 12:58 PM phone call from a passerby describing a structure fire at 649 South Anderson Street in an industrial neighborhood a mile-and-a-half southeast of the Los Angeles Civic Center.

LAFD crews arrived quickly to find smoke showing from a well secured 50' x 100' one-story warehouse-like building. Forcing entry through rolling steel doors as chainsaw wielding colleagues ventilated heat and smoke from above, firefighters had the flames under control in just 24 minutes. No injuries were reported.

Los Angeles Police Officers joined LAFD Investigators in further researching the fire and seeking the tenant, for what was declared an accidental fire of an electrical nature. A fire damage estimate was not immediately available.

Dispatched Units: E17 RA616 E202 E2 T2 RA2 E25 E4 T9 EM2 BC1 BC11 E9 E203 E3 T3 E233 T33 E210 T10 E10 E14 SQ21 DC2 EM6 BC13 RA3 UR88 BC5 AR1

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Firefighters Bring South Boyle Heights Fire Quickly Under Control

On Thursday, June 23, 2011 at 2:35 PM, 6 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 5 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 1 Battalion Chief Officer Command Team, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team and 49 Firefighters, all under the direction of Battalion Chief Manuel Lafarga, responded to a Chemical Investigation at 2250 East Alcazar Street in Lincoln Heights.

First arriving units were quick to gather as much information as was available at the USC Clinical Science Annex. It was discovered that the unidentified substance was isolated to one, single laboratory on the second floor of the two-story facility. The decision was then made by the Incident Commander to safely and quickly evacuate the entire building. However, there were 10 lab workers close enough in proximity to the spill, that warranted brief isolation from the lab. This task was carried-out by Firefighters who all made entry dressed in their appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE's). Subsequently, each of the 10 lab workers and another 14 building occupants (also on the floor at the time of the spill) received body scans with the Hazardous Material Squad's radiological detectors.

As an extra safety measure, a Decontamination Team was also put in place. Thankfully, there were no direct exposures to the spill, all detector readings were within normal limits and no occupants exhibited any signs or symptoms of illness or discomfort. Decontamination, therefore, was not required and all were eventually cleared and released at the scene.

The substance was deemed to be unharmful and of very small quantity (less than 2 ounces). After a meticulous sweep of the entire building and the processing of its occupants, the lab was sealed, the incident declared static and after three hours, was turned over to the Los Angeles County Health and Hazardous Materials Department as well as USC officials.

Adjacent occupancies, while alarmed because of the nature of the incident, were sheltered-in-place briefly, but were not affected due to the strategic management of the incident.

The incident is under investigation.

Submitted by Matt Spence, Spokesman Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Chemical Investigation at Science Annex

On Thursday, June 2, 2011 at 0:22 AM, 18 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 7 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 2 Arson Units, 1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 6 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, 1 Rehab Air Tender, 1 Emergency Air and 137 total firefighters, all under the direction of Assistant Chief Daryl Arbuthnott, responded to a Major Emergency Structure Fire at 1238 East Olympic Boulevard in the Wholesale District.


 
Firefighters arrived to find a row of one-story commercial buildings covering 8,722 square-feet with heavy fire showing from two units. Worker's outside of the non-occupied business flagged down Firefighters and assisted access, eliminating the need of forcible entry. Additional resources were quickly called and large hose streams were deployed to attain maximum water-flow on this blaze.

The contents of this fire were highly combustible as the occupancy was a party-supplies company dealing largely in pinatas and other paper decorations. Firefighters were quickly forced into a defensive attack due to intense flames compromising the integrity of the structure, resulting in a full collapse of the roof other than the arch-trusses.

Complete extinguishment of the 90 year-old sprinklered building was obtained in one hour and 26 minutes, before anyone was injured. The cause of this early morning blaze was contributed to sparks from workers repairing rolling steel doors. The dollar loss is still being tabulated.

Submitted by Erik Scott & Matt Spence, Spokesmen
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - LA Firefighters Battle Blaze in Downtown Wholesale District

On Friday, May 13, 2011 at 4:34 PM, 8 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 4 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Arson Unit, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 1 Battalion Chief Officer Command Team, a total of 52 Firefighters all under the direction of Battalion Chief Manuel Lafarga responded to a Structure Fire with Firefighter Injury at 1148 South Mirasol Street in the Hobart area of South Boyle Heights.
 




Firefighters arrived to find a 761 sqft Single Family Dwelling with heavy fire showing, exposing an approximate 500 sqft structure in the rear. Additional resources were immediately requested. Teams of Los Angles Firefighters made swift forcible entry and extended hand-lines to do battle with the well entrenched flames, as their colleagues scaled the roof of the 88 year-old wood frame home to perform vertical ventilation.

Due to the aggressive attack and well coordinated fire-fight, the blaze was fully extinguished in just 21 minutes before any civilians were injured. The residence was equipped with smoke alarm(s), however their functional status and role at the time of the fire could not be immediately determined.

A Tillerman Firefighter was injured while climbing a ladder to the roof, and the base of the ladder slipped on the concrete. The Firefighter fell approximately five to nine feet on his back and suffered a fractured right wrist, bruised ribs and injured back. He was transported to a local hospital in fair condition, where he has since been released home and is recovering.

Estimated dollar loss totaled $350,000: main house $200,000 ($140,000 structure & $60,000 contents), back house $150,000 ($125,000 structure & $25,000 contents). The cause of the fire is under active investigation.

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Los Angeles Firefighter Injured at Structure Fire

On Wednesday, April 27, 2011 at 11:02 PM, 16 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 6 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Arson Unit, 1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 3 EMS Battalion Captains, 5 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams and 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, a total of 116 Los Angeles Fire Department personnel under the direction of Assistant Chief Ralph Terrazas, responded to a Major Emergency Structure Fire at 3518 East 15th Street in South Boyle Heights.

Los Angeles Firefighters arrived quickly to discover fire through the roof of a 60' x 125' metal-clad two-story commercial building housing a metal polishing and refinishing firm.

The half-dozen workers within the business when the fire erupted, were able to escape unharmed prior to the Fire Department's arrival.

Firefighters made swift entry to find intense fire in the easternmost portion of the non-fire sprinklered building. Aided by strategic vertical ventilation performed with chainsaws by their colleagues on the roof above, LAFD crews were able to stand their ground against towering flames, eventually driving back the fire and sparing a full 75% of the business from damage.

No injuries were reported.

Fire loss to LAX Wheel Refinishing is estimated at $130,000 ($100,000 structure & $30,000 contents). The cause of this late night blaze remains under active investigation.

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - L.A. Firefighters Limit Damage to South Boyle Heights Business

At 9:00AM on Thursday April 8th, the Los Angeles Fire Department Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Team will come-to-the-rescue and help cleanup graffiti on the historic Eagle Rock. Why you ask?

Traditional removal methods have been deemed too dangerous for City workers. Therefore LAFDs elite USAR Team will remove this precarious paint from the 150 foot high famous rock as part of our training.

This graffiti cleanup comes from the urging of citizens, Council Member Jose Huizar along with the Department of Recreation and Parks, all of whom will be on hand for this undertaking.

It was hoped that recent rains would have washed away the vandalism from the south side of this well-known rock, unfortunately the down-pour just faded the paint. At a loss of anything else that could be done, efforts turned to the Fire Department for assistance. The LAFD agreed, pointing out that the removal could be used as part of our required training exercises. This creative solution helps restore a cultural landmark at no additional cost to the city.

"We cannot say enough how appreciate we are of the fire department for working with us to make this happen. They said yes the moment we asked them without hesitation."-Councilmember Huizar's Staff.

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman

Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - LAFD USAR Team Removes Hard-to-Reach Graffiti

On Thursday, December 23, 2010 at 11:48 PM, 6 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 3 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Arson Unit, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 1 EMS Battalion Captain and 2 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, a total of 46 Los Angeles Fire Department personnel under the direction of Battalion Chief Kwame Cooper, responded to a Structure Fire at 172 South Clarence Street in Boyle Heights.

Los Angeles Firefighters arrived quickly to find heavy fire showing from the front door and side window of a one-story 711 square-foot single family home densely packed and surrounded with personal possessions.

As teams of firefighters fought their way through pack-rat conditions fueling intense flames within, other LAFD personnel provided medical attention to the home's sole occupant, a man who was able to escape the inferno with only minor smoke inhalation. Fire Department Paramedics were soon also examining a neighbor man who witnessed the fire, for possible smoke exposure.

Fueled by large amounts of combustible storage, the fire took quick hold of and all-but-consumed the attic and key structural elements of the small wood-frame home, as firefighters confined the blaze to the structure of origin, extinguishing the flames in just 34 minutes.

The homeowner and neighbor declined further medical treatment or transportation, and were released at the scene. No other injuries were reported.

The American Red Cross was summoned to provide shelter and human needs assistance to the displaced homeowner.

The presence, functional status and role of smoke alarms within the home could not be immediately determined. The compact 101 year-old building was not equipped with residential fire sprinklers.

Loss from the fire, which destroyed the residence, has been estimated at $90,000 ($75,000 structure & $15,000 contents). The cause of this late night blaze is categorized as "under investigation".


Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Blaze Destroys Densely Packed Boyle Heights Home

On Friday, December 17, 2010 at 4:55 PM, 6 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 3 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 2 Arson Units, 1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 2 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, under the direction of Battalion Chief Craig Yoder responded to a Structure Fire at 4920 East Stratford Road in Eagle Rock.

Firefighters arrived within four minutes to a one-story single-family-dwelling, fully involved in flames. Due to reports of a man possibly trapped inside, firefighters forced their way into the inferno with hand-lines. Conditions inside the pack-rat filled residence rapidly worsened as signs of impending roof collapse and structural instability forced firefighters out of the structure and to attack the blaze defensively. Shortly thereafter two-thirds of the roof caved in, walls buckled and power wires from a triplex fell.

A total of 46 Firefighters knocked down the blaze in just 22 minutes. Urban Search and Rescue specialists were called to ensure structural stability of the 85 year-old home so firefighters could perform a detailed search through the rubble.

Sadly, after an extensive two hour overhaul, the remains of one victim was found beyond medical help in the rear of the small residence. The deceased is believed to be the only resident, a handicapped elderly male. However a positive identification, as well as the cause, time and manner of the death will be determined by the Coroner's Office.

In examining the fire's aftermath, there was no immediate evidence of a functional smoke alarm within the 85-year old residence, nor was it equipped with residential fire sprinklers. There were no window bars or security doors to impair the victim's escape. Monetary loss from the fire is estimated at $200,000 ($150,000 structure & $50,000 contents). The cause of the fire is under active investigation.

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - House Fire In Eagle Rock Claims Life

On Sunday, October 31, 2010 at 11:42 PM, 8 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 9 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Heavy Rescue, 1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit, 2 EMS Battalion Captains and 2 Battalion Chief Officers under the direction of Assistant Chief Craig Fry responded to a Physical Rescue Traffic Collision at 2701 Cincinnati Street in Boyle Heights.

Los Angeles Fire Department resources responded to call where a driver of an SUV crashed into a structure with possible trapped victims. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered 1 vehicle which made its way approximately 6-8 feet into single family dwelling. A physical rescue assignment was quickly requested to extricate the victims.



Firefighters utilizing an assortment of tools, while commencing triage of the injured parties, were face with the task of trying to find all the victims in a crowd of people. Rescue crews soon discovered a fatality, a 19y/o female who was apparently in one of the bedrooms at the time of impact. One two week old infant, who was believed to have also been in the same room of impact, was treated and transported in critical condition to USC Medical Center. Four other were also treated and transported, a 61y/o female, 16y/o female, 12y/o female and a 3y/o male, all suffered minor injuries.

It is with great sadness to report that the two week old infant was later pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the medical center. The driver who was taken by LAPD, was later transported to an area hospital for evaluation.

It is still unclear as to what caused the driver to smash onto the side of a home on a residential street always leaving the question, how could something like this happen. With the prime focus now being on, medical care of the injured and emotional support to the victim’s families, an active investigation of the incident will be conducted by the Los Angeles Police Department.

This is a reminder to us all ,that a night of celebration can quickly turn into a night of loss, in the blink of a eye.

(photos)

Submitted by Devin Gales, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Two Lives Lost After Vehicle Smashes into Boyle Heights Home

On Monday, October 25, 2010 at 3:22 PM, 13 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 14 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Heavy Rescue, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 2 Helicopters, 3 EMS Battalion Captains, 3 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams and 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, a total of 114 Los Angeles Fire Department personnel under the direction of Deputy Chief Mario Rueda, as well as Los Angeles Police and California Highway Patrol Officers, responded to a Multi-Patient Traffic Collision near 2332 East 1st Street in the Boyle Heights area of Los Angeles.

Los Angeles Firefighters arrived quickly to discover a multi-vehicle collision in which one vehicle, an occupied full-sized school bus, had overturned.

As additional LAFD personnel were summoned, a swift triage effort was undertaken to assist and medically assess the school bus driver and as many as 50 teenage bus occupants from nearby Roosevelt High School, none of whom were trapped or had life-threatening injury.

One person found nearby however, and later determined to be a pedestrian, had sustained fatal injury and was declared dead at the scene.

A pair of young adult males from a sedan that reportedly struck the bus, were taken into police custody while receiving pre-hospital medical care, as Firefighter/Paramedics concurrently identified 18 students from the bus in need of non-emergency ambulance transport.

The eighteen students with minor injuries, and the school bus driver - in fair condition, were taken to eight regional hospitals that had been proactively alerted by LAFD responders. A pair of Los Angeles Fire Department air ambulance helicopters placed on stand-by at Roosevelt High School, proved not to be needed.

Using a dedicated Metro transit bus, firefighters not directly involved in caring for the injured coordinated swift and orderly transportation of as many as 30 students to the Hollenbeck Community Police Station, where a reunification center was established.

In the reunification center, City of Los Angeles Crisis Response Team volunteers continued the emotional support efforts established by firefighters, as parents and guardians were calmly reunited with the students.

Despite earlier declarations of non-injury, two students at the reunification center complained of acute pain, and were taken with parental concurrence to area hospitals, bringing the total ambulance transported patient count to 23 (1 bus driver, 18 student bus riders from the incident site, 2 young males from the sedan in custody, and later 2 student bus riders from the reunification center).

No other injuries were reported.

A positive identification of deceased pedestrian, as well as the time, cause and manner of their death will be determined by the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner.

Pursuant of statewide protocol for occupied school buses involved in student injury collisions, the California Highway Patrol will be the lead agency in a detailed incident investigation.

(photos)

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Pedestrian Dies, 20 Students Hospitalized Following Boyle Heights School Bus Collision

On Friday, October 1, 2010 at 5:46 PM, 11 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 2 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Arson Unit, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 2 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, under the direction of Battalion Chief Greg Gibson responded to a Greater Alarm Structure Fire at 219 West 7th Street in the Fashion District of downtown L.A.

Firefighters responded to an Automatic Alarm at a 12-story High-Rise building and within two minutes it was modified to a Structure Fire. As Companies arrived on scene, there were reports of smoke alarms activated and water flowing from sprinklers. Firefighters rapidly made their way through the light smoke on the third floor and performed a drop-bag operation to obtain hose-lines. A small fire on an outside balcony was quickly extinguished in just 18 minutes. There was minimal content damage, but extensive de-watering was required. Additional Firefighters performed a detailed search on all floors of the 87,000 sq-foot building to ensure no one was in need of rescuing. There were no injuries nor was anyone displaced. Thanks to the diligent firefighting and salvage efforts of the 71 Los Angeles Firefighters, the estimated dollar loss was limited to only $3,000 ($1,000 structure and $2,000 contents). The cause of the fire in this 95 year-old building is under active investigation, but does not appear to be arson at this time.

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman

Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Quick Knock-Down of High-Rise Fire in Fashion District

On Monday, September 20th, 2010 at 10:43 PM, 13 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 4 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Arson Unit, 1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit, 1 Rehab Unit, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 2 EMS Battalion Captains, 4 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 5 Division Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Emergency Air Tender and Los Angeles County Fire Department Personnel under the direction of Assistant Chief David Yamahata responded to a Greater Alarm Structure Fire at 3666 East Whittier Boulevard in South Boyle Heights.



Firefighters quickly arrived to a one-story commercial building with heavy fire showing and promptly ordered additional assistance. The unoccupied building, doing business as East LA Wholesale Beverages is located at the border of the Los Angeles County Fire Department's service area, and that agency also responded.

Fire Entry Teams made forcible entry into the 100’ X 100’ main building, which was separated by a division wall with a rolling steel door from a 50’ X 50’ attached shed like portion. Firefighters made an aggressive interior attack with hand-lines and fought their way through scorching heat, thick smoke and boxes of merchandise to locate the origin of the flames. Additional firefighters laddered the conventional roof of the building and commenced strategic vertical ventilation, with fire blowing through the holes they cut.

Due to the diligent effort of just under 100 LAFD Firefighters on scene and with the assistance from 20 Los Angeles County Firefighters, the stubborn blaze was extinguished in one hour and eight minutes. No additional structures were damaged and no injuries were reported. The dollar loss is estimated at $1.7 million ($200,000 structure and $1.5 million contents). The cause of the fire is under active investigation.

(photos)

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Late Night Fire Rips Through Building In Boyle Heights

On Wednesday, September 1, 2010 at 12:33 AM, 11 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 4 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 2 EMS Battalion Captains, 3 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams and 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, a total of 81 Los Angeles Fire Department personnel under the direction of Assistant Chief Daryl Arbuthnott, responded to a Greater Alarm Structure Fire at 1427 East 6th Street in the Artists District of L.A.'s Industrial Eastside.

Los Angeles Firefighters arrived quickly to find a pair of interconnected one-story commercial buildings measuring 75' x 100', well involved with fire.


View Larger Map (you can also pan, click & zoom the pre-fire image above!)
Firefighters swiftly took to the roof to perform vertical ventilation of intense heat and smoke as their colleagues forced entry into the business, extending handlines to do battle at the seat of the fire within the non-fire sprinklered building.

The bulk of the fire was confined to the westernmost part of the conjoined structures that contained furniture manufacturing. The flames were extinguished in just 33 minutes.

No injuries were reported.

Fire loss to the manufacturing and storage facility for Peter Alexander Furniture - which included a vehicle parked within the business, was limited to $275,000 ($200,000 structure & $75,000 contents).

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.


Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Fire Sweeps Through Furniture Factory in L.A.'s Industrial Eastside

On Monday, July 26, 2010 at 6:35 AM, 20 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 10 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 8 Arson Units, 1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit, 1 Rehab Unit, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 2 LAFD Heavy Equipment Operators, 1 LAFD Emergency Air Unit, 3 EMS Battalion Captains, 5 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams and 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, a total of 153 Los Angeles Fire Department personnel, as well as responders from the Los Angeles County Fire Department and Investigators from the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF), all under the direction of LAFD Assistant Chief Daryl Arbuthnott, responded to a Major Emergency Structure Fire with Civilian Fatalities at 821 South Esperanza Street in South Boyle Heights.

Firefighters arrived swiftly to discover heavy smoke showing from a one story 100 x 100, lightweight constructed commercial building.

Entry teams used several tools in an attempt to force their way into the structure through a series of security doors. Due to the building’s lack of structural integrity, volume of fire and concerns for firefighter safety, the Incident Command Team shifted from an offensive firefighting strategy to that of a defensive firefighting strategy.


After a bulk of the flames was knocked down, entry teams as well as roof team were able to mount an aggressive attack on the blaze. The structure, doing business as a tire and muffler shop, had tires and other auto parts stored on the roof and in several locations within the occupancy. The fire, which was difficult to fight, was skillfully confined to only the building of origin.

One victim, who had reportedly, attempted to extinguish the flames on his own, suffered 1st and 2nd degree burns over 40% of his body before being rescued by firefighters and paramedics.

A second victim who had left the scene earlier returned with severe burns to his upper body. The first victim a 61 y/o male is listed in critical condition while the second victim a 33 y/o male was treated at the scene.

Both victims were apparently within the building at the time of the incident and were able to escape with their lives. The two men were transported to Los Angeles County-USC Medical Center. It is unclear as to why the men and possibly others were inside the business at that hour.

During continued operations and despite the prompt and valiant efforts of all 153 personnel at the scene, firefighters later discovered two unconscious, non-breathing adults without vital signs of life. Both were declared deceased at the scene.

The ages and genders could not be immediately determined and no other victims were found.

The stubborn fire was finally knocked down 1 hour after the initial call.

Pursuant of protocol, Investigators from the Los Angeles Fire and Police Departments were summoned for a joint investigation, later joined by members of the ATF's Los Angeles Field Division and National Response Team.

A positive identification of the deceased, as well the cause, time and manner of their deaths will be determined by the Los Angeles County Coroner's Office.

Submitted by Devin Gales, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Fire Claims Two Lives, Critically Injures Two Others

On Sunday, April 11, 2010 at 8:08 PM, 10 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 5 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 2 Arson Units, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 2 EMS Battalion Captains, 3 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, under the direction of Battalion Chief Rudy Hill responded to a Greater Alarm Structure Fire at 532 North Cummings Street in the Boyle Heights area.

Within three minutes the Los Angeles Fire Department arrived on scene to find a 50’X100’ two-story four-plex with smoke and fire showing from the first floor, then swiftly summoned additional help. Firefighters forced entry through security gates to enable hand-lines to be extended while simultaneously performing vertical ventilation to battle the well-entrenched blaze.

The flames ran through the center hallway and burned three separate units on the first floor and lapped up to the second story. 75 Firefighters extinguished the early evening, stubborn blaze in 37 minutes.

Smoke Alarms were present in the 4,896 square-foot building, but their functional status and role in alerting occupants could not be immediately determined. There were no window security bars or obvious non-fire factors to impede egress from this 83 year old building.

Unfortunately this very hot blaze injured three people. One adult male Firefighter and an adult female civilian suffered burns and were transported to local hospitals in minor condition, and an adult male civilian suffered burns to the face and respiratory tract and was taken to a hospital in critical condition. An additional 10 adults and 10 children were displaced but were housed at Fire Station 2 where Firefighters and Council Member Jose Huizar comforted the families and provided hot cocoa and ice cream to the children while they awaited relief from the American Red Cross.

Monetary loss from the fire is estimated at $195,000 ($145,000 structure & $50,000 contents). The cause is undetermined.

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Early Evening Blaze Injures Three

On Sunday, March 14, 2010 at 11:40 PM, 13 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 3 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 2 EMS Battalion Captains, 4 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams and 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, a total of 91 Los Angeles Fire Department personnel under the direction of Battalion Chief James Gaffney, responded to a Greater Alarm Structure Fire at 3525 East Emery Street in South Boyle Heights.

Firefighters arrived quickly to find fire showing through the roof vents and skylights of a 150' x 150' one-story commercial building.

Forcing entry into the secured structure with hand and power tools, firefighters made an aggressive and well-coordinated assault on the fire, extending handlines to the core of the furniture manufacturing firm, as their colleagues performed strategic vertical ventilation of the arched truss roof above.

Timely and effective teamwork by dozens of firefighters prevented flames from extending horizontally beyond the core of the building, sparing the bulk of the business from severe fire damage.

The flames were extinguished in just 26 minutes, and no injuries were reported.

Fire loss to Yesenia's Upholstery is estimated at $800,000 ($300,000 structure and $500,000 contents).

The cause of the blaze was determined to be electrical in nature.


Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Fire Chars Furniture Factory in South Boyle Heights

On Friday, January 22, 2010 at 11:19 AM, 7 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 3 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Heavy Rescue, 2 Helicopters, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 1 Battalion Chief Officer Command Team, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, 2 Swift Water Rescue Teams under the direction of Assistant Chief Tim Manning responded to a River Rescue at 385 Los Angeles River in the Industrial Eastside area.

When 9-1-1 callers reported a dog in distress within the Los Angeles River and the possibility of someone jumping into the waters to rescue it, sixty LAFD firefighters from across a broad expanse sprang quickly into action on the ground and in the air. Firefighter/Dispatchers queried callers to determine that this 3 year-old German shepherd mix was trapped in frigid fast-moving water and the LAFD wanted the rescue to take place from trained professionals rather than well intentioned individuals that can all-too-easily become victims.


 
Due to recent severe weather, local flood control channels remain swelled with storm-water, causing the Los Angeles Fire Department to remain in a "River Rescue" preparedness status. Members were strategically pre-deployed to a helipad at Piper Tech, where historically many rescues have taken place, providing a short distance to the LA River. At 1119 hours they were dispatched along with ground swift water rescuers to join the Vernon Fire Department in this recovery.

Due to the fast moving water and the steep embankment, the dog was unable to climb out. Once the canine moved from the side of channel to the center, swift water rescue teams were at a disadvantage to reach him, thus the decision was made by Commanders to deploy firefighters from a helicopter in a hoist operation.

Firefighter Joe St Georges was lowered into the rapids and quickly made his way to the dog and despite being continually bit, held on to the frightened pooch as they were lifted to safety.

The helicopter flew a short distance to a nearby bridge, where it landed to transfer the German Shepherd, now nicknamed Vernon, to the care of ground-based LAFD firefighters that offered comfort and provided medical evaluation.

Vernon is being quarantined for observation (routine after a bite) at S.E.A.A.C.A. Animal Shelter and Firefighter St Georges received a bite wound to his hand and various punctures on his arms. Joe was treated and released at USC medical center.

The LAFD wishes to remind citizens that when rainstorms impact the Los Angeles area, flood control channels, rivers, and arroyos can quickly fill with fast-moving water, creating a potentially life-threatening danger to anyone who gets caught or swept away. Please keep all animals under supervision and remember it is against the law to be inside a flood control channel in Los Angeles, regardless of the weather.

Thanks to all the firefighters involved and due to their bravery and continual training, this incident had a successful outcome.

After an abundance of requests across the nation to provide cards of thanks and donations, the following address is provided: 200 N Main Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012. LAFD Administration, Attn.: Dog Rescue.

Submitted by Spokesman Erik Scott
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - LAFD Heroically Rescues Canine from LA River

On Tuesday, December 8, 2009 at 6:23 AM, 5 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 3 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 5 Arson Units, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 1 Battalion Chief Officer Command Team, and 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, under the direction of Battalion Chief Wade White, responded to a Structure Fire at 4838 North Maywood Avenue in Eagle Rock.

While in route to a structure fire, firefighters heard the dreadful radio transmission, “Possible victim trapped” and quickly ordered additional companies. They arrived to a one-story, wood-sided single family dwelling engulfed in flames.


Neighbors frantically tried to help with garden hoses while declaring that someone was inside, thus confirming the previous radio transmission. Firefighters sprinted into action, making an attack with hose-lines while simultaneously cutting holes in the roof for ventilation. An immediate search and rescue operation commenced in this 1200 square-foot non-sprinklered home. Firefighters were disheartened to find the lifeless body of a 77 year-old male in his bathroom.

During their relentless assault on the flames, 41 firefighters extinguished the blaze in just 20 minutes and prevented it from damaging nearby residences.

No evidence of any hard wired or battery powered smoke alarms were found in the residence. There were no window security bars or other obvious non-fire factors to impede escape.

Monetary loss from the fire was $150,000 ($100,000 structure and $50,000 contents). The cause of this early morning blaze is not yet determined.

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Man Found Dead in Burning Eagle Rock Home

On Saturday, August 29th, 2009 at 5:05 PM, 16 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 5 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Arson Unit, 2 Urban Search and Rescue Units, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 2 EMS Battalion Captains, 3 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, under the direction of Assistant Chief Daryl Arbuthnott responded to a Major Structure Fire at 2016 Mateo Pl. in Industrial East Side.

Firefighters arrived on scene to find a 50 by 80 foot, single-story commercial building with heavy smoke and fire billowing from the structure. An immediate and well synchronized offensive attack was made by firefighters inside the building and on the roof.

The blaze began to compromise the roof and the Incident Commander ordered all firefighters out of the building and a progression to a defensive strategy ensued. Using profuse amounts of water via large hose lines and aerial ladder pipes from the exterior of the building, firefighters were able to prevent the spread of the fire into adjacent businesses.

A knock down was declared in only 24 minutes with the help of 113 Firefighters. There were no injuries reported. The dollar loss is $375,000 ($125,000 for property and $250,000 for contents). The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Submitted by Erik Scott
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Major Commercial Fire turned into Defensive Attack