Starting tonight, July 15, 2011 through July 18, 2011, the North and Southbound I-405 Freeway and the Mulholland Drive overpass in both directions, will be closed for up to 53 continuous hours. This, due to the demolition of the Mulholland Bridge overpass. The closure may cause widespread and heavy traffic congestion through the Sepulveda Pass and outlying neighborhoods. Consequently, these conditions may impact the response of emergency vehicles into those areas and could have the potential to cause delays in providing medical assistance to residents and passersby.

Our continuous efforts to maintain high standards of service and lower response times, challenge us to be both innovative and consistent. To that end, the LAFD has developed a unique response team for these locations, that will make its debut this weekend. Motorcycle Response Teams ("Motor Teams") will be deployed at two different locations (Fire Stations 99 & 109) to enhance our service to these affected areas. 

Riding Kawasaki  KLR 650 motorcycles (kindly on-loan for the weekend from our friends at Kawasaki Motor Corp.), our Firefighter/EMTs will have the ability to more easily move through traffic enroute to an emergency incident. A two-member team (one team = two motorcycles, each with one Firefighter/EMT) will be strategically placed on both the East and West sides of the I-405 freeway. These teams will also patrol their assigned areas, providing up-to-the-minute intelligence on access and egress issues, as well as continuous monitoring of alternate response routes.

Each Motor Team will be equipped with a cache of Basic Life Support (BLS) equipment, to include an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED), oxygen, other essential medical equipment and supplies to handle most medical incidents, until additional assistance arrives. As these motorcycles will be patrolling a largely "brush area," they will also be equipped with "saddle bags" to allow for the stowing of a fire shelter and some brush firefighting personal protective equipment. Each "rider" will also have a GPS unit attached to the motorcycle, a radio and Departmental maps.

Upon an emergency or medical incident, the Motor Team will take appropriate action in managing the incident and rendering basic medical care, as necessary. The Teams offer our response, safe and quick maneuverability, flexibility and the opportunity to render continuous care until a patient is transferred to another LAFD resource for transport. These motorcycles are not equipped with lights or sirens and therefore, will respond with caution. The Motor Teams will be deployed during daylight hours only, from 6:00am - 9:00pm on both Saturday, July 16 and Sunday, July 17.

It should be noted, this is a "pilot program" only and may or may not be continued, based largely on the success of the program over this weekend. Future use of the "Motor Teams" may include deployment at large scale incidents up to and including earthquakes, brush fires and in times of high hazard, extreme weather conditions.

As is always the case, we welcome your feedback.

Submitted by Matt Spence, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - LAFD to Debut Motorcycle Response Teams as Pilot Program During I-405 Closure

On Saturday, June 18, 2011 at 2:53 PM, 8 Fire Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 3 Helicopters, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 2 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, all under the direction of Division Chief Michael Little, responded to a Brush Fire in the Cahuenga Pass Area near the 101 freeway.

A small column of smoke ascending from the hillside area alerted passing motorists to a growing grass fire. Firefighters encountered approximately one quarter acre of grass burning uphill with little wind, approximately one half mile south of Barham Boulevard and Cahuenga Boulevard. As additional Firefighters arrived they were deployed to attack the hot flanks of the fire in an attempt to control the perimeter of fire and provide protection for any near by structures.

Over 32 Firefighters were strategically deployed for a quick aggressive attack on the sides of the fire and were able to gain control and extinguish the flames in 23 minutes. Due to favorable weather conditions and an aggressive, well coordinated attack on the fire, no structures were damaged. There were no injuries reported. The cause of the fire was unintentional and undetermined.

Submitted by Diana Igawa & Erik Scott, Spokespersons
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Grass Fire Near Cahuenga Pass

Image Courtesy LACSS

With the dry heat of Summer soon upon us, many Los Angeles residents are turning to nature for ways to stay cool, limit water use, prevent fire danger and add beauty to their lives.

It will not surprise you then, that Los Angeles Firefighters are among speakers at a special event addressing these issues and more. We hope you'll join us Saturday and Sunday, June 11-12, 2011 for the:

Los Angeles Cactus and Succulent Society
11th Annual Drought Tolerant Plant Festival
City of Los Angeles - Sepulveda Garden Center
16633 Magnolia Boulevard
Encino, CA 91406

The show runs Saturday from 9:00AM - 5:00PM, with presentations starting at 10:00AM; and continues Sunday from 9:00AM - 4:00PM, with kids events starting at 10:30AM.

On Saturday at 1:00PM, LAFD Assistant Chief Mark Stormes will engage attendees with an informative discussion of "Vegetation Management in the Los Angeles City Brush Zone".

For additional information about this event, please visit:

LACSS-SHOW.COM

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Encino Cactus Festival To Highlight Fire Safe Vegetation

The citizens of Los Angeles, and those who protect them are no strangers to wildfire. Wildland blazes within our 471 square-mile jurisdiction are certainly well known, or dare we say unforgettable.

Historical and Hurtful...

Along with such monumental blazes as Bel-Air that took homes, or the week-long Fire of '38 that scorched vast expanses of land, conflagrations in our City have also taken lives, such as the La Tuna Canyon wildfire that killed our Brother James Catlow, and the horrific Griffith Park Brush Fire during the depression, which is believed to have killed more firefighters than any wildfire in our nation's history.

And so it is with a penchant for our City's past and devotion to our fallen colleagues, that members of the Los Angeles Fire Department set out in earnest this time of year to inform and educate the public about the danger of wildfire. It is also a time for us to enforce the City's long-standing Brush Clearance Regulations...

Owners Self Inspection:

We ask property owners in the City of Los Angeles to compare their native brush and landscape vegetation with information at the LAFD Brush Clearance Unit website:


lafd.org/brush
Property owners who are unable to do this themselves are encouraged to hire a professional who can both understand the information and apply it to their property.

Property must be cleaned as required prior to May 1st so that it can pass the 1st Fire Department Inspection, thus avoiding a time consuming 2nd Inspection, which leads to a costly 3rd Inspection.

We wish to emphasize that there is no need to call for an inspection, as an LAFD computer system keeps track of all properties. The appropriate Inspector is automatically notified when your property is need of an Inspection.

1st Inspection:

The first inspection is done by the LAFD Brush Task Force, beginning the first week in May and continuing for approximately 4 weeks until the more than 138,000 parcels in the brush zone have been inspected. Parcels found to be non-compliant are issued a Notice of Violation. The homeowner or person responsible has 15 days to comply with the Notice of Violation.

2nd Inspection:

Those issued a Notice of Violation on the 1st inspection will be inspected a 2nd time after the 15 day period to comply has passed.

If the property is then found to be in compliance, the owner will receive notification from the LAFD Brush Unit. If the property is not fully in compliance the owner will be notified via mail and the property will be assigned to the Area Inspector. The Area Inspector will then take pictures of the non-compliant parcel and create a package that will be presented to City brush clearance contractors for bid.

We wish to again emphasize there is no need to call the Brush Unit when your are ready for this inspection. It will happen automatically, and you will be mailed the findings.

3rd Inspection:

When a third inspection is required there is an automatic fee assessed to the property owner for the amount of $312. The fee is applied even if the property is found to be compliant as a result of this inspection. The fee is for an Inspector making a trip to the property for a third time.

The property should have been in compliance by the 1st inspection and no later than the 2nd inspection!

If your property fails a 3rd Inspection...

Property not in compliance with LAFD Brush Clearance Requirements following the 3rd inspection will be cleared by Fire Department order. The property owner will then be charged for the cost of clearance, PLUS the $312 3rd Inspection Fee, PLUS a $997 Administrative Fee.

Failure to clear your property in accordance with regulations in a timely fashion is not only expensive, but endangers the lives and homes of your neighbors and the firefighters who protect them.

To learn more, please visit:


lafd.org/brush


Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - LAFD Explains Brush Clearance Process in Los Angeles

On Thursday, May 12, 2011 at 1:06 PM, 10 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 3 Helicopters, 2 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Water Tender, and additional agencies including: LA County Fire Department, Angeles National Forest, Department of Transportation & Department of Water & Powera total of 60 LAFD Firefighters all under the direction of Battalion Chief John Duca responded to a Greater Alarm Brush Fire at 10718 Stallion Ranch Road in the Shadow Hills area of Sun Valley.

Firefighters arrived to find one-half acre of brush burning up hill and quickly requested additional assistance. Ground crews rapidly began to make their way up steep terrain on both sides of the fire to surround and attack the flames. Three water dropping helicopters provided precise water drops, helping Firefighters on the ground in warm and breezy conditions. As the afternoon battle progressed the fire consumed an additional two acres.

This area nestled between Hansen Dam Recreation Center and Sunland Boulevard consists of moderate brush, hilly terrain, and is surrounded by large ranch style homes. Due to the decisive measures implemented, the afternoon blaze was swiftly confined to just under three acres.

A knockdown was declared in 53 minutes before any homes were damaged and without any one being injured. The cause of the fire was accidental reported to have been started by a welding operation at a perimeter fence.

Submitted by Cecil Manresa & Erik Scott, Spokesmen

Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Firefighters Confine Brush Fire Near Sun Valley to Just 3 Acres

On Monday, May 2nd, 2011 at 2:02 PM, 9 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 4 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 2 Helicopters, 2 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Water Tender, 1 Rehab Air Tender, 1 Glendale Fire Engine & 2 LA County FD Camp Crews, a total of 69 Firefighters all under the direction of Battalion Chief John Drake responded to a Brush Fire at 11111 North Tujunga Canyon Boulevard in Tujunga.

With warming temperatures, drying brush, and recent winds, Firefighters readied themselves for a Brush Fire. They arrived to find a half acre of brush burning slowly but steadily uphill towards a half-dozen homes near Airlie Drive. Additional fire personnel were rapidly requested.


The Fire was predominately driven by topography and a light six-mph wind from the South. The swift arrival of precise water-dropping aircraft, along with Firefighters who labored on the ground by extending hose lays up steep terrain, were able to anchor and halt the four-foot flames just before 3PM.

The blaze was fully extinguished in just under a hour and confined to one acre, before it could destroy nearby homes. Resident's compliance with strict brush clearance regulations contributed to no homes being damaged.


One LA County Camp Crew Firefighter suffered a non-life-threatening injury to his right knee from a rock falling downhill. The cause of the fire remains under an active investigation.

Want to learn more about the Brush Clearance process, click HERE.

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Firefighters Quickly Halt Brush Fire in Tujunga

In the annals of the Los Angeles Fire Department, there is no fire so uniformly referred to as "wicked" as the 1955 La Tuna Canyon blaze - actually a series of widswept fires spanning five days in the Verdugo Mountains of the northeast San Fernando Valley.

"As nearly as it can be determined, the La Tuna Canyon holocaust had a very innocent and unspectacular birth. Two eight year old boys, in their own back yard in the 9600 block of La Tuna Canyon, and, without any malicious plans for the future, were preparing a noonday feast. A strong easterly wind..."

In the days that followed, one Los Angeles Fireman would die, and at least a hundred more would be injured as the firestorm consumed 4500 acres, 2 homes, a pair of guest houses, several out-buildings, automobiles and trailers.



In chronicling action during the most intense firefight, LAFD officials noted...

"As the main body of the fire swept over the position, all water was directed to protect the men and the equipment from the effects of the intense heat. Men without hose lines laid in the mud and were kept wet from nearby rigs. Some men stacked up on the ground like hot cakes with the top man keeping the pile wet with a hose line."


"It was during this momentary eternity that Autofireman James Catlow brought everlasting credit to himself as well as everyone in the fire service. Hose Wagon 39 was in a narrow spot in the road, as the fire hit there too fast to actually get set. He was able to get two lines into action, and by working one, he performed superhumanly in an effort to protect his equipment for future use, and to keep the road open for men who were ahead of him. His injuries were not accidentally incurred, as he could have retreated merely 10 yards to relative safety. His act of heroism required unbelievable determination and demonstrates to all to see and realize that a devoted fireman will do his full duty regardless of personal cost."

Assistant Fire Chief Leonard Eggleston would later describe Catlow's stand as "the most outstanding example sheer courage" he had ever seen.

Suffering burns over more than 75% of his body, James Catlow fought bravely to survive, succumbing to his painful injuries six days later on November 12, 1955.

A veteran of World War II submarine service, and an active supporter of charitable causes, Catlow drew end-of-life solace in knowing that the Widows, Orphans and Disabled Firemen's Fund would take take full and proper care of his wife Frances.

James Catlow was posthumously awarded the LAFD Medal of Valor.

To learn more about historical emergency incidents in the City of Los Angeles, including the La Tuna Canyon Fire of 1955, we encourage you to visit the LAFD Museum in Hollywood, or view the on-line LAFD Historical Archive at:

www.lafire.com


Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - The 1955 La Tuna Canyon Fire: None More Wicked

On Monday, September 13, 2010 at 1:50 PM, 15 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 3 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 3 Helicopters, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 2 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, 2 Brush Patrols, 1 Rehab Tender, 2 Fixed-wing Super Scoopers, 1 Ericksons Aircrane, & Los Angeles County Fire Department Personnel under the direction of Assistant Chief Patrick Butler responded to a Brush Fire at 19161 West Sesnon Boulevard in Porter Ranch.

Los Angeles Firefighters arrived in force to find half an acre of light brush burning just north of Sesnon Boulevard and Tampa Avenue. With haste, additional help was immediately requested and a Unified Command was rapidly established between Los Angeles Fire Department and Los Angeles County Fire Department.

Firefighters swiftly anchored the flames that were spreading uphill and northward. Fortunately, the fire was moving away from local residences, being driven by the topography and a light five mph wind. The swift arrival of precise water-dropping aircraft, along with hard working Firefighters who labored on the ground by extending progressive hose lays up steep terrain, halted the flames by 2:40 PM, before the blaze could burn over the next ridge and out of control. It took over 200 Firefighters just one hour and two minutes to bring the flames under full containment, but not before the fire had charred a total of 37 acres of grass and brush. No structures were damaged during the incident and no formal evacuation went into affect. Unfortunately three LACoFD Firefighters were injured, one suffered chest pains and two others sustained bee stings; all three were taken to a local hospital where they were treated and released. The cause of the fire remains under an active investigation.

Submitted by - Erik Scott, Spokesman, Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Brush Fire Halted Before Burning Out Of Control

Pursuant of a formal Mutual Aid Request, the Los Angeles Fire Department has assigned one Strike Team of firefighters to assist the Kern County Fire Department and allied agencies in their battle against a brush fire near Lebec, California (northeast of Frazier Park), approximately 40 miles northwest of our City.

View larger map of Post Fire (you can also pan, click & zoom the map above!)
These twenty-two personnel from the Los Angeles Fire Department have been dispatched to the Post Fire in accordance with California's Fire & Rescue Emergency Mutual Aid System. Administered by the California Emergency Management Agency (Cal EMA), the system is designed to ensure resources to local jurisdictions when their own resources are committed or insufficient for a specific emergency incident.

The City of Los Angeles remains protected by the use of additional staff and reserve apparatus to cover foreseeable local needs.

The men and women of the LAFD ask motorists to remain watchful for these and other convoys of emergency apparatus, and to be mindful of the space necessary for them to safely maneuver on local roads and highways.

Pursuant of protocol, official public and media information regarding this wildfire, including the actions of assigned LAFD personnel, will be provided by the Kern County Fire Department, which maintains daily jurisdictional authority of the area where the fire is burning. Additional details may be posted for public view on the Inciweb system.

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - LAFD Responds to 'Post Fire' near Lebec

Pursuant of a formal Mutual Aid Request, the Los Angeles Fire Department has assigned one helicopter and helitack team to assist U.S. Forest Service Personnel from the Angeles National Forest and allied agencies in their battle against a brush fire southwest of Acton, California, approximately 15 miles northeast of our City.

Click here for map of the Briggs Fire  and nearby Crown Fire

These 6 personnel from the Los Angeles Fire Department have been dispatched to the Briggs Fire in accordance with California's Fire & Rescue Emergency Mutual Aid System. Administered by the California Emergency Management Agency (Cal EMA), the system is designed to ensure resources to local jurisdictions when their resources are committed or insufficient for a specific emergency incident.

The City of Los Angeles remains protected by the use of additional staff and reserve apparatus to cover foreseeable local needs.

The men and women of the LAFD ask motorists to remain watchful for these and other convoys of emergency apparatus, and to be mindful of the space necessary for them to safely maneuver on local roads and highways.

Pursuant of protocol, official public and media information regarding this wildfire, including the actions of assigned LAFD personnel, will be provided by U.S. Forest Service Personnel from the Angeles National Forest, which maintains daily jurisdictional authority of the area where the fire is burning.

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - LAFD Responds to 'Briggs Fire' near Acton

Pursuant of a formal Mutual Aid Request, the Los Angeles Fire Department has assigned two Strike Teams of firefighters to assist the Los Angeles County Fire Department and allied agencies in their battle against a brush fire southeast of Leona Valley, California, approximately 20 miles northeast of our City.


View View Larger Map of the Crown Fire (You can also pan, click & zoom the map above!)
These 44 personnel from the Los Angeles Fire Department have been dispatched to the Crown Fire in accordance with California's Fire & Rescue Emergency Mutual Aid System. Administered by the California Emergency Management Agency (Cal EMA), the system is designed to ensure resources to local jurisdictions when their resources are committed or insufficient for a specific emergency incident.

The City of Los Angeles remains protected by the use of additional staff and reserve apparatus to cover foreseeable local needs.

The men and women of the LAFD ask motorists to remain watchful for these and other convoys of emergency apparatus, and to be mindful of the space necessary for them to safely maneuver on local roads and highways.

Pursuant of protocol, official public and media information regarding this wildfire, including the actions of assigned LAFD personnel, will be provided by the Los Angeles County Fire Department, which maintains daily jurisdictional authority of the area where the fire is burning.

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - LAFD Responds to 'Crown Fire' near Leona Valley

On Thursday, July 8th, 2010 at 3:16 PM, 20 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 2 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 3 Helicopters, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 2 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, under the direction of Assistant Chief Patrick Butler, along with Ventura County Fire Department all assisted the Los Angeles County Fire Department (Incident Commander) and responded to a Major Emergency Brush Fire just north of the West-Bound 118 Freeway crossing Topanga Canyon Boulevard in Chatsworth.

Firefighters arrived to find five acres of light to medium brush burning uphill. With the assistance of California Highway Patrol Officers cordoning off #2, #3 & #4 lanes of the freeway, firefighters swiftly anchored the flames as fire spread northward toward homes along Poema Place and Kanaina Court.

A well coordinated air and ground assault from the Los Angeles Fire Department, Los Angeles County Fire Department and Ventura County Fire Department kept the fire from burning out of control, but not before the fire had charred over 10 acres of grass and brush.

The swift arrival of water-dropping helicopters, combined with nearby resident's compliance with strict brush clearance regulations, prevented any homes from being damaged.

Pursuant of protocol and due to the location of the fire, official public and media information regarding this wildfire, including the actions of the assigned 100 LAFD firefighters, will be provided by the Los Angeles County Fire Department, which maintains daily jurisdictional authority of the area where the fire took place.

(photos)

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Brush Fire Scorches 10 Acres Near Chatsworth

On Monday, June 28, 2010 at 2:49 PM, 18 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 1 LAFD Rescue Ambulance, 1 Arson Unit, 3 Helicopters, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 1 LAFD Water Tender, 1 LAFD Handcrew, 3 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams and 2 Division Chief Officer Command Teams, a total of 110 Los Angeles Fire Department personnel under the direction of Assistant Chief Michael Little, responded to a Brush Fire adjacent to the northbound lanes of the San Diego (405) Freeway north of Skirball Center Drive in the Sepulveda Pass near Sherman Oaks.

Los Angeles Firefighters arrived quickly by ground and air to discover a half-acre of volatile vegetation burning east of the freeway.

With the assistance of California Highway Patrol Officers cordoning off a lane of the busy interstate, firefighters swiftly anchored the flames as fire spread uphill and eastward toward homes.

A well coordinated air and ground assault brought the terrain driven fire under control in just 53 minutes, but not before the fire had charred nearly two acres of grass and brush.

The swift arrival of LAFD water-dropping helicopters, combined with nearby resident's compliance with strict City of Los Angeles brush clearance regulations, prevented any homes from being damaged.

There were no injuries.

The fire was determined to be criminal in nature. Thanks to a cooperative effort by Investigators from the Los Angeles Fire Department, the Los Angeles Police Department and California Highway Patrol, a suspect was identifed and arrested for Arson of Wildland.

The suspect, a 51 year-old male transient, was taken into custody and booked for the felony charge(s) by Investigators from the Los Angeles Fire Department's Arson/Counter-Terrorism Section. Bail was set at $75,000.

(photos)

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Arson Suspect Arrested Following Sepulveda Pass Brush Fire

On Sunday, November 22, 2009 at 5:11 AM, 8 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 2 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Heavy Rescue, 1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit, 3 Helicopters, 1 EMS Battalion Captain and 2 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, a total of 61 Los Angeles Fire Department personnel under the direction of Battalion Chief Wade White, responded to a Multi-Fatality Traffic Collision with Fire on the westbound Foothill (210) Freeway east of Sunland Boulevard in Sunland.

Responding swiftly to a traffic collision with subsequent reports of fire extending to nearby brush, Los Angeles Firefighters arrived quickly to find a two vehicle collision with one vehicle fully engulfed in flames.



According to witnesses, a full-size sport utility vehicle towing a cargo trailer collided with a big rig tractor-trailer loaded with lettuce, the smaller vehicle soon thereafter erupting in flames.

An adult male passerby reportedly assisted an 11 year-old male and 9 year-old female from the damaged SUV with minor injuries, before it was consumed by fire. A man, woman and teen male occupants however, remained within the burning vehicle. Sadly beyond the assistance of witnesses or responders, the trio were declared deceased at the scene.

The two surviving children sustained non-life threatening injuries, and were taken by LAFD Ambulance to Childrens Hospital of Los Angeles in fair condition.

The adult male driver of the big rig, later complaining of chest discomfort, was taken by LAFD Paramedics to Providence Holy Cross Medical Center in Mission Hills, also in fair condition.

No other injuries were reported.

With the vehicle fire extinguished and medical treatment underway, firefighters focused their efforts on the burning vegetation, skilfully confining the fire to less than one-quarter acre of grass and brush. The flames were fully extinguished in just 29 minutes.

Firefighters remained at the scene for more than three hours supporting the California Highway Patrol's collision investigation, as well as the Coroner's discreet and dignified removal of the deceased.

The identification and formal relationship of those who died, as well as the precise cause, time and manner of their deaths will be determined by the Coroner's office. The cause of the collision remains within the purview of the California Highway Patrol.

(video) (video)

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Three Perish, Three Injured in Fiery Foothill Freeway Collision

On Sunday, October 11, 2009 at 4:16 PM, 14 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 3 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 3 Helicopters, 4 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, 1 Rehab Air Tender, 1 Park Ranger Water Tender and 1 Helicopter along with 2 Hand Crews from Los Angeles County Fire Department under the direction of Battalion Chief Brian Cummings responded to a Major Emergency Brush Fire at 1202 West Anaheim Street in Harbor City.

Light Force 85 arrived and found two acres of light to medium brush burning in Ken Malloy Harbor Regional Park, just North of Anaheim Street and West of Vermont Avenue. Wind at approximately eight mph pushed the flames Eastward along the South side of Los Angeles Harbor College, toward the 110 freeway.

Firefighters quickly deployed hand lines trying to anchor the fire along the West flank and work their way North. In addition to the challenge of hilly and at-times unstable terrain, firefighters also had to overcome difficult water access. Water Shuttle Operations were established by strategically placing Fire Engines along Anaheim Street, moving water from the fire hydrants to the firefighters on the hills.

Meanwhile a Heli-Spot was established at The Navy Fuel Depot for water-dropping helicopters to battle the blaze from the air and provide aerial reconnaissance. Heavy smoke and flames continued to travel toward the 110 Freeway thus the Southbound lanes were closed as a precautionary.

Due to the aggressive attack from 92 firefighters, a knockdown was obtained in one hour and 49 minutes at 6:05 PM. Firefighters also received a little help from Mother Nature who kept the Relative Humidity around 60, assisting in holding the blaze to just 20 acres. Hand lines were stretched around the entire perimeter of the burned area and firefighters remained on scene over night to ensure any hot spots would not pose a threat. No structures were damaged and no injuries were reported. The cause is still under investigation.

Submitted by Erik Scott
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Major Emergency Brush Fire Scorches 20 Acres

Pursuant of a formal Mutual Aid Request, the Los Angeles Fire Department has assigned one Strike Team of firefighters and one contract Helitanker to assist the Ventura County Fire Department and allied agencies in their battle against a brush fire near Fillmore, California, 20 miles northwest of our City.


View Larger Map of Area (You can also pan, click & zoom the map above!)
These 24 personnel from the Los Angeles Fire Department have been dispatched to the Guiberson Fire in accordance with California's Fire & Rescue Emergency Mutual Aid System. Administered by the California Emergency Management Agency, the system is designed to ensure additional resources to local jurisdictions whenever their resources are committed or insufficient for a specific emergency incident.

The City of Los Angeles remains protected by the use of additional staff and reserve apparatus to cover foreseeable local needs.

The men and women of the LAFD ask motorists to remain watchful for these and other convoys of emergency apparatus, and to be mindful of the space necessary for them to safely maneuver on local roads and highways.

Pursuant of protocol, official public and media information regarding this wildfire, including the actions of assigned LAFD personnel, will be provided by the Ventura County Fire Department, which maintains daily jurisdictional authority of the area where the fire is burning.

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - LAFD Responds To 'Guiberson' Wildfire Near Fillmore

As we enter the peak of wildfire season in Southern California, the increasing danger of vegetation fire is apparent.

Both Regional and Local...

To assist you in preparing for this cyclical nemesis, the Los Angeles Fire Department is pleased to share regional Fire Weather reports issued twice daily by the National Weather Service:

bit.ly/FireWx

We remind you that the regional reports mentioned above are completely separate from any local declaration that may enact special Red Flag Parking Restrictions in the City of Los Angeles.

How Danger is Determined...

To remain vigilant, Los Angeles Firefighters continuously analyze the relationship between factors of the "Fire Environment Triangle".

The balance or imbalance of:

• Weather
• Terrain
• Fuels

...will dictate the fire hazard for a geographic region. Within such regions, local agencies - such as the Los Angeles Fire Department, may independently assess wildfire danger and enact local programs and restrictions.

You Can Help...

While terrain is readily assessed, and many fuels are properly managed by our annual Brush Clearance Program, the men and women of the LAFD ask you to remain cognizant of fire weather and Red Flag Parking Restrictions.

Your personal awareness of overall wildfire danger, combined with preventive actions and wildfire preparedness are key to our collective survival of brush fires.


Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Fire Weather Forecast For Los Angeles

Residents in the immediate path of a brush fire should follow the orders of uniformed public safety officials.

Location specific evacuation orders are usually provided door-to-door or via loudspeaker by Law Enforcement personnel.

Residents in high danger areas should remain vigilant for such direct, personal and focused contact. We always recommend that residents of high-risk locations be prepared to evacuate on short notice.

Those who may become endangered but are not in the immediate path of advancing flames, are encouraged to stay tuned to local media, especially news radio.

In the greater Los Angeles area, *live* radio interviews with fire officials is routinely broadcast on:

AM 1070 - KNX (listen now)

We encourage Los Angeles residents to find and "save" news radio stations on their battery-powered portable and vehicle radios.

In a Wildfire, Knowledge Is Power!

Tell A Friend!

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Listen To News Radio During Local Wildfires

On Tuesday, August 18, 2009 at 11:29 AM, 33 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 6 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 3 Arson Units, 1 Rehab Unit, 4 LAFD Helicopters, 2 EMS Battalion Captains, 4 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams and 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, a total of 202 Los Angeles Fire Department personnel, joined by 4 Hand Crews, a Crew Supervisor and Helicopter from the Los Angeles County Fire Department as well as five Engine Companies, 1 Hand Crew, 2 Patrols, a Water Tender, Helicopter and Supervisor from the U.S. Forest Service, each under the Command of Los Angeles Fire Department Assistant Chief Jeffrey S. Mottram, responded to a Major Emergency Brush Fire in Oliver Canyon, a Wildland Fire Mutual Threat Zone near Foothill Boulevard and Conover Place in the Los Angeles community of Sunland.

Firefighters from the three agencies converged quickly to find nearly three acres of volatile grass and brush burning in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains during a period of seasonally intense heat but little wind.

As water-dropping helicopters commenced a synchronized aerial assault at the head of the fire, ground based firefighters anchored the flames, working the flanks of the fire along the steep and at-times unstable terrain north of the Tujunga Wash.

Keeping the flames more than 100 yards from a handful of nearby homes, firefighters held the blaze to less than twenty acres of wilderness, extinguishing the flames in just 1 hour and 46 minutes.

During emergency fireground operations in rugged terrain, a total of five firefighters sustained non-life threatening injuries. The injured included two Los Angeles Firefighters, one suffering a severe ankle sprain, the other fracturing a bone in his lower leg. Also injured were three Hand Crew members supervised by the Los Angeles County Fire Department, including one who suffered multiple bee stings, and two others who fell ill due to heat exhaustion.

All five were taken to area hospitals by LAFD Rescue Ambulance, where they were treated and released to remain off-duty.

No other injuries were reported.

The cause of this blaze remains under active investigation.


Submitted by Erik Scott & Brian Humphrey, Spokesmen
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Los Angeles Wildfire Sends 5 Firefighters To Hospital

On Tuesday, August 4, 2009 at 4:10 PM, 39 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 2 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Arson Unit, 5 LAFD Helicopters,1 LA County Helicopter, 1 Dozer Team, 8 Brush Patrols, 2 La County Camp Crews,1 Rehab Tender,1 EMS Battalion Captain, 4 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, Deputy Chief Mario Rueda, Along with the assistance of LA County Fire , Burbank Fire, Pasadena Fire, Glendale Fire, and other allied agencies, under the direction of Battalion Chief Chris Logan,responded to a Major Emergency Brush Firejust above the West Bound 134 Fwy and Harvey Dr. in Eagle Rock.

In response to several spot fires, Firefighters arrived to find approximately 4 acres of light to medium brush burning uphill above the 134 Fwy. Do to the quantity of spot fires, dry brush and the wind fanning the flames in the south east direction, the fire steadily grew.

In an attempt to rapidly extinguish these flames, Firefighters utilized a joint effort with allied agencies to battle the blaze. Immediately Companies were strategically placed to commence controlling the perimeter of the main fire.
With the thought of protecting life and property, Incident Commanders ensured the appropriate resources were used and a well coordinated attack was implemented. Over 325 Firefighters made an aggressive ground and air assault, before full control and containment of the blaze was declared.

Over 60 acres were consumed by this fire with a potential threat to homes, however Fire Crews were able to stop the flames before reaching any structures. There were no reports of injuries to Civilians or Firefighters. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.


Submitted by Devin Gales, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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