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

Recently Los Angeles Firefighters encouraged citizens to Prepare for Springtime Flooding, just before a severe storm powered down on Los Angeles. As most know, this rainfall was so intense that the LAFD Handled the Busiest Day of the Year, Sunday March 20, 2011. Firefighters experienced an increase in various incidents such debris flow, flooding, electrical wires down, trees that fell onto cars and structures in addition to increased traffic collisions. Since that week, many are still asking what some of the more significant or unusual weather related incidents were, that firefighters responded to. Here is a condensed and basic report of just three of those incidents...


On Sunday, March 20th, 2011 at 6:00 PM, 6 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 4 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Heavy Rescue, 1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 2 Helicopters, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 3 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 2 Brush Patrols, all under the direction of Battalion Chief John Miller responded to a Debris Flow incident at 4855 North Regalo Road in Woodland Hills.

Firefighters arrived to find mud encroaching upon a retaining wall of a Single Family Dwelling. Preliminary reports stated nearly a dozen homes were evacuated displacing upwards of 30 individuals. Firefighters rapidly surveyed the area and ensured the families were taken to safety. Neighborhood Fire Station 84, located at 21050 Burbank Boulevard in Woodland Hills, quickly opened its Community Room to shelter the displaced residences. The following day, only four structures remained tagged and only seven to ten individuals remained displaced. Those homes were modified from Red Tagged to yellow, however the back yards remained Red Tagged due to the amount of mud and the potential for danger. Firefighters kept a close eye on the affected area in the days following. The department of Building and Safety along with firefighters returned throughout the week to evaluate the conditions due to additional rainfall.


On Sunday, March 20th, 2011 at 8:30 PM, 1 Company of Los Angeles Firefighters, 1 LAFD Rescue Ambulance, and 1 Swift Water Rescue Team responded to a Swift Water Rescue at 6400 North Woodley Avenue in Van Nuys.

A man contacted 9-1-1 and stated he was homeless, and trapped in Balboa Park due to rapidly raising water. When Firefighters arrived the water was deep enough for members of LAFD’s elite Swift Water Rescue Team to use an inflatable boat to reach a 51 year-old male. He was quickly recovered, treated medically and transported to a local hospital in fair condition.


On Monday, March 21st, 2011 at 10:05 AM, 2 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit, and 1 Battalion Chief Officer Command Team all responded to a Debris Flow incident at 4567 North White Oak Place in Encino Hills.

As the deluge of rain continued, an occupant of a Single Family Dwelling called 9-1-1 and stated that mud was coming down the hill and into her property. Firefighters safely relocated the owners due to mud and debris sliding down the saturated hillside and against the residence, rendering it unsafe. No nearby structures were reported damaged. Firefighters then notified the department of Building and Safety and requested a grading inspector to assist evaluating the area. Fortunately no one was injured.


Let’s see what this week will bring…

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Three Weather Related Incidents

As National Flood Safety Awareness Week comes to a close, and with storms on the way, we remind you to make sure that you and your loved ones are ready. Los Angeles Firefighters urge storm preparedness and encourage you to watch for flash floods and debris flows near recent burn areas.

Check out these links for more information...

Visit the EDIS website or listen to NOAA Radio for the latest emergency information and weather.

FEMA and the National Weather Service are providing tips and information to help you prepare for flooding dangers during the week and throughout the spring season. The resources can be accessed at the Flood Safety Awareness Week website.

Also you can learn more about what you should do before, during and after a flood from MySafe:LA or check out seasonal flood risks at FloodSmart.gov.

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Prepare for Springtime Flooding

With the resumption of seasonal rain, the Los Angeles Fire Department is encouraging local residents to take the precautions necessary to protect themselves from injury and their property from storm damage.

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. It is against the law to be inside a flood control channel in Los Angeles, regardless of the weather.

We urge you to visit the EDIS website and listen to NOAA Weather Radio or local radio and television stations for the latest weather or emergency information.

FLOOD PREVENTION AND PREPAREDNESS TIPS:

• Ensure that all drains, gutters and downspouts are functioning properly. This is especially important for flat-roofed buildings.
• Keep ground-level drains and drainage areas (ditches, swales, small channels) free of debris.
• Move valuable or easily damaged items away from low-lying areas that may be prone to flooding.
• Identify and collect important documents that you may require in case of evacuation.
• Contact your insurance agent to assure that your flood and storm coverage is adequate and in effect. Confirm the 24-hour contact, policy and claim numbers for your insurer(s). Place that information in your cell phone and a printed copy in the glove box of your car.
• Review your Family Emergency Plan and prepare an Emergency Supply Kit that includes food, water, medications, flashlight, battery-powered radio, rain gear and first aid supplies.
• Plan for the needs of pets at home and if you are evacuated.
• Check your car's wipers, lights, tire inflation and tread wear to assure safe operation, and keep your vehicle fueled in case power is cutoff to local fueling stations.
• Identify the safe routes from your home or workplace to high ground.
• Establish out-of-state family contacts so that friends and relatives can determine your location and status.
• If necessary, consult an engineer or licensed contractor to design or build permanent water and debris control systems for your property.
• Landscape slope areas with plants that are fire retardant and suitable for erosion control.
• Keep sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting, lumber, hand tools and other materials handy for addressing stormwater issues.

WHAT IF YOU NEED SANDBAGS?

In an effort to assist Los Angeles residents with extreme storm needs, the Los Angeles Fire Department and Bureau of Street Services are making ready-to-fill sandbags available at locations citywide. To find your Neighborhood Fire Station or nearest Bureau of Street Services location, call the City's 3-1-1 Ambassadors. They are pleased to direct you to the closest source of sand and sandbags.

TIPS FOR PERSONAL SAFETY DURING A FLOOD:

• Avoid the urge to sightsee. Remind all household members not to play or linger near flood control channels and storm drains.
• Do not walk through flowing water. Drowning is the number-one cause of flood deaths, mostly during flash floods. Currents can be deceptive; six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet.
• Do not drive through a flooded area. More people drown in their car than anywhere else. Do not drive around road barriers; the road or bridge may be washed out.
• If you become stranded in your car, stay with your vehicle and move to the hood or roof if water continues to rise.
• Stay away from power lines and electrical wires. A common flood killer is electrocution. Electrical currents can travel through water.
• Report downed power lines in the City of Los Angeles to the Department of Water and Power (800-DIAL-DWP) or emergency officials.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU FALL IN MOVING WATER?

• Avoid getting into this dangerous situation.
• Remain calm. Don't waste energy yelling for help after someone has spotted you.
• Get ready to be rescued.
• Try to float on your back with your legs straight and your feet pointed downstream.
• Use your legs to shove yourself away from obstructions.
• Keep your head up so that you can see where you are going.
• Watch for obstacles and debris! If a tree or other stationary object is blocking the channel, forcing water over it, try to flip over on your stomach and approach the obstacle head-on, crawling over the top of it.
• Most victims in swift water die when they get pinned against obstacles, or get trapped in submerged debris and vegetation.

WHAT IF YOU SEE SOMEONE FALL INTO MOVING WATER?

• Do not go into the water after the victim.
• Do not try to pull the victim out with your hands, rope, or similar device. Do not attach anything to yourself and toss it to a victim in the water. The force of the current will pull you in.
• If possible, throw a floatation device to the victim, such as a boogie board, styrofoam ice chest, basketball, or other unattached object.
• Immediately call 9-1-1.
• Tell the 9-1-1 operator that someone fell into the channel and is being swept downstream. Say that swift water rescue teams need to respond.
• Give accurate information about where and when you saw the victim and what the victim was wearing.
• Though members of your Los Angeles Fire Department are specially trained and equipped to respond to water rescues, not every victim survives. We therefore remind you that when it comes to swift moving water: 'Stay Away and Stay Alive!'

WHAT IF YOU WITNESS STORM DAMAGE?

City of Los Angeles residents should call 3-1-1 or (866)4-LACITY to report potholes, downed street trees, inoperative traffic signals, clogged street drains and any storm-related property damage requiring an inspection or action by City of Los Angeles officials.

WHAT IF YOU EXPERIENCE STORM DAMAGE?

If despite your best efforts, you become a victim of storm or floodwater damage, please visit LAFD.ORG for helpful recovery tips.

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Los Angeles Firefighters Urge Storm Preparedness

On Tuesday, February 1, 2011 at 3:12 AM, 5 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 1 LAFD Rescue Ambulance, 1 Battalion Chief Officer Command Team, under the direction of Battalion Chief John Potter responded to a Flooding at 16422 West Vanowen Street in Van Nuys.

Firefighters arrived to find knee-deep water rushing down both sides of Vanowen Street, entering residences and business in its path. The majority of the water flowed eastward from Havenhurst Avenue toward Odessa Avenue.

 

Firefighters rapidly canvassed the area and accessed residences to ensure no one was trapped or injured. A series of holes were strategically created by Firefighters in exterior and interior walls of buildings to relieve pressure.

LAFD personnel carefully carried pets and assisted families from apartment complexes to safety at a nearby parking lot. As many as 60 individuals were affected and over a dozen awaited assistance from American Red Cross.

Our friends at Department of Water & Power successfully shut down the water flow from a reported 20" water main around 5AM. No injuries were reported. The dollar loss is still being tabulated.

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Water Main Break Displaces Over a Dozen In Van Nuys

Though your home and contents may look beyond hope after a flood or mudslide, many of your belongings can be restored. If you do things right, your flooded home can be cleaned, dried out, rebuilt and reoccupied sooner than you think!

Play it safe. The dangers are not over when the water goes down. Your home's foundation, walls or ceilings may have weakened, the electrical system may have suffered damage - or floodwaters may have left behind things that can make you sick!

The Nine Steps of Flood Recovery:

Step 1. Take Care of Yourself First

Protect yourself from stress, fatigue and health hazards. If you need food, clothing, shelter or referral to health care and social services call 2-1-1. To determine if you are eligible for federal government assistance visit DisasterAssistance.gov. To contact specific agencies:

City of Los Angeles agencies: 3-1-1 or (213) 473-3231

County of Los Angeles agencies: (213) 974-1234

State of California agencies: (800) 807-6755

Federal Government agencies: (800) 333-4636

Local Emergency Management Agencies in the United States

Step 2. Give Your Home First Aid

If evacuated, return home only when authorities indicate it is safe to do so. Dangers do not end when floodwaters recede. Once you're certain its safe to go back in, protect your home and contents from further damage. Always wear appropriate safety gear such as boots, gloves and goggles - and don't hesitate to ask for help!

Step 3. Get Organized

Document every loss and expense. Take photos, keep receipts and contact your Insurance Agent. Some things are not worth repairing and other things may be too complicated or expensive to do by yourself. A recovery plan can take these things into account and help you make the most of your time and money.

Step 4. Dry Out Your Home

Floodwaters damage materials, leaving mud, silt and contaminants that can promote the growth of mold. You need to thoroughly dry your home to reduce these hazards and the damage they cause.

Step 5. Restore the Utilities

Your work will be much easier if you have heat, electricity, clean water, and sewage disposal. We suggest these services be inspected and safely restored only by on-site utility workers, as quickly as possible.

Step 6. Clean Up

Official documents and family treasures can often be preserved with special care. Throw away food, including canned goods contaminated by flood water. Any flooded part of your home or household item that contacted floodwater should be thoroughly washed and disinfected. When in doubt, throw it out! Don't risk injury or infection.

Step 7. Check on Financial Assistance

Volunteer agencies, businesses, insurance, and government disaster programs can help you through recovery.

Step 8. Rebuild and Floodproof

Take your time to rebuild correctly and make improvements that will protect your building from the next flood. Don't rush into settlements or contracts. Get bids and opinions only from reputable, established firms willing to provide clear proof of licensure, training and insurance. Don't hesitate to ask for multiple references and inspect previous work.

Step 9. Prepare for the Next Flood

Protect and prepare yourself for the next flood with flood insurance, a flood response plan and community flood protection programs.

We trust these Nine Steps of Flood Recovery will help you recover quickly and safely. If there is additional assistance that your firefighters can provide, please visit your Neighborhood Fire Station or call us via 3-1-1.

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - The Nine Steps of Flood Recovery

The Los Angeles Basin is periodically subject to floods that result in property damage. The potential for mudslides and debris flow is greatly increased near areas recently impacted by wildfire.

Los Angeles residents - especially those in foothill communities, are encouraged to prepare their properties in advance of coming rainstorms.

In an effort to help, the Los Angeles Fire Department is making ready-to-fill sandbags available at all Neighborhood Fire Stations.

Additionally, both sand and sandbags are available at many convenient Bureau of Street Services locations.

Properly filled and placed sandbags are best used to divert (rather than dam) water run-off, redirecting storm and debris flow away from property improvements.

While the City can provide homeowners with empty sandbags and sand to protect their property, the City does not fill, load, or place sandbags for individual homeowners.

Those needing additional sand, sandbags and supplies may wish to contact a home improvement store or building supply center in their community, many of which will deliver flood preparedness and debris control aids.

We remind you that sandbagging and flood control is a labor intensive process that can lead to injury. Please follow important safety guidelines and consider hiring a licensed contractor for any large or special needs.


2009 San Fernando Valley Foothill Community
Predicted Mud & Debris Flow Maps *

Homeowner's Guide to Erosion Control

*most recently published document

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - LAFD Provides Sandbags for Homeowners

On the afternoon of December 14th, 1963, with swift suddenness, improbable tragedy struck Los Angeles.

In less than two hours, a "river of muddy hell" from a seemingly placid reservoir would take 5 lives as automobiles, fragments of houses and chunks of concrete caught in floodwaters from the Baldwin Hills Dam collapse impacted what minutes before had been a quiet Saturday-relaxed community.


Above the rushing water, television station KTLA would earn the distinction of broadcasting the world's first live aerial coverage of a disaster in progress, as unwary residents trapped on roofs, in second floor rooms and on small insecure islands of debris, signaled desperately for help.

And help was swift to come.

Unique in the rescue effort was the work of the three Los Angeles Fire Department helicopter pilots dispatched to the scene. Their unique story and role in the LAFD's rescue of 18 residents whose fate was all-but-sealed, is best told through excerpts of the official report of Battalion Chief Lynn W. Nelson... (read more...)


Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - 47 Years Ago Today: LAFD Rescues 18 From 'River of Muddy Hell'

On Saturday, September 5, 2009 at 10:38 PM, 22 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 6 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 2 Urban Search and Rescue Units, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 3 EMS Battalion Captains, 5 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, under the direction of Assistant Chief Mark Stormes responded to a Flooding at 12930 Ventura Boulevard in Studio City.



Firefighters arrived to find thousands of gallons of water rushing east on Ventura Boulevard between Coldwater Canyon Avenue and Whitsett Avenue. Firefighters sprang into action in an attempt to quickly divert the deluge around local businesses residences into the Los Angeles storm drain system, but do to the extraordinary volume of water, it pooled three to four feet in areas.

Over 150 Firefighters worked with profound diligence for many hours, using Dozers sand bags to protect life and property. Though damages include local homes and businesses being flooded, one apartment carport collapse and one victim requiring rescuing from a vehicle, no injuries were reported. An evacuation shelter was implemented at Miliken Middle School, 5041 Sunnyslope Avenue and the American Red Cross was notified.

The source of the water surge was a 95 year old, 62 inch steel pipe that ruptured underneath Coldwater Canyon Avenue, one-half block south of Ventura Boulevard, which served as a large artery feeding water to the Northern Metro Los Angeles Area. The Department of Water and Power fully secured the deluge before dawn, although Ventura Boulevard between Whitsett & Fulton is expected to be shut down until noon and Coldwater Canyon Avenue, south of Ventura Boulevard is not anticipated to open for two-three days.

(LADWP News Release) (photos) (video)

Submitted by Erik Scott
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Water Main Break in Studio City Creates Massive Flooding