On Sunday, January 1, 2006 at 8:27 AM (PST), ten Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, five LAFD Rescue Ambulances, one Arson Unit, one Urban Search and Rescue Unit, one Hazardous Materials Team, one EMS Battalion Captain, three Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, and one Division Chief Officer Command Team all under the direction of Assistant Chief Tony Varela responded to a Structure Fire at 11456 Autumn Glen Court in Porter Ranch.

The first Fire Companies on scene reported a two-story residential duplex with a significant amount fire in the attic. Firefighters were able to begin an initial fire attack using handlines while additional Firefighters conducted ventilation operations on the roof.

The stubborn fire, which had started in the garage area, had extended up through the walls, progressed past the second floor and impinged upon the attic. Firefighters were able to control the fire and contain the majority of the damage to one unit, the garage, and attic area in forty-nine minutes.

Firefighters, using thermal imaging cameras, were able to detect hot spots in the walls and attic area. The use of this detection technique allowed the Firefighters to concentrate their firefighting operations in the areas necessary. Firefighters were able to limit the damage to the structure by opening only those walls where fire was detected.

There were no reported injuries.

The dollar loss is estimated at $180,000 ($150,000 Structure and $30,000 Contents.) The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Submitted by Ron Myers, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department