LAFD Training at Los Angeles International Airport

Pending favorable weather, the Los Angeles Fire Department will conduct a 'live fire' training exercise early tomorrow morning at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). This special drill for Firefighters is scheduled to begin between 5 and 6 AM PST on Wednesday, February 21, 2007. There are no provisions for media or public access to the event.

Historically, smoke from this Federally mandated training has been visible more than 30 miles from the airport. We wish to emphasize that there is no cause for public alarm.

Federal Aviation Regulation 139 requires all Airport Crash-Rescue Firefighters to attend a live fire training drill at least once per year. LAFD Crash-Rescue Firefighters serving at LAX and Van Nuys Airports use Los Angeles International Airport's $3.75 million state-of-the-art training facility to hone their lifesaving skills. This training facility, located at the southwest corner of the 5.6 square mile airport grounds, was built using airport funds. It is designed not only to support the rigorous demands of the Los Angeles Fire Department, but also to meet stringent aviation and environmental regulations.

Before commencing these live fire drills, LAFD members carefully monitor climate conditions. Drills are conducted in strict adherence to standards designed to maximize safety and minimize environmental concerns. Winds must be at least 4 knots from the east or northeast, and the inversion layer must exceed 100 meters. These factors are confirmed with the LAX Control Tower before the final 'go-ahead' is given.

These periodic live fire drills at LAX generally take place between 4 and 6 AM, but may be postponed at the last minute due to abrupt changes in climate or as a result of Fire Department or aviation concerns.

We are pleased to note that all water, fuel and firefighting foam used at this LAX training facility is recycled for future use. After going through a complex series of 'scrubbers', water is tested to assure it meets strict clean water standards before being discharged to the Hyperion Treatment Plant.

Passengers and air crews should use LAX and Van Nuys Airports with confidence, knowing that highly trained members of the LAFD are always ready to protect them.

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Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department