LOS ANGELES - On August 30, 2012 the Los Angeles Fire Department proudly received the prestigious Pro Patria Award from the California Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (CAESGR).

Los Angeles City Councilmembers Eric Garcetti (L) and Dennis Zine (R)
join Los Angeles Fire Chief Brian Cummings at the Pro Patria Award Luncheon

The award luncheon was held at the former Naval and Marine Corps Reserve Center that now serves as the Fire Department's Frank Hotchkin Memorial Training Center.

The Pro Patria Award is presented annually by each Employer Support of the Guard & Reserve Committee to the one employer in their state or territory who has provided the most exceptional support of our national defense through leadership practices and personnel policies that support their employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve.


In addition to those featured in the video above, more than 25 LAFD members both sworn and civilian also received awards, such as the Seven Seals Award, the Above and Beyond Award, and the Patriot Award at the well-attended ceremony.

[ photos ] [ video ]

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

With weather having an impact on electrical service in many parts of our nation, some people are turning to portable electric generators as a source of temporary electricity for their homes.

This seeming convenience though, could itself be the source of disaster.

If not properly installed and operated, a portable generator can become a deadly device that kills via electric shock or carbon monoxide fumes.


Using a generator indoors can kill you in minutes!

Firefighters encourage you to contact a licensed electrician to install your generator to make sure it meets all local codes. Never connect a generator directly to household wiring without an appropriate transfer switch professionally installed - and be sure to notify your utility, which may be required by law.

Power from generators connected improperly to household wiring can backfeed along power lines and electrocute anyone coming in contact with them, including lineworkers making repairs.

The Los Angeles Fire Department reminds you:

• Generators can produce high levels of deadly carbon monoxide (CO) very quickly.
• Never operate your generator in an enclosed or partially enclosed space such as a patio, shed or garage; and when in use, place it far, far away from any structure housing people or pets.
• Most of the serious carbon monoxide poisonings handled by Los Angeles Firefighters have been caused by generator exhaust fumes drifting into doors, windows, vents and crawl spaces.
• Be certain to properly install household carbon monoxide detectors that are battery-powered, or have a battery back-up. Test the devices before you operate a portable power generator anywhere near your home.
• If anyone starts to feel sick, dizzy or weak while a generator is in use, get them to fresh air immediately.
• Read the owner's manual thoroughly and make sure your generator is properly grounded and maintained.
• Store fuel for your generator remotely and safely. Turn the motor off and let the generator cool before refueling.
• Make sure extension cords are rated for the load, free of cuts and worn insulation and have three-pronged plugs.
• Do not overload the generator. A portable generator should be used only when necessary and only to power essential equipment or appliances.
• Keep the generator and your hands dry. Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) to help prevent electrocution and electrical shock injuries.
• Turn off all appliances powered by the generator before shutting down the generator.
• Keep children and pets away from portable generators at all times!

Remember: Electricity is a powerful tool, and odorless carbon monoxide fumes can quickly lull you to deep and deadly sleep!


Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

SOUTH LOS ANGELES - A car driven by an elderly man struck a group of elementary school children in South Los Angeles on Wednesday, August 29, 2012, injuring nine kids and two adults.

  Firefighters arrived in three minutes to the accident in front of Main Street Elementary School at 53rd street and Main street. The time was about 2:30 p.m., just after classes let out.
A total of 71 Los Angeles Firefighters, all under the command of Assistant Chief Robert Franco, ensured no children were pinned or required extrication from the vehicle, then performed a rapid trauma assessment from head to toe on every patient to determine severity.  Firefighter Paramedics then communicated with various local hospitals and transported 11 victims, four of which were seriously injured children. Fortunately, all are stable and expected to survive.

The driver of the vehicle did not appear to be injured and claims he turns 101-years-old next month. He stated to the media that he was backing out of the parking lot of a supermarket when his brakes failed. The exact cause of the crash is still under investigation by LAPD.

This month there have been a series of tragic traffic collisions, and your LAFD is encouraging all to use a little extra caution while driving and remain alert to your surroundings.

Dispatched Units: E14 E46 E33 RA9 T33 E233 T21 E221 T15 E215 RA3 RA10 HR56 EM3 BC13 RA264 RA814 RA809 RA803 RA826 EM5 EM88 T21 E221 DC1 RA17 RA94 EM2 RA68 EM5 RA46 RA66 RA57

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman

Los Angeles Fire Department

WEST LOS ANGELES - A leak of natural gas that seeped from one condominium to another late Monday evening in West Los Angeles, is suspected in causing an explosion that rocked the eighteen-unit building, causing a resident to sustain a leg injury.

The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 10:12PM on August 27, 2012 to 1535 South Granville Avenue, where firefighters arrived quickly to discover evidence of an explosion within an upstairs unit of a two-story condominium building.

Two men inside the damaged unit told firefighters that after cooking, they had smelled natural gas in their kitchen - but were unable to identify the source. Minutes later, after one man left the room, a thunderous but fire-free explosion occurred behind the stove, fully toppling the appliance as well as a refrigerator nearby, and causing significant damage to walls shared by the kitchen and an adjacent room.

Amazingly, the man who had been standing closest to the kitchen, sustained only a laceration to his leg. The man in the adjacent room was uninjured. Both declined offered transportation to the hospital.

After securing the building's utilities and assuring there were no additional patients or hazards, firefighters determined that a natural gas-fed fireplace in the common wall of a unit below, had leaked the volatile product. Seeping upward and collecting in the upstairs wall space, the gas had apparently found a source of ignition.

A Southern California Gas Company representative joined officials from the City's Department of Building & Safety in confirming that hazards were abated before evaluating damage and determining if the building was fit for habitation. A damage estimate was not immediately available.

Dispatched Units: E59 E237 E37 T37 RA37 RA19 BC9 E19 AR2

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

WASHINGTON BOULEVARD CORRIDOR - A collision between a Metro Blue Line train and a Metro Local transit bus south of downtown Los Angeles, sent thirty-two persons to the hospital Monday morning. None of the injuries was believed to be life threatening.

The crash between the passenger-laden mass transit vehicles was reported to the Los Angeles Fire Department at 6:58AM on August 27, 2012, bringing a swift and structured response of 119 LAFD personnel to 1900 South San Pedro Street in the Washington Boulevard Corridor.

According to witnesses and transit officials, the Long Beach bound light-rail train was traveling east at-grade in the roadway median, when it collided with a southbound Line 51 bus. The train remained upright and on the tracks, while the bus continued to strike and topple a traffic signal on the southwest corner of San Pedro Street and Washington Boulevard.

No one was trapped in the bus, and there were no reports of injury to pedestrians or nearby motorists. Within moments, Fire Department responders had assembled a triage system that identified 48 persons as in need or desirous of medical evaluation.

Following triage and on-site treatment, a total of thirty-two persons from the bus and train were taken to nine area hospitals by LAFD ambulance. They included 31 men and women who sustained minor injuries and were described as being in good condition, as well as one man who took ill, being described as in fair condition.

The collision is being investigated by Los Angeles Police Department, with assistance of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, which provides contract policing services to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), a countywide transit agency.

Dispatched Units: E10 RA10 E9 T9 HR56 EM11 BC1 E15 T10 E210 RA9 RA209 RA14 EM3 RA17 EM13 RA4 RA810 RA809 RA814 RA821 RA803 E14 E17 E215 T15 E221 T21 SQ21 DC1 BC11 EM5 EM9 RA13 RA21 RA3 RA25 RA2 RM3 HR56 RA811 RA846 RA826 RA829 RA20 RA804 RA834 RA844 RA850 RA27 MT3 E3

[ video ]

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

PACOIMA - A small airplane crash near Whiteman Airport on Saturday afternoon, injured two persons aboard, one seriously.

In response to several 9-1-1 calls just before noon on August 25, 2012, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to 10725 San Fernando Road in Pacoima, where they discovered a small, fixed wing, single-engine plane with significant front end damage. The two-seater airplane was nestled between two businesses on a block wall and was impaled by a wrought iron fence. The air craft's 65 horsepower engine was completely separated from the fuselage.

Civilians first on scene helped remove one occupant from the plane, and Fire Department personnel quickly aided with removal of the second man, believed to be the pilot.

There was approximately five gallons of fuel in the craft, some of which spilled, however it did not catch fire.

In addition to the fence, two vehicles and an awning of a nearby building were damaged. Fortunately, no one on the ground was injured.

Approximately 25 firefighters, under the command of Battalion Chief Randy Beaty, stopped the fuel leak, stabilized the plane, and provided rapid medical treatment. Two approximate 65 year-old males were injured and transported to a local hospital, one in Serious and one in Fair conditon.

The cause of the crash is undetermined at this time, both the FAA and National Transportation Safety Board were notified for a formal investigation.

Dispatched Units: E298 T98 RA98 E60 E275 T75 RA75 E91 HR56 EM14 BC12 UR88 E7 RA7 E287 T87 FT100 DC3 E88 SQ21 BC15 BC14 UR88 EM14

(PHOTOS)

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

SUN VALLEY - More than 120 Los Angeles Firefighters labored in rotating teams for more than 11 hours on Thursday, to fully extinguish a stubborn recycling yard blaze in the northeast San Fernando Valley that sent one firefighter to the hospital.

The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 4:03AM on August 23, 2012 to the Waste Management recycling facility at 11606 Sheldon Street in Sun Valley, where they discovered a deep-seated blaze in a massive "football-field-sized" construction debris pile being processed for recycling.

Through the initial assistance of an on-site tractor operator, later supplemented by a pair of LAFD operated bulldozers, firefighters spread and doused the pile with water and firefighting foam, containing the blaze in less than five hours and fully extinguishing the flames by 2:00PM.

With smoke hanging low in the sky, and dozens of fire apparatus and fire hose deployed along Sheldon Street, the industrial thoroughfare was closed for nine hours, as LAFD crews completed their battle against seemingly implacable flames.

At the height of the battle, one LAFD Firefighter sustained a significant hand laceration and could not continue duty. He was taken to an area hospital for first care, where he was treated and released.

No other injuries were reported.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Dispatched Units: E77 RA77 E298 E98 T98 E24 E89 T89 E289 E274 T74 DC3 SQ21 EM14 BC12 RA909 TP2 DT3 DT2 LD1 E87 SQ87 E7 E260 T60 BC14 FT17 E17 RA98 RT83 TP1 E24 EA1 E87 RA60 T78 E278 EM14 E39 T2 E202 T11 E211 RA889

[video]

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

As a friend of the LAFD, we welcome you to join the men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department and their families this Friday at Six Flags Magic Mountain theme park for our annual "Summer Private Party" sponsored by the Los Angeles Firemen's Relief Association:

Los Angeles City Firefighters
Summer Private Party
Six Flags Magic Mountain
Friday, August 24, 2012
6:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Closed to General Public

Your Private Party Admission is only $28 each!

...and for just a few dollars more, enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet!

Public Park Hours 10:30 AM - 6:00 PM, Tickets Valid All Day - Wristband Required.

Still thinking about it? Consider this...

No Daytime Traffic
Free Parking (after 5:00 PM)
Children 2 and under are FREE!

Buy your tickets on-line now. Simply click here and enter the promo code "LACITYFD" in the box at the top right of the Six Flags Magic Mountain home page. We're thrilled to say that each ticket you purchase benefits the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s Fund. See you at Magic Mountain this Friday!

Other select organizations will attend. We're sorry, but Season Passes are not accepted at this special event.


Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

VALLEY VILLAGE - Two women who tried to help victims of an auto accident in Valley Village were electrocuted, and six others were injured, after a vehicle struck a fire hydrant and a light standard on August 23, 2012.

An adult male, the single occupant and driver of a white SUV, sheared off a fire hydrant and light standard just before 8:30 p.m. in the 12000 block of Magnolia Boulevard, near Ben Avenue.

Los Angeles Firefighters arrived to find the SUV stopped on the lawn of a residence. A fire hydrant approximately 10 feet behind it, was shooting water into the sky. The water quickly began to pool. Underneath the vehicle was an old fashioned concrete light standard, leaving behind electrical wires sticking out of the ground. The wires were disguised by darkness, running water, and the commotion of a growing crowd.

Neighbors were startled after hearing the crash and came running out their homes to help. They were met by other concerned citizens whom stopped their cars. Sadly, two of these well intentioned people, stepped into water that was unknowingly energized and were killed. Others followed suit, and were injured.

Fortunately, as firefighters rushed to help the motionless victims on the ground, their keen sense of safety along with warning of bystanders, stopped them stepping into the energized water, and becoming victims themselves. Rather, they quickly utilized rubber gauntlet gloves and a long pike pole to safely remove the victims, then rendered aggressive medical aid. Additional firefighters were immediately requested, and a total of 55 firefighters, all under the command of Battalion Chief Daniel McCarty, assisted in securing the area, shutting down the water flow, and treating the remaining patients.

Also, the Department of Water and Power helped shutting down the electrical and water problems, and LAPD's Valley Traffic Division investigated the crash.

A total of eight individuals, ranging from 19 to 57 years-old were injured. Sadly, and despite assiduous treatment by Firefighter/Paramedic's, two were later pronounced dead at an area hospital. Six others suffered minor injuries, one of which declined transport to a hospital. All but the driver were electrically shocked.

This tragic accident touched all our hearts, and in some ways can serve as a warning. Many people, with nothing but the best intentions, were injured and killed while trying to save others. This reminds all who want to help at the scene of an emergency to stay aware of their surroundings and if there is any question as to safety, please wait for trained rescuers to arrive.

Dispatched Units: E260 E60 T60 RA60 E102 RA78 RA86 EM14 BC14 RA102 RA86 E278 T78 RA89 E86 E289 T89 RA97 RA39 RA88 EM11 EM17 DC3 BC10

[photos] [video]

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

CALIFORNIA - Veteran Los Angeles Firefighter Jason Teter and LAFD Cadet Byron Collins, have joined the 2012 Fire Velo San Francisco Bay to Los Angeles "Fire Service Cancer Awareness Bicycle Ride".

Teter, a twelve-year LAFD veteran is a former Police Officer. Collins, seeking a career at the Los Angeles Fire Department, volunteers as a Fire Cadet and member of the LAFD's Type II Handcrew.

The pair proudly join 30 cyclists making the nearly 500-mile trek on bicycles to raise charitable funds and support public awareness of cancer among the men and women of America's Fire Service.

We warmly welcome you to join their families, colleagues and friends on Saturday, August 25, 2012 at the Santa Monica Pier, where the riders will conclude their inspiring journey.

For arrival time and additional information, please visit: www.firevelo.com


Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

As thousands of parents bid farewell to college-age children entering student housing at universities across our nation, the Los Angeles Fire Department joins the U.S. Fire Administration and Campus Firewatch in highlighting the life-taking danger that lurks in on- and off-campus living environments.

The horror of fire in a college setting is something that few discuss, yet a tragedy that has taken more than 150 lives in the past dozen years. It is something that these families will never forget:

Among the findings of a recent National Fire Data Center Report:

• An estimated 3,800 U.S. university housing fires occur each year.
• Eighty-eight percent of university housing fires are cooking fires.
• University housing fires occur most frequently in late summer and fall.
• Fires in September, October, and November account for 33 percent of all fires.

Clearly we can do better to prevent such fires, and prepare college students to survive them. Considering the risk, our friends at Campus Firewatch suggest you ask these 18 questions:

How many fires have occurred on campus in the past year? How about fires in off-campus student housing?

Schools are now required to track and report residence hall fires to the U.S. Department of Education.

 

Are the residence halls, Greek housing or off-campus housing equipped with an automatic fire sprinkler system?

Sprinklers provide a vital line of defense when it comes to controlling a fire. Many residence halls are not sprinklered – ask for your student to be put in sprinklered housing.

 

Does every student’s room have a smoke alarm? Does it send a signal to campus security or the fire department?

 Fire alarm systems will give everyone the warning that there is a fire, and let them know it is time to get out.

 

How many false alarms have occurred in the residence halls?

False alarms cause students to stop paying attention to the alarms, which can be a fatal decision. False alarms are avoidable, but only if the school takes action.

 

What are the disciplinary steps taken against anyone who causes a false alarm, doesn’t get out during an alarm or tampers with fire safety equipment?

 

Is the fire department immediately notified whenever any alarm system is activated?

Some schools investigate the alarm first and then notify the fire department, This delay can put more people at risk and be deadly. The fire department should be automatically notified of all alarms.

 

What items are prohibited in residence halls because of fire safety? Are smoking, candles, and Halogen lamps prohibited in the residence halls?

If not, they should be.

 

Does the school have policies that electrical appliances and power strips be certified as safe and reliable?

 

How much fire prevention training does the residence hall staff receive?

 

How often do the students themselves receive fire prevention education?

This should continue throughout the academic career, not just while they are living in the residence halls.

 

How often are evacuation drills conducted?

There should be at least one per semester.

 

How often are fire safety inspections of the residence halls and student rooms performed? Are the results made available to students and parents?

 

For off-campus housing, are there smoke alarms in each bedroom and on each level?

 

Are couches or upholstered furniture on the front porch or deck?

Many communities are banning these outright, as fires have started in couches and then rapidly spread into the house, killing those inside.

Make an informed decision when choosing both a school and student housing. Learn more today at:

campus-firewatch.com

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

WEST LOS ANGELES - The fiery crash of a small airplane in West Los Angeles Friday evening, claimed the life of one person aboard. No homes or vehicles were damaged, and no one else was injured in the impact or intense flames that ensued.

In response to a spate of 9-1-1 calls at 6:14PM on August 10, 2012, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to 2054 South Glendon Avenue in West Los Angeles, where they discovered a small heavily damaged single-engine airplane well involved with fire.

The aircraft appears to have struck pavement and yardspace on the northwest corner of Glendon and Mississippi Avenues, avoiding buildings, vehicles or any person in the neighborhood of one- and two-story homes. Flames from the burning fuselage, which ignited an adjacent palm tree, were extinguished in less than five minutes.

Despite the quick efforts of LAFD responders, the sole occupant of the plane was beyond medical help, and declared dead at the scene.

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

The Los Angeles Fire Department remained at the scene for more than nine hours to assure safety, minimize environmental harm, preserve evidence, commence neighborhood recovery and assist investigators.

Pursuant of protocol, a formal investigation of the collision is underway by the National Transportation Safety Board.

Dispatched Units: E59 RA59 E292 T92 RA92 E295 T95 T61 E261 HR56 EM9 BC9 E71 T37 E237 RA859 E19 DC3 SQ21 BC18 E37 AR2 E62 EL83 RA906 AR7 RT83 T5 E205 E292 T92

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

NORTH HOLLYWOOD- Firefighters endured triple-digit temperatures this afternoon and a tough attic-fire, that tore through a six-unit apartment complex. Thirteen residents were displaced. No injuries were reported.

At 1:47 PM on Thursday, August 9, 2012, when scorching temperatures were at their peak, the Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned to 10519 Edison Way for a reported "Structure Fire." First on-scene resources were greeted by a fire that had consumed at least one unit on the ground floor of a two-story apartment complex.

The blaze proved to be quite stubborn, as it found its way to the second floor and ultimately into the attic. As the extended firefight began on a large and extremely hot roof, additional companies were called to assist. The fire ripped through a large section of the attic and at least one of the units, resulting in a partial roof collapse, while 119 Firefighters engaged the intense heat andflames. This heavy response enabled the Incident Commander to rotate companies through emergency operations, providing them some respite from the heat.

Full-extinguishment of the blaze was achieved in 43 minutes, but the damage was severe, as all six units of the apartment complex were affected. Unfortunately, 13 individuals that called the apartments "home," were displaced and required assistance from the local Red Cross.

Dollar-loss estimates were not yet available and the exact cause of the fire remains under active investigation. No injuries were reported from the scene.

DISPATCHED UNITS: E260 E60 T60 RA860 E86 RA39 EM14 BC14 E102 DC3 E289 T89 E77 RA60 E76 E278 T78 E39 E288 T88 SQ21 EM88 BC12 E27 E227 T27 UR88 RA88 BC10 T39 E239 BC11 BC5 E81 E98 E475 E88 E278 T78 AR2 E235 T35 T26 E226 EA1 RT83 E2 T87 E287 E105

[ photos ]

Submitted by Matt Spence, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

With the National Weather Service having issued an "Excessive Heat Warning" in many parts of Southern California, officials have opened cooling centers at community facilities across the City of Los Angeles.

Your Los Angeles Fire Department would like to encourage our seniors and all other "at-risk" individuals to consider these sites as refuge from the heat. To find a cooling center in the greater Los Angeles area, local residents may call 2-1-1.

The Emergency Management Department for the City of Los Angeles, in cooperation with the Department of Recreation and Parks, has extended the operating hours of the following facilities until 9:00 PM. The extended hours are effective today, Thursday, August 9, 2012 and will remain in effect through the weekend until Sunday, August 12, 2012. Again, the extended hours are for the following facilities only:

Recreation and Parks (RAP) Cooling Centers:

Canoga Senior Citizen    
7326 Jordan Ave., Canoga Park, CA 91303
(818) 340-2633

North Hollywood Recreation Center
11430 Chandler Blvd., North Hollywood, CA 91601
(818) 763-7651

Sepulveda Recreation Center
8801 Kester Ave., Panorama City, CA 91402
(818) 893-3700

Sherman Oaks East Valley Adult Center (formally VNSO SC) 
5060 Van Nuys Blvd., Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
(818) 981-1284

Sunland Senior Citizen   
8640 Fenwick St., Sunland, CA 91040
(818) 353-9571

Sylmar Recreation Center
13109 Borden Ave., Sylmar, CA 91342
(818) 367-5656

Additionally, your Los Angeles Fire Department recommends taking the necessary precautions, if you must be outdoors. This includes, but is certainly not limited to: being well-hydrated, dressing in light-weight, loose-fitting clothes and recognizing your own, personal limitations. And please, try and reschedule any strenuous activities to the early morning or evening. Click here for more tips on Hot Weather Safety.

One last thing, please don't overlook your family pets. Make sure they too, have a place to escape the sun and ensure that each pet has plenty of water. Click here for more pet safety tips.

Please check back with us, here, in the Emergency Public Information Center (EPI-Center) for periodic updates on our heat-wave or tune-in to the local news.

Submitted by Matt Spence, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

PALMS - A traffic collision involving a Los Angeles Metro transit bus sent eleven persons to the hospital on Wednesday evening, but none of the injuries was believed to be life threatening.

The crash was reported to the Los Angeles Fire Department at 5:49 PM on August 8, 2012, bringing a response of 41 LAFD personnel to the 9700 block of Venice Boulevard. Firefighters discovered a black sport utility vehicle, which witnesses describe as striking a white sedan before colliding with the mid-section of an eastbound 60' articulated bus.

A team of LAFD Paramedics focused their efforts on the SUV driver, who was in serious condition, while their colleagues commenced a swift and efficient triage, treatment and transportation of the remaining patients, all of whom had lesser injuries.

Ultimately eleven adults, ranging from 21-to-80 years of age, were taken to area hospitals by LAFD ambulance.

The collision is being investigated by Los Angeles Police Department with assistance of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, which provides contract policing services to the countywide transit agency.

Dispatched Units: RA34 E43 E58 RA858 RA92 RA62 EM9 EM13 BC9 E292 T92 E62 RA859 RA861 RA829 EM11 RA841

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

LAKE BALBOA - The spontaneous combustion of a residential compost pile during triple-digit heat on Wednesday afternoon, led to $76,000 in damage to a trio of San Fernando Valley Homes.

The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 3:05 PM on August 8, 2012 to an outside fire in the 17300 block of Marlin Place in Lake Balboa. With ambient temperature hovering at an oppressive 105 degrees Fahrenheit, firefighters arrived swiftly to find the outside fire had extended into a pair of side-by-side garages at adjacent homes.

As LAFD crews attacked the twin fires, they also noted flames on the wood shake roof of a home more than 200' away, sparked by an ember from the initial blaze. Despite the spatial challenge and light but variable winds, thirty-nine firefighters had the flames under full control in less than 12 minutes.

No injuries were reported.

LAFD Battalion Chief Mark Saxelby later determined that mulch within a plastic above-ground device - the size of a 30-gallon trash can, in the side yard of 17336 Marlin Place, had spontaneously ignited, causing fire to spread west into the garage at 17338 Marlin Place, with a wind-driven ember igniting the more distant roof fire at 17345 Marlin Place.

Loss to the homes at 17336 and 17338 was an identical $30,000 structural damage and $5,000 contents loss. The roof and attic at 17345 sustained $6,000 in structural damage only, bringing the overall fire loss at the three Marlin Place homes to $76,000.

While the fire is considered accidental, it underscores the importance of closely following instructions for home mulching systems, and taking appropriate precautions during periods of high heat.

Dispatched Units: E90 RA17 E273 T73 E93 RA903 EM15 BC15 E84 E83 E293 T93 BC17

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

In light of recent seismic activity here in the Southland, your Los Angele Fire Department wants to -once again- remind you to prepare for whatever may come.

No one will dispute that we have had anything but consistent weather patterns in recent years. With "watches," "warnings" and earthquakes a reality for all that live in the greater Los Angeles area, we encourage you now, to not take Mother Nature's friendly reminders lightly.

"It's never too late to prepare, until it's too late to prepare!" Here, we thought to answer a frequently asked question about earthquake preparedness. How many of you have pondered: "What should I do, when an earthquake hits?" Surely, you've thought about that for at least moment!

Well, this may help...

Following catastrophic earthquakes that struck both New Zealand and Japan last year, a chain letter resurfaced, suggesting a "new" way to survive an earthquake; something called the "triangle of life". It sounds simple - and it would be if the advice were not just plain wrong - and potentially life threatening!

Instead, the Los Angeles Fire Department and the world's leading earthquake experts - including more than 600 scientists at leading institutions agree: When an earthquake strikes...

Drop! Cover! Hold On!

Learn exactly what to do when you feel an earthquake at:

www.dropcoverholdon.org

Submitted by Matt Spence, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

Tonight, August 7, 2012, we trust you'll join the many off-duty firefighters, their families and concerned citizens across our nation who are taking to the streets to promote police-community partnerships, crime prevention and neighborhood camaraderie during 'National Night Out'.

In a series of events across Los Angeles, you're sure to find us standing with our neighbors in a show of solidarity and support for the men and women of the Los Angeles Police Department.

We look forward to your energy and enthusiasm as we extend a collective message of appreciation to those who proudly protect us. To learn more, visit LAPDonline.org or contact your Community Police Station.


Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

With the resumption of peak temperatures in Southern California, the Los Angeles Fire Department suggests that you:

• Minimize the risks of hot weather.
• Prepare your household, pets and workplace.
• Plan to get relief from and avoid the effects of heat.

Plan to wear loose, lightweight and light-colored clothing that covers as much of your skin as practical, and a well-ventilated hat with a wide brim - or carry an umbrella. Wear plenty of sunblock and stay in the shade whenever possible.

Adjust your attire and activities to limit heat exposure and exertion!

Water is normally the best drink during hot weather, and you'll need more than you think. If you have a medical condition or are under a doctor's care, consult with a physician.

Drinks with alcohol or caffeine can make the heat's effect on your body much worse. Avoid sugar-filled drinks and only use salt tablets if directed by a doctor. Plan on eating light, healthy meals.

Key Rules: Drink plenty of water before you become thirsty and rest in the shade before you become tired!

Limit your exposure to direct sunlight between 10AM and 4PM, when the sun's rays are at their strongest. If you feel ill, tell someone immediately. Symptoms of dehydration and heat illness may include dizziness, fatigue, faintness, nausea, muscle cramps, headache and vomiting.

Many heat emergencies occur to people exercising, working or staying alone. Use a buddy system and check on elderly, disabled or at-risk neighbors on a regular basis. If you suspect someone is experiencing a medical emergency from extreme heat exposure, call 9-1-1.

If your home does not have air conditioning, consider a cool place to visit or stay during the hottest part of the day.

Schools, libraries, theaters, shopping malls and community facilities such as senior centers and parks may offer an air-conditioned refuge. If activated by officials during peak temperatures, designated cooling centers in the Greater Los Angeles area can be found by calling 2-1-1.

Pets, horses, and livestock are also susceptible to hot weather. See that the special needs of your animals are met, including copious shade and plenty of cool water.

Never leave children, pets or dependent adults alone in a hot car. Even with the windows down, the temperature inside a parked vehicle can quickly rise to lethal levels.

Learn more about hot weather safety at:

emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

Chances are that your e-mail inbox has filled with messages like this:

Make the Paramedics job easier with ICE. ICE stands for "In Case of Emergency". If you add an entry to the contacts list of your cell phone under the name "ICE", Paramedics will call that number if they find you unconscious or...

The Los Angeles Fire Department has received thousands of e-mail inquiries, all seeking to know "Is this true"?

The quick answer?

The original "ICE" concept for listing your personal emergency contact on a mobile phone is well known to LAFD responders. It is obviously an idea that gives people peace of mind - yet should not be relied upon as a sole source for personal identification or emergency contact.

It is important to note that the original ICE concept is both free and simple: you choose an appropriate person to be contacted in case of an emergency and label their phone number as "ICE".

As one might anticipate, some businesses have sought to offer "fee-based" services and smart-phone applications related to ICE. Contrary to what some may infer, it is not necessary to register or pay money to make an ICE entry on your personal wireless phone.

Our friends at Snopes.com offer information about the history of ICE - and some regretful hoaxes that have followed. The Los Angeles Fire Department supports the original ICE concept as a free and potentially helpful tool in the minutes and hours that follow an emergency.

However...

Contrary to e-mail warnings, ICE is not something that Paramedics rush to look for the instant they arrive at an emergency, and is certainly not required for LAFD Paramedics to provide quick, focused and compassionate emergency care.

We tell people: Add ICE contact information in your cell phone only after you've affixed similar information to (or near) the official photo identification you routinely carry in your wallet.

Why?

With so many types of wireless phones, it can take precious minutes to learn how to access a phone's directory. Many wireless devices are also found to be locked, damaged or have discharged batteries following an incident, rendering ICE unusable.

Please encourage your interested friends and colleagues to make a free ICE entry in their cell phone, especially if it will give them peace of mind - but never at the expense of written emergency contact and medical information.

The free original ICE concept works best when it is part of a comprehensive family or business plan for dealing with emergencies and disasters.

Whenever you have a question about the policies and procedures that Firefighter/Paramedics use in handling emergencies, do not hesitate to visit your Neighborhood Fire Station.


Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

The Los Angeles Fire Department would like to congratulate two of our firefighters who emerged victorious after participating in a preliminary Firehouse Challenge cook-off today, August 2, 2012. The Firehouse Challenge is part of THE TASTE, an annual event put on by the Los Angeles Times that showcases Southern California's best with a mix of tastings, cooking demos, competitions and panels.

The idea is to create the kind of meal that is made at a fire station for a typical crew to eat. There's a catch, the meal needs to be made for the same cost, averaging only $10-15 a day for lunch and dinner per member.

Nearly three dozen interested firehouse chefs from various local Fire Departments inquired, however only eight provided their best entrée to be judged at today's preliminary cook-off.

Two of L.A.'s bravest stood victorious, Captain Mark Curry and Firefighter Cruz Macias. These two finalists were chosen for a grand, head-to-head cook-off to be held on Labor Day.

Captain Mark Curry (left), L.A. Times Steve Lopez (center), & Firefighter Cruz Macias (right).

The big finale will be held on stage at Paramount Studios in Hollywood as part of the annual food festival THE TASTE, a spectacular three-day event. The event will bring together world-renowned chefs like Thomas Keller and Nancy Silverton, along with our local firehouse gourmets, and backyard burger champs to share their common love of good food and cooking. Feel free to buy a ticket to join in the fun!

Labor Day weekend, September 1-3

Paramount Pictures Studios

5555 Melrose Avenue, Hollywood, CA 90038

latimes.com/thetaste

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman

Los Angeles Fire Department