LOS ANGELES - The men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department mourn the death of Cadet Ryan S. Kirby, who died in a non-department related accident in Thousand Oaks on September 25, 2012.

Ryan Scott Kirby (1988-2012)

Kirby, age 24, began his volunteer service with the Los Angeles Fire Department in February 2012, as a member of LAFD Crew 3. He is survived by his parents James and Debbie Kirby. An eager learner and hard worker, he will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Memorial Service:

Sunday, September 30, 2012
1:00 PM
Pierce Brothers Valley Oaks Memorial Park
5600 Lindero Canyon Rd
Westlake Village, CA 91362

A reception will follow, with directions provided at the service.

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

LOS ANGELES - With the planned temporary closure of a heavily traveled section of Los Angeles freeway in the Sepulveda Pass this weekend, the Los Angeles Fire Department is encouraging residents to enjoy fun and productive local events that limit the need for long-distance travel by car.

The LAFD, which has thoroughly prepared for the I-405 Sepulveda Pass Improvements Project on September 29-30, 2012, is highlighting special discounts being offered to eat, shop and play locally in Los Angeles neighborhoods this weekend.

Now through Sunday, the LAFD also welcomes you to join firefighters and their families directly participating in events that can be conveniently accessed via public transit:

• September 27-30, 2012
  The Italian Feast of San Gennaro

• September 27-30, 2012
  Care Harbor at the L.A. Sports Arena - Free Medical, Dental and Vision Clinic

• September 28, 2012
  Public Safety Appreciation Barbecue

• September 28, 2012
  Stair Climb for Los Angeles

• September 29, 2012
  Fire Station 64 Grand Opening

• September 29, 2012
  DeaFestival Los Angeles

• September 29-30, 2012
  Polish Festival L.A.

• September 30, 2012
  11th Annual Kickin' Cancer! 5K Walk/Run & Family Expo

• September 30, 2012
  Herbalife Triathlon Los Angeles 2012

• September 30, 2012
  Justice Jog 2012 5K Run/Walk

Did we miss a family-friendly special event in the City of Los Angeles this weekend? Let us know via the comments form below and we'll add it to the list!

To learn more about the September 29-30, 2012 freeway closure, please visit:

metro.net/projects/i-405

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department



The Los Angeles Fire Department warmly welcomes you to join civic and community leaders, including Fire Chief Brian Cummings, at the formal dedication and public grand opening of New Fire Station 64 in South Los Angeles:

Saturday, September 29, 2012
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
New LAFD Station 64
10811 South Main Street
Los Angeles, CA 90061

We're pleased to offer an interactive map that provides driving, transit, cycling and walking directions to this new facility, now actively serving South Los Angeles and nearby neighborhoods.

Following Saturday's dedication ceremony, there will be food and entertainment, static displays of fire and rescue equipment, as well as a chance to tour one of Southern California's newest Fire Stations. All members of the community are welcome at this family-themed public event.

We encourage you to learn more about new Fire Station 64 and the many Fire Department facilities modernized by Proposition F by viewing a detailed Monthly Progress Report.

...and most importantly, we look forward to seeing you this Saturday, September 29, 2012 in South Los Angeles for the Grand Opening of New LAFD Station 64!


Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

Please join the Los Angeles Fire Department this Friday, September 28, 2012 from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM in Downtown Los Angeles for the 13th Annual Public Safety Appreciation Barbecue.

Hosted by the Downtown Los Angeles Center Business Improvement District, this public event honors the men and women of LAFD, LAPD, CHP, FBI, the Sheriff's Department and other public safety agencies.

Conveniently located at 735 South Figueroa Street, home to the new Fig at 7th, this barbecue lunch features Downtown's most delectable fare:


All are welcome. We encourage use of the Metro Red Line, Metro Purple Line, Metro Blue Line or Metro Expo Line, which all serve the nearby "7th Street/Metro Center" Station. DASH Downtown Shuttles also serve the intersection of 7th Street and Figueroa Street, home to Fig at 7th.

For those who wish to drive, there is easy-to-access hourly parking nearby.

This year, your simple $9 lunch donation supports the Los Angeles Police Memorial Foundation, providing assistance to families of fallen Los Angeles Police Officers.

The most important aspect of this event is an opportunity for us to meet and thank you. So please mark your calendar and plan to join us this Friday, September 28th for a great BBQ lunch.

For more information and a full list of sponsors, visit downtownla.com/public-safety-bbq-2012.asp - or call the Downtown Center Business Improvement District at (213) 624-2146.


Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

WEST LOS ANGELES - Did you realize "Carmageddon II" is just around the corner? Friday night September 29, 2012, the 405 freeway will be shut down for 53 hours. As you likely know, construction crews will knockdown the north side of the 608-foot-long Mulholland Drive Bridge as part of the Sepulveda pass improvements project.

During "Carmageddon I", your Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) strategically pre-deployed additional resources in order to reduce response times in areas affected by the freeway closure and associated traffic issues. We will be doing this again for "Carmageddon II", and the highly successful  LAFD Motorcycle Response Teams will be among the additional resources added. Our personnel along with, LAPD, EMD, CERT, DOT, CHP, Caltrans, and other Public Safety Agencies are working together in a Unified Command to manage public safety needs during the closure. The LAFD has assigned a Field Incident Management Team to control this event, whom early on, initiated a planning process with various agencies.

Last years success in turning 'Carmageddon' into 'Carmaheaven' was truly because Angelenos raised to the occasion and stayed home, discovered their neighborhoods, rode bikes and public transit. Simply put, the same will happen this year if we plan ahead, avoid the area, and stay local, rather than face frustration from road congestion. Also, many local business owners are sweetening the deal by offering incentives, freebies and discounts to assist keep people off the roads during this event. There is even an interactive map to help you find incredible offers right outside your doorstep.

Our friends at CHP offer a reminder that there is a zero tolerance rule regarding illegally accessing closed portions of the 405 freeway during construction.

As we work together through this event, Los Angeles Firefighters ask you to join us in driving safe and please remember when seeing lights and sirens behind you, pull-to-the-right.

 

(Receive daily updates regarding the i-405 project via Facebook, Twitter or Nixle)

 

metro.net/projects/i-405

 

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

In honor of National Disaster Preparedness Month, the Los Angeles Fire Department is offering free emergency preparedness seminars during September to help our community be prepared for disaster.

In coordination with your local Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program, the LAFD is pleased to offer four informative demonstrations and displays on consecutive Sundays in September.

Congresswoman Bass of the 33rd District, Members of The Los Angeles City Council, The Los Angeles Fire Commission and Fire Chief Brian L. Cummings join together in encouraging you to attend one or all of these events during September 2012:

Kindly put these dates on your calendar, and plan to join us. All are welcome!

• September 2 - Family Emergency Planning
• September 9 - Damage Assessment and Reporting
• September 16 - Light Search and Rescue
• September 23 - Triage Victim Handling and Medical Treatment

ntp-la.com

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

LOS ANGELES - What do traffic collisions and a space shuttle flight have in common? Hopefully nothing. We hope you join in our excitement as the space shuttle Endeavour arrives home in Los Angeles, around noon on Friday September 21, 2012, making a series of low-level flyovers.

Given the magnitude of the spectacle, Los Angeles Firefighters remind those wanting to get a glimpse of the shuttle to do so from a safe spot. The LAFD responds to approximately 88 traffic collisions a day, and thus encourages those behind-the-wheel to keep their eyes on the road, and not try to take in the show simultaneously, especially taking and sharing a photo while driving. For those looking to capture an image of this special event, please view the map below to find a popular landmark to catch a peek.

Good news, as you likely know the Endeavour's journey won't end Friday. The shuttle will be housed in a hangar until Oct. 12, when it begins a two-day celebratory trip through Los Angeles streets to the California Science Center, where it retires after traveling a total of 122,883,151 miles during its 25 missions. The exhibit will open to the public October 30, 2012, providing a great opportunity to take and share an up close picture.

(VIDEO) (PHOTOS) 

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

Your Los Angeles Fire Department encourages safety and awareness during Jewish High Holiday celebrations in the months of September and October:

Rosh Hashanah – Begins at sundown on September 16 and ends at sundown on September 18, 2012.
Yom Kippur – Begins at sundown on September 25 and ends at sundown on September 26, 2012.
The Feast of Sukkot – Begins at sundown on September 30 and ends at sundown on October 8, 2012
Shemini Atzeret-Simchat Torah – Begins October 7 and ends at sundown on October 9, 2012.

Firefighters within Los Angeles are aware that holiday rituals and customs may elevate Fire Department responsibilities, and they make it a point to be acquainted with celebrations in their districts and are cognizant of the following:

• Many out of town guests will be in Los Angeles celebrating with family and friends.
• Foot traffic will increase as Jewish worshipers travel from home to synagogues during day and night.
• Dietary disruptions in eating routines can have an impact on diabetic incidents, blood pressure variations, etc.
• Reduced or no use of electronic devices, i.e., cell phones, television, modern conveniences, etc.
• Ceremonial candles used in the home.

It is the hope of the LAFD to maintain an elevated sense of awareness regarding community activities and to maintain our sensitivities at a level where only the highest level of service will continually be provided. We are asking help from the public too...

Jewish holidays including the Sabbath are for many a time of family gatherings, celebrated with songs, special foods, and customs. Many holy days and observances, as well as the Sabbath, are a time for traditional cooking and candle rituals. However, without safety precautions, these customary religious observances may increase the risk for fires and fire-related injuries. Celebrate your heritage safely with the following guidelines.

Careful Kitchen Cooking starts with you.

The majority of fires and burns can be prevented during food preparation by taking safety precautions:

• Stay in the kitchen--don’t leave cooking food unattended.
• Wear tighter or snug-fitting sleeves. (Loose sleeves are more likely to catch on fire or get caught on pot handles.)
• Take extra precaution when handling boiling water.
• Cook at indicated temperature settings, rather than higher settings.
• Don’t become distracted by attending to children or answering phone calls or doorbells.
• Create a “kid-free zone” of at least three feet around your stove.
• Keep area clear of towels, papers or anything that could burn.
• Turn pot handles inward, facing the wall, to prevent burns caused by overturning or spills.
• Have a pot lid and container of baking soda handy to smother a pan fire. DO NOT USE WATER.
• Treat burns immediately with cool running water and seek medical attention.

Holiday time often means candles, matches and fire. When burning candles, make your home safer by:

 

• Using sturdy candle-holders, with flame-protective non-combustible (glass or metal) shades or globes.
• Placing candles at least four feet away from curtains, draperies, blinds, kitchen cabinets and bedding. 
• Placing candles out of reach of small children and pets.
• Extinguishing candles when they burn within two inches of the holder.
• If you must leave burning candles unattended, place them in the kitchen sink.
• Securing hair and clothing, such as sleeves or aprons, from the flame when handling candles.
• Keeping candles, matches and lighters, including lit memorial containers and Chanukah menorahs, out of reach of children.

We wish people of all faiths to observe their customs safely and remember to make sure smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are functioning properly, along with developing a fire escape plan.
 

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

SOUTH LOS ANGELES - Los Angeles Firefighters responding to a small fire in South Los Angeles Monday night, discovered a body when they fully extinguished the flames.

The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 9:41PM on September 17, 2012 to the vicinity of 319 W 94th Street in South Los Angeles, where charred human remains were discovered in the roadway.

Beyond medical help, the person was declared dead at the scene. No other injuries were reported. A positive identification, to include the person's age and gender, as well as the precise cause, time and manner of their death, will be determined by the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner.

The fire and circumstances surrounding the death remain the focus of a joint investigation by Los Angeles Police Detectives and Investigators from the Los Angeles Fire Department's Arson/Counter-Terrorism Section.

Dispatched Units: E64 RA264 AR17 AR2 AR7 AR11 AR9 AR23 AR10

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

KOREATOWN - Four persons were injured - one critically, when an apartment fire erupted Monday evening in the Koreatown area of Los Angeles.

A series of frantic 9-1-1 calls beginning at 8:14PM on September 17, 2012 brought the Los Angeles Fire Department to 504 South Normandie Avenue in Koreatown, where they discovered smoke and soon intense flames, visible from the lowest floor of three apartment levels over parking.

Photo by @EMAMD on Twitter

With reports of one or more residents trapped on the fire floor, and deadly smoke and heat filling the center hallway style building, the first of 72 LAFD responders braved oppressive conditions to push back the flames, as their colleagues swiftly forced entry into six apartments near the fire in a methodical search under zero-visibility conditions for those reported missing.

Firefighters found and rescued an approximately 28 year-old man from an interior hallway near the well involved apartment. With full thickness burns to nearly 85% of his body, he was transported by LAFD Paramedics in critical condition to an area hospital.

Other Firefighters found and rescued an approximately 58 year-old woman from within the smoke-charged building. With significant smoke exposure, she was transported in serious condition to a nearby hospital by LAFD Paramedics.

The fire was confined to the apartment of fire origin and an adjacent interior hallway, with flames brought fully under control in just 21 minutes.

Fire Department ambulances were later used to transport an approximately 45 year-old man with a foot injury, and a fourteen year-old girl with minor respiratory distress, both in good condition, to area hospitals.

No other injuries were reported.

Monetary loss to the 24-unit building is still being tabulated. The cause of the blaze remains under active investigation.

Dispatched Units: E29 T29 E229 RA29 RA829 E6 E52 E211 T11 EM11 BC11 BC705 E61 BC5 RA6 RA52 EM1 E226 T26 E13 E11 E261 T61 DC1 SQ21 EM13 BC18 T3 E203 RA3 RA803 T27 E227 UR27 UR88 BC1 UR3 RA13 RA811 AR1 AR11 AR10 AR23

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

This final report was updated 8:00 PM PDT, Sunday, September 16, 2012
Click here now to refresh/reload your browser and assure updated content.
Please scroll down for detailed Incident Information.

STANDARD MESSAGE FOR ALL WILDFIRES: Any resident in the immediate path of a wildfire should calmly and safely evacuate with essential items, including household pets, and follow the lawful orders of uniformed officials. Do not wait. The early self-evacuation of an endangered area is known to save lives and greatly enhances the ability of firefighters to protect homes - including yours! FORMAL EVACUATION ORDERS: (If issued - see below) Evacuation orders are site specific and normally coordinated by law enforcement. Evacuation orders may be issued door-to-door, via loudspeaker - or possibly by a telephone alert or news broadcast. Residents in high danger areas should remain vigilant for such contact and be prepared to take immediate action. Those who may soon be endangered but are not in the immediate path of advancing flames, are encouraged to monitor local news. In the greater Los Angeles area, official information provided by the Los Angeles Fire Department is frequently carried live on the following news radio station(s): AM 1070 - KNX (listen now) We encourage every Los Angeles resident to find and 'save' news stations on their battery-powered portable and vehicle radios.

INCIDENT INFORMATION:

TIME OF INITIAL ALARM: 12:28 PM PDT, Saturday, September 15, 2012

LAFD INCIDENT# 698

INCIDENT NAME: Rustic Canyon Wildfire Incident

INITIAL RESPONSE ADDRESS: 3000 Rustic Canyon Ave, Los Angeles

 

You can click, grab & zoom the map above or click here to view larger

 

LONGITUDE/LATITUDE: 34.083703,-118.521978 (response address).

U.S. NATIONAL GRID: 11S LT 59580 72482 (response address).

CONDITIONS ON ARRIVAL: 5 Acres, Topography driven.

VEGETATION TYPE: Medium to Heavy Brush.

TERRAIN: Steep/Rugged, Mountains. Distant from Residential Structures.

CURRENT SIZE: A Formal Daylight GIS Survey on Sunday Morning Concluded the Burned Area to be Seven Acres of Very Steep Terrain.

CURRENT RATE-OF-SPREAD: None

CURRENT STATUS: Some Smoldering Areas/ No Active Flame; *100% containment*.

PERIMETER MAP: Not Yet Available.

CAUSE OF FIRE: Under Active Investigation.

WEATHER: As of 07:47 PM - 73°F (23°C) - Relative Humidity 79% -  Clear Skies - Calm Wind, not presently a factor in local fire weather - Sunrise 6:38 AM.

HEALTH ADVISORIES: No formal air quality or public health advisories have been issued. Limiting or avoiding your exposure to smoke from wildfires is suggested. (map of current air quality)

CIVILIAN INJURIES: None

CIVILIAN DEATHS: None

STRUCTURES THREATENED: None

STRUCTURES DAMAGED: None

STRUCTURES DESTROYED: None

EVACUATION: None - Nearby residents are always encouraged to prepare for evacuation, monitor news radio and obey the verbal orders of uniformed public safety personnel. Leaving the effected area before a formal evacuation order is issued gives your family the best chance of survival and greatly helps firefighters.

TOTAL PERSONS/HOUSEHOLDS CURRENTLY DISPLACED: None

EVACUATION MAP: None

EVACUATION CENTER and HUMAN SHELTER: None

ANIMAL SHELTERS: None

ROAD CLOSURES/TRAFFIC ADVISORIES: Localized restriction in immediate area of Command Post only. Motorists should use due caution for fire related traffic and emergency personnel in the area. If choosing or directed to evacuate, select the safest route and obey uniformed public safety officials.

SPECIAL HAZARDS/CONCERNS: 60+ (unk affiliation) campers and staff will remain safely sheltered in place at Camp Josepho overnight. They are 2+ miles from fire and not in peril.

HOSPITAL CLOSURES: None

SCHOOL CLOSURES: None

DISASTER HUMAN SERVICES AND SPECIAL NEEDS ASSISTANCE:

• 2-1-1 LA County: 2-1-1 or (800) 339-6993
• American Red Cross, Los Angeles Chapter: (855) 891-7325

PET, SMALL ANIMAL, EQUINE AND LIVESTOCK ASSISTANCE:

• City of L.A. Department of Animal Services: (888) 452-7381
• The Humane Society offers animal disaster preparedness and pet-friendly hotel information.

DONATIONS: There are NO officially endorsed fundraising or collection efforts related to this incident.

VOLUNTEERS: There is NO identified need for spontaneous volunteers to support Fire Department operations at this time.

SOCIAL MEDIA:

• Twitter Alerts: @LAFD
• Twitter Conversation: @LAFDTalk 
• Hashtag: #RusticCanyonFire 
• Facebook: facebook.com/LosAngelesFireDepartment 
• Photo Tags: "LAFD" and "Rustic Canyon Fire" 

GOVERNMENT AGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION:

• Los Angeles City Hall including all City Departments: 3-1-1 or (213) 473-3231.
• Los Angeles County Administration, including all County Departments: (213) 974-1234.
• State of California Offices, including all State Agencies: (800) 807-6755.
• U.S. Government Offices, including all Federal Agencies: (800) 333-4636.

~~~~~ LOS ANGELES FIRE DEPARTMENT COMMITMENT AND SUMMARY:

INCIDENT COMMANDER: Los Angeles Fire Department, Battalion Chief Schultz

COMMAND POST LOCATION: 1500 Capri Drive

LAFD RADIO FREQUENCIES IN USE: 7 & Tac 5 (listen now)

FIREFIGHTER STAGING: Discontinued

LAFD RESOURCES CURRENTLY ASSIGNED: BC9 BP35 E2 RA6 WT77

ALLIED FIRE DEPARTMENT RESPONDERS: Roster Pending

COOPERATING AGENCIES: Los Angeles Police Department, Los Angeles County Fire Department, Los Angeles Department of Transportation, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, American Red Cross, Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy

LAFD AIR OPERATIONS: As Needed (Minimal). A few drops made made today on small flare-ups.

TOTAL FIREFIGHTING PERSONNEL AT PEAK: 200

FIREFIGHTER INJURIES: Four LAFD Firefighters suffered non-life-threatening injuries during initial fire-attack. They were treated and transported to local hospitals and have since been released.

ON-SITE MEDIA CONTACT: Schedule with LAFD Media Desk 213.485.5162

MESSAGE: "Due to the hard work and amazing job of all firefighters and allied agencies, we now have 100% containment. We will maintain an overnight presence to ensure no flare-ups." stated LAFD spokesman Erik Scott.

SAFETY MESSAGE: Los Angeles Firefighters encourage local residents to maintain a minimum 200 foot brush clearance from any structure, and to remove flammable items from around their homes. Have a family communication plan and an evacuation plan with primary and secondary escape routes. An early evacuation could save your life. Obey all no parking signs, limit use of campfires or spark producing equipment and be careful when handling combustible materials. Together we can accomplish our mutual goal of protecting ourselves and our loved ones from wildfire.

NEXT ANTICIPATED LAFD NEWS RELEASE: Monday Mid-Morning, September 17, 2012.

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

BEL AIR - A 90 acre wildfire in the Sepulveda Pass threatened Bel-Air canyon estates, congested traffic across the Westside, and had firefighters relentlessly battling flames for three days in record-breaking heat.

On September 14, 2012 at 3:36 PM, a fire broke out along Sepulveda Boulevard near Getty Center Drive, just east of the 405 freeway. First arriving firefighters reported two acres burning in heavy brush. The blaze quickly spread beyond the capability of the initial responders and further assistance was immediately requested.

Weather conditions included extreme heat and low relative humidity. The Brush Burning Index was High at a reading of 104. The lack of strong wind was the only help mother nature provided firefighters.

An aggressive attack with hose-lines and precise aerial water drops ensued as flames quickly continued to spread eastward to over 10 acres. Firefighters were strategically placed to protect threatened residences. Additional air support was needed as well as assistance from neighboring departments. Los Angeles County FD helicopters, hand crews, and fixed winged Super Scoopers were deployed to help battle the blaze. In addition, Beverly Hills, Culver City, and Santa Monica Fire Departments assisted the LAFD. At the peak of the fire there were over three hundred firefighters from five agencies fighting the blaze, many of whom kept the devastating 1961 Bel-Air fire in the back of their minds.

Even with all this manpower and equipment the flames quickly scorched 70 acres and was 40% contained by 7:00 PM Friday. Crews continued to tirelessly hike ridge lines, using hand tools to cut a fire barrier.

No formal evacuations were issued, however residents were cautioned to be ready to leave at a moment's notice if conditions worsened. At one point on Friday, The Getty Center voluntarily evacuated, eight Torahs were removed from Leo Baeck Temple as a precaution, and Mount St. Mary's College cleared the campus. Later that evening Sepulveda Boulevard reopened to commuters, which alleviated traffic havoc in an area already cluttered with construction equipment associated with the widening of the freeway.

Rotating shifts of firefighters remained on scene for three days, then early Sunday afternoon they peered victoriously over 90 scorched acres that was finally 100% contained. Firefighters then began picking up thousands of feet of hose-line and equipment draped across steep rugged terrain.

Once units demobilized, two Brush Patrols and one Engine Company maintained a "Fire Watch" to quickly extinguish any possible flare-ups until a reevaluation on Monday morning.

Due to the tenacious work and amazing job of all firefighters and many allied agencies, all under the command of Assistant Chief Kwame Cooper, we are proud to state that no structures were damaged and no one was injured.

The cause of the fire in under active investigation.

Dispatched LAFD Units: E19 E71 E37 E59 E237 T37 E289 T89 E292 T92 H0B H0C BC9 BC18 E62 E109 E90 H1 H3 RA88 DC3 T90 E290 WT88 RA909 T39 E239 E99 E39 E102 T60 E260 EM9 BC14 E58 T63 E263 T61 E261 E41 E27 E6S E84 WT77 RA37 BC4 BC17 CP2 RM2 E105 E87 E7 T93 E293 E86 E26 E15 E94 E5 T33 E233 BP23 BP83 BP78 BP28 BP8 HL1 LO1 H2 E63 E34 T26 E226 E10 E95 E100 T11 E211 E103 E72 E8 RA90 T90 E290 BC10 RA19 RA92 RA69 EM88 EM14 BC5 BC11 DC715 CW3A CW3B RA860 AR2 E41 H733 AR2 EL83 E11 E9 E98 E12 E61 E48 H1 E29 E2 EA1 E67 E97 E14 E18 BP41 BC1 BC12 RA58 E83 RT83 E27 E10 E3 E21 EM9 E37 E63 E33 E64 E66 E94 E95 E52 E85 E34 E100 E13 E7 E36 E39 E93 T20 E220 E60 E87 BC5 BC10 BC11 RA209 RA257 BP84 BP98 DT3 RA858 E6 H4 E469 BP94 BP28 BP84 EA1 WT88 AR2 BP8 BP94 BP78 E450 E401 BP28 E88 E5 E95 BC9 E435 BC11 LO1 RA15 BC707

(VIDEO) (VIDEO) (PHOTOS)

Submitted by Erik Scott & Cecil Manresa, Spokesmen
Los Angeles Fire Department

HOLLYWOOD HILLS - A fast-moving fire swept through the attic of a Hollywood Hills home on Thursday evening, displacing four residents but sparing them injury.

The fire was reported at 9:10 PM on September 13, 2012 at 1500 Forest Knoll Drive in the Hollywood Hills. Firefighters arrived quickly to find heavy flames in the rambling attic of the nearly 4500 square-foot hillside home.

Joined by one Los Angeles County Fire Department Engine Company and Battalion Chief responding from neighboring West Hollywood, 76 Los Angeles Fire Department personnel under the command of Battalion Chief Jeff Elder held the flames in check, confining the inferno to the attic and extinguishing the blaze in just 38 minutes.

No injuries were reported.

Uninjured yet displaced by the greater alarm fire were two adults and two adolescents, who chose to seek their own temporary accommodation. Despite the ferocity of flames, loss from the fire was limited to $300,000 ($200,000 structure & $100,000 contents). The cause of the blaze was declared to be electrical in nature.

Dispatched LAFD Units: E41 RA841 RA41 E97 E227 T27 EM14 BC5 E61 E27 E261 T61 H0D H1 RA97 E90 EA1 E29 E278 T78 DC3 SQ21 EM9 BC18 UR27 E3 RA3 RA803 T89 E289 UR88 BC14 AR2

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

ENCINO - A small high-rise fire trapped a woman in an elevator and forced upwards of 100 occupants of multiple businesses to evacuate.

Just before 2:00 PM on September 12, 2012, Los Angeles Firefighters rushed from the ground and air to 16661 Ventura Boulevard after receiving multiple 9-1-1 calls of a possible fire on the roof of a seven story modern high-rise. As firefighters hurried inside, many occupants were rushing out.

 

Multiple activated smoke alarms and manual pull stations were noticed as the lobby fire alarm control panel was evaluated. Additional Firefighters were immediately requested. Scores of firefighters then calmly escorted occupants to safety, recalled the elevators, searched every floor of the 127,774 (sq ft) structure, contacted the building engineer, and located the source of the lazy smoke.

 

A 3' x 2' electrical box in a rooftop equipment room was quickly extinguished after catching fire. However, the smoke rapidly circulated through the building's HVAC system, pouring it throughout the offices. The flames also disrupted services in the buildings four elevators, trapping a woman. Firefighters quickly located, freed, and evaluated her. She declined transport to a hospital.

A total of 139 firefighters responded, under the command of Assistant Chief Kwame Cooper, many of which remained on scene for hours to remove the smoke and assist those in need.

The cause of the fire is electrical and the estimated dollar loss is $2500.

Dispatched Units: E83 E293 T93 RA83 E90 E109 RA100 H0B H0E H0C E39 T73 E273 E290 T90 EM17 BC10 BC15 E100 H1 H2 H4 H3 T88 E288 E93 E99 E287 T87 E278 T78 DC3 SQ21 EM12 BC9 E89 T27 E227 UR88 BC14 EM15 E103 BC17 RA93 RA99 RA102 EM14 E85 RA27 T85 E285 UR27 E85

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

Your Los Angeles Fire Department and other City Officials would like to share personal thoughts and remembrance with you as they reflect on 9/11...

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

In many ways, it is hard to believe that eleven years have passed since our nation was savagely attacked on September 11, 2001. While time moves forward, it no way lessens the resolve of firefighters who now as then loudly pledge:

We Shall Never Forget!

The men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department warmly welcome you to stand with them in fulfilling this pledge, as they gather for a trio of Patriot Day public events on Tuesday, September 11, 2012 at three separate locations.

All are welcome at these solemn yet uplifting public ceremonies:

These events will proudly be held rain or shine!

7:00 AM to 8:30 AM
LAFD Museum and Fallen Firefighter Memorial
1355 North Cahuenga Boulevard
Hollywood, CA 90028

10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
World Trade Center Memorial
LAFD Frank Hotchkin Memorial Training Center
1700 North Stadium Way
Los Angeles, CA 90012

6:30 PM
9/11 Memorial Fountain
LAFD Fire Station 88
5101 North Sepulveda Boulevard
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403

We hope you can join us for one or more of these events. If that is not possible, we kindly ask you to take time for quiet personal reflection or community service in remembrance of all who were killed in New York, Pennsylvania and Northern Virginia on September 11, 2001.

(PHOTOS)

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

STUDIO CITY - Police are investigating the cause of a fiery pre-dawn crash that took three lives Sunday morning in Studio City.

The Los Angeles Fire Department was alerted at 3:35 AM on September 9, 2012 to a traffic collision with fire at 11412 Ventura Boulevard in Studio City. Firefighters arrived quickly to find a car heavily involved with flames, the inferno threatening at least one nearby business.

According to witnesses, the full-size sedan had left the roadway, striking a tree, before shearing a natural gas line as it came to rest against the wall of a nearby restaurant. Almost instantly, the vehicle was consumed by flames, incinerating two persons within, and another who was partially outside the car. Beyond medical help, the trio were declared dead at the scene.

It took the combined effort of 52 firefighters just 23 minutes to fully extinguish the flames, though LAFD crews spent several hours at the scene minimizing damage to Reno's Pizzeria, before assisting Coroner's staff with the discrete and dignified removal of the deceased.

No other injuries were reported.

A positive identification - to include the age and gender - of those who died, as well as the precise cause, time and manner of their deaths, will be determined by the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner.

The collision remains under active investigation by Los Angeles Police officials. No damage estimate for the structure was immediately available.

Dispatched Units: E86 T60 E260 RA86 E278 RA78 T78 E60 E76 RA97 HR56 EM14 BC14 UR88 E97 E289 T89 DC3 SQ21

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Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

With increased public conversation about West Nile virus (WNV), your Los Angeles Fire Department Paramedics want you to gain access to factual information.

Our friends at the California Department of Public Health, maintain the State's West Nile Virus website, a great resource that includes answers to common questions.

While most understand the necessity to Fight The Bite of mosquitoes, the most puzzled looks come from those wondering...

Why and How Should I Report Dead Birds?

The video below explains how Californians should handle an encounter with a dead bird, and the importance of dead bird reporting in the fight against West Nile virus.

To report a dead bird in California - at home, work or in a public place - and to learn more about WNV call 1-877-968-2473 or click on:

westnile.ca.gov

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

LOS ANGELES - The Los Angeles Fire Department is warning business owners to be on the lookout for phony "fire inspectors".

Businesses across the greater Los Angeles area have been targeted by scam artists wearing official-looking uniforms who claim to be examining fire safety systems by - or on behalf of - the Fire Department.

The fake inspectors typically ask an unsuspecting employee to sign a form authorizing the "inspection". Weeks or months later, a bill comes to the business owner for "work done" or "services rendered".

The mailed statement, appearing to have been signed by an employee, usually demands immediate payment for an "annual inspection", threatening "penalties" for any failure to pay promptly.

The LAFD and Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office want workers and business owners to know that while Fire Department officials do examine businesses, they do not charge such fees for routine inspections.

Most troubling to Los Angeles Firefighters however, is that fake inspections may cause workers and guests to falsely believe that fire extinguishers, alarm systems, emergency lighting, exit signage and fire sprinklers are fully up to code and operating effectively.

Before allowing any inspector to enter your business, require the individual to present government-issued identification and a business card. Local fire department officials all have badges, and their uniforms will clearly state their agency name. LAFD personnel are pleased to provide multiple ways for anyone to confirm their identity.

If you suspect suspicious activity or someone impersonating a Fire Department employee, contact law enforcement immediately and notify your local fire department.


Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

Today marks the 30th Anniversary of the deadliest apartment fire in Los Angeles history, the September 4, 1982 arson blaze at the Dorothy Mae Apartments.

Reported to the Los Angeles Fire Department at 4:26 AM, the fire set intentionally with 98-cents worth of gasoline erupted into a senseless inferno that took 25 lives - and brought profound change to our community and those who proudly protect it.

From the LAFD Historical Archive...

"The Dorothy Mae Apartment is a four-story, 50 ft. wide X 140 ft. deep, center hallway, of brick-joist construction that was built in 1927. Due to its location on an inclined lot, the first floor has only a foyer and boiler/laundry room located at the front of the building. The upper three floors contain 43 residential apartments occupied by approximately 170 people, almost all of whom were Spanish speaking. The building had the required Ponet doors and smoke detectors installed.

ANALYSIS OF THE FIRE:

The fire started in the second floor hallway, just inside the front Ponet door by the use of a flammable liquid. It appears that it burned unnoticed for some time. It is not clear how occupants first became aware of the fire. Once alerted, occupants started evacuating, using the hallways. Indications are that a flashover or back-draft occurred, resulting in 18 fatalities on the second floor and third floor.

The Ponet doors at the front stairwell were closed, as was the Ponet door on the fourth floor at the rear stairs. The Ponet doors from the second floor hallway to the rear stairs, and the fourth floor stairs to the exterior fire escape were open. This allowed the fire to travel from the front of the second floor to the rear stairs, and the fourth floor stairs to the exterior fire escape were open. This allowed the fire to travel from the front of the second floor to the rear, up the stairs to the third floor hallway, and up the stairs to the fourth floor, and out the rear of the building on the fourth floor.

The Fire Department received a delayed alarm to this incident. The flashover/backdraft occurred prior to the Fire Department's arrival. Upon our arrival there were indications of a small fire at the rear, not the true extent of the fire that had taken place, nor the large number of fatalities and injuries that had occurred.

ACTIONS TAKEN:

First arriving companies discovered the true situation upon entering the building at the rear. From the reports of bodies stacked in the stairwell..."

Read more...

While much has changed in our City in the past three decades, the impact of the Dorothy Mae Apartment Fire has only strengthened our commitment to prevent fire, protect persons from it - and when necessary, support the prosecution of those who would use it to cause harm.

To learn more about the proud history of the Los Angeles Fire Department, visit our on-line historical archive and then plan your visit to the LAFD Museum in Hollywood.

To discover ways to keep your family safe from fire, plan a visit to your Neighborhood Fire Station today!


Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department