LAFD 'Live Fire' Training at Los Angeles International Airport

Monday, February 11, 2013 | Posted by LAFD Media and Public Relations

Pending favorable weather, the Los Angeles Fire Department will conduct a 'live fire' training exercise at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). This special drill for firefighters is scheduled to occur between 4:00 AM and 6:00 AM PST on Tuesday, February 12, 2013.

There are no provisions for media or public access.

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

Federal Aviation Regulation Part 139 requires all Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) personnel to attend a live fire training drill at least once per year.

LAFD Airport Rescue Fire Fighters serving LAX and Van Nuys Airport use Los Angeles International Airport's $3.75 million state-of-the-art training facility to hone their lifesaving skills. This training site, located at the southwest corner of the 5.6 square mile airport grounds, was built using airport funds. It is designed to support the rigorous demands of the Los Angeles Fire Department while meeting strict 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. 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 4:00 AM and 6:00 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 captured. After going through a complex series of scrubbers, water is tested to assure it meets strict clean water standards before being discharged to the nearby 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.

[ photos ]

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

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2 comments:

Andi Schoenbaum said...

Hi Brian, You responded to some photos of the live fire training that I posted on my blog a few years ago. Do you know when the next event will be? Hope all is well! Andi Schoenbaum www.andischoenbaum.com

Sunday, May 19, 2013 8:34:00 PM  
LAFD Media and Public Relations said...

Andi,

Thanks for the note. These Federally mandated drills occur *at least* once each year, though the particular date must await a critical mass of personnel requiring training, the logistics necessary for the the drill - and of course, the compliance of Mother Nature in offering ideal weather :)

Though no date has been selected for the next mandated training, we hope to continue with past practice of making mention here on the LAFD News & Information blog, as well as via LAFD social media tools the moment a date and time are determined.

Respectfully Yours in Safety and Service,

Brian Humphrey
Firefighter/Specialist
Public Service Officer
Los Angeles Fire Department

Tuesday, May 21, 2013 11:54:00 AM  

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