Author: LAFD

On Sunday, April 11, 2010 at 8:08 PM, 10 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 5 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 2 Arson Units, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 2 EMS Battalion Captains, 3 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, under the direction of Battalion Chief Rudy Hill responded to a Greater Alarm Structure Fire at 532 North Cummings Street in the Boyle Heights area.

Within three minutes the Los Angeles Fire Department arrived on scene to find a 50’X100’ two-story four-plex with smoke and fire showing from the first floor, then swiftly summoned additional help. Firefighters forced entry through security gates to enable hand-lines to be extended while simultaneously performing vertical ventilation to battle the well-entrenched blaze.

The flames ran through the center hallway and burned three separate units on the first floor and lapped up to the second story. 75 Firefighters extinguished the early evening, stubborn blaze in 37 minutes.

Smoke Alarms were present in the 4,896 square-foot building, but their functional status and role in alerting occupants could not be immediately determined. There were no window security bars or obvious non-fire factors to impede egress from this 83 year old building.

Unfortunately this very hot blaze injured three people. One adult male Firefighter and an adult female civilian suffered burns and were transported to local hospitals in minor condition, and an adult male civilian suffered burns to the face and respiratory tract and was taken to a hospital in critical condition. An additional 10 adults and 10 children were displaced but were housed at Fire Station 2 where Firefighters and Council Member Jose Huizar comforted the families and provided hot cocoa and ice cream to the children while they awaited relief from the American Red Cross.

Monetary loss from the fire is estimated at $195,000 ($145,000 structure & $50,000 contents). The cause is undetermined.

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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On Wednesday, March 31, 2010 at 1:48 PM, 12 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 4 LAFD Rescue Ambulances,1 Arson Unit,1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit,1 Hazardous Materials Team, 2 EMS Battalion Captains, 3 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams,1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, 2 L.A.County Fire Companies,1 L.A.County Battalion Command Team under the direction of Battalion Chief D. Spence responded to a Greater Alarm Structure Fire at 1837 Slauson Ave. in South Los Angeles.

Firefighters arrived to find a 40’x125′ commercial medal clad building with heavy smoke and fire showing. Entry teams forced their way in using power tools but were delayed due to an arcing power line at the front of the structure. As personnel addressed the forcible entry problems at the door, roof teams mounted an attack from above with a degree of difficulty ventilating the roof.

As the fire began to spread, crews thought a defensive attack might be necessary. A partial roof collapse ensued. However due to the aggressive efforts of all firefighters on scene and a well coordinated attack, the flames were kept in check using handlines.

Although the building, doing business as a manufacturing company was considered a total loss, no civilians or firefighters were injured during the battle.

It took a total of 87 firefighters just 26 minutes to fully extinguish the flames. Monitory loss from the fire is estimated at $140,000 ( $90,000 structure & $50,000 content). The cause of the fire is attributed to electrical work being done, when a spark lit nearby flammable materials.

Submitted by Devin Gales, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Wednesday, March 31, 2010 at 1:34 PM, 8 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 4 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 3 Hazardous Materials Teams, 3 EMS Battalion Captains, 2 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, under the direction of Battalion Chief Rudy Hill responded to a HAZ-MAT at 6515 S. Mckinley Ave in South Los Angeles.

The first company arrived quickly and subsequently encountered several small containers that had spilled, during a maintenance operation outside of a structure. Workers were apparently attempting to place an unknown substance from a smaller containers into a larger one.

Further investigation revealed the unknown substance to be some sort of acid base product. Firefighters quickly went into action, evacuating approximately 12 individuals who were offered comfort and reassurance while being calmly sheltered in a safe location during the incident. LAFD hazardous materials experts were called in to identify the substance while all personnel stayed at a safe distance.

One fork lift operator was exposed to the substance and was medically evaluated by Firefighter/Paramedics and released at the scene. A total of 69 firefighters were on hand for this incident.

It was later determined that the substance was illegal and the LAPD Haz-Mat was called in for further investigation.The cause of the incident remains under investigation and the estimated damages is still being assessed.

Submitted by Devin Gales, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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With a sense of loss that remains palpable, it hardly seems possible that 24 months have passed since the March 26, 2008 line of duty death of Los Angeles Firefighter Brent Lovrien.

In the days that have followed, from the stirring cathedral and fire station services…

…to the jaw-slacking sight of 115,000+ standing together in silent solidarity with our LAFD family, we have never felt alone in our loss of a dear friend, devoted colleague and courageous public servant.

On this day of remembrance, we ask you to accept our thanks, and to share your thoughts or read those of others, as we recall Firefighter Brent Lovrien.

When in Westchester, we welcome you to stop by a memorial at the site of his passing.

To learn more about our Brother Brent and others who have made the ultimate sacrifice in their service to the City, we encourage you to visit the Los Angeles Fire Department Museum and Fallen Firefighter Memorial in Hollywood.

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Many people are surprised to learn that the first women to join the Los Angeles Fire Department did so prior to World War I.

On June 16, 1912, the LAFD’s first all-female volunteer Fire Company, led by Captain Marie Stack responded to a grass fire near the intersection of Third and Flower Streets in what is now Downtown Los Angeles.

These valiant ladies had their first fire well under control prior to the arrival of the LAFD’s next-due resource, the recently motorized contingent of LAFD Engine Company 3.

Then LAFD Chief Engineer Archibald Eley oversaw the formation of several other all-female firefighting crews in 1912, including the storied Manhattan Place Volunteer Fire Brigade led by Captain J.A. Caldwell.

Not to be limited to the lesser ranks or even Captain, the Wilmington Park Fire Ladies protecting the southern limits of our City in 1912, were led by Chief Louise Leonardo.

Of course, our City and its people were soon embroiled in the first World War, and as our burgeoning City grew in the decades following the war, the need for part-time men and women to protect parts of our metropolis from fire was eclipsed. Still the work of Marie Stack and her pioneering colleagues has inspired us for more than nine decades.

So what of gender diversity in today’s LAFD?

The Los Angeles Fire Department began providing career opportunities for women as Paramedics in 1978 (in what was then a separate career track) and for women as Firefighters in 1983.

The two career-paths were combined in the 1990’s and there are now nearly 100 women members of the LAFD holding uniformed positions ranging from Firefighter and Firefighter/Paramedic to Apparatus Operator, Engineer, Investigator, Inspector, Captain and Assistant Chief.

Still more women hold key positions in LAFD Bureaus that oversee our Administration, Operations, Administrative Services, Emergency Services, Fire Prevention & Public Safety, Training & Risk Management and Support Services.

…and what of the LAFD’s future?

You can help us share word of our need to hire, retain and empower a truly capable and dynamic workforce. Detailed information about the demands and rewards of an LAFD career – and how any motivated man or woman can start the process, are available year-round by calling 213-485-8032 or visiting the LAFD Recruitment website at:

JoinLAFD.org

If you’d like to know more about women working in our vocation:

www.wfsi.org
www.womenfireofficers.org

Submitted by Brian Humphrey
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Twelve Years Ago Today…

TELETYPE MESSAGE FROM FIRE ADMINISTRATION

03/23/98 12:19:32

S P E C I A L N O T I C E

MARCH 23, 1998

EARLY THIS MORNING, LAFD UNITS RESPONDED TO A TRAGIC ACCIDENT AT SUNLAND AND WHEATLAND IN FS-24’S DISTRICT. THEY REQUESTED AN AIR AMBULANCE TO TRANSPORT A 12-YEAR-0LD FEMALE PATIENT TO CHILDRENS HOSPITAL. FIRE-3 RESPONDED WITH A PILOT AND TWO HELITAC PERSONNEL FROM FS-90. TWO FIREFIGHTER/PARAMEDICS FROM RA-81 WERE ON BOARD PROVIDING TREATMENT. WHILE REROUTE TO CHILDRENS HOSPITAL, THE HELICOPTER CRASHED…

The Eternal Scar
by Nicholas Reiner

March 23rd, an ordinary day, just one to forget.
Maybe for you, but not for me, not yet.
I was changed that morning, changed in my soul and my heart,
A morning for me that will stand apart
My Dad died that day doing what he did best
Saving lives without much rest.
The helicopter–the cradle of life had rudder failure and started to descend.
The girl in the chopper dying, my dad and others gave a hand to lend.
The aircraft was lost, my Dad lost with it.
I was thunderstruck, shocked, and utterly sad
That my life had taken this turn because of the loss of my Dad
I didn’t know what to think, or say
I experienced nothing but sadness that horrible day.
I was left without a father to guide me on my way.
Left without a leader, I began to sway
Back and forth with a question I had
Why did God choose to take my Dad?
Why me, why him, why o why?
What would my life be like if he were here, alive?
How would I have been, what would I have done?
Would I have been a good or bad son?
I’ll never know, because I can’t change the past
This is why my memories and prayers must last
One of his favorite quotes was "Always take the high road."
Well, when I think of him I ponder this quote.
And I think that if he died to save then I can stand up and be brave
Face my fears, and take up my crosses
Accept hardship, and deal with my losses
I am scarred forever because he died
Unable to forget what is contained inside
This wound, once open and throbbing without control
Now silent, numbed, a deep meaningful hole
Eternally present, once only pain,
Now death gives way to hopeful gain
A tear, a smothered cry, anguished undenied
Find here a knowing, a caring and warmth supplied
The day is gone, the scar will stay
His courage, now mine, will lead the way.
Please take a moment to learn about the gallant crew of Fire 3;

…and whenever time permits, we hope you will visit their memorial:

View Larger Map

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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On Monday, March 22, 2010 at 12:17 AM, 7 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 3 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 4 Arson Units, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 2 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams and 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, a total of 56 Los Angeles Fire Department personnel under the direction of Battalion Chief Ralph Ramirez, responded to a Civilian Fatality Structure Fire at 2610 South Ridgeley Drive in the West Adams area of Los Angeles.

Firefighters arrived quickly to discover smoke from the top floor of a 50′ x 25′ single family second-story residence over parking.

During initial fire attack, firefighters discovered the lifeless body of a 77 year-old male in a ground floor annex to the rear of the home. Without vital signs of life and beyond medical help, he was declared deceased at the scene.

A swift and well coordinated assault by firefighters confined the blaze to the second floor and attic on the north side of the home. The fire was extinguished in just 32 minutes, and no other injuries were reported.

The presence of smoke alarm(s), their functional status and role at the time of the fire could not be immediately determined.

There were no obvious non-fire factors impeding the victim’s egress. The home’s security doors – including one near where the man was found, were equipped with legally compliant single cylinder deadbolt locks that required no key, tool or special skill to exit.

The home was not equipped with residential fire sprinklers.

A positive identification of the deceased man, as well as the precise cause, time and manner of his death will be determined by the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office.

Monetary loss from the fire is estimated at $200,000 ($150,000 structure & $50,000 contents).

The cause of this midnight blaze remains under active investigation by Los Angeles Police and Fire Department Investigators.

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department Follow @LAFD and @LAFDtalk on Twitter and find us on Facebook

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The morning newspaper of March 22, 1929 read…

FIREMAN KILLED UNDER WHEELS
TRUCK CRUSHES HOSEMAN TREE; COMRADE HURT

But a headline tells only part of the story.

Los Angeles Fireman Harry Tree
at the Monroe Centennial Exhibition
in Exposition Park in 1923.Things were indeed different in Los Angeles during 1929, just six years since Cotton was retired in a Department-wide shift to ancestors of nine mechanical horses that came to power seventy-one Engine Companies and twenty Truck Companies across the burgeoning metropolis, including those at Fire Station 29, which served as home to LAFD’s Truck Company 4.

It was at 11:46 PM on March 21, 1929 while returning from an alarm, that Los Angeles Fireman Harry L. Tree – standing on the sideboard of Truck 4 as was common at the time, was killed and a colleague seriously injured, when ladders on the truck gave way, hurling both men to the pavement.

It seemed unlikely that Tree could die in such a manner, as the well-respected 27 year-old fireman was not only an exhibition jumper and ladder-climber – but held the world’s record for safety-net jumping. It was equally unlikely that then Chief Engineer Ralph J. Scott could memorialize a man not only part acrobat, but twice a Los Angeles Fireman… (read more…)

To learn more about our Brother Harry and others who have made the ultimate sacrifice in their service to the City, we encourage you to visit the Los Angeles Fire Department Museum and Fallen Firefighter Memorial in Hollywood.

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department Follow @LAFD and @LAFDtalk on Twitter and find us on Facebook

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A host of uniformed firemen stood in silent respect near a bronze casket covered with an American Flag. They were there, with other friends, to bid a final goodbye to a colleague, while affirming their eternal support for his young wife and orphaned children.

As the last words of prayer dropped from the Minister’s lips and as rifles were raised toward the Heavens in a final salute, a brisk breeze whipped up the Colors into a military snap and stirred the flowers, as the minds of many drifted back just three days prior…

At ten o’clock in the morning of Sunday, March 20th, 1949 the spacious new fire station at 800 North Main Street was unusually quiet. Churchgoers passing by the new facility – opened less than 90 days prior, looked in on an apparatus floor, deserted except for the waiting fire apparatus and the lone LAFD member on floor watch.

LAFD Station 4 circa 1949

A close observation however, could have detected a hum of activity behind one of the nearby doors. Clearly and concisely, one member of a group which formed an attentive semi-circle was reading aloud from a Department manual: "Article 3, Section 43…A rope life line shall be secured around members before permitting them to descent into shafts, deep pits, etc. The following line signals will be used: one jerk signifies All is Well, two jerks…Advance, three…Take up, four…Help."

As the reader continued on, the collective thoughts of each fireman listening was varied. To some this was material for coming civil service exams, to others it was a routine drill. Some of the newer men pictured emergency situations wherein such knowledge would be vital…older men remembered times when it was. The voice rolled on.

Not a one however, with all their varied thoughts, could have pictured what was to occur within two short hours…

John H. HerbertLos Angeles Fireman John H. Herbert, ‘Herbie‘ to his friends, was born in Great Britain…Swansea, Wales, to be exact. Five years as a paratrooper for Uncle Sam gave him plenty of opportunities to get his sights on the enemy that threatened his birthplace. He enlisted in Los Angeles as a member of the Reserves before the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor.

In a short time, Herbert found himself in the middle of the fracas in Europe sporting an Army Officer’s insignia and terrific pride in the fighting group which he commanded, a part of the famed 101st Airborne Division. Dropped out of the sky on "D" Day near Normandie – deep behind German lines, Herbert led the dogged advance of his group for five days against the enemy.

On the sixth day the Germans had his outfit pinned down on two flanks. Staying under cover was of prime importance. But Herbert spotted one of his men who had become unknowingly exposed to enemy gunfire. He left his own protection to crawl out and pull the man to safety when an enemy mortar shell hit near his position. Killing two of his men, the explosion sent him reeling back with a shattered jaw and a body torn by shrapnel.

In a bleeding and dazed condition he started a miraculous trek…a walk to a first aid station which took him across a railroad trestle in full view of enemy snipers and along a route infested with entrenched Germans.

Yet amazingly, he wasn’t shot.

Much to his loved ones relief, Herbert returned after five years of military service with a Purple Heart, a Bronze Star and his own slice of a Presidential Unit Citation…not to mention a body full of shrapnel – and an effervescent will to become a Los Angeles Fireman.

Which brings us to that Sunday on North Main Street…

At 11:10 AM, the new tapper at Fire Station 4 began sounding its alarm, feeding out inches of alarm tape. As the crews dropped their work and ran for the rigs, they counted the bells 1…2…3…6! The Captain jerked the tape from its tapper and held it under the corresponding number on the running card.

Third and San Pedro. "Truck only".

As the second and third rounds of bells came in, the Engine Company Captain pushed the control buttons and sent the modern marvel of automatic doors sliding open and soon with siren and air horn blasting, the big aerial truck swung out onto Main and then Aliso enroute San Pedro at 3rd.

It was there that Fireman John Herbert came to face dark, dense and ugly smoke that boiled up… (more…)

To learn more about our Brother John and others who have made the ultimate sacrifice in their service to the City, we encourage you to visit the Los Angeles Fire Department Museuem and Fallen Firefighter Memorial in Hollywood.

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department Follow @LAFD and @LAFDtalk on Twitter and find us on Facebook

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The men and women of the Los Angeles Fire and Police Departments are proud to co-host their seventh annual St. Baldrick’s events in Los Angeles.

St. Baldrick’s is the world’s largest volunteer-driven fundraising event for childhood cancer research. Yes, a "fund razor" for children with cancer.

Members of the LAPD, LAFD and good-hearted people from your neighborhood will gather at sites in the San Fernando Valley and San Pedro this Saturday, to shave their heads for a worthy cause. We’ll be having plenty of fun for you to share in. Will you join us?

Saturday, March 20, 2010 from 8:00AM to 3:00PM
Fire Station 81
14355 Arminta Street
Panorama City, CA 91605
Learn more about the food and family fun at this San Fernando Valley event

Saturday, March 20, 2010 from 8:00AM to 2:00PM
Fire Station 112
444 South Harbor Boulevard
San Pedro, CA 90731
Learn more about the food and family fun at this San Pedro event

All are welcome, and there is no pressure to participate in the haircutting. We just need you there, so *these kids* know they are not fighting alone!

If you can’t attend, we kindly ask you to visit: stbaldricks.org or consider a telephone donation by calling toll-free: 888-899-BALD.

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department Follow @LAFD and @LAFDtalk on Twitter and find us on Facebook

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On Wednesday, March 17, 2010 at 1:37 PM, 12 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 2 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 2 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, 2 Foam Tenders, and 2 Bull dozers under the direction of Assistant Chief Ralph Terrazas responded to a fire at 11201 West Pendleton Street in Sun Valley.

The first arriving engine saw a large, black plume of smoke and immediately requested additional firefighters to be dispatched. Once at their destination, firefighters made their way through the large 193,642 square-foot lot to find a 75’ by 50’ debris pile of trash, wood, tires and used auto parts, stacked 20’ deep. This pile was contained on three sides by a metal fence.

Firefighters quickly deployed hand-lines and made an aggressive attack on the blaze. The fire hydrant was a considerable distance from the source of fire therefore a water shuttle operation was started. This allows the firefighters at the end of the hose to continue to spray water and foam without interruption, while multiple fire engines fill up with water from the hydrant and shuttle it back.

Due to the quick action of 77 firefighters and because of the fortunate metal wall around the debris, the blaze did not spread. The fire was extinguished in one hour and 53 minutes. No structures were damaged and no injuries were reported.

The fire was started when a skip-loader tractor, used to move rubbish into the 75’ by 50’ containment area, created a spark which ignited the trash. The dollar loss was zero.

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department
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During Poison Prevention Week, the Los Angeles Fire Department is asking you to reduce the risk of poisoning in your home.

Carefully read product labels, safely store dangerous items and program the Poison Control Hotline number (1-800-222-1222) on every phone to help save lives!

While household products such as cleaners and chemicals naturally come to mind as being hazardous, the LAFD suggests that any product bearing the words ‘Caution‘, ‘Warning‘ or ‘Danger‘ be stored out of children’s reach, ideally in a locked cabinet or compartment.

It’s also a good idea to survey your home, especially the kitchen, bathrooom, workshop and garage from a child’s – or grandchild’s point of view, so that you can know what items might be accessible or spark their curiousity.

Important Poison Prevention Tips…

1. Know the things in and around your home that can poison you.
2. Put child safety locks on cabinets to safely store cleaners, medicines, cosmetics, chemicals and other poisons.
3. Keep products in their original packaging with the labels on them.
4. Look at labels for the words "Caution", "Warning", "Danger" or "Poison". Follow all directions carefully when using these products.
5. Be aware that fuels (such as gasoline), car fluids (such as anti-freeze), pesticides (such as bug killers), and lawn and garden products (such as fertilizer) are poison.
6. Do not mix household products together. Their contents could react with dangerous results.
7. Install a carbon monoxide (CO) detector near your bedrooms and furnace to warn you of high levels of CO, a deadly gas you cannot see or smell. The gas collects when fuels are burned. Collected CO gas can quickly harm or kill you.
8. Have a certified service technician check heaters, stoves and fireplaces at least once each year to see that they work well.
9. Program the Poison Control Hotline number in every phone and place it near phones and on the refrigerator: 1-800-222-1222.
10. Know to call 1-800-222-1222 if someone takes poison. This number works around-the-clock anywhere in the USA to connect you with a nearby poison control center. Call the hotline whenever you have a question about poisons. It’s free, private, and can save you a trip to the emergency room!

To learn more, visit:

www.poisonprevention.org

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department Follow @LAFD and @LAFDtalk on Twitter and find us on Facebook

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On Sunday, March 14, 2010 at 11:40 PM, 13 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 3 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 2 EMS Battalion Captains, 4 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams and 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, a total of 91 Los Angeles Fire Department personnel under the direction of Battalion Chief James Gaffney, responded to a Greater Alarm Structure Fire at 3525 East Emery Street in South Boyle Heights.

Firefighters arrived quickly to find fire showing through the roof vents and skylights of a 150′ x 150′ one-story commercial building.

View Larger Map. You can also click, grab & zoom the pre-fire image above.
Forcing entry into the secured structure with hand and power tools, firefighters made an aggressive and well-coordinated assault on the fire, extending handlines to the core of the furniture manufacturing firm, as their colleagues performed strategic vertical ventilation of the arched truss roof above.

Timely and effective teamwork by dozens of firefighters prevented flames from extending horizontally beyond the core of the building, sparing the bulk of the business from severe fire damage.

The flames were extinguished in just 26 minutes, and no injuries were reported.

Fire loss to Yesenia’s Upholstery is still being tabulated.

The cause of the blaze was determined to be electrical in nature.

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department Follow @LAFD and @LAFDtalk on Twitter and find us on Facebook

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On Tuesday, March 9, 2010 at 6:13 PM, 24 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 6 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Arson Unit, 1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit, 1 Rehab Unit, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 2 EMS Battalion Captains, 3 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, along with LA County Fire Department and Vernon Fire Department, under the direction of Battalion Chief Armando Hogan responded to a Major Emergency Structure Fire at 1753 East Slauson Avenue in South Los Angeles.

Firefighters arrived quickly to discover heavy smoke and fire showing from a 100′ x 200′ commercial building. Fire crews mounted a swift and offensive attack, as a light breeze fanned the fire which appeared to have originated just inside the occupancy. Wooden pallets exposed to the flames quickly caught fire outside the structure, which included an exposure to an adjacent building. A fierce attack commenced as the blaze grew in intensity. A subsequent roof collapse ensued as the fire engulfed the warehouse’s lightweight roof.

Battalion Three Incident Commander Armando Hogan called for additional companies as well as for all operations to go to a defensive mode of attack on this incident. Master streams were strategically placed to bring the volume of water necessary to attack the free-burning fire. Because of the wind and the concern for flying embers, personnel surrounded the stubborn flames with additional handlines.

It took 153 firefighters just under one hour, before confining the wind-swept fire entirely within the occupancy of origin for a complete knockdown. One firefighter sustained a second degree burn to the neck from flying embers. He and was later transported to Sherman Oaks Burn Center in stable condition and is expected to recover. No civilians were injured during the fight. The damage and cause of the blaze is still being tabulated and investigated.

Submitted by Devin Gales, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department Follow @LAFD and @LAFDtalk on Twitter and find us on Facebook

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National ‘All Hazards’ Weather Radio (NWR) is a nationwide network of NOAA radio stations broadcasting continuous information directly from the nearest National Weather Service office.

NWR broadcasts official Weather Service warnings, watches, forecasts and other hazard information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Working with the Federal Communication Commission’s Emergency Alert System, NWR is an all hazards radio network, making it an important source of local weather and emergency information.

In conjunction with public officials, NWR also broadcasts warning and post-event information for all types of hazards – including natural (such as earthquakes or avalanches), environmental (such as chemical releases or oil spills) and public safety (such as AMBER alerts or 911 Telephone outages).

Known as "The Voice of NOAA’s National Weather Service", NWR is provided as a public service by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), part of the Department of Commerce, and covers all 50 states, adjacent coastal waters, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the U.S. Pacific Territories.

NWR requires a special yet inexpensive radio receiver that can be purchased at an electronics retailer near you. You can also listen via scanner radio on one of seven frequencies (MHz):

• 162.400
• 162.425
• 162.450
• 162.475
• 162.500
• 162.525
• 162.550

For additional information, visit:

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department Follow @LAFD and @LAFDtalk on Twitter and find us on Facebook

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Members of your Los Angeles Fire Department are adding their voices to the call for every Angeleno to participate in the 2010 Census.

Every 10 years, the U.S. Constitution requires our Federal government to make an accurate count of all residents. An accurate count helps determine how many firefighters are needed in your neighborhood; where new Fire Stations should be built, and the amount of funding required for essential life safety services.

Los Angeles Fire Chief Millage Peaks explains in this video…

Los Angeles residents are encouraged to learn more by visiting:

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department Follow @LAFD and @LAFDtalk on Twitter and find us on Facebook

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On Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 5:09 AM, 5 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 3 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Arson Unit and 1 Battalion Chief Officer Command Team, a total of 34 Los Angeles Fire Department personnel under the direction of Battalion Chief Ron Leydecker, responded to a Structure Fire with Civilian Injuries at 3712 South Meier Street in Mar Vista.

Firefighters arrived quickly to discover a neighbor assisting a 43 year-old female from a one-story single family home with the front well involved with fire.

With word that others remained trapped, firefighters commenced the successful rescue of an 11 year-old girl and a non-breathing 40 year-old male from the smoke charged 1,044 square-foot residence.

A team of LAFD Paramedics assisted the critically injured man, while their colleagues treated the lesser-injured girl and woman who both suffered from minor burns and smoke exposure. All three were taken by ambulance to Santa Monica-UCLA Medical Center.

Swiftly extending hand-lines and performing vertical ventilation, firefighters fiercely battled the blaze preventing the spread to near by residences and extinguishing it in just 26 minutes.

A Smoke Alarm was present in the home, but its functional status and role in alerting occupants could not be immediately determined.

Though the building featured legally compliant window security bars equipped with internal release, the woman related challenge in activating them for egress.

The Los Angeles Fire Department along with other Fire-Safety organizations would like to remind citizens that that Smoke Alarms are critical for the early detection of a fire in your home and could mean the difference between life and death. There should be a smoke alarm on every level of the home, in hallways near sleeping areas, and inside bedrooms. Change all of your Smoke Alarm batteries when you change your clocks back to Standard Time on November 1, 2010.

While bars on windows do provide security, if they are not working properly they can prevent escape from a deadly fire. These quick release devices should be easy to open and it is imperative they are maintained. Families must plan and practice escape routes while remembering, "Once Out, Stay Out".

The 83-year old home was not equipped with fire sprinklers.

Monetary loss from the fire is currently being tabulated and the cause of this early morning blaze remains under active investigation.

Submitted by Brian Humphrey and Erik Scott, Spokesmen
Los Angeles Fire Department Follow @LAFD and @LAFDtalk on Twitter and find us on Facebook

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LAFD Station 33 circa 1972On February 22, 1972 evil cascaded upon and surrounded LAFD Engine Company 33, in a night of sorrow that has not been paralleled in the history of the fabled Los Angeles firehouse.

In the days that would follow, Los Angeles Fireman Paul ‘Randy’ Widrig would be remembered as a man who "…knew and did more, always to the best of his ability, helping people in need."

Fire Department Chaplain James Dayen would later eulogize Randy’s colleague, Fireman Theodore A. Currie as "a portrait of a fireman… in spirit, loyalty and dedication with the gift of inspiration."

The pair of hard-working civil servants however, didn’t stand a chance as both arsonists and attackers – who remain at large – sealed their fate in one of the most troubling nights in Los Angeles Fire Department history.

Los Angeles Firefighters would feel the impact of the greater alarm blaze for decades to come, as they struggled to support Widrig’s young widow and orphaned infant, as well as Currie’s widow and three young sons.

Bystanders Harass Rescue While . . .

Arson Fire Kills Two City Firefighters

On the evening of February 22, 1972, two firefighters died in a greater alarm blaze in South Central Los Angeles. Firefighters Theodore Currie, 34, a ten year veteran and Paul Widrig, 24, with 18 months service, were killed when a mezzanine floor collapsed and buried them under four to five feet of debris. The coroner’s office announced their deaths were due to suffocation.

The building, a large one story 150-by-75 foot warehouse was well involved with fire when the first of thirteen fire companies arrived shortly before midnight.

The victims were among four fire fighters from Fire Station 33 who entered the rear of the structure with a 2 1/2" inch hose line in an effort to cut the advance of the fire. The other two men, Capt. Sam Diannitto (former Vice-President of Local 112) and Fireman Otto McClung narrowly escaped without injury.

It took fire fighters over an hour of grueling work to recover the bodies of their comrades. Heat form the flames was so intense that it collapsed steel trusses in the building and buckled walls which further hampered rescue attempts.

ARSON AND HARASSMENT

Investigators said that the fire was deliberately set after the building had been burglarized. During rescue attempts, firefighters were attacked with rocks and bottles hurled by a militant group which gathered at the scene.

RITES HELD

In separate memorial services on February 25, 1972, Los Angeles City Firefighters honored their two fallen colleagues killed in the performance of their duties.

A morning service was conducted for Theodore Currie in Downey with approximately 500 mourners in attendance. Currie is survived by his widow Geraldine, and three sons. Steven 15; Craig 13, and Kent 11.

Afternoon services were held for Paul Widrig in Newhall. Widrig is survived by his 19 year old widow Deborah and an infant son. Also Widrig’s father, Clyde, a retired policeman, and a brother, Clyde Jr., presently a Los Angeles Policeman.

To learn more about our Brothers Widrig and Currie, and others who have made the ultimate sacrifice in their service to the City, we encourage you to visit the Los Angeles Fire Department Museuem and Fallen Firefighter Memorial in Hollywood.

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department Follow @LAFD and @LAFDtalk on Twitter and find us on Facebook

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Terrorism forces us to make a choice. We can be afraid… or we can be ready. To prepare your home, family and workplace for an emergency, please visit www.ready.gov

If you see an actual emergency or pending act of terrorism, call 9-1-1.

Those witnessing suspicious activity in Los Angeles should report their observation by calling the Los Angeles Police Department Terrorism Tip Hotline at 1-877-A-THREAT (1-877-284-7328) or visiting iWatchLA.org

For more information about iWatchLA, please view this short video or speak with a Police Officer in your community.

In other parts of the United States, suspicious activity should be reported to local law enforcement or the nearest field office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department Follow @LAFD and @LAFDtalk on Twitter and find us on Facebook

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Daily News columnist Dennis McCarthy reports…

The winds hit you first. They slam you side to side in your helicopter and beat your brains out, but you keep going.

A couple of your buddies are riding your tail, following your lead through a dark, smoky canyon at night.

They’re counting on you getting them close enough to the flames for an effective water drop – then getting the hell out of there.

If you fail, you’re tomorrow’s tragic headline.

"You have to trust that guy," veteran Los Angeles City Fire Department pilot Jeff Moir says. "We all trusted Dale. He was that good."

After 35 years of fighting fires in this city, first from the ground then as a helicopter pilot for 28 of those years, Dale Gant retired Friday.

He made one last surveillance flight over mudslide areas to check catch basins before coming home to the operations center at Van Nuys Airport.

"I shut it down, looked at my helicopter, and… (more…)"

Thank you Dale, for 35 years of devoted service to our City and its Fire Department. Tonight, families parented by one of the countless young lives you saved in air ambulance responses will tuck their own children to bed in one of thousands of homes you helped spare from wind driven wildfire. Their lives – and ours, will forever be enhanced by your presence and professionalism. You are by any measure Sir, an angel among us.

Submitted by Brian Humphrey
Los Angeles Fire DepartmentFollow @LAFD and @LAFDtalk on Twitter and find us on Facebook

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