Tanker Fire in Los Angeles Tunnel Impacts I-5 Freeway

ELYSIAN VALLEY - More than 200 firefighters were joined by allied agencies Saturday morning in responding to a dramatic non-injury tanker truck fire and fuel spill at a freeway interchange in northeast Los Angeles.

The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 10:31 AM on July 13, 2013 by multiple 9-1-1 callers reporting a vegetation fire alongside the northbound Golden State (I-5) Freeway near Stadium Way. With a large plume of smoke visible from a distance, the LAFD air and ground response was augmented for what was believed to be a large swath of burning grass and brush between the freeway and environmentally sensitive Los Angeles River.

Within moments of their arrival, LAFD crews realized the vegetation had been ignited by a big rig fuel tanker truck and trailer that were fully ablaze in a nearby tunnel that connects the northbound Glendale (SR-2) Freeway and the northbound Golden State (I-5) Freeway.

Heartened by news that the truck driver had escaped the blaze unharmed and that no other persons were in direct peril, firefighters began a multifaceted air and ground attack on an inferno fueled by the truck's 8,500 gallon cargo of gasoline.

With volatile fumes entering freeway and street drains, there were a handful of small explosions that displaced manhole covers in the area, leading officials to warn nearby residents to avoid stormwater drains in the neighborhood. Though some fuel entered and ignited along a half-mile section of the Los Angeles River, it was limited to a side channel contained by an earthen berm and vegetation.

A joint command that included the Los Angeles Fire Department, Los Angeles Police Department, California Highway Patrol and California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), worked in close coordination with more than a dozen safety, health and environmental organizations to effectively battle flames, limit collateral harm and speed recovery.

The battle against flames in the tunnel and river, with a simultaneous effort to limit fuel-laden runoff and abate hazards, continued over a large area for more than six hours, requiring a constant rotation of LAFD personnel.

A strong outreach via traditional and social media was used to inform residents and travelers in the area, including tens of thousands arriving for a 4:15 PM game at Dodger Stadium - which was not endangered by the incident.

With flames extinguished, Caltrans structural and maintenance engineers inspected the still warm concrete tunnel - and developed a game plan for its extensive repair, as the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and other environmental response agencies began a recovery assessment of nearby wetlands. Responders - many in protective gear, working in the summer heat well into the pre-dawn hours Sunday, were aided by Community Emergency Response Team volunteers who oversaw an LAFD approved delivery and distribution of cool beverages.

Caltrans identified and coordinated temporary lane and highway closures near the effected interchange, including a busy section of the Golden State Freeway, reportedly used by as many as 300,000 vehicles per day.

The California Highway Patrol continues to investigate the genesis of the tanker fire, specifically whether a collision or some type of mishap in or near the tunnel was responsible for the conflagration.

The Los Angeles Fire Department reported no responder or civilian injuries. Firefighters are encouraging motorists to stay informed regarding local highway closures, and to consider the 5-1-1 telephone number and information system as a timely and effective way to obtain details about traffic, transit and transportation throughout the region.

Dispatched LAFD Units: E201 T1 E44 E4 E250 T50 E56 E12 T12 E212 H0F H0B BC1 BC2 E9 H4 H5 H6 T20 E220 E90 RA820 RA20 E202 T2 T9 E16 E447 E10 E211 T11 DC1 H0E EM1 BC4 WT77 E77 FT17 E3 T3 E203 E2 RA850 FT60 E61 E64 E235 T35 E215 T15 BC5 H3 E27 RA801 EA1 T60 E260 RA60 RA56 EM11 E21 T21 E221 SQ21 RA21 RA821 HL1 CP3 RM2 RA1 RA55 EM14 RT83 RT59 RA801 SQ21 RA56 E42 E11 E13 T29 E229 E14 E94 CV20 CV21 RA56 RA17 E29 E37 E33 E15 E48 JT2

[ photos ]

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Suspicious Blaze Injures Two Los Angeles Firefighters

EAST HOLLYWOOD - A suspicious blaze in an abandoned two-story home sent a pair of Los Angeles Firefighters to the hospital Sunday morning with painful but non-life threatening injuries.

The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 8:30 AM on June 23, 2013 to 714 North Kenmore Avenue, where they discovered fire on the second floor and attic of an unoccupied 1,744 square-foot two story home.


You can click, grab and zoom the pre-fire image above - or view larger
Forty-six LAFD personnel under the direction of Battalion Chief Joseph Klein forced entry into the minimally secured building, confining flames within the unfurnished residence in just 19 minutes.

During a tenacious attack on intense flames, two Los Angeles Firefighters sustained painful first- and second-degree burns to their ears and necks. In fair condition, the men were taken by LAFD ambulance to Torrance Memorial Medical Center for specialized burn care, where they were treated and released to remain off-duty.

No other injuries were reported.

Loss to the 99 year-old vacant wood frame home was limited to the structural value of $100,000. The fire is presently categorized as suspicious, and remains the focus of an active LAFD investigation. Those with information about the fire are asked to call the Los Angeles Fire Department's Arson/Counter-Terrorism Section directly at (213) 893-9800.

Dispatched Units: E6 RA6 E52 RA52 E220 T20 E235 T35 E13 EM11 BC11 BC5 E29 AR2 E82 EM13 AR9

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Firefighters Rescue Scores of Animals from Hollywood Pet Store Fire

EAST HOLLYWOOD - A fast-moving fire at dawn Monday in a pet store, led to the dramatic rescue by firefighters of more than a hundred animals, before the intense blaze was brought under control.

The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 6:07 AM on June 10, 2013 to 1183 North Vermont Avenue, where they discovered heavy smoke showing from the roof of a one-story 120' x 110' L-shaped shopping center.
Forcing entry into well-secured businesses - including the heavily smoke charged Kim's Pets and Fish, teams of firefighters began the swift rescue of imperiled animals from pens, cages and aquariums as flames raged overhead.

LAFD personnel swiftly took to the roof of what proved to be two interconnected buildings, to commence a short-lived effort at vertical ventilation, before the roof proved untenable and collapsed into the premises below.

As firefighters made a decisive stand against flames deep within ornamental framework that connected the two buildings, their colleagues continued to push back fire with hose lines inside the burning pet store, supporting the ongoing removal of birds, mice, hamsters, rabbits, guinea pigs, fish, reptiles and 25 puppies - all of which were rescued unscathed.

The relentless effort of 138 Los Angeles Firefighters under the command of Assistant Chief Andrew Fox, brought the stubborn flames under control in just 55 minutes.

Though no human injuries were reported, smoke and structural collapse led to the demise of several birds, fish and reptiles who proved beyond LAFD help.

During final fire extinguishment, the discovery of several turtles trapped deep within debris buoyed the spirits of firefighters, who soon formed a human chain to crawl beneath tons of unstable and smoldering rubbish to safely rescue the reclusive reptiles prior to the application of firefighting foam, which would have led to their demise.

Monetary loss from the blaze, which heavily damaged the southwest portion of one non-fire sprinklered building, was still being tabulated late Monday. Los Angeles Fire Department Investigators determined the fire, which originated in the attic above the pet store, to be accidental in nature.

Dispatched Units: E235 T35 RA835 RA35 E82 E6 E52 E220 T20 EM11 BC5 BC11 E29 E56 E13 E229 T29 E250 T50 DC3 EM2 BC2 T3 E203 E3 UR3 RA3 RA803 UR88 BC1 E11 BC14 BC18 E227 T27 E211 AR2 E33 E202 T2 E60 E215 T15 EA2 RA892 EA1 AR17 RT59 AR1

[ photos ]

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Los Angeles Firefighters Respond to Helicopter Crash in Griffith Park

GRIFFITH PARK - A small private helicopter on a routine flight over Los Angeles made a hard landing after experiencing mechanical problems, today in Griffith Park, four people aboard suffered minor injuries.

Just after 2:00 PM the Los Angeles Fire Department received multiple 9-1-1 calls regarding a downed helicopter near McComb Helispot, above the Roosevelt Municipal Golf Course.

The Robinson helicopter was on a routine flight from Redlands, circled over Santa Monica and was headed back to the Inland Empire when it started experiencing mechanical trouble.

Fortunately, the pilot and three passengers, a 25-year-old man and two women aged 33 and 25 all suffered only minor injuries that did not require hospitalization. A 50-year-old Park Ranger suffered heat exhaustion while responding to the scene and was hoisted into a LAFD helicopter and transported to a local hospital in serious condition.

Firefighters also quickly fixed additional concerns, including fuel leaking from the wreckage in the brush-covered surrounding area.

The Fire Department remained on-site for nearly four hours to assure safety, minimize environmental harm and preserve the scene for a coordinated investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board.

The Federal Aviation Administration's registry indicated the 2006 Robinson helicopter was owned by Mile High Rotors LLC, based in Colorado.

Dispatched Units: RH114 E235 T35 E52 E56 RA82 HR56 UR88 H0E H0A EM11 BC5 BC2 T27 E227 E27 H6 H3 E90 RA27 DC3 UR27 E290

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Three Firefighters Injured in Arson Hollywood Apartment Blaze

HOLLYWOOD - The Los Angeles Fire Department battled a long and intensive fight in an intentionally set fire that scorched an apartment building in Hollywood, leaving three firefighters injured and 42 residents displaced.

 

Just before 11:00 AM on May 31, 2013 Los Angeles Firefighters responded to a Structure Fire at 5957 Barton Avenue, near Santa Monica Boulevard and Gower Street. They arrived on scene to find a two-story apartment building on a raised foundation with smoke billowing from small basement windows. Additional firefighters were quickly requested.

An aggressive attack ensued that was concentrated on the basement area near a laundry room and a simultaneous search was performed to ensure all residents and pets were safely out. Firefighters had a long and exhaustive battle ahead...

    Flames continued to creep inside the walls and climb up pipe alleys, around 3" gaps in fire blocking in some places, and quietly across the attic of the structure. Firefighters thoroughly went through all 16 smoke charged apartment units using thermal imaging cameras to sense heat and flames hidden behind the walls, and remained on scene for hours suppressing stubborn hot-spots and flare-ups. In approximately two and a half hours 155 firefighters, under the command of Battalion Chief Charles Butler, were confident of a complete knock down of the blaze and performed a thorough overhaul and salvage of property. Then a list was created of resident's important belongings inside and firefighters searched through the debris to find them and bring them to the owners.

Several arson investigators remained on scene for hours carefully combing through debris, examining fire patterns, using highly trained K9's, and talking with bystanders. The cause of the fire was determined to be arson and it remains under active investigation.

The total estimated dollar loss was $1.2 million ($1,100,000 structure & $100,000 contents). The Department of Building and Safety, "Red Tagged" the structure, deeming it unsafe for entry. The Red Cross arranged temporary housing for the renters in a nearby shelter.

It is important to note that hard wired smoke alarms with battery backup, appropriate to city building code, provided the occupants early detection and allowed for safe self evacuation.

Three firefighters were injured: One suffered burns to his hands, another a laceration to his hand, both were transported to local hospitals. A third firefighter suffered heat exhaustion from the battle and was treated but did not require transport. No civilians were injured.

We strongly encourage anyone with information that may assist the investigative efforts to please contact the Arson Counter-Terrorism Section at (213) 893-9800.

Dispatched Units: E227 T27 RA827 E52 E82 RA26 EM18 BC5 E76 T61 E261 E27 E235 T35 AR2 EA1 E202 T2 E3 E27 E10 E229 T29 E294 T94 RA61 DC3 EM5 BC18 BC14 T3 E203 UR3 E89 UR88 BC1 RA803 RA27 RA41 EM18 E12 E82 E235 T35 RM2 SQ21 RA892 RT59 AR1 AR23 AR9 AR17 E94 T33 E233 E37 T88 E288 RA27 T11 E211

(Raw Video Clip)

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Hollywood Boulevard Bus Collision Sends 35 to Hospital

HOLLYWOOD - A transit bus sideswiped a driverless dump truck before colliding with a sedan on Hollywood Boulevard Tuesday morning, sending thirty-five people to the hospital.

The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 7:57 AM on October 23, 2012 to 7673 Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood. Firefighters arrived quickly to discover three vehicles involved in a dramatic collision.


According to witnesses, a Metro bus traveling westbound on Hollywood Boulevard had attempted to avoid but sideswiped a dump truck sans driver that rolled suddenly down an incline into its path at Stanley Avenue. Following the evasive maneuver, the bus collided with an eastbound sedan, badly trapping the driver of that vehicle when it became partially wedged beneath the front of the bus.

Teams of Los Angeles Firefighters, including personnel assigned to the LAFD Urban Search & Rescue and Heavy Rescue units, disentangled the trapped driver from her auto, while their colleagues performed a systematic triage of the remaining 37 persons involved in the collision.

The woman was removed from the crumpled remains of her silver sedan in less than twenty minutes. Having suffered a fractured left leg and other unspecified injuries, she was transported by LAFD Paramedics to a nearby trauma center in serious condition.

The woman's pre-teen daughter, who had been riding properly restrained in the rear seat of her vehicle, was able to exit the car unscathed prior to the Fire Department's arrival. In fair condition, she was taken to a nearby pediatric hospital by LAFD ambulance.

Also shaken but suffering minimal injury was the bus driver, who along with 32 of her passengers stated a desire for hospital evaluation. The 33 from aboard the bus, as well as the automobile driver and her daughter accounted for the 35 total taken to eight regional hospitals by LAFD ambulance for further assessment and care.


Three bus passengers declined treatment or transportation, and were released at the scene. No other injuries were reported.

The collision remains under formal investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department and Metropolitan Transportation Authority officials.

Dispatched Units: E41 RA41 E27 RA27 E82 E261 T61 HR56 EM5 BC5 UR88 E97 RA97 RA61 RA876 RA58 RA829 RA894 RA826 EM18 EM11 RA827 RA835 RA803 RA860 RA829 RA850

[ photos ]

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Electrical Fire Causes $300K Damage to Hollywood Hills Home

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

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Special Effect at Hollywood Nightclub Sends 6 to Hospital

HOLLYWOOD - More than 400 patrons at a Hollywood nightclub were sent scrambling for the exits, and six were taken to the hospital, after a large volume of carbon dioxide used as a theatrical fogging effect filled the venue on Saturday evening.


The initial call at 6:04 PM on July 21, 2012 sought the Los Angeles Fire Department to assist one or more persons having difficulty breathing at the Avalon Hollywood, located at 1735 Vine Street.

Firefighters and Paramedics arrived quickly to find scores of mostly young people who had escaped the auditorium after an unknown vapor suddenly filled the room. With some patrons clearly ill and displaying superficial burns, LAFD responders escalated the incident to a multi-patient hazardous materials investigation, bringing 70 LAFD personnel and allied agencies to the scene.

Vine Street was temporarily closed between Hollywood Boulevard and Franklin Avenue as dozens of emergency vehicles, including nine Fire Department ambulances lined the roadway.

The Fire Department swiftly assembled triage and treatment areas and prepared for the possible decontamination of the crowd, as LAFD HazMat experts combed the theater and conferred with club staff.

It was soon determined that a larger than desired amount of cryogenic liquid carbon dioxide intended for a theatrical fog effect, had been suddenly released into the well attended "teen awards show pre-party", causing zero visibility conditions. The frostbite-like burns experienced by some were attributed to contact with some of the freezing liquid that had failed to fully vaporize.

With respiratory ailments appearing to lessen in the fresh air, just 22 attendees expressed a desire for medical evaluation. Sixteen persons, including minors accompanied by their parents, ultimately declined treatment and transportation.

A total of six party-goers, including some minors, were taken to area hospitals by ambulance. They were described as being in good to fair condition. No performers were among the ill or injured.

Once determined that no hazard remained within the venue, the facility was allowed to resume business for the evening, though the original party had been disbanded.

Dispatched Units: RA27 RA827 E27 BC5 E27 E82 E76 RA35 RA61 RA86 EM11 EM13 EM1 T27 E227 E21 E221 T21 SQ21 RA821 RA21 DC3 RA68 EM13 EM1 RA26 BC18 BC11 BC13 JT2

[ photos | video ]

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Grand Opening of LAFD Fire Station 82 in Hollywood

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 LAFD Fire Station 82 in Hollywood:

Saturday, June 2, 2012
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
New Fire Station 82
5769 Hollywood Boulevard
Hollywood, CA 90028

We're pleased to offer an interactive map that offers driving, transit, cycling and walking directions to this new facility, now actively serving Hollywood and the Hollywood Hills.

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.

A Brief History of Former Fire Station 82...

Established in the midst of World War II and housed in the distant, overcrowded quarters of LAFD's historic Fire Station 27 for its first 7 years, Engine Company 82 came to serve the rising population and industry in east Hollywood during the Truman presidency, as residents and City leaders scrambled to construct a neighborhood station for the crew at 1800 North Bronson Avenue.

Former LAFD Station 82 (1951-2012)

Opened on March 2, 1951 adjacent to the "Cahuenga Parkway" that would become the well known Hollywood (US 101) Freeway in 1954, the 7,145 square-foot single-bay Fire Station soon became an integral part of a largely residential community that, like the LAFD, evolved greatly in the more than six decades to follow.

Those assigned to the the 61-year-old former Fire Station became notably hampered over time by electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems that limited efficient operations. Equally foreboding for workers and visitors alike were critical deficiencies in seismic safety, climate control, ADA compliance, gender equity features and visitor parking.

LAFD Station 82 crew circa 1964.

What will long be remembered about the old station however, will be the perplexed look of neighbors, as crews at the single-bay Fire Station scrambled to move vehicles when an emergency response called for only the Engine Company or the Paramedic Ambulance - merely to see the process reversed and repeated as the crews returned and were again dispatched to emergencies.

Because the property beneath former Station 82 was too small to fully support a new or revamped Fire Station, Proposition F of November 2000 has brought the community a new and unique facility.

Today's Fire Station 82...

The four Firefighters and two Firefighter/Paramedics working each day at New Fire Station 82, continue to serve a diverse and demanding district of nearly 2 square miles, featuring high density residential and commercial properties, a busy freeway and subway corridor, television studios, entertainment venues, tourist sites and a portion of massive Griffith Park containing the iconic "Hollywood" sign.

Were this not enough, the station crew also bears primary responsibility for protecting hundreds of homes constructed in rugged terrain surrounded by volatile vegetation.

A safe, appealing and energy efficient facility, New Fire Station 82 features underground parking, a "green" roof and three-story construction, making it unique among Los Angeles Fire Stations. In a cost and space-saving measure benefitting the community and Department, several regional components of New Fire Station 82 - such as a multipurpose room and areas designed for efficient maintenance and rapid deployment of reserve apparatus, are now being constructed in a nearly 6,000 square-foot, two-story annex under construction on the site of the former station on Bronson Avenue.

Concept of New LAFD Fire Station 82 Annex under construction.

With drive-through apparatus bays that will preclude a need to shuffle vehicles at the time of an alarm, and countless other features designed for efficiency in the digital age, New Fire Station 82 promises to meet neighborhood needs - and those of a modern LAFD workforce - for many decades to come.

We encourage you to learn more about new Fire Station 82 and the many Fire Department facilities modernized by Proposition F by viewing a highly detailed on-line Monthly Progress Report.

..and most importantly, we look forward to seeing you this Saturday, June 2, 2012 in Hollywood for the Grand Opening of New LAFD Fire Station 82!


Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Injury, Death and Destruction Follow Shooting, Major Emergency Fire

HOLLYWOOD - Gun-shots fired in a relatively quiet neighborhood today, resulted in multiple victims, a Major Emergency Structure Fire and two deaths. No Fire or Police were injured.

At 12:41 PM on Thursday, February 16, 2012, LAPD Officers accompanied by Los Angeles Firefighters responded to a reported shooting at 517 North Harvard Boulevard. Upon arrival, they were greeting by three adults: one 34 year-old male and two 38 year-old females, all suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. A domestic dispute in the nearly 100 year-old single family dwelling, may have precipitated the gunfire. Acting without hesitation, the Officers and Firefighters rapidly extracted all three individuals from the residence, before discovering a quickly developing fire at the rear of the structure.

Adding to the chaos, were reports that the shooter was still in the residence and may have been holding one additional victim. The potential of this incident brought a swift and heavy response, with 150 Firefighters pouring into the Hollywood neighborhood.

The inherent risks of the incident were carefully considered by the Unified Command. With a reported shooter-at-large and a now, fully-developed structure fire, the safety and security of all personnel became the primary objective. With Firefighters unable make an interior fire-attack and untenable conditions in the structure eliminating the probability of survival, it was determined the best course of action was to let the fire burn itself out.

Hoselines were placed on each side of the approximate 2,600 square-foot home, as were armed LAPD Officers to provide force protection to Firefighters. The strategy was to prevent the fire from extending to the adjacent exposures by simply controlling it.

Full-extinguishment came 2 hours and 30 minutes later. Unfortunately, the discovery of two bodies also came, by way of our LAFD Cadaver Search Dog and its handler. They were aided by two others canines from Ventura County Fire Department. One of the bodies is believed to have been the shooter, of unknown age. Both bodies will be positively identified by the LA County Department of Coroner, as will the exact cause of death.

  

The three injured adults were all transported in critical condition to local hospitals. Both the fire and the crime scene are part of an active, joint investigation by the LAFD's Arson/Counter-Terrorism Section and the LAPD. While dollar-loss estimates were not yet available, the structure was a total loss. There were no reported injuries to LAFD or LAPD personnel.

Dispatched Units:
E11 RA6 RA20 T29 E29 E229 EM11 BC5 E61 RA82 RA41 RA56 EM2 EM9 E82 E235 T35 E227 BC11 BC2 BC13 DC2 E27 T27 UR3 RA3 HR56 UR88 BC1 UR27 RA827 E211 T11 E6 E15 E220 T20 SQ21 CM3 RA4 AR7 RA52 RA78 H2 E21 E3 E12 E202 T2 E226 T26 EA1 RT59 E56 AR1 RA867 RA867 E90 AR3 AR10 E91 RM2 SU1 AR36 E2 T12 E212 T3 E203

(PHOTOS)

Submitted by Matt Spence, Spokesman

Los Angeles Fire Department

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Smoke Alarms Help Save Family From Burning Apartment

EAST HOLLYWOOD - A family of five abruptly awoke to the sound of their smoke alarms echoing through their apartment, alerting them of a fire. This life saving sound provided them the necessary time to call 9-1-1 and escape through a second-story window.

Just before 6:30 AM on January 19, 2012, Los Angeles Firefighters quickly arrived in a little over three minutes to find smoke showing from the second story of a two-story apartment building located at 811 North Mariposa Avenue. Firefighters performed a rapid Search and Rescue operation to find anyone inside the smoke filled residence, but they were already out...

Upon detection of the fire, the family immediately called 9-1-1, then got out and stayed out! They were unable to exit the front door due to smoke & flames, therefore they broke out a window from their second-story apartment and threw a mattress outside to the ground, in anticipation of having to jump. Neighbors assisted by placing aluminum "painters ladders" to the window allowing the mother, father and three daughters to safely exit the 46 year-old building.

A total of 39 firefighters, under the command of Battalion Chief A. Ward, worked hard and fast to extinguish the flames in just 13 minutes. The fire was confined to the unit of origin, before it had a chance to spread to any of the dozen attached units. The cause of the fire was electrical and appears to be accidental in nature. The dollar loss is still being tabulated, and the American Red Cross assisted with the displaced family.

Every year in the United States, about 3,500 people die in home fires. Most of these deaths occurred in homes that didn’t have a working smoke alarm.

Fortunately, due to early detection from functional smoke alarms, no one was seriously injured or killed in this morning's incident.

Your Los Angeles Fire Department asks, "If a fire breaks out in your home while you are asleep, how will you know?"

Smoke and heat rapidly build, making every second count. A smoke alarm is constantly on alert, scanning the air for fire and smoke 24/7. Remember, Smoke Alarms not only protect your family but can help save the lives of firefighters who would otherwise have to risk their lives by searching a burning home for residents.

Lastly, don't forget to prepare and practice your fire escape plan twice a year with everyone in your household, including children and people with disabilities.

Dispatched Units: E52 RA52 E6 RA6 E235 T35 E82 E227 T27 EM11 BC11 BC18 E29

(photos)

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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LAFD Battles Huge Hollywood Structure Fire

HOLLYWOOD - Nearly 150 Los Angeles Firefighters battled a massive blaze at a large two-story vacant church, just before 6:00 PM January 1st, 2012.

Firefighters arrived at 1717 North Gramercy Place to find heavy fire showing from the second story of a pre-1933 church, with adjacent classrooms attached. Due to the deep set, mid-block location of the structure, the roof was difficult to access with Aerial Ladder Trucks. Therefore, firefighters utilized multiple 35' ground ladders.

Strategically cutting three strips off the rooftop for ventilation helped limit horizontal fire spread, as firefighters under the command of Battalion Chief J. Castro used hand-lines to tackle flames within the 100' x 50' structure.

A very aggressive fire attack ensued for one hour. Some firefighters went through three air bottles battling the inferno during their offensive and exhaustive attack. Flames damaged the basement, first floor, second floor and attic. No injuries were reported.

Loss from the fire is still being tabulated, while the cause of the blaze remains under active investigation.

Dispatched Units: E82 RA82 E227 E27 T27 RA827 E52 E235 T35 EM11 BC5 BC18 E29 E261 T61 DC3 E41 SQ21 BC11 CP2 E26 E229 T29 EM2 UR27 T3 E203 RA3 RA803 E89 UR88 BC14 RA27 E11 E260 T60 E210 T10 E76 RA52 RA35 EM14 EM9 AR27 EA1 RT59 T20 E220 T20 E220 AR7 SU1 E10 T15 E215 E27


Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Fire Sweeps Through Attic of Hollywood's Magic Castle

HOLLYWOOD HILLS- The Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported "Structure Fire" at the historic Magic Castle today, leaving the 102 year-old mansion no choice but to postpone its planned week of Halloween festivities, which the private club had ironically dubbed "Inferno at the Castle."



At 12:35 pm on Monday, October 31, 2011, 120 Los Angeles Firefighters quickly descended upon the two-story, Victorian-style structure at 7001 West Franklin Avenue, for what was confirmed by first arriving resources as a "fire in the attic." Because of the building's compartmentalized construction and its complexity in design, the fire was able to conceal itself within the walls and attic of the Magic Castle. For a time, the fire seemed, almost, to prevent itself from being discovered and perhaps hoped to extend the theme of the magic club's week-long promotion, on its own.

Great lengths were taken to keep this Los Angeles area landmark and all of its historical content safe from extensive damage. Thanks to an aggressive fire-attack, coupled with strategic work on a very elaborate roof, Firefighters were able to fully-extinguish this pesky fire in just one hour and five minutes. Although its construction dates back to 1909, the mansion is now fully-sprinklered, which aided in the LAFD's ability to confine the fire to its area of origin.

The Magic Castle's management and its workers, preparing for the Halloween Night festivities, were the only occupants in the building at the time. All managed to exit the structure without incident and we are pleased to report, there were no injuries.

While the exact cause remains under active investigation, the fire was determined to be "accidental" in nature. Dollar loss and damage estimates were not yet available.

Click here to find updates from our friends at The Magic Castle, such as when they hope to reopen.

Dispatched Units:
E41 RA41 E27 T27 RA827 E82 E261 T61 EM14 BC18 BC5 E76 E10 E235 T35 T29 E229 E11 DC3 SQ21 EM2 BC11 RA27 E227 T3 E203 RA803 UR88 BC14 UR3 E15 E60 E278 T78 E226 T26 RA52 RA102 EM11 EA1 E3 RM2 RM3 AR2 SU1

Submitted by Matt Spence, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Fire in UCLA Science Lab Garners Significant LAFD Response

WESTWOOD - A laboratory at UCLA's Health and Sciences Center was significantly damaged by a fire this morning and at one point, brought nearly 150 Los Angeles Firefighters to the scene.

At 11:05 am on October 24, 2011, the LAFD responded to a reported "Structure Fire" in a seven-story, science building on the UCLA campus. A complete evacuation was already underway, as first arriving Firefighters made their ascent to the fifth floor of this facility. The Incident Commander noted the presence of hazardous materials clearly marked on exterior of the building, considered its size and type, as well as the time of day, and knew the potential existed for a very significant incident. Immediately, the request was made for additional resources, including the LAFD's Hazardous Materials (HazMat) Squad.

Firefighters quickly gained control and fully extinguish the blaze in 50 minutes, confining it to just one room. The incident then began to de-escalate and many of the on-scene resources were released.

With a full evacuation of the building in place, the HazMat Squad made entry and conducted precautionary testing. The facility was later deemed safe for students, faculty and employees, as they were allowed to re-populate all floors of the building, except the affected fire-floor.

We are pleased to report there were no injuries or illnesses, as a result of this incident. While the exact cause remains under investigation, the fire was determined "accidental" in nature. Dollar loss estimates were not yet available.

Dispatched Units:
E37 RA37 E71 RA71 E19 E288 T88 E269 T69 E81 T39 E239 H0C H0D H0F EM14 BC10 BC5 E60 SQ87 E88 H1 H2 H3 E87 T87 RA87 DC3 E237 T37 E292 T92 E94 E99 E109 E41 E51 E26 E278 T78 AR2 E295 T95 E226 T26 BC1 RA19 RA62 RA43 RA99 RA15 EM2 EM17 E59 BC9 EA1 BC4 EM9 UR88 CM3 RT59 RA63 EM11 RA59 LO1 RA58

Submitted by Matt Spence, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Tough Blaze in Hollywood Hills Home Injures Two Firefighters

HOLLYWOOD HILLS - Firefighters filled the narrow, windy streets of this quiet Hollywood Hills neighborhood, where they battled intense flames, in an attempt to save a large, private residence on the 7300 block of Woodrow Wilson Drive. This 2000 square foot, single story residence, presented several challenges to those on-scene, including the dark, steep hillside on which it was built and the heavy, dense brush that surrounds it. Additionally, there were some traffic issues, as large fire apparatus attempted to negotiate these hills.

The initial dispatch, at just before 8:00 pm on Friday, September 9, 2011, brought the LAFD's water-dropping helicopters, as this was originally thought to have been a "brush fire." While water-drops were not an option in this residential neighborhood, our air resources did provide very valuable lighting to the incident, in the form of their "Nightsun" lamps. Visibility on the nearly black hillside had only been made worse due to the smokey conditions, and the lamps assisted in the illumination of several other hazards, including an empty, in-ground swimming pool located in the front yard.
(video)




After an exhausting battle that lasted nearly one and a half hours, 80 Firefighters officially declared a "knockdown" and the Incident Commander's initial fear of this fire extending into the surrounding brush, was not realized. This was due, in large part, to the strong efforts of all members on-scene. The incident took tremendous coordination, as most companies were forced to park their apparatus down the hill, and then hike back up, in order to go to work. Two LAFD members were sent to local hospitals for observation, after both sustained (at the time of this posting) not yet determined, illnesses/injuries.

The cause of this Friday night blaze remains under active investigation and the dollar loss is still being tabulated. The LAFD did not formally determine or identify the legal owner of the property at the time of the fire.

DISPATCHED UNITS: E76 RA876 E97 RA97 E227 T27 BC5 BC14 E29 E41 E27 E82 E86 E68 H6 H2 H1 DC3 T90 E290 E26 E261 T61 BC18 E3 RA41 EM9 BC11 RA27 RA82 EM14 E11 E215 T15 AR2 RM2 E88


Submitted by Matt Spence, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Man Found Dead in Hollywood House Fire

HOLLYWOOD - Sadly a man was found deceased tonight inside a residence that was on fire.




The Los Angeles Fire Department was called at 8:29 PM on Thursday, July 21, 2011 to

739 North Mariposa Avenue in Hollywood, where they found heavy smoke showing from the second story of a single family dwelling.

The first of 44 firefighters initially dispatched to the scene quickly extended hoselines inside the 3,269 square-foot residence, extinguishing the flames in just 16 minutes – only to discover a 69 year-old male. Beyond medical help, he was determined dead at the scene. No other injuries were reported.

The bulk of the flames were in one room on the second story, which was described as "packrat” like conditions. There were no smoke alarms present within the residence. Monetary loss from the blaze in the 98-year old non-fire sprinklered home is estimated at $45,000 ($25,000 structure & $20,000 contents).

A positive identification of the dead man, as well as the precise cause, time and manner of his death, will be determined the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner.

The cause of the fire remains the focus of a joint investigation by Los Angeles Fire and Police Department Investigators.

Dispatched Units: E52 RA52 E6 RA6 E235 T35 E227 E27 T27 T20 E220 EM14 BC5 BC11 E29 AR2 DC2 AR23 AR17

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Grass Fire Near Cahuenga Pass

On Saturday, June 18, 2011 at 2:53 PM, 8 Fire Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 3 Helicopters, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 2 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, all under the direction of Division Chief Michael Little, responded to a Brush Fire in the Cahuenga Pass Area near the 101 freeway.

A small column of smoke ascending from the hillside area alerted passing motorists to a growing grass fire. Firefighters encountered approximately one quarter acre of grass burning uphill with little wind, approximately one half mile south of Barham Boulevard and Cahuenga Boulevard. As additional Firefighters arrived they were deployed to attack the hot flanks of the fire in an attempt to control the perimeter of fire and provide protection for any near by structures.

Over 32 Firefighters were strategically deployed for a quick aggressive attack on the sides of the fire and were able to gain control and extinguish the flames in 23 minutes. Due to favorable weather conditions and an aggressive, well coordinated attack on the fire, no structures were damaged. There were no injuries reported. The cause of the fire was unintentional and undetermined.

Submitted by Diana Igawa & Erik Scott, Spokespersons
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Officials Identify and Release Booking Photo of Hollywood Temple Arson Suspect

On Thursday, April 14, 2011 at 8:43 AM, the Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned by law enforcement officials to commence a post-fire investigation at the Temple Israel of Hollywood at 7300 Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood.

In a media statement, the Los Angeles Police Department described a burglary during which a small fire was set in a temple classroom. The fire was reportedly extinguished prior to the Police Officer's arrival. There were no injuries, and damage to the synagogue school was described as minimal.

Pursuant of protocol, the multi-agency House of Worship Arson Task Force was deployed, bringing local specialists from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives as well as the Federal Bureau of Investigation to join Investigators from the Los Angeles Police and Fire Departments.

With concurrence of the investigation team, the Los Angeles Fire Department released video and still images of the suspect.




The following statement and booking photo was issued by the Los Angeles Fire Department on April 20, 2011:

The Los Angeles Fire Department’s Arson/Counter-Terrorism Section as the lead agency of the House of Worship Arson Task Force which includes members from the Los Angeles Fire Department, Los Angeles Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives have made an arrest in connection with the Temple Israel of Hollywood, 7300 Hollywood Blvd., arson incident which occurred on Thursday, April 14, 2011.

Arson & Burglary Suspect Dmitriy Sheyko
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The suspect, Dmitriy Sheyko is currently in custody and has been charged with the Temple Israel of Hollywood burglary and arson incident, as well as several additional intentional fires in the Hollywood Hills. The additional fires occurred on the night of April 17, 2011, at a construction site that was in close proximity to where Sheyko had been detained by Los Angeles police officers conducting a burglary investigation.

Today, the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office reviewed the facts of the case as presented by LAFD and LAPD Investigators, which resulted in the filing of 19 felony counts against Sheyko. The charges filed include multiple counts of burglary, arson and the use of a destructive device. Bail has been set at $3,000,000.

Anyone who believes that they recognize this individual as being tied to any other crimes or fires are encouraged to contact Arson Investigators at the Los Angeles Fire Department Arson/Counter-Terrorism Section at (213)485-6095.

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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