How Does LAFD Determine Wildfire Danger in Los Angeles?

How are decisions made by the Los Angeles Fire Department to pre-deploy resources on days of high wildfire hazard?

The answer is science.

To learn more, we spoke with Captain Daniel Curry, lead for the LAFD Fire Weather Program, who explains...

The LAFD utilizes a Burning Index (BI) to determine the Department’s commitment to pre-deploy resources. A number of procedures occur each day to determine the BI in Los Angeles.

First, dead vegetation fuel moisture readings are taken in the early afternoon at Fire Station 108 on Mulholland Drive near Coldwater Canyon, and communicated to LAFD's North Division Headquarters located at Fire Station 88 in the San Fernando Valley.

Second, a group of federal meteorologists at the Southern California Geographic Area Coordination Center (SCGACC) in Riverside, California provide a "fire weather forecast" consisting of a predicted high temperature, low relative humidity, wind speed and direction for the next day.

Third, historical data (high/low temperature, high/low relative humidity and hours of rainfall in the last 24 hours) is mixed into the brew.

All of this information is fed into equations that make up the National Fire Danger Rating System (NFDRS). The result is the BI. Theoretically, fire danger is elevated when BI’s reach high values.

The daily BI level is stated as a numerical value:

BI 0 to 37 = Low
BI 38 to 47 = Moderate
BI 48 to 110 = High
BI 111 to 161 = Very High
BI 162 and above = Extreme

On days of Extreme Fire Danger, the Los Angeles Fire Department may pre-deploy resources at select Neighborhood Fire Stations in-and-near areas prone to wildfire.

Not all forecasts become reality, so LAFD North Division staff conduct real-time weather surveys, monitor Remote Automated Weather Stations (RAWS) in and near the City of Los Angeles and consult the National Weather Service (NWS) to stay abreast of fire weather conditions and forecasts.

Please remember that radio and television weather reports are broadcast to a wider community than the City of Los Angeles, and pass along information on "Red Flag Warnings", for instance, that may not apply to the area served by the LAFD.

The NWS and SCGACC may come to different conclusions on the forecast as well, based on which computer model each agency trusts. Ultimately, the LAFD makes decisions on pre-deployment based on all of these inputs – with a lot of experience mixed in.

Kindly note that LAFD uses the term "Red Flag Alert" to indicate forecasted or existing "Red Flag" conditions inside the City of Los Angeles. A "Red Flag Alert" is called when the wind speed is 25 miles per hour or more and the relative humidity is 15% or less. History has proven that a combination of strong winds, low humidity and warm temperatures will create explosive fire growth potential.

For this reason, parking restrictions may exist on certain narrow streets in brush areas during “Red Flag Alert” conditions. To determine current Red Flag Alert Parking Restrictions within the City of Los Angeles, please call 3-1-1 or visit:

lafd.org/redflag

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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LAFD Responds to 'Rim' Wildfire near Yosemite National Park

Pursuant to a Mutual Aid Request, the Los Angeles Fire Department has assigned one Strike Team of firefighters to assist allied agencies in their battle against a brush fire in the Stanislaus National Forest, 3 miles east of Groveland in Tuolumne County, California (west of Yosemite National Park), approximately 260 miles northwest of our City.


You can pan, click & zoom this Map of the Rim Fire near Yosemite National Park
These twenty-three personnel from the Los Angeles Fire Department have been dispatched to the Rim Fire Wildfire Incident in accordance with the California Fire Service and Rescue Emergency Mutual Aid Plan. Administered by the Governor's Office of Emergency Services (OES), the plan is designed to ensure resources for local jurisdictions when their own assets are committed or insufficient for an emergency incident.

The City of Los Angeles remains protected by the use of additional staff and reserve apparatus to cover foreseeable local needs.

The men and women of the LAFD ask motorists to remain watchful for these and other convoys of emergency apparatus, and to be mindful of the space necessary for them to safely maneuver on local roads and highways.

Pursuant of protocol, official public and media information regarding this wildfire, including the actions of assigned LAFD personnel, will be provided by the U.S. Forest Service and CAL FIRE, which are in joint command of this incident.

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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LAFD Provides Mutual Aid to the Silver Fire in Banning CA

BANNING - The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) provides information regarding their mutual aid support of the Firefighters battling a brush fire called the Silver Fire, a Wildfire Incident near Banning, California on August 7th, 2013.

Pursuant to a Mutual Aid Request, the LAFD has assigned one Strike Team of firefighters to assist Cal Fire / Riverside County Fire Department and allied agencies in their battle against a brush fire burning near Poppet Flats Road and Hwy 243, south of Banning, in Riverside County, California, approximately 84 miles east of our City.
These 22 personnel consisting of a Battalion 5 Chief, Engine 10, Engine 11, Engine 15, Engine 27 and Engine 61 (Strike Team 1001) from the Los Angeles Fire Department have been dispatched to the Silver Fire Wildfire Incident, on August 7, 2013, in accordance with the California Fire Service and Rescue Emergency Mutual Aid Plan. Administered by the California Emergency Management Agency (Cal OES), the plan is designed to ensure resources for local jurisdictions when their own assets are committed or insufficient for an emergency incident. These LAFD firefighters originally back-filled Fire Stations in Moreno Valley and now have been redirected to Base Camp to be deployed to the Fire Ground. An additional LAFD Battalion Chief was also deployed to the Silver Fire as a Branch Director Trainee.

The City of Los Angeles remains protected by the use of additional staff and reserve apparatus to cover foreseeable local needs.

The men and women of the LAFD ask motorists to remain watchful for these and other convoys of emergency apparatus, and to be mindful of the space necessary for them to safely maneuver on local roads and highways.

Pursuant of protocol, official public and media information regarding this wildfire, including the actions of assigned LAFD personnel, will be provided by Cal Fire, which maintains daily jurisdictional authority of the area where the fire is burning. Additional details may be posted for public view on the Inciweb system or California Fire News.

Webcams: Toro Peak west cam. Toro Peak north cam.

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Los Angeles Firefighters Keep Sunland Brush Fire to Just 4 Acres

SUNLAND - A brush fire scorched over four acres before it was extinguished by over 100 LAFD firefighters along with other allied agencies. No structures were damaged and no one was injured.

At 3:40 p.m. on Saturday June 8th, 2013, the Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned to the 9400 block of Foothill Boulevard where they found two acres of medium brush burning uphill. A strong attack from the ground and air ensued and additional resources were requested, including mutual aid from our friends at Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACoFD) and Angeles National Forest (ANF).

Fortunately there was minimal to no wind and the fire was driven by topography. The swift arrival of precise water-dropping aircraft, along with firefighters who labored on the ground by extending hose lays up steep terrain, stopped the flames from burning out of control.

Over 100 LAFD firefighters along with LACoFD and ANF, all under the command of Assistant Chief Andrew Fox, battled through steep hills in 77 degree heat and 55% humidity, and fully contained the flames to 4.025 acres by 5:53 p.m. Firefighters performed an extensive overhaul and scratch line around the fire, then remained on scene into the night to ensure there were no flare-ups. The cause of the fire is under active investigation.

Residents living in brush areas are reminded to remain compliant with brush clearance regulations and to review Ready Set Go.

Dispatched Units: E24 E274 T74 BC12 E77 E98 T98 E298 E289 E89 T89 BC15 E60 E90 H1 H4 H5 WT77 BP74 RA898 BP98 WT88 DC3 RA77 T90 E290 T88 E288 RA98 EM14 RA89 RP88 BC14 E88 E7 E39 E91 E81 E86 E102 E70

(PHOTOS)

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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LAFD Responds to 'Powerhouse' Wildfire in Angeles National Forest

Pursuant to a Mutual Aid Request, the Los Angeles Fire Department has assigned one Strike Team of firefighters, one LAFD Helicopter with support crew, as well as specially certified Command and operational staff to assist the U.S. Forest Service and allied agencies in their battle against a brush fire that began on May 30, 2013 in the Angeles National Forest between Castaic and Palmdale (Antelope Valley), approximately 17 miles north of our City.


Click here to view a larger perimeter map of the Powerhouse Fire
(You can also click, grab and zoom the current status map above)
These forty personnel from the Los Angeles Fire Department have been dispatched to the Powerhouse Wildfire Incident in accordance with the California Fire Service and Rescue Emergency Mutual Aid Plan. Administered by the California Emergency Management Agency (Cal EMA), the plan is designed to ensure resources for local jurisdictions when their own assets are committed or insufficient for an emergency.

The City of Los Angeles remains protected by the use of additional staff and reserve apparatus to cover foreseeable local needs.

The men and women of the LAFD ask motorists to remain watchful for these and other convoys of emergency apparatus, and to be mindful of the space necessary for them to safely maneuver on local roads and highways.

Pursuant of protocol, *official public and media information* regarding this wildfire, including the actions of assigned LAFD personnel, will be provided by the U.S. Forest Service (@R5_Fire_News) and/or Los Angeles County Fire Department (@LACoFDPIO) and/or Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (@LASD_News), which are in Joint Command of this incident that originated within the Angeles National Forest (@Angeles_NF).

Twitter Hashtag: #PowerhouseFire

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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LAFD Responds to 'Springs' Wildfire in Ventura County

Pursuant to a Mutual Aid Request, the Los Angeles Fire Department has assigned two Strike Teams of firefighters to assist the Ventura County Fire Department and allied agencies in their battle against a brush fire between Camarillo and Newbury Park, California, approximately 17 miles west of our City.


View Larger Vicinity Map of the Springs Wildfire (You can also pan, click & zoom the map above)
These fifty personnel from the Los Angeles Fire Department have been dispatched to the Springs Fire Wildfire Incident in accordance with the California Fire Service and Rescue Emergency Mutual Aid Plan. Administered by the California Emergency Management Agency (Cal EMA), the plan is designed to ensure resources for local jurisdictions when their own assets are committed or insufficient for a specific emergency incident.

The City of Los Angeles remains protected by the use of additional staff and reserve apparatus to cover foreseeable local needs.

The men and women of the LAFD ask motorists to remain watchful for these and other convoys of emergency apparatus, and to be mindful of the space necessary for them to safely maneuver on local roads and highways.

Pursuant of protocol, official public and media information regarding this wildfire, including the actions of assigned LAFD personnel, will be provided by the Ventura County Fire Department and/or the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), which are managing the incident.

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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LAFD Explains Brush Clearance Process in Los Angeles

The residents of Los Angeles and those who protect them are no strangers to wildfire. Wildland blazes within LAFD's jurisdiction are well known - and for many, unforgettable.

Historical and Hurtful...

Along with conflagrations like the Sayre and Bel-Air wildfires that took hundreds of homes, or the week-long Fire of '38 that scorched vast expanses of land, wildfire in our City has also taken lives, such as the La Tuna Canyon wildfire that killed our Brother James Catlow, and the horrific Griffith Park Brush Fire during the depression, which is believed to have killed more firefighters than any wildfire in our nation's history.

And so it is with a penchant for our City's past and devotion to our fallen colleagues, that members of your Los Angeles Fire Department set out in earnest this time of year to inform those we serve about the danger of wildfire. It is also a time for us to enforce the City's long-standing Brush Clearance Regulations...

Owners Self Inspection:

We ask property owners in the City of Los Angeles to compare their native brush and landscape vegetation with information at the LAFD Brush Clearance Unit website:

lafd.org/brush
Property owners who are unable to do this themselves are encouraged to hire a professional who can both understand the information and apply it to their property.

Property must be cleaned as required prior to May 1st so that it can pass the 1st Fire Department Inspection, thus avoiding a time consuming 2nd Inspection, which leads to a costly 3rd Inspection.

We wish to emphasize that there is no need to call for an inspection, as an LAFD computer system keeps track of all properties. The appropriate Inspector is automatically notified when your property is in need of an Inspection.

1st Inspection:

The first inspection is done by the LAFD Brush Task Force, beginning the first week in May and continuing for six weeks until all 179,451 parcels in the brush zone have been inspected. Parcels found to be non-compliant are issued a Notice of Violation. The homeowner or person responsible has 15 days to comply with the Notice of Violation.

2nd Inspection:

Those issued a Notice of Violation on the 1st inspection will be inspected a 2nd time after the 15 day period to comply has passed.

If the property is then found to be in compliance, the owner will receive notification from the LAFD Brush Unit. If the property is not fully in compliance the owner will be notified via mail and the property will be assigned to the Area Inspector. The Area Inspector will then take pictures of the non-compliant parcel and create a package that will be presented to City brush clearance contractors for bid.

We wish to again emphasize there is no need to call the Brush Unit when your are ready for this inspection. It will happen automatically, and you will be mailed the findings.

3rd Inspection:

When a third inspection is required there is an automatic fee assessed to the property owner for the amount of $352. The fee is applied even if the property is found to be compliant as a result of this inspection. The fee is for an Inspector making a trip to the property for a third time.

The property should have been in compliance by the 1st inspection and no later than the 2nd inspection!

If your property fails a 3rd Inspection...

Property not in compliance with LAFD Brush Clearance Requirements following the 3rd inspection will be cleared by Fire Department order. The property owner will then be charged for the cost of clearance, PLUS the $352 3rd Inspection Fee, PLUS a $938 Administrative Fee.

Failure to clear your property in accordance with regulations in a timely fashion is not only expensive, but endangers the lives and homes of your neighbors and the firefighters who protect them.

To learn more, please visit:

lafd.org/brush

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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LAFD Handles Van Nuys Brush Fire that Closed SB 405 Freeway

VAN NUYS - Los Angeles firefighters quickly surrounded a four-acre brush fire that forced the closure of all southbound lanes on the 405 Freeway near Victory Boulevard on Saturday afternoon.

On April 20, 2013, multiple commuters contacted 9-1-1 around 2:45 p.m., alerting firefighters of a 1/2 acre grass fire just south of Victory Boulevard near Haskell Avenue, west of the 405 freeway. Pushed along by a nine mph breeze, flames began spreading into nearby dry brush and trees. Additional firefighters and water dropping helicopters were immediately requested.
  
A total of 75 hard working firefighters, under the command of Assistant Chief Trevor Richmond, battled through portions of steep terrain in 91 degree heat and 11% humidity, fully containing the flames to four acres by 4:30 p.m.

Fortunately there were no structures threatened, however an additional concern was a nearby homeless encampment, which firefighters thoroughly searched, ensuring no one was in danger. The encampment proved to be empty and no one was injured.

Firefighters, including members of LAFD Crew 3, remained on scene for over four hours ensuring no hot spots reignited.

The flames temporarily shut down all south lanes of the 405 at Victory Boulevard, the Roscoe Boulevard on-ramp and the Victory off-ramp. A SigAlert was declared by the CHP at 3:17 p.m. As soon as safely possible CHP progressively opened lanes until the SigAlert was cancelled at 6:27 p.m.

Dispatched Units: E288 T88 E39 E290 T90 BC10 E100 E88 WT88 E83 DC3 CW3A BP83 RA100 E13 E81 E102 EM17 BC14 H5 H1 BC12 E61 E7 E93 H5

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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LAFD Responds to 'Madison' Wildfire in Monrovia

Pursuant of a formal Mutual Aid Request, the Los Angeles Fire Department has assigned one Strike Team of firefighters and one LAFD Helicopter to assist the Monrovia Fire Department and allied agencies in their battle against a brush fire near Madison Avenue and Crescent Drive in Monrovia, California, approximately 9 miles northeast of our City.


View Larger Map of Madison Fire vicinity (You can also pan, click & zoom the map above!)
These 25 personnel from the Los Angeles Fire Department have been dispatched to the Madison Wildfire in accordance with the California Fire Service and Rescue Emergency Mutual Aid Plan.

Administered by the California Emergency Management Agency (CalEMA), the plan is designed to ensure resources for local jurisdictions when their own assets are committed or insufficient for a specific emergency incident.

The City of Los Angeles remains protected by the use of additional staff and reserve apparatus to cover foreseeable local needs.

The men and women of the LAFD ask motorists to remain watchful for these and other convoys of emergency apparatus, and to be mindful of the space necessary for them to safely maneuver on local roads and highways.

Pursuant of protocol, official public and media information regarding this wildfire, including the actions of assigned LAFD personnel, will be provided by the Monrovia Fire Department, which maintains daily jurisdictional authority of the area where the fire is burning.

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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LAFD 'Rustic Canyon' Wildfire - September 15, 2012

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

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Firefighters Battle 90 Acre Brush Fire Near Sepulveda Pass

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

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Model Plane Suspected Cause of 30 Acre Wildfire

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY - More than 100 firefighters responded by ground and air to battle a fast-moving thirty-acre grass fire in the Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area on Monday afternoon.
The wildfire was reported at 12:18 PM on July 16, 2012, south of 6400 Woodley Avenue, within a 2,000 acre public reserve of undeveloped land in the south San Fernando Valley, that serves as a seasonal flood control basin.

Light but variable winds fanned flames in three-foot tall grass that led to thicker and more volatile vegetation, as the fire quickly grew. Los Angeles Fire Department helicopters performed precise aerial water drops to help contain the forward movement of the fire, as LAFD ground crews deftly flanked the flames.

They were soon joined by five Los Angeles County Fire Department handcrews, four of their Supervisors and an LACoFD helicopter to collectively contain the fire in just 47 minutes.

The flames were fully extinguished in less than 90 minutes. A preliminary estimate of twenty acres burned was increased to 30.5 acres following a more detailed assessment once the smoke cleared. No structures were threatened or damaged, and there was no need for evacuation.

No injuries were reported.

Firefighters suspect that a radio-controlled model aircraft from the nearby Apollo XI Model Aircraft Flying Field, may have landed unintentionally in the tinder dry grass, sparking the blaze. Los Angeles Police Officers interviewed witnesses at the scene for what remains an active investigation.

Dispatched LAFD Units: E100 BC10 E90 WT88 E88 E88 H0D H1 E83 E81 RA100 E290 T90 E239 E39 T39 E273 T73 E93 DC3 EM15 BC14 H4 H6 E87 E70 E84 BC17 BC729 RT83 E89 E105 BP28

[ photos | photos ]


Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Dead Body Found While Extinguishing La Tuna Canyon Brush Fire

LA TUNA CANYON - Los Angeles Fire and Police Investigators are seeking the cause of a fire in La Tuna Canyon early Thursday morning, in which a man was found dead.

Just before 3:00 AM scores of firefighters responded to 8300 West La Tuna Canyon Road to find a 20' x 30' area of thick tall brush burning on a steep hillside in La Tuna Canyon Park, an open space preserve overseen by the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy.

Due to the aggressive attack of first arriving firefighters, under the direction of Battalion Chief Randy Beaty, the flames were quickly extinguished before spreading.

However, during fire attack, firefighters discovered the remains of an adult male burned in the base of a steep ravine near the entrance of the West trail. Beyond medical help, he was declared deceased at the scene. No other injuries were reported.

This incident is under active investigation by LAFD Arson Counter Terrorism Section and LAPD Foothill Division. A positive identification of the deceased man to include his age, as well as the cause, time and manner of his death, will be determined by the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner.

Dispatched Units: E274 T74 E24 E89 T89 E289 E98 T98 E298 E7 DC3 H0C H0D BC12 BC14 BC10 E60 E77 H1 H3 H6 E90 RA74 WT77 RA77 RA77 RA74 AR2 AR12 AR17

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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LAFD Mourns Passing of Active Duty Fire Inspector Jerald L. Coates

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of a highly respected member of the Los Angeles Fire Department.

Fire Inspector Jerald Lewis Coates left us suddenly on Sunday afternoon, May 20, 2012, while off-duty and in the comfort of his own home. He was an active-duty, 25-year veteran of the Department, having been appointed to the LAFD in 1987.

LAFD Inspector Jerald L. Coates
(1953-2012)

In his nearly three decades of service to the people of Los Angeles, the 59 year-old Coates held a variety of demanding assignments.

In 2001, following 14 years of distinguished service at the rank of Firefighter, he promoted to Inspector. Within the Fire Prevention Bureau, he expertly addressed the special permitting and hazards of underground tanks, before being assigned to the Brush Clearance Unit in 2010.

As a member of this small team of 13 inspectors, Coates helped supervise brush clearance issues among nearly 180,000 targeted parcels citywide. Jerald enjoyed educating the community about the dangers of wildfire, and was routinely lauded by residents for his fair handling of difficult situations. By all accounts, he took great pride in personalized public service.

We kindly ask you to keep Inspector Jerald L. Coates and his loved-ones in your thoughts and prayers. He is survived by his longtime life partner, Donailah and his 25 year-old son, Ryan.

The public is invited to join the LAFD and the family and friends of

Inspector Jerald L. Coates, as we together mourn his passing.

Public Memorial Service for

LAFD Inspector Jerald L. Coates:

DATE:               Friday, June 1, 2012

TIME:               10:00 am

LOCATION:     Divine Saviour Catholic Church
                            610 Cypress Avenue
                            Los Angeles, CA 90065

INTERMENT:   Private

VIEWING:         Private

DONATIONS:  IN LIEU OF FLOWERS, A DONATION IS WELCOME:
                           Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen's Fund
                            815 Colorado Blvd, 4th Floor
                            Los Angeles, CA 90041


Submitted by Matt Spence, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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50 Years Ago: Bel Air a 'Hurricane of Fire'

On November 6, 1961, the City of Los Angeles was visited by one of the most disastrous brush fires in Southern California history.

Lashing out from a point of origin high on the north slope of the Santa Monica Mountains, the flames raced through tinder-dry vegetation to the summit, leaped across Mulholland Drive and raged southward into Stone Canyon on a rapidly widening front - in terrain and weather described as a "design for disaster"...


Driven savagely by fifty-mile-per-hour winds, the flames sped south and westward. The canyons and ridges of the coastal slope became engulfed in a veritable hurricane of fire. Thermal air currents, created by the intense heat, coupled with the high velocity winds swirled countless burning brands aloft to deposit them far in advance of the main fire front.

Natural and man-made barriers proved utterly incapable of interrupting the progress of the fire under such adverse conditions, noted in this vintage video from KTLA-TV:


Before the wild rush of this roaring destruction was finally subdued, 6,090 acres of valuable watershed had been consumed. Infinitely more tragic was the incineration of 484 costly residences and 21 other buildings. Amazingly however, no one was killed.

As this great fire gained in intensity, a second blaze was criminally ignited in Benedict Canyon which lies a mile to the east of Stone Canyon...

To learn more about the Bel-Air/Brentwood and Santa Ynez wildfires - including a stirring personal account from an LAFD member who fought them, visit:

lafdmuseum.org/bel-air-fire

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Brush Fire in Lake View Terrace is Hit Hard and Fast

LAKE VIEW TERRACE - At 2:25 on October 22, 2011, a "Brush Fire" ignited on the fringe of a quiet neighborhood in the north end of the San Fernando Valley at 11880 Terra Vista Way.

Originally reported as a 3-4 acre fire in light-to-medium brush, first on-scene resources found fire moving rapidly, up very steep terrain, towards the front-end of the Angeles National Forest. This brought a swift and heavy response, as 75 Los Angeles Firefighters worked aggressively in the 90 degree heat, to prevent the fire from further spread.

Assisting the LAFD's efforts, were our partners from neighboring jurisdictions, as Los Angeles County Fire (LACo) and the Angeles National Forest (ANF) both sent fire resources. Additionally, two Quebec Bombardier "Super Scoopers" and the Erickson "Air-Crane" (all on-lease through the Brush Season), as well as four LAFD water-dropping helicopters, delivered very strategic water drops. Together, with the fire crews on the ground, this brush fire was brought under control in just 54 minutes and held to approximately eight acres.

Ground and air crews stayed on-scene for three and half hours, as the burn area was cooled and surveyed to ensure that no embers remained. Careful management of brush incidents in this manner, will prove to be of the utmost importance, as we move deeper into the Brush Season and as we make preparations for our first "wind event," with the "Santa Anas" expected sometime next week.

No structures were damaged during the firefight; however, there was an incident-related injury reported shortly after the fire was fully extinguished. One ANF Firefighter was transported to a local hospital, via air-ambulance, for heat-related complications.

The cause of the fire is under active investigation.

Dispatched Units:
E98 T98 E298 BC12 E77 E24 E91 E7 E275 T75 E274 T74 H0D H0F BC10 E70 E89 H2 H4 H5 WT77 RP88 DC3 T90 E290 H733 AR2 RH114 H0E H0A H1 E90

Submitted by Matt Spence, Spokesman

Los Angeles Fire Department

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The LAFD Unveils Its Preparation for Brush Season and Asks You a Question

On Friday September 23, the news media gathered together at Chatsworth Reservoir, where Fire Chief Brian Cummings presented the resources that the City of Los Angeles has available to combat the threat of this year's Brush Fire season.

Local News Media at Chatsworth Helispot

The location was one of LA’s 32 helispots, which provided a beautiful backdrop of brush-covered, rugged terrain, steep canyons and rolling hills, that reminded those present just how vulnerable Southern California is to a major brush fire. The purpose of this meeting was two-fold...

First, to reassure YOU that the LAFD is prepared for this year's Brush Season.


Water Tender, Air-Crane, Crew 3, LAFD Copter

On display, were two of the Department's six helicopters that make up the LAFD's prestigious air fleet. Five of those "air ships" are capable of dropping hundreds of gallons of water and the other is used as a Command ship, strategically placed to direct these precise water drops.

In addition, the LAFD utilizes an Erickson Air-Crane, which is a wildfire, heavy-lift helicopter, capable of providing superior aerial fire suppression services during the peak of our Brush Fire season. The Erickson Air-Crane is available this year from August 15 through January 2012.

Available to meet first hand, was the hard working and cost effective "Crew 3," comprised of LAFD Cadets. These volunteers dedicate themselves to clearing brush from hillsides and fire roads, as well as creating fire breaks throughout the city.

Also present, were one of the LAFD’s three Bulldozers, a LAFD Dozer Transport and a LAFD Water Tender. This Heavy Equipment is used to cut brush along the tops of LA’s many ridges and hillsides. They create fire breaks and directly attack the fire by smothering its progression.

However, it is not just about the equipment. It's the uniformed firefighters from your 106 neighborhood fire stations that make you safe. They constantly train and prepare themselves for the many emergencies they face, including the threat of a major brush fire.

The Second purpose of this gathering was to ask a question:
"Just how ready are YOU?"

The LAFD promotes the "Ready, Set, Go" preparedness campaign, and asks you to:

• Be Ready: Prepare your property. Cut back the ornamental brush around your home and allow 200 feet of clearance.
• Get Set: Prepare your family. Have a plan for what to do in the event of an emergency.
• Go: Be ready to go when you are told to evacuate. Once you leave, stay away until uniformed personnel say it is safe to return.

Fire Chief Brian Cummings Addressing Media

Chief Cummings stated, "I challenge every resident of Los Angeles to have an emergency plan and to discuss the plan with each member of your family. This is especially important for those residents who live in or near brush areas."



The Los Angeles Fire Department wants to reassure you they are prepared. It is now up to you to prepare yourself, your family and your home.

Ready, Set, Go

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman

Los Angeles Fire Department

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Cause Determined in 40 Acre Mandeville Canyon Wildfire

BRENTWOOD - More than 200 Los Angeles Fire Department personnel, bolstered with a regional response of firefighters by ground and air, pushed back flames from a Labor Day wildfire before it could damage any homes in the brush covered terrain near Mandeville Canyon west of the Sepulveda Pass.

With numerous telephone calls reporting the fire on Monday, September 5, 2011 at 4:10 PM, teams of firefighters responded to the 3600 block of Mandeville Canyon Road where they discovered fast-moving fire in vegetation east of Mandeville Canyon and north of the Mountain Gate Country Club.

As dozens of ground crews scrambled through rugged terrain to attack the blaze, a synchronized aerial offense with fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters soon stemmed the fire's advance, holding the fire's impact to forty acres of dense vegetation.

Structures were threatened, however due to the swift and aggressive action of firefighters, none were damaged, and no civilians were injured.


Two male firefighters, one from LAFD and the other from California Department of Corrections & Rehabilitation Camp Crew 16, suffered heat related injuries & were transported to a local hospital in fair to serious condition.

The fire was 100% contained Wednesday afternoon September 7th, however firefighters maintained a heavy presence and kept a close eye on the burn area throughout the four days, ensuring the the volatile vegetation would not reignite, to keep residents safe.

The cause of the fire was determined accidental in nature, and was attributed to two young males smoking.

Dispatched LAFD Units: E19 E237 T37 BC9 E64 E59 H4 E23 E84 E292 T92 E85 H0F BC18 E68 H3 E95 E83 BP94 BP44 BP28 WT77 H1 H2 H6 E62 E43 E58 E99 E71 BC15 DC3 E94 E269 T69 E13 RT40 E43 E99 BC15 E58 E68 E71 E62 E94 E66 E48 E21 BC17 SU1 RA19 E5 E93 E58 E71 BC15 E37 E63 E5 E26 E61 E33 E39 AR2 H2 H6 BC17 DC2 E90 BC5 E109 T90 E290 RA867 E10 E15 RT59 E66 E93 E89 WT77 RA909 DC2 DC3 BP35 WT88 E48 E27 E11 E2 E12 E67 E34 E100 E6 E14 RA69 RP88 H1 H6 E90 E17 E98 E29 BC13 E87 T3 E203 E21 E37 E63 E3 BC9 E26 E85 E10 E5 BC10 WT88 BP109 RT59 H4 RA19 RA69 E2 E12 E15 BC9 E33 E61 E88 RT59 RA867 CREW 3

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

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