Help Los Angeles: Become a Crisis Response Team Volunteer

Your Los Angeles Fire Department encourages City of Los Angeles residents to join the Mayor's Crisis Response Team (CRT) volunteer program.

Overseen by the Office of Mayor Eric Garcetti, Crisis Response Team volunteers are professionally trained to provide immediate on-scene crisis intervention, emotional support and referrals to victims and families involved in traumatic incidents such as:

• Abused/Neglected Children
• Homicides
• Death Notification
• Major Car Accidents
• Drive-by Shootings
• Natural Deaths
• Fires
• Suicides

The Mayor’s Crisis Response Team (CRT) is activated by the LAPD or LAFD following a traumatic event, crime or disaster - when people often feel helpless, confused or are in emotional shock.

Deploying specially trained CRT volunteers allows emergency personnel to resume their primary duties, while ensuring victims and their families are provided with support and counsel for as many hours as they need.

Bilingual volunteers are strongly encouraged to apply, especially those with Spanish, Korean, Armenian, Farsi, Chinese and Tagalog language skills. The Fall training will take place Monday & Wednesday evenings from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM, between September 9 and October 23, 2013.

To learn more about this rewarding program and submit your application, please contact:

Becca Doten
Office of Mayor Eric Garcetti
Crisis Response Team
200 North Spring Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Phone: (213) 978-0697
Email: lacrt@lacity.org

• CRT Program Flyer
• CRT Fall 2013 Application
• Follow @LA_CRT on Twitter
• Find LACrisisResponseTeam on Facebook

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Highland Park Family Experiences Holiday Magic, Thanks to the 'Spark of Love'

HIGHLAND PARK - Having witnessed Santa Claus atop a glistening Los Angeles Fire Department ladder truck in a community parade the week prior, the four children of the Vigil family were insistent that their letters to Santa be taken directly to the Neighborhood Fire Station.

Warmly accepting the neatly addressed letters on Tuesday, December 18, 2012 - before the alarm bell rang, the crew of LAFD Station 12 on North Figueroa Street offered the family their warmest wishes before they said goodbye.

With strong winds howling across Los Angeles, the firefighters of Station 12 were forced to leave the letters unopened in the firehouse, as they raced to emergencies well into the night. With pride in their day-long efforts, including the conquest of a wind-whipped electrical blaze on Benner Street that threatened to destroy several households that evening, the firefighters gathered late at night in the fire station to finally open the letters, one of which read:

Dear Santa,

My name is Joseph. I am 12 years old. This year we might not have Christmas because my Mom got laid off a few weeks ago and told us there will be no Christmas for us. All I want is for my little brother Nathan who is 7 and my lil sister Savana who is 6 to have a nice Christmas this year.

Signed, Joey

The words were deeply moving, but what stunned firefighters was the return address printed neatly on the envelope. It was that of the Benner Street fire, sparked by an electrical malfunction, that had just displaced an unseen "family of five" described by neighbors as humble, proud and polite - yet hard-pressed.

Inspired by the Vigil family, LAFD crews quickly reached out to neighbors, local businesses and community leaders - and especially those who have generously supported Southern California Firefighters' Spark of Love Toy Drive.

Two days after the fire, a surprise gathering at Fire Station 12 brought forth the magic that can only happen when a community comes together:


The men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department thank the many who have kindly supported Spark of Love and other Fire Department charitable endeavors throughout the year. While not every need is dramatic, there are many heartfelt needs being fulfilled thanks to your continuing and gracious generosity.

More Heatwarming Video: [ video ] [ video ] [ video ]

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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SO YOU WANT TO BE A FIREFIGHTER?

If the answer for you, without any hesitation, is unequivocally "yes" then we have some good news. If, perhaps, you are on the fence and not quite sure...well, then read on.

The good news is, as a result of recent retirees (a note to all retirees: "thank you" for your years of service and dedication!!), City Council has granted the Los Angeles Fire Department approval to get the hiring process rolling. That means, as we head into the Fall, our recruiting efforts will soon be in full-swing.

The last time your LAFD saw a new class of recruits sworn-in, was back in February of 2009. What that means for you, if you are interested, is that it will be competitive. Very competitive. But that element never seems to change. Again, back in 2009, nearly 17,000 potential candidates expressed interest. This go-around, we are expecting at least that number. Why? Because it's been quite a while since we last hired, the fire service has always been very competitive and a very sought-after career and it's no secret, that many have endured a very tough job market and economy for several years now. That often translates into people looking for a "change."

This is not meant to discourage anyone. In fact all are welcome! We do want you to be prepared and we want you to know what to expect. And make no mistake, you will need to be prepared. Mentally and physically.

In addition, there are a few other characteristics that a good, solid candidate should possess. Battalion Chief Steve Hissong, who heads-up the LAFD's Recruit Services Unit, summed it up best: "A good candidate for the fire service would be an individual of high character, morals and values; one that has a sense of wanting to serve others. That doesn't necessarily always have to be the individual that's pursued their fire service degree."

With perhaps only 350 firefighter slots available over the next couple of years, however, anything to give you a competitive advantage, will help.

So, how do you start this process? What are the minimum requirements (age, education, etc.)? All of these questions and more can be answered at a newly launched website, dedicated solely to our recruiting and hiring efforts:

www.joinlafd.org
To all potential candidates, we wish you the very best of luck! 

Submitted by Matt Spence, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Join LAFD at 'L. A. Works Day of Service 2012'

LOS ANGELES - Join in a fun, family-friendly volunteer project, that includes fire trucks, food, music, and educational safety workshops. The L. A. Works, a nonprofit volunteer action organization, will be at the Los Angeles Fire Department's Frank Hotchkin Memorial Training Center for a major grounds and building transformation, Saturday July 21, 2012, from 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM.

Volunteers from this year’s, "L.A. Works Day of Service" are gracious enough to tend to one of LA’s most revered landmarks, the Frank Hotchkin Memorial Training Center in Elysian Park. This  center is often the focal point from which Angelenos honor first responders who have fallen in-the-line-of-duty. The facility, a grand Art Deco building that once housed a Naval and Marine Corps Reserve Center, is now a main location for fire department training. It is named after Firefighter Frank Hotchkin, who died after falling through a fire-weakened roof while battling a blaze there in 1980.

The center also honors our Nation's first responders. Outside the building stands a 23-ton, 22' tall steel column that was originally part of the lobby structure of the World Trade Center. It is believed to be the largest remnant of the 9/11 attacks on the west coast.

The Los Angeles Fire Department is humbled by the volunteers that will be revitalizing, landscaping, painting and renovating the training center. The L.A. Works stated, "With help from the generous support of local corporations, skilled laborers, and dedicated volunteers, we are poised to give back to our city’s first responders like never before." The sworn and civilian members of the Los Angeles Fire Department look forward to working with you and thank you!

For more information about the day and how to get involved, please visit

www.laworks.com

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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LAFD Provides Keys to Safe and Sane Independence Day

If you listen, the "U.S.A." chants are getting louder. "London Calling" you say? Absolutely. First, however, we celebrate our country's Independence Day! With that...red, white and blue will once again be the order of the day!  Despite its mid-week celebration this year, Wednesday, July 4, 2012, will no doubt bring out the best and in some unfortunate cases, the worst in revelers from coast to coast.

For the safety and security of all, your Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) reminds you once again, that fireworks of all types, even those dubbed "safe and sane", remain illegal in the City of Los Angeles. We encourage everyone to join with firefighters everywhere in support of a safe Independence Day by attending or viewing a public fireworks show sponsored and produced by professionals. For detailed information please visit:

safejuly4th.org

You may choose to spend the mid-week Holiday at home with your family or a small group. But it is Summer and you may have opted to travel by air, road or rail and spend it with the masses elsewhere or perhaps with a huge group that just happens to resemble your family. Wherever you wind up and however you do it, your LAFD would like to offer a few tips on staying safe and perhaps keeping yourself sane. Additionally, we want you to rest easy knowing your LAFD stands always at the ready for anything that may come our way.

These 4th of July Safety Tips are provided with help from our friends at the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Health and a few of our own, we thought were worthy of mention:

• Cook, grill or BBQ intelligently. Use clean plates, store food properly and prepare it correctly. Oh yeah, and watch out for over-exposure to the grill..yes, too much to eat!
• Avoid prolonged sun exposure and sun damage...especially if it's your attempt to even-out that burn from the "fluorescent sun" in your office. Wear sunscreen. Apply it generously and often.
• Be aware of changing weather conditions. Find or tune into a news source.
• Be aware of changing traffic conditions, road closures and other delays.
• If in or around any body of water, please pool safely and always have someone watching the water.
• If you take to the mountains for some hiking or biking, don't go alone and please do so during daylight hours. Hydrate and pack a snack. Don't underestimate the terrain. And, if you have one, take a mobile phone with you and make sure it's charged.
• If you choose to imbibe, don't drink and drive! We all know the sobering statistics. Appoint a designated driver early, use a driver service (there are many), call a cab or just stay sober!
• Whatever you do and wherever you do it...have fun, but please exercise good judgment and common sense!

LAFD's Air Ops: "Patriotic Hydration"

Enjoy the weekend. Enjoy family and friends. Enjoy foods and libations (in moderation.) And enjoy the freedom and liberty that was made possible by those the men and women who have fought and continue to fight for our independence!

May God Bless the United States of America!

And the crowd chants "U.S.A....U.S.A...U.S.A."

Submitted by, Matt Spence Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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We Need Blood! Donate and Be 'Taken Out to a Ballgame''

Baseball fans may already be aware: the booster clubs of both the Dodgers and Angels are getting their players into position to help the American Red Cross cope with its first, serious blood-shortage in more than five years.

Well, we want the rest of our Southern California community to know too: our blood supply has dropped to critically low levels!

Both booster clubs are now urging all baseball fans to help save lives by casting votes for their favorite team at the "14th Annual, Angels vs. Dodgers Booster Clubs' Blood Drive." This is an opportunity for the entire community to don their "rally caps", bring their "rally monkies" and join together to help stabilize our blood supply... a great team-win!

Fans, firefighters, friends and families may donate at any of these locations on Saturday, June 30, 2012, from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Donors will receive a very special, commemorative t-shirt and a voucher for 2 tickets to an Angels or Dodgers home game. Quantities are limited.

To reserve your time on June 30 or to schedule an appointment on another day, please call 1-800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767) or visit www.redcrossblood.org. Be sure to enter "homerun" in the sponsor code space provided. You will also find answers to many frequently asked questions.

Unless generous blood donors step forward soon, blood products will not be available for patients in an emergency or medical crisis. Blood shortages this severe, are rare. The critically-low blood levels we face in hospitals across the country, present a challenge to each of us. Some hospitals have been forced to make terrible choices. In fact, some have begun to postpone surgeries. There are other hospitals where doctors have had to triage patients, to determine those with the greatest blood needs.

Your choice to help replenish the blood supply, may help make their choices easier.

Please join us.


Submitted by Matt Spence, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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'Side Walk CPR' at City Hall Farmer's Market

As we recognize "National CPR Week" (remember, CPR stands for "Cardio-Pulmonary-Resuscitation"), your Los Angeles Fire Department kicked-it-off by presenting some very helpful information, of which you and everyone you know, should take an interest. If you missed it, we urge you to revisit "'Hands-only CPR' and the 'AED': What are they?" It may truly make a difference in someone's life. And if you believe in statistics, that person may be one of your loved ones! A staggering 88% of cardiac arrests occur in the home.

So we've told you about CPR... now we want to show you! This week, Thursday, June 7, 2012; your LAFD will be at the Downtown Los Angeles Farmers' Market. We have nothing to sell, but we do have something to offer: a hands-on, interactive demonstration of "Hands-only CPR." If you can't make it Downtown to see us, there are several other locations throughout Los Angeles County that will offer similar demonstrations on what is being billed as "Side Walk CPR Day." 

Side Walk CPR Day

Downtown Los Angeles Farmers' Market

City Hall East, South Plaza

200 N. Main Street

Thursday, June 7, 2012

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM.

Why Learn Hands-Only CPR?

 

 

• "Sudden Cardiac Arrest" is an electrical problem with the heart, where it stops beating and pumping blood. That causes the brain to shut down and the patient to suddenly collapse. It renders the patient unconscious.
• Paramedics can often restart the heart using advanced methods– but it may take a few minutes for them to arrive on-scene. That time is critical!
• "Hands-only CPR" can keep the heart and brain alive until Paramedics takes over, by keeping the blood circulating. Oxygen remains in that blood.
• Mouth-to-mouth breathing is not necessary.

Please plan to stop by and learn more. Be sure to visit the LAFD Firefighter/Paramedics who will be on-hand to demonstrate and answer any questions.

While you are Downtown, make a day of it and plan to join the LAFD at our 15th Annual "HOPE for Firefighters" event taking place only a few blocks away!

Submitted by Matt Spence
Spokesman, Los Angeles Fire Department

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'Hands-only CPR' and the 'AED': What are they?

They are what to do until professional help arrives. By allowing us to explain, you can help kick-off National CPR Week.

Did you know? Every uniformed member of the Los Angeles Fire Department is trained, not only in the proper administration of CPR (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation), but also in the use of the AED (Automatic External Defibrillator). That's right, every member. That is a great thing and something we hope you find comforting.

Did you also know? Not only is it possible, but it is easy for you to achieve that very same level of training. Yes, YOU have the ability to save someone's life. Interested in learning how? We thought so. Please read on...

Here are a few statistics:

• 70% percent of Americans feel helpless to act during a cardiac emergency. The fact is, you need to know it.
• A staggering 88% of cardiac arrests occur in the home. Need we say more? 

Most of us probably have friends and/or family that may not be in the best of health. Perhaps you have little ones at home. Maybe you frequent social gatherings. All are reasons to become intimately familiar with the American Heart Association's (AHA) approved method of CPR and learn how to perform it. Here is the thing...it is actually much easier than you think! It's called "Hands-only CPR."



Now, let's just say you are witness to a cardiac arrest and then, are fortunate enough to be close-by a wall-mounted AED (again...Automatic External Defibrillator). By doing so, you have put yourself in a position to truly help. Have someone grab that AED! The AED is a device that externally shocks the human heart out of a potentially fatal cardiac (heart) rhythm, allowing a normal rhythm to resume. It sounds complicated, but the AED was designed with three things in mind: 1) ease of use 2) safety and 3) reliability. It actually provides audio instruction and literally tells you what to do.

In recent years, the LAFD has embarked upon a promising program to bring AEDs to many public facilities throughout the City of Los Angeles. This Public Access Defibrillator (PAD) Program has the backing of medical leaders, including the American Heart Association and the American Red Cross. You might be surprised by how many AEDs are readily available for use... by anyone! Take note, next time you are out and about.

We hope you find this information helpful. Moreover, we hope you find it inspiring! Don't be part of the majority...don't be afraid to act! As our friends at the American Heart Association say "Don't be a bystander. Be a life saver."

Want more? Then go here to find a CPR class near you!

Thank you for caring enough to take action.

Submitted by Matt Spence, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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LAFD Offers Memorial Day Weekend Safety Tips

The 2012 version of Memorial Day is upon us. For many, it represents the first days of Summer. With that, comes: first exposure (or maybe just over-exposure) to the sun, first cook-outs or BBQs on the grill (or over-exposure to the grill..yes, too much to eat) and the first time back into the refreshing waters of the ocean or pool.  

You may spend the Holiday Weekend at home with your family or a small group. You may opt to travel by air, road or rail and spend it with the masses or perhaps with a huge group that just happens to resemble your family. However you choose to spend it, please take a look at a few safety tips that may ensure a long and very pleasant Memorial Day Weekend... despite those distant relatives that all decided to visit from the East Coast. (Of course we're kidding!) 

These Memorial Day Weekend Safety Tips are provided with help from our friends at the County of Los Angeles Public Health and a few of our own, we thought were worth mentioning:

• Cook, grill or BBQ intelligently. Use clean plates, store food properly and prepare it correctly.
• Avoid prolonged sun exposure and sun damage. Wear sunscreen. Apply it generously and often.
• Be aware of changing weather conditions. Find or tune into a news source.
• Be aware of changing traffic conditions, road closures and other delays.
• Pool safely and always have someone watching the water.
• If you take to the mountains for some hiking or biking, don't go alone. Hike/bike during daylight hours. Hydrate and pack a snack. Don't underestimate the terrain. And if you have one, take a mobile phone with you and make sure it's charged.
• If you choose to imbibe, don't drink and drive! We all know the sobering statistics. Appoint a designated driver, use a designated driver service (there are many) or call a cab.

Enjoy the weekend. Enjoy family and friends. Enjoy foods and libations (in moderation.) And enjoy the freedom and liberty that was made possible by those the men and women who served and do serve in the United States Armed Forces. Please take pause, if only for a moment, and give thanks to those who have had the courage to enlist, shown the strength and commitment to serve and to those who gave it all. This weekend especially, we remember!

The LAFD will provide more on Memorial Day remembrance, tomorrow, in another post. Until then, may God Bless the United States of America.

 

Submitted by, Matt Spence Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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'BADGEFIGHTS': Cagefight Benefit to Feature LAFD vs.Santa Ana PD

Come support your LAFD and other fire and police agencies, as they go to battle in the cage! The 2012 installment of "The Battle of the Shields Cage Combat Grappling Championships" is scheduled for this Friday, March 2, 2012 from 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm at the Quiet Cannon in Montebello. For the first time ever, the evening will feature a four-way match with law enforcement and fire personnel from all over. Seattle Metro Police vs. Bakersfield Police, Santa Ana Fire vs. California Highway Patrol, LA County Fire vs. LAPD and your LAFD will battle the Santa Ana Police. This event is open to the public.

Badgefights, the event's promoter, claims "...the Los Angeles Fire Department is the team to watch, in moving forward! With a full line-up, few teams will prevail against Mike Caro's squad. The LAFD's team is strong, throughout...studs to watch: middleweight Matt Hennessey (2009 Badgefights Champion), light-heavyweight Raphael Davis (World FILA Champion) and heavyweight Terry Tuzzolino (former NCAA Wrestling Champion)."

The "Badgefights Cage Grappling League" was inspired by the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Badgefights is owned and operated by sworn members. Badgefights is a philanthropic endeavor, committed to the support of various fallen warrior charities. A portion of the LAFD's ticket sales will benefit the Los Angeles Fireman's Relief Association. For more information on the event, including ticket information and directions please visit:

http://www.badgefights.com

Tickets sales have been brisk and they are going fast! It is recommended that you purchase your tickets through the Badgefights website and prior to your arrival.

The LAFD thanks all family and friends in advance, for their support.


Submitted by Matt Spence, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Boys & Girls Clubs of the Los Angeles Harbor Salute LAFD

LOS ANGELES - The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Los Angeles Harbor paid a special visit to the Los Angeles Civic Center on Tuesday, January 17, 2012 to thank the Los Angeles Fire Department for supporting their organization throughout the 2011 holiday season.

Extending appreciation to members of the LAFD for their support, the Club's Interim Executive Director Tony Tripp and Special Events Marketing Director Deanna Deering were joined by Director of Development Derald Sidler in thanking firefighters on behalf of the Club's Board of Directors and the 8,000 youth the club serves annually.

A highlight of the accolade-filled meeting was the formal presentation to Los Angeles Fire Chief Brian Cummings of a hand made card created and signed by the children of the Boys & Girls Club.

Chief Cummings as well as LAFD Chief of Staff, Assistant Fire Chief John Vidovich, were lauded for volunteering to serve 400 Thanksgiving meals at the Dana Strand Boys & Girls Club in November, with Chief Vidovich personally securing funds to purchase the 30 turkeys that were served that night.

Additionally, Los Angeles Firefighter Michael Marquez was feted for his instrumental role in obtaining toys as holiday gifts for 1500+ club members. According to Mr. Tripp "This year was especially thin when it came to toy donations", adding "If it wasn't for the Los Angeles Fire Department coming through for us year-after-year we would not have enough toys to distribute to the youth of our community."

To a room of applause, Mr. Tripp summed it up by saying "The Los Angeles Fire Department is a great friend to our organization and we are very grateful to have their support."


Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Fire on Armenian 'Little Christmas' Displaces Family, Injures Firefighter

SHERMAN OAKS - An "Armenian Christmas" gathering resulted in tragedy for one family in the San Fernando Valley, as they witnessed their Christmas Tree and almost their entire home, go up in flames. One Firefighter was injured.

January 6, 2012 marked Christmas Day for millions of Orthodox Christians the world-over, including our Armenian neighbors - some of which still follow the ancient Julian Calendar and widely consider that date (also referred to as "Little Christmas"), the original Christmas Day.

Tonight, while in the midst of a their familial, religious celebration, one member of an Armenian Family ran into their living room, frightened by the sound of smoke alarms. In that instant, it was already too late. Their massive 20 foot, fully-decorated Christmas Tree was now fully-engulfed in flames. An attempt was made by the homeowner to extinguish the fire with a quickly-drawn garden hose, but that proved to be ineffective. Each family-member then witnessed this horror as they rushed from the home to safety.

At 7:09 pm, the Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned to a reported "Structure Fire" at 5049 North Matilija Avenue to this normally peaceful neighborhood on what should have been a "silent night." First arriving resources encountered "smoke showing" from a 5,500 square-foot, two-story residence. Upon entry into the home, Firefighters made their way to the second floor with hoselines, as the tree had burned completely and already extended up the foyer. The fire on the second floor was quickly extinguished, but not before it found its way up into the large attic space.

The "compartmentalized attic" proved to be challenging, as Firefighters had to chase this pesky fire into small areas of the attic by cutting through several plywood walls. Full-extinguishment was ultimately achieved in one hour and two minutes but not before one Firefighter was treated and transported to a local hospital, having sustained minor injuries during firefighting operations.

Battalion Chief Pete Benesch ran a very well-orchestrated fire and the tireless efforts by all 60 on-scene personnel, helped prevent further damage to this beautiful home, built just three years ago. Despite the mighty efforts by your LAFD, this family had to spend their Christmas Night elsewhere, as a result of the fire-related damage.

Dollar-loss estimates were not yet available and the exact cause of the blaze that ignited the tree, will be a subject of the investigation.

Please let the very unfortunate losses of this family on their Christmas Night, serve as a reminder to all... if you have not yet removed your Christmas Tree from your home, please do so quickly and safely.

And if you do celebrate Christmas today, the LAFD wishes you and your family a very Blessed Christmas Day.

Dispatched Units:
E102 E39 T39 E239 RA39 RA78 EM14 BC14 E60 E88 DC3 E278 T78 SQ21
BC10 RA88 RA102 E89 E227 T27 SQ21 BC12 RA73 EM15 RA102 T60 E260


Submitted by Matt Spence, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Fire Claims Life of Pacoima 'Senior' on Christmas Morn

PACOIMA - The Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a small fire on Christmas Morning that sadly claimed the life of a "senior" resident at an independent-living facility.

At 10:19 am, Firefighters responded to a reported "Structure Fire" at 11060 North Norris Avenue. They quickly ascended the six-story "Pledgerville Senior Citizen Villa" and had to force-entry into a single unit on the third floor, where they found a smoke-filled apartment.

Quick work was made of the small fire that required merely a single fire-extinguisher. Unfortunately, little time was also required for the fire to have tragically claimed the life of the unit's 90 year-old, female resident. She apparently had lived alone.

The fire-fatality required the LAFD's Arson/Counter-Terrorism Section to respond, where they spent most of Christmas Day conducting their investigation. The fire was deemed "accidental" in nature and Investigators stated "the most probable cause as candles...that appeared to have somehow ignited the victim's clothing." The manner in which that took place is unclear, as the fire remains under active investigation. The victim's official cause of death will be determined by the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner. Dollar-loss estimates were not yet available.

The LAFD extends their condolences to the family and friends of the deceased, for this tragic loss. Your LAFD is saddened by such incidents and finds them extremely difficult to report, especially on Christmas Day. We do so only to highlight safety and underscore the importance of exercising extreme caution anytime you are around or in use of an open flame, regardless of the source. This holds true not only through the Holiday Season, but at all times.

Friends, there are numerous articles that can be found in our archives, here, on www.fergco.co, some of which are "linked" in this article. Please take the time to review them with your loved ones. Simple steps and observance of key safety tips can help prevent tragedy from occurring.

Please allow yourselves to spend your Holiday Season with family and friends...SAFELY! And from all of us at the Los Angeles Fire Department...today, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas!!

Dispatched Units:
E98 T98 E298 RA898 E7 RA7 E275 T75 E91 EM15 BC10 BC12 E77 RA98 BC12 AR2 DC3 AR11 AR36


Submitted by Matt Spence, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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'LAFD BLOG' Receives National Award

As the newest member of the Public Service Office (PSO) team, it is with great pride and distinct pleasure we announce that our own LAFD BLOG (http://www.fergco.co) was recently recognized by the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) as the "BEST BLOG" at the 2011 Media Awards.

Congratulations to our Public Service Officers and Department Spokesmen, Brian Humphrey and Erik Scott, for their outstanding work and dedication to clearly establishing the LAFD BLOG as one of the best in the business.

As stated, “The IAFF Media Awards honor communications, reporting and photography that best portray the professional and dangerous work of firefighters and emergency medical personnel in the United States and Canada.” For more detailed information and a complete list of the 2011 IAFF Media Awards contest winners, please visit: http://bit.ly/IAFFawards.

The LAFD BLOG is maintained by three firefighters, who work a 24-hour, platoon-duty schedule. They are available around-the-clock to provide breaking news to all. If you are interested in following the LAFD’s efforts in the field or in receiving real-time information as it breaks, we invite you to visit: lafdalert.blogspot.com where you can access current and archived stories and photos of our more significant incidents, as well as other pertinent and timely information.

This gives us the opportunity to make our readers aware of the collective efforts put forth by the LAFD’s entire Community Service Unit (CSU). In the City of Los Angeles, where the strong demands placed upon the LAFD (in this case, from a media standpoint) have become abundantly clear, the CSU Staff continues to work incredibly hard at consistently delivering the most accurate, current information on incidents, events and issues... no matter how difficult.

The PSO’s would like to thank the entire CSU Staff and all contributing photographers for their continuous support and in seeing to it that our office is positioned for success. Longtime PSO Brian Humphrey, who is largely responsible for the development of the LAFD BLOG,  says “We truly appreciate not only the help we are provided, but all that is done on a daily basis by our entire staff.”

Gentlemen, keep up the great work and congratulations!!

The LAFD BOG was nominated by our own United Firefighters of Los Angeles City, Local 112.

Submitted by Matt Spence, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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LAFD Offers Fire Safety Tips

With changes in the weather, we all resort to different methods to warm ourselves, our loved-ones and our homes. Your Los Angeles Fire Department asks you to please exercise extreme caution and a little common sense when doing so.

As we promote the annual "Change Your Clock Change Your Batteries" Campaign, it also offers a great opportunity to remind you all, of the inherent dangers associated with fire that may result from improperly functioning alarms in your homes.

As an example of such dangers, please view the following video that illustrates how the changes in materials being used by the furniture industry have considerably decreased the amount of time individuals and families have to exit their homes during a fire. It also emphasizes the extreme importance of having a working smoke alarm.


So we remind you: when you change your clock, you should change your smoke alarm batteries as well as the batteries in your carbon monoxide (CO) detectors, which are now required by law.

On another note of preparedness, the LAFD strongly encourages everyone to develop and practice a home safety plan. Following, are some helpful Fire Safety Tips to aid in your efforts:

Fire Safety Tips:

In the event of a fire, remember time is the biggest enemy and every second counts! Escape first, then call for help. Develop a home fire escape plan and designate a meeting place outside. Make sure everyone in the family knows two ways to escape from every room. Practice feeling your way out with your eyes closed. Never stand up in a fire, always crawl low under the smoke and try to keep your mouth covered. Never return to a burning building for any reason; it may cost you your life.

Talking about fire prevention and survival with your family, and practicing your home escape plan is something that may not be able to wait for tomorrow.

• Install smoke alarms in every room of a property. Consider networked smoke alarms that are linked together so that when one alarm sounds, all of the alarms sound. This immediate response can provide early warning no matter where the fire starts, giving more time to escape.
• Install carbon monoxide (CO) detectors on every floor and near sleeping areas. As of July 1, 2011, the State of California requires Carbon Monoxide detectors in most single family homes - and soon in every residence.
• DO NOT use grills, hibachis or portable gas camp stoves indoors, as a means to warm your homes. All are sources of poisonous carbon monoxide gases.
• Use extreme caution when using portable generators, another source of carbon monoxide.
• Test smoke alarms and CO detectors monthly and replace batteries as needed.
• Never disable alarms by removing the batteries or by covering them.
• Know two ways out of every building--your residence hall, apartment, nightclub, restaurant or movie theater. A fire escape ladder can provide an alternate exit from second- or third-floor rooms.
• Properly dispose of smoking materials in ashtrays. After parties, check chair and couch cushions for smoldering cigarettes.
• Purchase a fire extinguisher and learn how to use it BEFORE a fire breaks out.
• Use approved extension cords and electrical appliances properly. Don't overload electrical outlets.
• Never leave candles unattended and keep them away from flammable items. Be sure to extinguish candles before going to bed.

Submitted by Matt Spence, 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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LAFD: Helping Those that Help Us

The Los Angeles Fire Department asks for your help in supporting a "Benefit Bake Sale" this Friday, October 28, 2011, at Providence Holy Cross Medical Center in Mission Hills. All proceeds are to benefit one of the hospital's own Emergency Room (ER) Nurses and a young mother of two children. "Nurse Donna" has been an employee of the Holy Cross Medical Center for several years and has always been a tremendous help to all in our community, including LAFD members that frequent her ER. Now she and her family need our help! "Nurse Donna" has recently been diagnosed with a very serious form of cancer, in its advanced stages.

WHAT:   Nurse Donna Benefit Bake Sale
WHEN:   Friday, October 28, 2011, from 8:00 am - until sold out
WHERE: Providence Holy Cross Hospital (click for directions)
              15031 Rinaldi Street, Mission Hills, CA 91346

If you prefer, monetary donations will also be gratefully accepted to benefit her young family. There will be information available in the Holy Cross Main Lobby.

For more information, please call Kay Radford at 818.360.5380

We thank you in advance for your generosity.


Submitted by Matt Spence, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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LAFD Warns Residents of Home Inspection Scam

The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) would like to warn Los Angeles residents to be aware of individuals impersonating firefighters and offering home inspections of everything from hazardous materials and mold to exit ways and fire alarm systems.

Fraudulent letters have been received by residents through the mail, informing them of upcoming inspections. The falsified letter simulates City of Los Angeles letterhead, but identifies former Mayor James K. Hahn as a current office holder and contains the forged signature of retired Fire Chief William Bamattre.

Below is an example of one such letter:



The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has been notified and they are currently taking steps to investigate and identify the perpetrators of this scam.

If anyone comes to your home claiming to be a representative and/or a member of the LAFD in order to conduct an inspection, please do not allow them in, and kindly ask them to leave your property. Then, immediately call the LAPD by dialing 9-1-1.


Submitted by Matt Spence, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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I-405 Closure Update - THANK YOU!

Your Los Angeles Fire Department and the Unified Command Center would like to say-
"Great job, Los Angeles!"  

Thank you for staying out of the closure area and thank you for your help and cooperation in allowing this project to go smoothly and largely, without incident.

The systematic re-opening of the I-405 Freeway has begun. It is expected that the entire Freeway will be fully-opened and accessible by approximately 3:00pm this afternoon.

Your LAFD remains prepared and will maintain its augmented staffing of the affected area until approximately 2:30pm this afternoon. At that time, the LAFD will begin a "demobilization" process that will ultimately put us back at normal staffing and normal, departmental operations by 6:00pm this evening.

A big "thank you" goes to our partners at the Command Post- CHP, LADOT, LAPD and Metro. Also, to the Office of the Mayor and all our local media partners, who played a key role in keeping everyone informed with the most up-to-date information. And, of course, "thank you" to the good people of Kiewet West and the Penhall Company for their efforts in completing this phase of the project well ahead of schedule.

It is to all "Angelinos" and our visiting guests, however, we give "great thanks" for their cooperation throughout.

 

 

Submitted by Matt Spence, Spokesman

Los Angeles Fire Department

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LAFD to Debut Motorcycle Response Teams as Pilot Program During I-405 Closure

Starting tonight, July 15, 2011 through July 18, 2011, the North and Southbound I-405 Freeway and the Mulholland Drive overpass in both directions, will be closed for up to 53 continuous hours. This, due to the demolition of the Mulholland Bridge overpass. The closure may cause widespread and heavy traffic congestion through the Sepulveda Pass and outlying neighborhoods. Consequently, these conditions may impact the response of emergency vehicles into those areas and could have the potential to cause delays in providing medical assistance to residents and passersby.

Our continuous efforts to maintain high standards of service and lower response times, challenge us to be both innovative and consistent. To that end, the LAFD has developed a unique response team for these locations, that will make its debut this weekend. Motorcycle Response Teams ("Motor Teams") will be deployed at two different locations (Fire Stations 99 & 109) to enhance our service to these affected areas. 

Riding Kawasaki  KLR 650 motorcycles (kindly on-loan for the weekend from our friends at Kawasaki Motor Corp.), our Firefighter/EMTs will have the ability to more easily move through traffic enroute to an emergency incident. A two-member team (one team = two motorcycles, each with one Firefighter/EMT) will be strategically placed on both the East and West sides of the I-405 freeway. These teams will also patrol their assigned areas, providing up-to-the-minute intelligence on access and egress issues, as well as continuous monitoring of alternate response routes.

Each Motor Team will be equipped with a cache of Basic Life Support (BLS) equipment, to include an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED), oxygen, other essential medical equipment and supplies to handle most medical incidents, until additional assistance arrives. As these motorcycles will be patrolling a largely "brush area," they will also be equipped with "saddle bags" to allow for the stowing of a fire shelter and some brush firefighting personal protective equipment. Each "rider" will also have a GPS unit attached to the motorcycle, a radio and Departmental maps.

Upon an emergency or medical incident, the Motor Team will take appropriate action in managing the incident and rendering basic medical care, as necessary. The Teams offer our response, safe and quick maneuverability, flexibility and the opportunity to render continuous care until a patient is transferred to another LAFD resource for transport. These motorcycles are not equipped with lights or sirens and therefore, will respond with caution. The Motor Teams will be deployed during daylight hours only, from 6:00am - 9:00pm on both Saturday, July 16 and Sunday, July 17.

It should be noted, this is a "pilot program" only and may or may not be continued, based largely on the success of the program over this weekend. Future use of the "Motor Teams" may include deployment at large scale incidents up to and including earthquakes, brush fires and in times of high hazard, extreme weather conditions.

As is always the case, we welcome your feedback.

Submitted by Matt Spence, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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