LAFD Sends Command Staff to Assist with Oklahoma City Tornado

OKLAHOMA CITY - A member of the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Command Staff was sent to assist those affected by the devastating tornado in Oklahoma City.

On May 20, at 3:56 pm EDT, a tornado developed near Newcastle, OK (pop. 7,847) and swiftly moved ENE across Moore (pop. 56,315) before dissipating at 4:36 pm EDT. The tornado was reported to be a mile wide with winds of at least 166 mph creating widespread damage and casualties.

In support of the national response to the events that occurred in the Oklahoma City Metropolitan areas of Moore and Newcastle, one member of the Los Angeles Fire Department’s Command Staff has been activated and is being sent to Oklahoma as a member of FEMA’s overhead command team. California Task Force One (CA-TF1) has not been activated. However, LAFD Urban Search and Rescue Teams are standing by.

For more than two decades, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has helped organize and support a system of regional Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Task Forces available for mobilization by State and Federal government on an as-needed basis.

Comprised of specially trained and equipped local firefighters and other certified responders, this nationwide network of 28 FEMA USAR Task Forces includes eight in the Golden State, two of which are maintained here in Los Angeles County (CA-TF1: Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) & CA-TF2: Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACoFD), similar sounding but separate organizations).

The LAFD along with FEMA urge residents in impacted areas to listen carefully to instructions from their local officials and take the recommended protective measures to safeguard life and property while response efforts continue. Listen to state, local and tribal officials who ask you to remain in shelters, homes or safe places until they give the “all clear” to travel. Roads are very likely to be damaged or blocked by debris, and traffic jams slow emergency managers and first responders as they attempt to reach hard-hit areas.

We encourage individuals in the affected areas following a disaster to monitor local radio, TV stations, the National Weather Service at www.weather.gov or a NOAA weather radio for the latest weather and emergency information.

We strongly remind all that NOW is the time to get prepared for tornadoes and other disasters such as earthquakes that threaten the Los Angeles area.

There are tools and resources available online to help you prepare for, respond to and recover from any type of disaster. Visit www.ready.gov to learn more. The Spanish language site – listo.gov. Those with a Blackberry, Android or Apple device can download the FEMA app to access safety tips, shelter locations, and more.

Member's of the Los Angeles Fire Department hearts go out to those affected by the devastating tornado and we tip our helmets to all First Responders, particularly those bravely assisting in Oklahoma this week, which is National Emergency Medical Services Week (May 19-25, 2013).

Members of the Media are welcome to visit Fire Station 88 today, May 21, 2013 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM to view members of CA-TF1 practice.

UPDATE (May 21, 2013 1:43 PM): Federal disaster aid has been made available to the State of Oklahoma in the area affected by severe storms and tornadoes since May 18, 2013. Individuals and families impacted can apply for assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov.


Moore, Okla., May 25, 2013 -- Moore Emergency Manager Gayland Kitch, right and Officer Eric Thomas survey the damage where Thomas' home once stood prior to the recent tornado. Photo by: Jocelyn Augustino/FEMA

Three important things for YOU & YOUR FAMILY to think about:

1) How will you locate loved ones during an emergency? After a disaster, phone lines may get congested. To get in contact with friends and family, use text messaging services and update social media networks. Try American Red Cross Safe and Well website.

2) How can you help children cope with disasters? Disasters can leave children feeling frightened, confused and insecure. Whether a child has personally experienced trauma, or has seen the event on television or has heard it discussed by adults, it is important for parents and teachers to be informed and ready to help if reactions to stress begin to occur. Click here for more information.

3) How to clean up and return home after a disaster? After a disaster strikes, use extreme caution when returning home. You may be anxious to see your property but do not return to your home before the area is declared to be safe by local officials. Click here to learn what to do before entering your home.

If you feel moved to help the disaster victims, the State of Oklahoma has donation information available at OKStrong.

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman

Los Angeles Fire Department

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Extensive Drill of LAX's Emergency Response Plan was a Success

LOS ANGELES - On April 24, 2013, the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) along with the Los Angeles International Airport successfully tested its emergency response plan with a two-hour exercise that included nearly 300 participants, representing more than 30 organizations. About 100 of the participants were volunteers wearing makeup to simulate injuries and played the roles of victims.
   

The drill, dubbed ``LAX AIREX 2013,'' began at 11 a.m. Such exercises are required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), as well as LAFD's "Life Fire Training".

The LAFD utilized two-dozen fire engines, several command vehicles, Airport Crash Rigs, and one helicopter during the simulation. Organizations participating in addition to the LAFD were: LAX Operations, Los Angeles Airport Police, the FAA, the National Transportation Safety Board, the Transportation Security Administration, and the American Red Cross.

The scenario included simulated audio of an FAA Air Traffic Control Tower alert; a "crashed'' Boeing 777-300 aircraft with a simulated debris field of aircraft parts; and a medical triage area with a number of fatalities and injured people. This provided Emergency Responders an opportunity to successfully put into action and work out kinks of the emergency response plan, in particular the critical first two hours of a large scale emergency.

(PHOTOS & VIDEO) (KNX 1070 Audio)

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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National Tsunami Preparedness Week, LAFD: Are You Prepared?

During National Tsunami Preparedness Week, the Los Angeles Fire Department along with Cal EMA ask..

It's Been Two Years, Are You Better Prepared?

Two years ago a 9.0 magnitude earthquake struck Tohoku Japan, generating a massive tsunami that devastated many of the country's coastal areas and claimed the lives of over 22,000 people. The impact of the tsunami was also felt close to home, along the Pacific coast.

This disaster served as another stark reminder of California's vulnerability to such events. While LAFD and our state continues to be world leaders in our emergency preparation and response efforts, those efforts are of secondary importance.

It is the advance preparedness measures of each individual that provides the first line of defense against any emergency.

By taking the time to learn and understand your risks and working to prepare for those situations, you put yourself and those around you in a better position to survive and endure whatever Mother Nature may send your way...

But first, what is a Tsunami (SOONAHMEE)? Also commonly referred to as a "Tidal Wave", a Tsunami is caused by the displacement of a large body of water that can travel the speed of a Jumbo Jet. They often arrive as a series of waves which could be dangerous for several hours after the initial wave arrival.

Although rare, tsunamis are a powerful and destructive force of nature. Since the year 1812, 14 tsunamis with wave heights higher than three feet have struck the California coast. Only six of these waves were destructive.

Is Los Angeles ready? We are proud to say, the City of Los Angeles was recently recognized by NOAA’s National Weather Service as StormReady® and the largest city in the nation to become TsunamiReady™.

This week (March 24-30) marks National Tsunami Preparedness Week. It is a time to not only reflect on past events, but to learn from them and take action.

The LAFD along with our friends at FEMA provide the following guidelines for what you should do if a tsunami is likely in your area:

• Turn on your radio to learn if there is a tsunami warning if an earthquake occurs and you are in a coastal area.
• Move inland to higher ground immediately and stay there.
• Never go down to the beach to watch a tsunami come in. If you can see the wave you are too close to escape it.
• CAUTION - If there is noticeable recession in water away from the shoreline, this is nature's tsunami warning and it should be heeded. Move away immediately. 

Whats the difference between a Warning, Advisory and Watch?
 

• Warning -> Inundating wave possible -> Full evacuation suggested
• Advisory -> Strong currents likely -> Stay away from the shore
• Watch -> Danger level not yet known -> Stay alert for more info
• Information -> Minor waves at most -> No action suggested

To learn more information on how your family can be prepared for a severe storm or tsunami, please visit:

stormready.noaa.gov

tsunamiready.noaa.gov

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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LAFD Hosts the 2013 PAD Program Award Ceremony

Every uniformed member of the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) is trained in the use of a defibrillator, a devise that externally shocks the human heart out of a fatal rhythm, allowing a normal, healthy rhythm to resume.

Once restricted to use by medical doctors or highly trained fire department paramedics, modern science has produced special Automated External Defibrillators (AED's) that can now be easily and safely used by lay persons with minimal training.

Knowing the presence of AEDs in Los Angeles can easily save lives, the LAFD embarked upon a promising program bringing AEDs to many City facilities that the public accesses for business and recreation in Los Angeles. This Public Access Defibrillator (PAD) Program has the backing of medical leaders, including the American Heart Association and the American Red Cross.

On Thursday, February 28, 2013, the LAFD proudly hosted the 2013 Public Access Defibrillator (PAD) Program Awards Ceremony, where 48 individuals were recognized for responding to a victim of sudden cardiac arrest in a City facility and utilizing one of the City’s PAD Program defibrillators.

 

This moving award ceremony highlighted 10 incidents that occurred in Los Angeles between December, 2011 and October, 2012. Honorees included members of the public, City employees from various Departments, as well as Fire Department members. We are humbled by these brave heroes who did not hesitate to take immediate life saving action when it was needed.

A sudden cardiac arrest can strike anyone, anytime, anywhere... but not without a fight in the City of Los Angeles! You can help your local firefighters by going through and sharing this important information brochure.

Los Angeles Firefighters say, "Don't be a bystander. Be a life saver."

Ready to act today? Click HERE for information on how to join in one of the biggest Citizens CPR Training in Downtown LA, today from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

Need more time? Register for a CPR or AED class in your area below.
 

redcross.org/take-a-class

(PHOTOS)

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Resolve to be Ready in 2013

As the New Year approaches, Los Angeles Firefighters along with the Ready Campaign is reminding Americans to "Resolve 2B Ready" in 2013.

Did you know? Those who make New Year's resolutions are 11 times more likely to report continued success in achieving a goal than individuals who have not made a resolution, according to the Journal of Clinical Psychology. If you are still searching for this years resolution, let us help.

We would like to make an emergency preparedness resolution easy to keep by providing the tools and resources needed to take four important steps:  

 

- Be informed about the different types of emergencies that can happen in your area  and the appropriate preparedness steps.
- Make a family communications plan.
- Build an emergency kit.
- Get involved in community preparedness.

We hope you will join us...
 

                   ready.gov/pledge

  

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman

Los Angeles Fire Department

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Los Angeles Firefighters & National Diabetes Month

Los Angeles Firefighters responded to over 700,000 emergencies last year, most of which were medical in origin. Assisting people with a diabetic emergency is not uncommon. About 26 million Americans are living with diabetes and an additional 79 million are at risk for developing it.

 

 

Now is the time to take charge.

 

If you or a loved one is living with diabetes, take time during November, National Diabetes Month, to go over a daily care plan as well as a care plan during an illness or emergency. Small changes can make a big difference in preventing health challenges today and in the future.

 

For more information about diabetes read Top Ten Diabetes Risk Factors from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and this statement from HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius on November 14, World Diabetes Day.

Free toolkits are also available to help people keep their diabetes under control. 

 

Chick Here to Order your FREE Kit

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Change Your Clock, Change Your Battery

Firefighters know the importance of home fire safety. That's why the men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department urge you to change all of your smoke alarm batteries as well as the batteries in your carbon monoxide (CO) detectors when you change your clocks back to Standard Time this weekend.

Daylight Saving Time Ends At 2:00am Sunday, November 4, 2012. Set Your Clock Back One Hour.

Please change your batteries!

The simple act of changing batteries and then testing these devices can protect you from two relentless killers. We can't think of an easier task that offers such reward!

FACT: You'd never let a simple convenience like your television remote control go without batteries. Why then ignore the most important devices in your home?

More information can be found on the official Facebook page for the Change Your Clock, Change Your Battery! campaign.

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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LAFD Partners to Launch OK/HELP Window Sign Program for Earthquake Preparedness

Today, 9.3 million Californians successfully participated in the Great ShakeOut earthquake drill. Great job! Earlier this week, the Los Angeles Fire Department partnered with Council District 12, CERT, American Red Cross, and the U.S. Geological Survey in compiling a pamphlet to offer you and your family clear, simple steps to follow immediately after a major earthquake.

It's encouraged to store the pamphlet near your front door, then following an earthquake, tear off the “OK/HELP” sign and place it in your front window to indicate to your neighbors and emergency personnel if you are "OK” or need “HELP.” This will help firefighters save time and maximize resources by getting to those who need immediate help more efficiently.

We know it's not a matter of IF, but WHEN the Big One will strike. And simply, the better prepared we are, the greater our ability to keep our families safe. 

Chick here to view the pamphlet online, or any resident of Los Angeles City can request one from www.CD12.org.

"Successful disaster preparedness begins with having a plan, and exercising it. The OK/HELP sign is a great step toward being ready. LAFD is always there to help you learn about disaster planning at LAFD.org," - Fire Chief Brian Cummings. 

(VIDEO)

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Los Angeles Firefighters say, "Get Ready to ShakeOut!"

"California has more than a 99% chance of having a major earthquake within the next 30 years." - United States Geological Survey. Earthquakes may happen anywhere you work, live, or travel, thus Los Angeles Firefighters stress the importance of being prepared and practicing how to protect yourself.


At 10:18 a.m. on October 18, 2012, millions of Californians will “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” in The Great California ShakeOut, the largest earthquake drill ever! More than 8.6 million Californians participated in 2011. 

The goal is to prevent a major earthquake from becoming a catastrophe for you, your organization, and your community.

Why is this drill important? As with anything, to act quickly you must practice often. You may only have seconds to protect yourself in an earthquake before strong shaking knocks you down, or something falls on you.

Everyone can participate! Individuals, families, businesses, schools, colleges, government agencies and organizations are all invited to register.

 

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman

Los Angeles Fire Department

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Disaster Preparedness Fair in Granada Hills

The Los Angeles Fire Department and Neighborhood Councils of the San Fernando Valley invite you to the 5th Annual:

Valley Disaster Preparedness Fair
Saturday, October 6, 2012
11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Los Angeles Fire Department
Station 87
10124 Balboa Boulevard
Granada Hills, CA 91344

Sponsored jointly by the Northridge East, Northridge West, Northridge South, Granada Hills South, Granada Hills North, Lake Balboa, Chatsworth, North Hills West, Porter Ranch and Mission Hills Neighborhood Councils, the Valley Disaster Preparedness Fair is designed to help everyone in the community be prepared for emergencies and disasters.

Plenty of Food, Fun and Prizes!

The sponsoring Neighborhood Councils will be giving away 400 emergency preparedness starter kits (one per family while supplies last).

Free food will be served from noon until 2:00 PM, and a special drawing will be held for two backpacks filled with emergency supplies. Those wearing a CERT vest or bringing CERT identification to the event will receive a special appreciation gift.

Hands On, Up Close and Focused on the San Fernando Valley!

Along with detailed preparedness information, plan to witness demonstrations and interact with local LAFD, LAPD, LADWP, HAM Radio Operators, Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) members as well as representatives from the Civil Air Patrol and American Red Cross.

It's a fun and free event for the whole family. We look forward to seeing you this Saturday from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Fire Station 87 in Granada Hills!

[ event flyer ]

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Free LAFD Training: Assuring Your Family Survives a Disaster

In honor of National Disaster Preparedness Month, the Los Angeles Fire Department is offering free emergency preparedness seminars during September to help our community be prepared for disaster.

In coordination with your local Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program, the LAFD is pleased to offer four informative demonstrations and displays on consecutive Sundays in September.

Congresswoman Bass of the 33rd District, Members of The Los Angeles City Council, The Los Angeles Fire Commission and Fire Chief Brian L. Cummings join together in encouraging you to attend one or all of these events during September 2012:

Kindly put these dates on your calendar, and plan to join us. All are welcome!

• September 2 - Family Emergency Planning
• September 9 - Damage Assessment and Reporting
• September 16 - Light Search and Rescue
• September 23 - Triage Victim Handling and Medical Treatment

ntp-la.com

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

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LAFD: There Is No 'Magic Triangle'. Learn What To Do When an Earthquake Strikes...

In light of recent seismic activity here in the Southland, your Los Angele Fire Department wants to -once again- remind you to prepare for whatever may come.

No one will dispute that we have had anything but consistent weather patterns in recent years. With "watches," "warnings" and earthquakes a reality for all that live in the greater Los Angeles area, we encourage you now, to not take Mother Nature's friendly reminders lightly.

"It's never too late to prepare, until it's too late to prepare!" Here, we thought to answer a frequently asked question about earthquake preparedness. How many of you have pondered: "What should I do, when an earthquake hits?" Surely, you've thought about that for at least moment!

Well, this may help...

Following catastrophic earthquakes that struck both New Zealand and Japan last year, a chain letter resurfaced, suggesting a "new" way to survive an earthquake; something called the "triangle of life". It sounds simple - and it would be if the advice were not just plain wrong - and potentially life threatening!

Instead, the Los Angeles Fire Department and the world's leading earthquake experts - including more than 600 scientists at leading institutions agree: When an earthquake strikes...

Drop! Cover! Hold On!

Learn exactly what to do when you feel an earthquake at:

www.dropcoverholdon.org

Submitted by Matt Spence, 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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'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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NOAA Declares Los Angeles StormReady and TsunamiReady

The City of Los Angeles was recently recognized by NOAA’s National Weather Service as StormReady® and the largest city in the nation to become TsunamiReady™.



The nationwide voluntary community preparedness programs use a grassroots approach to help communities develop plans to prepare and warn citizens about severe weather, flooding and tsunami threats. To become StormReady and TsunamiReady, the City of Los Angeles met stringent criteria focusing on both internal and external communication, alert systems, reception and understanding of hazardous weather alerts, community outreach, and a comprehensive natural disaster plan.

Mark Jackson, meteorologist-in-charge of the National Weather Service forecast office in Oxnard, presented city officials with recognition letters and StormReady and TsunamiReady signs at a ceremony on January 27, 2012 during a Los Angeles City Council meeting.

"As a city that faces the potential wrath of Mother Nature on a number of fronts, Los Angeles is proud to have earned the National Weather Service's distinctive 'TsunamiReady' and 'StormReady' recognition," said Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. "Our city is committed to the highest level of emergency preparedness so that our residents can be best equipped to deal with any sort of disaster."

"Like all areas along the West Coast, a tsunami could strike Los Angeles," said Jackson, who encouraged residents to develop their own emergency response plan, keep a disaster supply kit on hand and learn the tsunami warning signs.

The StormReady and TsunamiReady programs are a part of NOAA National Weather Service's working partnership with the International Association of Emergency Managers, the National Emergency Management Association and the National Tsunami Hazard Mitigation Program. The StormReady and TsunamiReady designation must be renewed after three years.

For more information on how your family can be prepared for a severe storm or tsunami, visit:

stormready.noaa.gov

tsunamiready.noaa.gov

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, 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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Change Your Clock... and Something Else!

Firefighters know the importance of home fire safety. That's why the men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department urge you to change all of your smoke alarm batteries as well as the batteries in your carbon monoxide (CO) detectors when you change your clocks back to Standard Time this weekend.

Daylight Saving Time ends at 2 a.m. this Sunday, November 6, 2011 and clocks should be set back one hour.

OK. So you know about the "Change Your Clock, Change Your Battery" campaign, but firefighters also have a question:

Do you know when your smoke alarms should be retired?

Yes, we said "retired." Think about it. Your smoke alarms work every minute of every day. After millions of sensing cycles, they should be retired. To learn more about the service life of smoke alarms and more ways to keep your family safe from fire, please visit:

firesafehome.org

Submitted by Matt Spence & Brian Humphrey, Spokesmen
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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