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Deadly Building Explosion in South LA
On Friday, July 30th, 2010 at 6:51 AM, 16 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 11 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 3 Arson Units, 1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit, 1 Rehab Unit, 2 Hazardous Materials Teams, 3 EMS Battalion Captains, 3 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, 2 bull dozers, LAPD, So Cal gas company, dwp, DOT, building & safety, LA County Health Services, Cal Osha, along with other agencies, all under the direction of Assistant Chief Daniel McCarthy responded to a MAJOR EMERGENCY at 936 East 59th Street in South Los Angeles.
Firefighters arrived to find a 100’ X 100’ one-story commercial building that sustained a massive explosion, which shook windows of nearby businesses. The front one-third of the building and roof collapsed in addition to being well involved in flames. One victim was thrown into the street from the explosion and pinned under a vehicle. Another victim was found in Cardiac Arrest after being electrocuted from power lines that were down. Emergency Traffic was declared over the radio by the Incident Commander to alert all on scene of the electrical hazard.
Firefighters jumped into action, and made a quick aggressive entry into the collapsing building. They endangered their lives to perform a rapid search of this large welding business, in hopes to rescue anyone possibly trapped. No one was immediately found, and due to the structure tumbling down around them, the Firefighters had to exit and battle the blaze defensively. Over 100 Firefighters were able to successfully knockdown the flames in just 25 minutes.
The Urban Search and Rescue Team, was then able to eliminate hazards and shore up beams, allowing a safer environment to perform a detailed and thorough search. K9 units were utilized to locate anyone possibly trapped under the rubble, however there were no hits and no additional victims were found.
Sadly one adult male deceased from electrocution. A second adult male suffered critical burns and was in the ICU at a California hospital awaiting a transfer to LA County USC hospital.
The cause of the explosion was due to illegal tampering with the gas meter. This enclosed structure was likely filling with natural gas, and when an ignition source sparked it, the powerful and deadly explosion occurred. Monetary loss from the explosion is estimated at $250,000 ($175,000 structure & $75,000 contents).
Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman Los Angeles Fire Department
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Worker Dies After Being Trapped Under Dirt
On Thursday, July 29, 2010 at 10:58 AM, 10 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 7 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 3 Urban Search and Rescue Units, 1 Rehab Unit, 2 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 2 Division Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Dozer Team, 1 Utility Resource under the direction of Assistant Chief T. Manning responded to a TRENCH RESCUE at 602 N. Palisades Dr. in Pacific Palisades.
Firefighters responded to a three story below grade single family dwelling, where reports of a person buried under an unknown amount of dirt was trapped. As crews quickly assessed the scene, they discovered that an individual who later was described as a 24 year old male, had been working in an 8x8 11 ft trench. The worker who apparently was attempting to water proof the area, was the victim of an unexpected cave in, just prior to the 911 call.
All personnel worked diligently and swiftly to try and dig out the man, but the un-shored, large amounts of dirt and the depth hole proved to be extremely challenging. With an already heavy amount of resources and equipment on scene, a request was made to call in three LAFD USAR Teams in an effort to expedite the rescue operation. A crew had to breach a nearby retaining wall to try and gain access to the victim. Despite the prompt efforts of the Los Angeles Firefighters and Paramedics, the injured male succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
It took 86 fire personnel and rescuers a little over five hours to completely recover the body of the worker. CAL –OSHA will continue an investigation as to what caused the incident, but the exact time and manner of death will be determined by the Los Angeles County Coroner's Office.
Submitted by Devin Gales, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department
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LAFD Responds to 'Briggs Fire' near Acton
Pursuant of a formal Mutual Aid Request, the Los Angeles Fire Department has assigned one helicopter and helitack team to assist U.S. Forest Service Personnel from the Angeles National Forest and allied agencies in their battle against a brush fire southwest of Acton, California, approximately 15 miles northeast of our City.
These 6 personnel from the Los Angeles Fire Department have been dispatched to the Briggs Fire in accordance with California's Fire & Rescue Emergency Mutual Aid System. Administered by the California Emergency Management Agency (Cal EMA), the system is designed to ensure resources to local jurisdictions when their resources 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 U.S. Forest Service Personnel from the Angeles National Forest, 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 Responds to 'Crown Fire' near Leona Valley
Pursuant of a formal Mutual Aid Request, the Los Angeles Fire Department has assigned two Strike Teams of firefighters to assist the Los Angeles County Fire Department and allied agencies in their battle against a brush fire southeast of Leona Valley, California, approximately 20 miles northeast of our City.
View View Larger Map of the Crown Fire (You can also pan, click & zoom the map above!)
These 44 personnel from the Los Angeles Fire Department have been dispatched to the Crown Fire in accordance with California's Fire & Rescue Emergency Mutual Aid System. Administered by the California Emergency Management Agency (Cal EMA), the system is designed to ensure resources to local jurisdictions when their resources 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 Los Angeles County 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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Fire Claims Two Lives, Critically Injures Two Others
On Monday, July 26, 2010 at 6:35 AM, 20 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 10 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 8 Arson Units, 1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit, 1 Rehab Unit, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 2 LAFD Heavy Equipment Operators, 1 LAFD Emergency Air Unit, 3 EMS Battalion Captains, 5 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams and 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, a total of 153 Los Angeles Fire Department personnel, as well as responders from the Los Angeles County Fire Department and Investigators from the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF), all under the direction of LAFD Assistant Chief Daryl Arbuthnott, responded to a Major Emergency Structure Fire with Civilian Fatalities at 821 South Esperanza Street in South Boyle Heights.
Firefighters arrived swiftly to discover heavy smoke showing from a one story 100 x 100, lightweight constructed commercial building.
Entry teams used several tools in an attempt to force their way into the structure through a series of security doors. Due to the building’s lack of structural integrity, volume of fire and concerns for firefighter safety, the Incident Command Team shifted from an offensive firefighting strategy to that of a defensive firefighting strategy.
After a bulk of the flames was knocked down, entry teams as well as roof team were able to mount an aggressive attack on the blaze. The structure, doing business as a tire and muffler shop, had tires and other auto parts stored on the roof and in several locations within the occupancy. The fire, which was difficult to fight, was skillfully confined to only the building of origin.
One victim, who had reportedly, attempted to extinguish the flames on his own, suffered 1st and 2nd degree burns over 40% of his body before being rescued by firefighters and paramedics.
A second victim who had left the scene earlier returned with severe burns to his upper body. The first victim a 61 y/o male is listed in critical condition while the second victim a 33 y/o male was treated at the scene.
Both victims were apparently within the building at the time of the incident and were able to escape with their lives. The two men were transported to Los Angeles County-USC Medical Center. It is unclear as to why the men and possibly others were inside the business at that hour.
During continued operations and despite the prompt and valiant efforts of all 153 personnel at the scene, firefighters later discovered two unconscious, non-breathing adults without vital signs of life. Both were declared deceased at the scene.
The ages and genders could not be immediately determined and no other victims were found.
The stubborn fire was finally knocked down 1 hour after the initial call.
Pursuant of protocol, Investigators from the Los Angeles Fire and Police Departments were summoned for a joint investigation, later joined by members of the ATF's Los Angeles Field Division and National Response Team.
A positive identification of the deceased, as well the cause, time and manner of their deaths will be determined by the Los Angeles County Coroner's Office.
Submitted by Devin Gales, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department
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Adult Female Found Dead During Fire
On Saturday, July 24,2010 at 7:10 PM, 5 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 3 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 3 Arson Units, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 1 Battalion Chief Officer Command Team, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, under the direction of Battalion Chief Peter Benesch responded to a Civilian Fatality Structure Fire at 11594 W. Riverside Dr. in Valley Village.
Firefighters arrived quickly to discover heavy smoke showing from the rear of a one story 650 square foot single family home. Although firefighters made quick entry to extinguish the flames, the burned body of an adult female was subsequently discovered. Without vital signs of life, she was determined deceased at the scene.
Smoke alarms were noted within the residence, but their functional status has not yet been determined. There were no security bars or other obvious impairments to impede egress from the home.
It took 37 firefighters only 11 minutes to fully knock down the flames. The physical damage from the fire was confined to the room of origin.
The exact cause this fire will remain the focus of an active joint investigation by Los Angeles Fire and Police Department officials. A positive identification of the deceased woman, as well as the exact cause, time and manner of her death will be determined by the Los Angeles County Coroner's Office.
The monetary value of this incident can not really be tabulated when there is a loss of life.
On July 26, 2010 the Los Angeles Police Department released a statement that included the sketch of a possible suspect, in what they describe as an "arson related homicide".
Submitted by Devin Gales, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department
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Firefighters Remind You to 'Pool Safely!'
The Los Angeles Fire Department is proud to support the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Safe Kids USA and the National Drowning Prevention Alliance in their effort to remind every American to Pool Safely!
Pool Safely is a national public education effort to reduce child drownings, non-fatal submersions and entrapments in swimming pools and spas. Los Angeles Firefighters support this effort through their belief in the campaign slogan:
Simple Steps Save Lives...
The 7 Simple Steps to Pool Safely...
- Constant Supervision
- Proper Fencing
- Pool & Spa Safety Covers
- Door, Gate & Pool Alarms
- Safety Drain Covers
- Swimming Lessons
- Learning CPR
To learn more, please visit:
poolsafely.gov
Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department
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3 Acres Burns Near Dodger Stadium
On Friday, July 23, 2010 at 5:59 PM, 11 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 1 LAFD Rescue Ambulance, 1 Arson Unit, 1 Rehab Unit, 3 Helicopters, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 1 Battalion Chief Officer Command Team, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, under the direction of Battalion Chief Rudy Hill responded to a Greater Alarm Brush Fire at South Bound 110 fwy at Hill St. in Lincoln Heights/Solano Canyon.
Firefighters arrived to find a column of smoke and 1/4 acres of medium to heavy brush burning. The incident started alongside the steep hills near the 110 freeway, just outside Dodger Stadium.
Although the fire was slow moving, command teams quickly assessed the need for helicopters, as ground crews were unable to reach the bulk of the flames due to steep terrain. Three LAFD water dropping helicopters were put into action, holding the blaze in check from the air, while firefighters below continued the fight on the ground.
As more companies were called into action, additional personnel were strategically placed, halting the fire from its advance.
With relatively slow wind speeds being 13 mph, a relative humidity of 35%, and the temperature at 86 degrees, firefighters were able to knock down the flames in less than 1 hour. Due to the strong efforts of 71 firefighters, this fire was completely extinguished with no threats to civilian or any structures.
Thanks to the quick work of all the crews at the scene, only 3 acres was consumed by this blaze. Happily the Dodger game which was about to begin near by, was able to start on time with no interruption from the smoke. The cause of the fire is still being investigation by LAFD Fire Officials.
Submitted by Devin Gales,Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department
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Helicopter Air Show in Los Angeles This Saturday
We welcome you to join members of the Los Angeles Fire Department and their families at the nation's premier (and yes, free!) public safety helicopter air show from 9 AM to 4 PM on Saturday, July 24, 2010 in Los Angeles.
The American Heroes Air Show is a family event at the Hansen Dam Recreation and Sports Complex in the northeast San Fernando Valley
And yes, you heard correctly - admission & parking are FREE!
Guests of all ages will get an up-close look at helicopters from local, regional, state and federal public safety and military units with static displays, flight demonstrations and mission briefings. Make sure to bring a camera!
For complete information, including a map with directions to the event site, please visit:
www.heroes-airshow.com/losangeles
Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department
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Future Firefighter Needs Your Blood in Granada Hills This Tuesday
Randall Opperman III, the son and grandson of active duty Los Angeles Firefighters, is in a brave fight for his life at Childrens Hospital Los Angeles and needs your blood and platelets.
A blood drive to support young Randy and other children in medical need will be held:
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
7:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Fire Station 87
10124 Balboa Boulevard
Granada Hills, CA 91344
Donors will be treated by firefighters to a pancake breakfast in the morning and lunch of Tri Tip sandwiches in the afternoon.
All blood types are needed. Those with medical questions - or who are interested in donating platelets, are encouraged to contact Childrens Hospital Blood Services directly at (323) 361-2441.
Our sincere thanks to the many who made this special blood drive a success. Though young Randy has been helped through your stunning generosity, other children remain in need. If you live near Los Angeles, you can save the life of a "future firefighter" by visiting: chla.org/donateblood
Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman (and blood donor)
Los Angeles Fire Department
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Fire At Hollywood Movie Prop House
On Wednesday, July 14th, 2010 at 10:00 PM, 12 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 6 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Arson Unit, 1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 2 EMS Battalion Captains, 3 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, 1 Rehab Air Tender under the direction of Assistant Chief David Yamahata responded to a Greater Alarm Structure Fire at 1107 North Bronson Avenue in Hollywood.
In response to multiple 9-1-1 calls, Firefighters quickly responded to a one-story metal-clad commercial building with heavy smoke and fire showing. Firefighters commenced a fierce interior attack through the smoke filled 100' X 150' structure that was loaded with movie props. This 54 year-old building was doing business as "C.P. Three Prop House" (C.P. is in reference to cinema props). Additional Firefighters were requested as it became difficult to access the seat of the fire, which was located at the north wall of the structure (D-side of the building). Truck companies remained on the triple gable roof, and were able to continually evaluate smoke and ventilators to guide the firefighters inside the structure to the source of the fire.
A total of 91 Firefighters battled the stubborn flames for one hour and 22 minutes before confining the flames entirely within the 22,319 square foot occupancy. Happily no civilian or Firefighter were reported injured during this incident. The dollar loss is still being tabulated and the cause of this late night blaze remains under an active investigation.
(photos)
Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department
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3 Firefighters Injured At Huge Industrial Blaze In South L.A.
On Tuesday, July 13th, 2010 at 11:43 PM, 41 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 21 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 3 Arson Units, 1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit, 1 Rehab Unit, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 3 EMS Battalion Captains, 8 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team and 2 Bulldozers under the direction of Deputy Chief Mario Rueda responded to a Major Emergency Structure Fire at 761 East Slauson Avenue in South Los Angeles.
More than 200 Los Angeles Firefighters were requested over the course of the incident to help battle a blaze at a large two-story commercial structure that encompassed six occupancies over an entire city block. Firefighters quickly arrived at United Alloys and Metals to find heavy fire at an industrial facility known for processing titanium and super alloy scrap.
 The 73 year-old structures between Paloma Avenue and Mckinley Avenue, were quickly engulfed in flames and forced firefighters into a defensive attack early during this huge fire fight. Shortly after midnight the decision was made to pull all Firefighters out of the structure and attack the flames from the exterior. Approximately 20 minutes following this decision a partial wall collapse, roof collapse, and a total of three explosions took place. These massive blasts rained down debris of concrete and titanium on Firefighters and even shattered windows of emergency vehicles. From this point forward it became a heavy stream operation with ladder pipes and portable monitors that provided huge volumes of water against the intense flames. Despite the challenges of extinguishing burning titanium and the devastating explosions, the blaze was controlled in just five hours. Exhausted Firefighters were relieved the next morning by their colleagues who continued the extended overhaul and detailed salvage procedure. Firefighter/Specialists certified in heavy equipment operation brought LAFD tractors to the scene to assist in the painstaking extinguishment of debris, an effort that continued through out the balance of the next day. Building and Safety Inspectors were also called to assess the structural integrity of the buildings. 
The damage has been estimated at $5,000,000 ($4,000,000 structure & $1,000,000 contents). The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The LAFD battled a similar blaze at 900 East Slauson Avenue on Friday, June 11th of this year.
(photos) (video) (video)
Submitted by Erik Scott and Cecil Manresa, Spokesmen
Los Angeles Fire Department
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Children, Hot Weather & Cars = Danger!
 During hot weather - and throughout the year, the Los Angeles Fire Department asks you to consider some important safety tips for vehicles and children.
We need your help to make sure that no child dies needlessly by being left alone in a hot vehicle.
- Always put something you'll need - such as your phone, handbag, a sunshade, lunch or briefcase on the floor in the back seat. This will make you open the back door of your vehicle every time you reach a destination. This way, making sure no child is left behind becomes a habit. Safety experts call this the 'Look...Then Lock' campaign.
- Keep a large teddy bear in the child's car seat when it’s not occupied. When the child is placed in the seat, put the teddy bear in the front passenger seat. It's a great visual reminder that anytime the teddy bear is up front, a child is secured in a child safety seat behind you!
- Make arrangements with your child’s day care center or babysitter that you will always call them when your child will not be there on a particular day as scheduled. This is not only common courtesy, but makes sure everyone involved in the care of your child is informed of their whereabouts. Ask these caregivers to always phone you if your child doesn’t show up when expected.
- If you see a child (dependent adult or pet) alone in a hot vehicle, get involved. If they are hot or seem sick, get them out as quickly and safely as possible. Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number for assistance as necessary.
- Never leave your car keys where children can access them, and always make sure your car is locked so that children cannot get in without adult supervision.
- Do not underestimate a child's capabilities. Teach your children about the dangers of a car, especially the car trunk. Most children can differentiate between a tool and a toy. Make certain they know that a car is not a toy!
For additional information about child and vehicle safety:
Please share this information with your friends and family!
Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department
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Firefighters Stress Hot Weather Safety in Los Angeles
 With the arrival of peak Summer temperatures in Southern California, the Los Angeles Fire Department suggests that you:
- Learn the risks of hot weather.
- Prepare your household, pets and workplace.
- Plan to get relief from and avoid the effects of heat.
The best ways to remain protected from the ill effects of heat are to dress appropriately, stay indoors, refrain from strenuous work or exercise during the hottest part of the day - and stay hydrated.
Plan in advance to wear loose, lightweight and light-colored clothing that covers as much of your skin as practical, and a well-ventilated hat with a wide brim. Stay in the shade whenever possible.
Water is usually the best liquid to drink during hot weather. If you have a pre-existing medical condition or are under a doctor's care, consult with a Physician to determine your best plan for liquid intake.
Drinks with alcohol or caffeine can make the heat's effects on your body worse. Avoid salt tablets unless directed by a doctor, and plan on eating light, healthy meals.
Symptoms of dehydration and heat illness may not be easily recognized, but often include fatigue, nausea, headache and vomiting. Drink before you become thirsty and rest before you become tired. If you feel ill, tell someone immediately.
Many heat emergencies occur to people who are exercising, working or staying alone. We suggest you use a buddy system, and also check on elderly, disabled or at-risk neighbors on a regular basis.
If your home does not have air conditioning, consider a cool place to visit or stay during the hottest part of the day. Schools, libraries, theaters, shopping malls and community facilities such as Senior Citizen Centers and park facilities may provide an air-conditioned refuge. To find a City of Los Angeles cooling center near you, call City Hall Ambassadors at 3-1-1 or visit lacity.org
Pets, horses, and livestock are also susceptible to hot weather. See that the special needs of your animals are met, including copious shade and plenty of cool water.
In fact, now is a great time to examine your daily activities and discuss hot weather safety with your family, neighbors, co-workers and Physician. If you suspect someone is experiencing a medical emergency as a result of extreme heat exposure, call 9-1-1.
Firefighters will be keeping a close eye on local weather trends, including fire weather. You can help them by remaining aware of the dangers of hot weather, and keeping your home, neighborhood and workplace safe until cooler temperatures prevail.
Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department
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Unusual Haz-Mat In A Train Tanker
On Monday, July 12th, 2010 at 3:45 AM, 7 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 7 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 2 Urban Search and Rescue Units, 1 Rehab Unit, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 2 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 LAPD Haz-Mat Team, 1 LACoFD Haz-Mat Team, LA County Sheriffs, Union Pacific Security and various other law enforcement agencies under the direction of Battalion Chief Patrick Butler responded to a Hazardous Material Incident at Eastman Avenue X Union Pacific Avenue in the Hobart area, LACoFD's jurisdiction.
A total of 68 Los Angeles Firefighters were gradually requested to assist our friends at Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). The lengthy incident involved a confined space, that of a 60' long by 10' wide, train-tanker with possible hazardous materials (Haz-Mat) inside.
Firefighters made entry into the 30,000 gallon tanker wearing full Haz-Mat suits and began removing packages that were covered in an oil type substance. Two Firefighters experienced increased heart rate and dizziness after making entry, both were evaluated medically at USC hospital as a precaution, but were expected to be released back-to-duty the same day.
Just before 10:00 AM, an unknown object, similar to the size and shape of a coffee can, was found inside. Due to the suspicious nature of this item, the Fire Department Haz-Mat removal operation was halted. LAPD Bomb Squad took over the scene, and as a safety measure, carefully detonated the object at approximately 5:00 PM. The Fire Department was then able to safely resume entry.
Due to the nature of the incident and surrounding circumstances, LAPD will continue to take the lead role and provide any additional information. All LAFD Firefighters were released just before 9:00 PM. A total of 78 packages of what the LAPD previously referred to as marijuana was safely removed.
Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman Los Angeles Fire Department
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