structurefire photos on Flickr

Downtown Los Angeles Commercial Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 8:42AM on March 10, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 720 S Ceres Ave in Downtown Los Angeles. The first arriving fire company found a one story commercial building with smoke showing.

As firefighters worked to gain entry into the building, the conditions worsened and they faced thick, black smoke, severely limiting visibility. Vertical ventilation conducted by the truck company opened up the roof to find heavy, pressurized smoke emanating from holes cut towards the back of the building. This smoke turned to fire and given the distance from where firefighters entered and the location of the fire combined with the amount of fire present, the incident commander, Assistant Chief Wade White, made the call to move the operation into a defensive mode.

All crews exited the building and came off the roof to rapidly deploy master streams. With multiple ladder pipes and large diameter hand lines flowing, firefighters quickly made progress as the white smoke in the sky dissipated.

The incident then transitioned back into the offensive mode and once the ladder pipes were shut down, an interior fire attack resumed, extinguishing the remaining pockets of fire.

Over 90 firefighters achieved a knockdown in 40 minutes with no injuries reported. The 4,536sq foot, nearly 100 year old building, housed an artist’s studio/metal fabrication business and was ‘red-tagged’ (deemed unsafe to occupy) by the LA Department of Building and Safety.

The LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section (ACTS) responded per protocol and is actively investigating the cause of the fire.

Use of This Photo Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: Gary Apodaca

LAFD Incident: 031022-0396

Heavy Fire Damages North Hollywood Home by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 11:33AM, Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 6600 block of N Ampere Av in North Hollywood. With heavy fire and smoke showing upon arrival, 45 firefighters gained knockdown and defended an exposed building in 25 mins. No injuries reported and two pet dogs located safely.

LAFD Incident: 080117-0532

Greater Alarm Commercial Fire in Harvard Park by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 5:22AM on September 16, 2020 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 1700 block of W Florence Av. Firefighters arrived to find heavy fire showing through the roof of a mixed one and two story dry cleaning plant. 90 LAFD firefighters extinguished the blaze in one hour and 35 minutes. Firefighters initially made entry, but intense fire behavior drove them back out. Using ladder pipes and large hand lines from the exterior, firefighters extinguished the fire and successfully protected nearby structures. There were no injuries reported.

LAFD Incident: 082820-0655

Firefighters Extinguish Garage and Protect Tujunga Home by Los Angeles Fire Department

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TUJUNGA - LAFD Firefighters were summoned to the 6500 block of North Agnes Avenue at 6:25 PM on July 14, 2023 for a structure fire. Firefighters found a detached garage to the rear of a residential property with heavy fire showing. Flames spread to the home on the adjacent property to the rear, but firefighters quickly extinguished the flames to limit the damage to the exposed home. It took 30 firefighters 20 minutes to fully extinguish the flames. No reported injuries. Cause under investigation.

LAFD Incident 071423-1522

Chicago firefighters are get ready to enter the burning fire. by Terry Spirek

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Major Emergency Commercial Fire Downtown by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 6:32PM, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to 815 S Central Av to find a 6,000 square-foot one story, L-shaped commercial building with heavy fire showing through the roof.

Conditions quickly dictated a transition to defensive firefighting operations and firefighters rapidly employed ladder pipes, portable monitors and 2 ½ inch hand lines, attacking the fire from all angles.

The open building housed multiple vendors and contained large, bulky storage which created a heavy fire load, driving the intense flames. A large quantity of chili peppers burning in the structure added an irritant to the smoke; yet another factor for the crews to face. While the bulk of the fire was contained in just over an hour, the fire extended into the attic, camping out in locations difficult to reach with the exterior water application.

Over 190 firefighters, led by Deputy Chief Daren Palacios, waged battle for nearly two hours before gaining the upper hand. Firefighters contained the flames to the unit of origin and protected adjacent businesses from harm.

Once the bulk of the fire was extinguished, demobilization began and some units were released. Firefighters remained on the incident throughout the evening to continue addressing hot spots and ensure the safety of the community.

LAFD Incident 031217-1087

Heavy Fire Damages North Hollywood Home by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 11:33AM, Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 6600 block of N Ampere Av in North Hollywood. With heavy fire and smoke showing upon arrival, 45 firefighters gained knockdown and defended an exposed building in 25 mins. No injuries reported and two pet dogs located safely.

LAFD Incident: 080117-0532

10 Units Damaged and Dozens Saved by Los Angeles Fire Department

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Heavy fire billowed out of a townhouse and extended into the apartments behind it, damaging multiple units before firefighters got the upper hand and saved the rest of the building.

At 2:52PM on March 5, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 8800 block of N Cedros Ave in Panorama City. The first arriving fire company found fire showing from the 1st floor of a two-story townhouse (8839 Cedros) extending up to the 2nd floor. As fire attack made their way into the structure, they quickly saw the fire was already into the exposed building (8849 Cedros) at the rear of the fire unit.

Due to active fire in both buildings, the incident commander immediately requested additional resources and this incident rose to the Greater Alarm level (between 7 – 15 fire companies on scene).

Fire attack made quick progress against the flames in the townhouse in 8839 Cedros, limiting the fire to one unit which was fully involved and minor extension into the adjacent townhouse.

Meanwhile, in the two –story O-shaped apartment building to the rear (8849 Cedros) firefighters were both inside fighting fire in two units and on the roof working to stop an entrenched attic fire from spreading through the building.

Under the command of Assistant Chief Corey Rose, the dedicated efforts of the 96 firefighters on scene fully extinguished the fire in both buildings at the one hour and 11 minute mark. They limited damage, especially in 8849 Cedros, defending the rest of the complex through ventilation and aggressive firefighting tactics.

Fortunately, functioning smoke alarms alerted some occupants and all (from both buildings) were able to safely exit with no injuries sustained.

The Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety deemed seven units unsafe for occupancy (red-tagged) while three were yellow-tagged (limited occupancy).

All occupants of the two buildings were evacuated and an evacuation group officer ensured everyone was able to safely gain access into their units (if able) to get needed belongings for the night. The Los Angeles Region American Red Cross responded to continue providing for any immediate assistance needed. S.A.V.E. (Supplying Aid to Victims of Emergency) cards ($250), provided by the California Fire Foundation, were given to those affected residents to help with basic necessities.

The LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section responded for the investigation per protocol for a Greater Alarm incident. The cause of the fire is officially deemed “Undetermined, with more than one accidental cause”. The fire was not incendiary (purposely started).

LAFD Incident: 030521-0857

Early Morning Blaze in Downtown LA by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 4:29AM on August 14, 2019 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to 2501 S Main Street for a reported structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find a 50‘ x 100’ commercial building, with fire showing on all sides.

The well entrenched fire required a defensive operation from the start. Firefighters deployed master streams to include ladder pipes and large diameter hand lines. As the roof collapsed on the 66 year old structure, crews continued to safely apply copious amounts of water from the exterior.

Once Incident Commander, Assistant Chief Kristina Kepner, deemed the blaze under control and conditions safe, she directed a return to an offensive operation so firefighters could reach the isolated pockets of fire and ensure full extinguishment.

115 firefighters waged the battle for one hour and 29 minutes before a complete knockdown was determined. Their tenacious efforts ensured the neighboring businesses were undamaged and no injuries were reported.

The LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section is actively investigating the cause per protocol for an incident of this scale.

LAFD Incident 081419-0160

Winnetka Garage Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 3:56AM on October 10, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 8600 block of N Keokuk Ave in Winnetka.

Firefighters arrived to find a one story, single family dwelling with a detached garage and the garage was well involved in fire.

One adult male was evaluated for possible smoke inhalation and declined LAFD transport.

Due to excessive storage conditions, it was an extended operation ensuring all pockets of fire were fully extinguished. Knockdown was officially called at just over two hours.

LAFD Incident 101022-0201

Two Vacant Structures Burn in Boyle Heights by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 8:14PM on March 14, 2017 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the 2300 block of E Chavez Av #BoyleHeights to find two vacant structures well involved. This non-injury fire was knocked down by 82 firefighters in 26 minutes.

LAFD Incident 031417-1428

©Photo by Rick McClure

Colonie EMS Squad/Ambulance 662 on scene of a structure fire in Colonie, NY by Derek J. Ewing

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Attic Fire Held by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 12:52 on January 1, 2020 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the 10300 block of S Antwerp St for a reported structure fire. 38 firefighters extinguished the non-injury attic fire in 13 minutes.

LAFD Incident: 010120-0128

Greater Alarm Commercial Fire in Eagle Rock by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 3:39PM on January 7, 2018 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 4537 N Eagle Rock Blvd to find a 75' x 250' vacant commercial building with heavy smoke showing. The property, surrounded by security fencing, required forcible entry to gain full access to the structure.

While truck companies made their way to the roof, interior fire attack encountered heavy smoke and heat upon entry. Minutes later, a partial roof collpase required the transition to a defensive operation. All crews exited safely and 2 1/2 handlines were put into place at exterior doors. The firefighters were able to gain an upperhand on the bulk of the fire and when all safety factors were considered, offensive operations resumed to reach the stubborn pockets of fire.

The structure, built in 1968, had a large, attached building (also vacant) which was defended from any fire damage. 98 firefighters, under the expert command of Assistant Chief Tim Ernst, fully extinguished the fire in just over one hour. Out of abundance of caution, residents from an exposed, large apartment building were evacuated but all were re-housed once knockdown was achieved with no remaining hazards.

LAFD 010718-1009

Sherman Oaks Storage Facility Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 3:58AM on April 11, 2017, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the 4600 block of N Van Nuys Blvd for a reported structure fire in a public storage facility. The fire began on the roof and extended into the attic. Firefighters, working together from the roof and the interior, stopped the fire from running the attic, saving the belongings inside the building.

LAFD Incident: 041117-0996

Lake Balboa Structure Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 9:15PM on July 28, 2018 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the 7700 block of N Oak Park Ave in #LakeBalboa for a reported structure fire. Firefighters found two sheds well involved in fire and quickly achieved knockdown with no injuries.

LAFD Incident 0702818-1511

Early Morning Blaze in Sherman Oaks by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 2:03AM, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the 13500 block of W Huston St in Sherman Oaks for a reported structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find a two story home under construction well involved with fire. The fire extended to the attic of an adjacent duplex. Both structures extinguished in just 35 minutes with 66 firefighters and no injuries reported.

LAFD Incident 07117-0101

Firefighters Extinguish Garage and Protect Tujunga Home by Los Angeles Fire Department

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TUJUNGA - LAFD Firefighters were summoned to the 6500 block of North Agnes Avenue at 6:25 PM on July 14, 2023 for a structure fire. Firefighters found a detached garage to the rear of a residential property with heavy fire showing. Flames spread to the home on the adjacent property to the rear, but firefighters quickly extinguished the flames to limit the damage to the exposed home. It took 30 firefighters 20 minutes to fully extinguish the flames. No reported injuries. Cause under investigation.

LAFD Incident 071423-1522

BATTLING THE FIRE by Mike Carey

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Crews battle a structure fire in Cohoes, NY

LAFD Prevents Burning Hillside Home from Sparking Brush Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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TARZANA - At 6:24 PM on Monday, August 2, 2021, LAFD responded to the 19600 block of West Valdez Drive, where a two-story hillside home was engulfed in flames, with fire starting to ignite nearby brush. Firefighters began the attack in defensive mode (from the exterior only), and later transitioned to offensive (inside the structure) to finish tracking down all of the fire within. Ultimately, it took 57 LAFD firefighters 33 minutes to extinguish the flames and keep a larger brush fire from ignition. The family escaped unharmed, but four will be displaced. No reported injuries.

LAFD Incident: 080221-1355

Midnight Blaze in South Los Angeles by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 10:55PM on Tuesday, May 5, 2020 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the 1700 block of E 57th Street for a reported structure fire. The first arriving companies found a large (approximately 300’ x 500’) pallet yard with heavy fire showing. Additional resources were quickly requested as crews moved into the defensive mode.

Firefighters went to work on all four sides of this incident, conducting fire attack against several outbuildings in the compound of the yard while simultaneously establishing master streams to drown out the pallet fire. Downed, high voltage power lines created an additional safety hazard for crews to work around.

116 LAFD firefighters, assisted by several companies from Los Angeles County Fire Department, working under the command of Assistant Chief Antoine McKnight, declared a knockdown of the fire in one hour and four minutes, with no injuries reported. No residential homes outside of the compound were damaged.

This was a Major Emergency status structure fire and thus, per protocol, LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section (ACTS) responded and are actively investigating the cause of the fire.

LAFD Incident: 050520-1481

Major Emergency Fire Destroys Panorama City Business by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 12:09AM on August 13, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 14600 block of W Titus St in Panorama City. Firefighters found a large, one story commercial building with heavy fire showing upon arrival. The defensive operation last almost three hours before an official knockdown was declared. Crews remained on scene throughout the night conducting overhaul operations to ensure no remaining pockets of fire. The business was closed and no workers present at the time of the fire. This non-injury fire remains under investigation.

LAFD Incident: 081321-00015

Strip Mall Fire Stopped by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 9:47PM, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 13600 block of W Vanowen St. Over 95 firefighters stopped this fire from destroying multiple units and achieved full extinguishment in just over an hour.

LAFD Incident: 052517-1441

Ambulances on fire scene by Norwegian Emergency Vehicles

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Firefighters Extinguish Garage and Protect Tujunga Home by Los Angeles Fire Department

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TUJUNGA - LAFD Firefighters were summoned to the 6500 block of North Agnes Avenue at 6:25 PM on July 14, 2023 for a structure fire. Firefighters found a detached garage to the rear of a residential property with heavy fire showing. Flames spread to the home on the adjacent property to the rear, but firefighters quickly extinguished the flames to limit the damage to the exposed home. It took 30 firefighters 20 minutes to fully extinguish the flames. No reported injuries. Cause under investigation.

LAFD Incident 071423-1522

Fatality Fire in Broadway-Manchester by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 12:17AM on June 21, 2023 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at the 11300 block of S Main St in Broadway-Manchester.

The first arriving fire company found a 60' x 80' metal clad, commercial building well involved in fire. Firefighters initiated a defensive operation and extinguished the fire in 38 minutes.

While conducting the primary search, they located an adult male inside the building who was sadly beyond medical help and Firefighter/Paramedics determined him deceased on scene. LAPD and LAFD Arson Section responded for the investigation per protocol for a fatality

LAFD Incident 062123-0012

Overnight Blaze Gravely Injures Teenager by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 1:18AM on August 25, 2019 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 717 W 52nd Place in South Los Angeles. Firefighters arrived to find a one story, single family dwelling well involved with fire and reports of people trapped.

The volume and intensity of the flames required firefighters to conduct a transitional attack prior to entering the structure for an interior fire attack. The transitional attack involves the application of a straight stream of water from the exterior of the structure that provides a brief ‘break of the fire triangle’ by cooling the environment. This gives firefighters the chance to enter the building to more directly attack the flames.

Within minutes of arriving on scene, the first crews were inside and searching for trapped victims. They quickly located an unresponsive, 17 year old female and brought her out for immediate medical care. With lifesaving treatment underway, she was rapidly transported in grave condition. Three additional members of her family were home at the time of the fire. A 59 year old male suffered non-life threatening burn injuries and was transported to the hospital. A 60 year old female and 40 year old female were not injured. An additional 28 year old female was transported for injuries not related to the fire (from a home a couple doors down).

The occupants of the home reported having smoke alarms; however, there was no indication of functioning smoke alarms and they did not report being awoken by the alarms. This tragedy serves as a sober reminder for all our residents to ensure you check the battery on your smoke alarms on a monthly basis and replace them annually. If you need (free) assistance with new smoke alarms, please visit www.mysmokealarm.org.

The Mayor’s Crisis Response Team responded to assist the family through the difficult experience. The cause of the fire is under active investigation by LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section (ACTS).

LAFD Incident 080257-0090

Use of This Photo Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: Brandon Silverman

Greater Alarm Fire in Van Nuys by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 1:29PM on December 28, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 7800 block of N Balboa Bl in Van Nuys for a reported structure fire. Firefighters located a one story, commercial building (housing multiple businesses) with fire showing through the roof. 76 firefighters extinguished the fire in 36 minutes with no injuries reported. The fire destroyed the unit of origin and damaged the adjacent units. A mobile home/RV park next to the building was defended against the blaze.There were no injuries reported.

LAFD Incident 122822-0873

Public Storage Fire in Sylmar by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 6:58AM on March 19, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 12600 block of W Foothill Blvd in Sylmar for a reported structure fire.

The first fire company arrived to find a two story, Public Storage complex with heavy smoke showing.

Over 80 firefighters extinguished the fire in 43 minutes with no injuries reported. The fire appears to have started on the 1st floor and extended up to the 2nd and through a common void space (similar to an attic) horizontally to additional units. A total of four units on the first floor and five units on the 2nd floor sustained heavy fire damage. A portion of the 2nd story floor burned through. The fire was in one, isolated building (they are not connected) in the complex of storage buildings. Firefighters quickly opened units and accessed the void space from the interior and the roof to stop the spread and save the rest of the units.

LAFD Incident: 031822-1434

Studio City Blazes Destroys Home by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 3:40AM on March 13, 2020 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 3700 block of N Eureka Drive. Firefighters found a large, one story home well involved in fire exposing two additional residences. After a battle spanning one hour and 18 minutes, the 52 firefighters on scene fully extinguished the fire. The two adjacent homes were defending from the fire extending, limiting it to some minor exterior damage to one home. Two firefighters were transported to the hospital for treatment of minor injuries. Due to the size of the building, LAFD Arson section responded to investigate the cause.

LAFD Incident 031320-0185

Fatality Fire in Broadway-Manchester by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 12:17AM on June 21, 2023 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at the 11300 block of S Main St in Broadway-Manchester.

The first arriving fire company found a 60' x 80' metal clad, commercial building well involved in fire. Firefighters initiated a defensive operation and extinguished the fire in 38 minutes.

While conducting the primary search, they located an adult male inside the building who was sadly beyond medical help and Firefighter/Paramedics determined him deceased on scene. LAPD and LAFD Arson Section responded for the investigation per protocol for a fatality

LAFD Incident 062123-0012

Major Emergency Structure Fire in Woodland Hills by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 9:10PM on July 3, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 6000 block of N De Soto Av for a reported structure fire.

The first arriving fire company found a large, one story commercial (vacant) building with heavy fire showing through the roof.

Firefighters immediately initiated a defensive operation and quickly determined the entire building was fully involved in fire.

With multiple ladder pipes flowing and large diameter hand lines deployed around the structure, firefighters battled for over an hour to quell the blaze. Their efforts ensure the neighboring buildings were not damaged. There were no injuries reported and there is an on-going cause investigation.

LAFD Incident 070322-1566

Early Morning Fire in Vermont Square by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 2:44AM on December 23, 2018 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 120 block of W 52nd St #VermontSquare. Firefighters arrived to find a two-story home with fire showing from the first floor which had spread into the attic. Neighboring structures were also exposed as the 51 firefighters aggressively extinguished the flames in just 34 minutes. One civilian was transported in fair condition.

LAFD Incident: 122318-0169

Attic Fire in Boyle Heights by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 3:35PM on 12 March, 2018 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 700 block of S Fresno St in Boyle Heights. 38 firefighters quickly handled a well developed attic fire in the single family dwelling. Extinguishment achieved in 19 minutes with no injuries reported.

Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Robert Barna

LAFD Incident: 031218-1055

Large shed fire in 74's Due by LeafsHockeyFan

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Feb 4, 2017. Stations 74, 2 and 6 were dispatched for a structure fire on the Maryland side in the Avalon Park neighborhood. Units arrived to find a large shed well involved with fire that was threatening two homes in close proximity. Assistance was requested from the next 3 closest fire stations which brought units from Stations 16, 5 and 7.

Tujunga Fire Quickly Extinguished by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 11:56AM on May 9, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 5900 block of N Tujunga Av for a reported structure fire.

Firefighters arrived to find a two story, garden style apartment building with smoke showing. With an aggressive interior fire attack, crews quickly extinguished the fire in just 11 minutes with no injuries reported.

LAFD Incident: 050922-0777

Fire Destroys Trailer in Shadow Hills by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 4:03PM on November 13, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 8600 block of W La Tuna Canyon Road for a reported structure fire. The first arriving fire companies found an outside fire, well involved travel trailer, exposing a single family dwelling. While firefighters conducted an offensive fire attack, additional crews sequestered a number of exotic animals on the property to ensure they were safe. A knockdown was achieved in 21 minutes. Two adult patients (one male and one female) were evaluated on scene and later declined LAFD transport. The cause is under investigation.

LAFD Incident 111321-1111

LAFD Battles Greater Alarm Fire in South L.A. by Los Angeles Fire Department

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SOUTH LOS ANGELES - On the afternoon of April 11, 2020 the Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned to a structure fire at 11632 South Main Street in South Los Angeles. The first arriving firefighters discovered heavy pressurized smoke and fire showing from the rear of a 70’ x 40’ vacant one story commercial building.

Mounting an aggressive fire attack with a primary search of the structure, crews were pushed back by deteriorating conditions, including a partial roof collapse, leading to a well-coordinated transition to defensive operations.

Ninety-eight LAFD personnel were able to fully extinguish the fire in 52 minutes. There were no injuries. The cause of the blaze is under investigation.

LAFD Incident 041120-0763

Apartments Protected From Ensuing Blaze by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 4:04AM the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to 4659 W Fountain Ave to find a 2 story strip mall with heavy fire in one unit on the 2nd floor which was impinging on a 4 story apartment building butted up next to it. Over 100 firefighters took 51 mins to gain a knockdown and protected all 31 apartment units from any damage. No injuries reported and the cause of the fire is "undetermined, nothing suspicious in nature"

LAFD Incident 031417-0173

Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Erik Scott

Los Angeles Apartment Fire Results in Partial Collapse by Los Angeles Fire Department

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HISTORIC SOUTH CENTRAL – A well-established basement fire spread throughout an apartment building in South Los Angeles and burned for many hours, causing collapse and displacing residents.

The Los Angeles City Fire Department responded with over 100 firefighters to a structure fire that was reported at 3:03 A.M. on May 16, 2020, in the 4000 block of South Main Street in the Historic South-Central neighborhood of Los Angeles. Firefighters found a 24-unit two-story center-hallway apartment building with fire showing. The blaze appeared to have started in a densely-packed basement used for storage, which spread to the rest of the building.

Occupant safety was the immediate concern in the early morning hours, at a time when many residents are expected to be asleep in their units. A primary search ensued, while firefighters worked to locate the seat of the fire. Heavy fire was located in the basement, but access was extremely limited due to excessive storage. Firefighters battled through low visibility and extremely hot conditions for as long as they could, as the heat emanated from below. Fire attack teams were unable to directly attack the seat of the fire, but were able to cut holes in the first floor to drop a Bresnan distributor nozzle (“cellar nozzle”) down into the basement, which acts like a fire sprinkler on steroids, sending water out of nine orifices and spinning in a circular pattern (distributing 600-800 gallons per minute in a 30-foot diameter).

As fire attack teams continued their battle, search teams swept through the building and facilitated evacuations of both floors, unit-by-unit. All residents were evacuated. Only one needed additional medical care at the hospital for smoke inhalation. At least four adjacent buildings were evacuated as a precaution.

Firefighters were forced to withdraw as conditions deteriorated. As soon as the residents were safely outside, buckling walls and sagging floors led to the incident commander’s decision to withdraw all crews from the building. The fight continued from outside, with firefighters directing hose streams through windows of every unit.

The apartment built in 1924 had balloon construction that is characterized by open spaces within the walls that stretch from bottom to top - studs from basement to attic with no fire blocks. The fire extended upward unhindered from the basement, throughout the entire building, and across the attic. Eventually, the south side of the building collapsed. Due to the extensive fire damage and partial collapse, the only option was to tear down the building. Because of the structural compromise, it was unsafe for firefighters to make entry. Excavators were ordered to demolish the building and Department of Transportation removed vehicles off the street to make room for the operation. Firefighters stood by for at least two days to continue monitoring the fire and extinguish hot spots as the debris was removed.

Red Cross was notified to assist residents with interim housing. An MTA bus was ordered to give residents a sheltered place to wait, off the street, while details for accommodations were worked out. LAFD CERT teams set up on scene to support firefighters, as this turned into an extended operation.

Apartment fires are notoriously dangerous with high potential for casualties. Today, we are reminded of the importance of operable fire protection systems (especially smoke detectors), and previously-discussed emergency escape plans, and it was fortunate only one resident was injured in the blaze.

LAFD Incident: 051620-0131

Fatality Fire in Pico-Union by Los Angeles Fire Department

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The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 3:16 AM on January 10, 2018 to 1721 South New Hampshire Avenue in the Pico-Union area, where firefighters arrived quickly to find heavy flames showing from the second floor of a 2,149 square-foot two story residential triplex.

Sixty firefighters under the command of Battalion Chief Timothy Kelly made a fierce assault on the flames, discovering the remains of one person inside the premises. No other injuries were reported. The blaze was confined to the unit of fire origin and attic above, and fully extinguished in just 48 minutes.

Though one or more smoke alarms were present in the heavily damaged home, their functional status at the time of the blaze could not be immediately determined. No obvious factors were noted that could impede the egress of occupants. The 116 year-old residence was not equipped with optional residential fire sprinklers.

A positive identification of the deceased person, as well as the cause, time and manner their death will be determined by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner.

While the cause of the fire remains under active investigation, it has been determined suspicious in nature

LAFD Incident 011018-0131

Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Erik Scott

North Hollywood Blaze Hits Multiple Businesses by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 5:33AM on June 10, 2019, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 5241 N Lankershim Blvd. With a large plume of smoke visible while enroute, firefighters knew it would be difficult fight. The 94-year old building, approximately 150' x 75', had heavy fire and smoke showing upon arrival of the fire companies. Firefighters initiated an offensive attack with companies going both to the roof and inside to battle the flames. Twenty minutes later, as the fire evolved, it became too dangerous to remain inside the structure and the operation transitioned to defensive mode.

Truck companies initiated ladder pipe operations while Engine companies used both the wagon battery and heavy stream hand-lines. Thousands of gallons of water streamed into the fire, abating the bulk of the flames. However, the challenged remained reaching the remaining fire in pockets not accessible from the exterior. Two hours and 16 minutes later, 113 firefighters, under the guidance of Incident Commander Assistant Chief Stephen Gutierrez, achieved knockdown.

Despite the challenging conditions, seven businesses were saved by the relentless efforts of Your LAFD firefighters. The large building housed a dozen separate businesses and firefighters limited the damage to five at the epicenter of the blaze. Ultimately, the five businesses suffering varying levels of fire, smoke and/or water damage were Greenhouse, Tokyo Delve's Sushi, Chili Rollz, District Pub and Joe Coffehouse.

The scene remained active throughout the morning while firefighters performed overhaul operations and the LAFD Arson Section conducted the cause investigation of this non-injury fire.

LAFD Incident 061019-0252

Fire Consumes Abandoned North Hills Business by Los Angeles Fire Department

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NORTH HILLS - It took 42 Los Angeles City Firefighters just 36 minutes to extinguish a fully involved vacant one story commercial building in the 15700 block of Roscoe Boulevard early September 23, 2020. No one was injured by the blaze.

LAFD Incident: 092320-0035

Chatsworth Fire Sends Two LAFD Firefighters to Hospital by Los Angeles Fire Department

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CHATSWORTH - It took 122 Los Angeles Firefighters just 81 minutes to win a relentless battle with wind-whipped flames accidentally sparked by a propane fueled barbecue, that damaged four condominium units under a common roof in the 22100 block of James Alan Circle on July 4, 2017. Two LAFD firefighters sustained non-life threatening injury in the fierce firefight.Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Scott Kingsland

LAFD Incident: 070417-1009

Early Morning Fire in Vermont Square by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 2:44AM on December 23, 2018 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 120 block of W 52nd St #VermontSquare. Firefighters arrived to find a two-story home with fire showing from the first floor which had spread into the attic. Neighboring structures were also exposed as the 51 firefighters aggressively extinguished the flames in just 34 minutes. One civilian was transported in fair condition.

LAFD Incident: 122318-0169

Building Saved in Koreatown by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 5:24AM on October 20, 2018 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 700 block of S Normandie Av in Koreatown. Firefighters arrived to a four story, center-hall apartment building with people exiting through the front doors. Although no fire or smoke was visible, crews immediately deployed into fire attack and roof ventilation operations and located fire in the basement. Further investigation located pockets of fire in walls on the first and second floors.

Firefighters strategically opened sections of walls to extinguish fire while determining the extent of the fire's spread. The size of the building (54,152 square feet) and potential for a working attic fire led the Incident Commander Assistant Chief Kwame Cooper to request additional units and raise this to a Major Emergency status.

The efficient and precise efforts of the firefighters successfully prevented a dangerous attic fire and limited damage to the building. The structure, built in 1926, contained 76 units and occupants were evacuated with only one resident requesting medical evaluation by LAFD paramedics but did not require ambulance transport.

106 firefighters achieved knockdown in one hour and 30 minutes. While the cause of the fire is under active investigation by LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section (ACTS) (based on protocol for a Major Emergency structure fire) it appears the fire originated in a first floor utility room and traveled to the basement via a light well and then through the walls to the attic.

Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo - Erik Scott

LAFD Incident: 102018-0259

Strip Mall Fire Stopped by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 9:47PM, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 13600 block of W Vanowen St. Over 95 firefighters stopped this fire from destroying multiple units and achieved full extinguishment in just over an hour.

LAFD Incident: 052517-1441

Four Injured, Five Structures Damaged in Hollywood Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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Four Injures, Five Structures Damaged in Hollywood Fire

HOLLYWOOD - Fast moving flames damaged five residential buildings and led to four persons sustaining injury in the Hollywood Studio District Friday morning.

The Los Angeles Fire Department was notified by a 9-1-1 caller at 9:08 AM on Friday, January 22, 2021 of a structure fire at 1245 North Bronson Avenue in Hollywood.

Firefighters arrived quickly to find a vacant and boarded one story home in a large unkempt lot, fully involved with fire, with flames extending to a vacant home on the same parcel.

Fire was simultaneously taking hold of the attic at an occupied two story Craftsman-style home on a neighboring property to the north, and yet another vacant home on the same parcel, behind that structure. Flames also threatened an occupied three story garden-style apartment building to the south.

The fierce and well-coordinated firefight by 97 firefighters under the command of Assistant Chief Dean Zipperman extinguished the flames in just 39 minutes.

Damage to the apartment building was kept largely superficial, with some broken windows and damage to a balcony. The effort of LAFD responders also largely limited fire within the attic of the Craftsman-style home.

The trio of other vacant structures, including the building of fire origin and the somewhat dilapidated buildings to the rear of each home, were destroyed by the flames, which also damaged at least one vehicle.

Three civilians and one firefighter sustained non-life threatening injuries related to the fire, with the three civilians taken to area hospitals for further care, including an adult male resident of the apartment building with burns to his arm, and a pair of adult females from the Craftsman-style home - one of whom sustained minor burn injury, and the other, who had no obvious injury, but was carried from the premises by passersby prior to LAFD arrival.

The firefighter, who sustained facial trauma at the peak of the firefight, was briefly assessed and treated at scene before returning quickly to the battle.

No other injuries were reported.

Fire loss to the five buildings, three of which were vacant, is still being tabulated. The cause of the greater alarm fire remains under active investigation.

For updated informtion regarding this incident, visit:

lafd.org/news/four-injured-five-structures-damaged-fire-h...

LAFD Incident: 012221-0421

Downtown LA Commercial Fire Hampered By Fire Sprinklers by Los Angeles Fire Department

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LOS ANGELES - LAFD responded to 1620 South Los Angeles Street at 2:44 A.M. on January 18, 2020. A one-story commercial building contained a fire inside being held in check by fire sprinklers. This caused excessive smoke to build up with only minimal growth of the fire. Interior fire attack companies searched for the seat of the fire in very low visibility conditions, while navigating through excessive storage of textiles. Firefighters on the roof cut holes to ventilate the structure, letting some of the thick smoke out into the early morning sky, improving conditions for firefighters inside. Ultimately, 55 firefighters extinguished the fire in 49 minutes, with no reported injuries. The cause of the fire is unknown and under investigation.

LAFD Incident 011820-0151

Apartments Protected From Ensuing Blaze by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 4:04AM the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to 4659 W Fountain Ave to find a 2 story strip mall with heavy fire in one unit on the 2nd floor which was impinging on a 4 story apartment building butted up next to it. Over 100 firefighters took 51 mins to gain a knockdown and protected all 31 apartment units from any damage. No injuries reported and the cause of the fire is "undetermined, nothing suspicious in nature"

LAFD Incident 031417-0173

Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Erik Scott

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