structurefire photos on Flickr

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 by Rick McClure

LAFD Incident: 070417-1009

Major Emergency Fire in South LA by Los Angeles Fire Department

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The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 2:19 PM on April 3, 2021 to 8730 South Crocker Street, where firefighters arrived quickly to find an outside fire that had extended into a 300' x 300' one story row of three or more commercial buildings under what appeared to be a contiguous roof.

Defensive firefighting operations under the command of Assistant Chief Dean Zipperman continued for 4 hours and 4 minutes, until the fire was declared extinguished at 6:23 PM. No injuries were reported.

The expansive structure, initially believed to house only a furniture manufacturing firm, appeared to also contain one or more other firms, including a large marijuana grow operation.

The cause of the fire remains under active investigation.

LAFD Incident: 040321-0852

Major Emergency Blaze Consumes Building by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 7:48PM on November 25, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 1820 E 48th Place in the Central-Alameda area. The address, site of a Greater Alarm fire two nights prior, included four large, adjoining buildings which housed multiple businesses. Heavy fire was showing from one building, already through the roof upon LAFD arrival.

Truck companies deployed ladder pipes and engine companies flowed wagon batteries while establishing large diameter hand lines. Forcible entry was required to open all the rolling steel doors and give firefighters access to the blaze from the exterior.

An entrenched battle continued through the night with 115 firefighters, under the command of Assistant Chief Kristina Kepner, working aggressively to defend the adjoining structures. Their efforts prevented the fire from extending and protected numerous businesses.

LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section had an open investigation into the cause of the fire at this address on November 23, 2021 and were on scene to conduct the cause investigation into this fire as well, which remains ongoing.

LAFD Incident: 112521-1480

Craftsman Home Destroyed by Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 2:08AM on July 14, 2020 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in teh 1200 block of S Arapahoe Street in the Pico-Union area of Los Angeles. Firefighters arrived to find a large, two story Craftsman-style vacant home with heavy fire showing. 94 firefighters extinguished this Greater Alarm fire in 38 minutes. The operation shifted from offensive to defensive due to the difficulty accessing fire on the 2nd floor. One the fire was pushed back, crews went back into an offensive mode to move up and fully knockdown the fire. No injuries were reported.

LAFD Incident: 071420-0135

Detroit Fire by Bernie Deyo Photography

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Fire Fighters Fight Several working Box alarms all over Detroit in occupied and vacant dwellings

Sherman Oaks Strip Mall Destroyed by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 10:48PM on January 12, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 15000 block of W Ventura Bl in Sherman Oaks. The first arriving crews found a small strip mall with heavy smoke showing.

After an initial offensive attack, the incident transitioned to defensive and 75 firefighters extinguished the fire in one hour at 20 minutes with no injuries reported.

LAFD Incident 011222-1891

Sherman Way IC LAFD by Bernie Deyo Photography

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Fire Fighters from the Los Angees City Fire department battle a greater alarm structure fire at Sherman Way & Desoto in the SFV.

Firefighters Extinguish Arleta Garage Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

ARLETA - Los Angeles City Firefighters responded to the 12800 block of West Tonopah Street at 11:47 AM to find a garage fire spreading to a vacant single-family home. It took 29 firefighters 23 minutes to extinguish the flames. No reported injuries. Cause under investigation.

LAFD Incident 062122-0649

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

Arleta Home Destroyed by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 8:26AM on December 22, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 14200 block of W Judd St for a reported structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find a two story, single family dwelling with the 2nd floor well involved in fire. Initial reports on scene indicated one occupant was missing.

Crews immediately initiated an offensive operation in the "rescue profile" (due to the possibility of a victim inside the structure). The fire was isolated to the 2nd floor and extended into the attic. Firefighters conducted a primary and secondary search on the 1st floor and confirmed it was clear. As firefighters continued to battle the heavy fire and intense heat bearing down on them from above, occupants of the residence confirmed they found the missing person.

The 42 firefighters, operating under the command of Battalion Chief Albert Ward, fully extinguished the fire in 39 minutes with no damage to the neighboring buildings.

One occupant was transported in serious condition with facial/respiratory burns and two firefighters were transported for evaluation of non-life threatening burn injuries.

The home was initially reported as a 'sober living facility' but later confirmed not to be a licensed facility of any type. The legality of the construction and occupancy (at least 11 people) is under investigation. LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism section is actively investigation the cause of the fire.

LAFD Incident 122222-0346

Major Emergency Blaze Consumes Building by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 7:48PM on November 25, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 1820 E 48th Place in the Central-Alameda area. The address, site of a Greater Alarm fire two nights prior, included four large, adjoining buildings which housed multiple businesses. Heavy fire was showing from one building, already through the roof upon LAFD arrival.

Truck companies deployed ladder pipes and engine companies flowed wagon batteries while establishing large diameter hand lines. Forcible entry was required to open all the rolling steel doors and give firefighters access to the blaze from the exterior.

An entrenched battle continued through the night with 115 firefighters, under the command of Assistant Chief Kristina Kepner, working aggressively to defend the adjoining structures. Their efforts prevented the fire from extending and protected numerous businesses.

LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section had an open investigation into the cause of the fire at this address on November 23, 2021 and were on scene to conduct the cause investigation into this fire as well, which remains ongoing.

Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo

LAFD Incident: 112521-1480

Sherman Oaks Strip Mall Destroyed by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 10:48PM on January 12, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 15000 block of W Ventura Bl in Sherman Oaks. The first arriving crews found a small strip mall with heavy smoke showing.

After an initial offensive attack, the incident transitioned to defensive and 75 firefighters extinguished the fire in one hour at 20 minutes with no injuries reported.

LAFD Incident 011222-1891

Sylmar Attic Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 2:05PM the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 13500 block of W Hubbard St in #Sylmar. 87 firefighters handled the well involved attic fire in 26 minutes with no injuries.

LAFD Incident: 011019-0908

Boyle Heights Fire Proves Stubborn by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 12:37AM on July 14, 2020 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 2200 block of E 1st St. Firefighters arrived to find a one story row of commercial units with fire showing. 100 firefighters battled and extinguished the stubborn fire in two hours and 10 minutes. This was an extended operation due to the difficulty accessing all areas of the fire because of the roof collapse. No were injuries reported. LAFD Arson Section responded for the cause investigation, per protocol for a fire of this size.

LAFD Incident: 071420-0054

Heavy Fire Damages Van Nuys Home by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 3:09PM on August 21, 2020 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 7100 block of N Mammoth Av for a reported structure fire. Crews arrived to find a single story dwelling with heavy fire showing. 83 firefighters extinguished the fire in 46 minutes with no injuries reported. The excessive storage inside the structure presented a challenge in safely reaching the seat of the fire. The fire extended into the attic but was prevented from spreading to a neighboring residence. The cause is under investigation by LAFD Arson Section.

LAFD Incident: 082120-0943

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

NoHo High Rise Roof Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 8:48PM on September 3, 2020 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 4600 block of N Lankershim Blvd in North Hollywood. Firefighters arrived to an eight-story high-rise building doing business as City National Bank, where there was a fire on the roof from an apparent electrical problem with the illuminated sign. Firefighters ascended to the roof, extinguished the fire, and checked for extension into the exterior wall. The threat was eliminated in 30 minutes (9:18 PM) with no reported injuries.

LAFD Incident: 090320-1343

Quick Stop to Apartment Fire in Sherman Oaks by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 8:12PM on February 12, 2018 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the 13500 block of W Moorpark St for a reported structure fire. 34 firefighter achieved a knockdown in 20 minutes, containing the fire to the unit of origin on the 2nd floor of a two story, garden style apartment building.

LAFD Incident: 021218-1412

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

Valley Village Structure Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 4:04PM on January 30, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 4700 block of N Radford Av for a reported structure fire. 31 firefighters extinguished the heavy fire showing from a single family dwelling in 23 minutes with no injuries reported.

LAFD Incident: 013021-0955

Heavy Fire in Sherman Oaks Home by Los Angeles Fire Department

At 11:48PM on December 30, 2020 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 15000 block of W Weddington St for a reported structure fire. Firefighters found heavy fire showing from a one story, single family dwelling with two additional homes exposed to the flames. 26 firefighters safely extinguished the blaze in 32 minutes, defended the adjacent homes from damage.

LAFD Incident: 123020-1865

San Pedro Structure Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 9:25PM on October 19, 2020 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 2200 block of S Gaffey St in San Pedro. 30 LAFD firefighters extinguished the fire, which destroyed a secondary house to the rear of the property, in 31 minutes, while protecting nearby homes on either side. There were no reported injuries.

LAFD Incident: 101920-1258

Greater Alarm Fire in North Hollywood by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 5:09PM on May 28, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 6800 block of N Troost Av for a reported structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find a one story commercial building with fire showing. Crews immediately initiated an offensive operation with interior fire attack and truck companies on the roof performing vertical ventilation.

Approximately 20 minutes into the incident, a partial roof collapse at the front of the building triggered the transition to a defensive operation. Over 80 firefighters ultimately extinguished the blaze in one hour and 46 minutes with no injuries reported. They contained the fire to the building of origin, defended the exposed buildings from damage. LAFD Arson responded for the investigation per protocol.

LAFD Incident 052822-1075

West Hills Home Destroyed by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 7:48PM on December 5, 2020 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 23100 block of W Baltar St in West Hills. 26 firefighters handled a well involved, one story, single family dwelling in 37 minutes. One adult male was transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

LAFD Incident: 120520-1569

Mobile Home Fire Takes One Life by Los Angeles Fire Department

At 5:31PM on November 30, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 20652 W Lassen Street in Chatsworth. Upon arrival to the manufactured home park, firefighters located one unit with heavy fire showing and exposures on two sides.

As fire attack made entry, they encountered excessive storage conditions which created challenges reaching the seat of the fire. Information gathered at the command post indicated the potential for a trapped victim and a primary search was underway as the flames were extinguished.

45 firefighters, under the command of Battalion Chief Karen Richter, knocked down the fire in 26 minutes. Their quick work prevented the fire from extending to the closely situated homes on either side of the structure. The primary search did not reveal any victims but with one of the occupants unaccounted for, crews continued their efforts. A short time later, firefighters located the 80 year old female occupant buried under four feet of debris. Sadly, she was determine deceased on scene.

Excessive storage conditions in the home not only hampered firefighter access but prevented the occupant from being able to safely exit the home. She instead was trapped as the tall piles fell down on top of her. There were also no signs of functioning smoke alarms which might have provided early warning.

The cause of the fire is under active investigation by LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism section per protocol for a fatality fire.

LAFD Incident 113021-1272

San Pedro Fire Prevented from Spreading by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 2:31PM on January 19, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 1300 block of W O'Farrell St in San Pedro for a reported structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find a two story, single family dwelling with a well involved attic fire and extension to the 2nd floor. 29 firefighters extinguished the fire in 29 minutes and prevented it from damaging the adjacent home.

LAFD Incident: 011921-0968

Manchester Square Restaurant Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 6:52PM on December 25, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 1950 block of W Florence Av in Manchester Square for a reported structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find a one story, 50' x 50', restaurant (DBA Woody BBQ) with fire showing. Crews overcame forcible entry challenges to make access to the business and extinguish the fire in 18 minutes with no injuries reported.

LAFD Incident 122521-1220

Third Street Fire in Downtown Los Angeles by Los Angeles Fire Department

DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES - The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 1:50 AM on June 8, 2021 to the 200 block of East 3rd Street in Downtown Los Angeles, where firefighters arrived quickly to find a century-old commercial building engulfed in flames.

One hundred-fifty firefighters under the command of Assistant Chief Ernst confined the fire to a 200' x 50' three-story commercial building, saving nearby multi-story residential structures. Firefighters battled for over three hours to knock down the bulk of the flames. The structural integrity of the building was too compromised for firefighters to enter and finish extinguishment. Heavy machinery was brought in to move debris and uncover the many remaining hot spots. Firefighters stayed for most of the day to monitor the smoldering debris and continue to apply water when possible.

There were no reported injuries to firefighters or civilians.

Volunteers from the American Red Cross assisted unhoused persons whose tents were destroyed by fire, while Inspectors from the City's Department of Building & Safety examined the fire building to determine its structural integrity and potential for repair. Monetary loss from the fire is still being tabulated.

LAFD Fire Investigators have concluded their investigation and the cause will remain "undetermined." Evidence confirmed that the fire began inside the structure and is not related to the individuals in tents outside the structure. Due to the compromised structural integrity of the fire unit and partial building collapse in the probable area of ignition, investigators were unable to determine anything further.

LAFD Incident: 060821-0089

Fire Destroys Sun Valley Home by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 8:38PM on January 9, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 13300 block of W Arminta St for a reported structure fire. The first arriving fire company found a one story, single family dwelling with heavy fire showing. 46 firefighters took 30 minutes to extinguish heavy fire in a 2,147 square-foot home. All four occupants exited the structure safely prior to LAFD arrival. There were no injuries reported.

LAFD Incident 010922-1627

East Hollywood Fire Destroys Building by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 8:33AM on October 27, 2019 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 4760 W Melrose Ave in East Hollywood. Firefighters arrived to find a two story, vacant center hall apartment building with heavy fire showing.

Interior fire attack immediately made entry while the truck company went to the roof to provide vertical ventilation. Heavy fire was encountered both on the first and second floors. As firefighters successfully extinguished the bulk of the fire on the first floor, the structural integrity of the building started to falter. With visible signs of pending collapse, Incident Commander Asssitant Chief Kristina Kepner made the call to transition to a defensive operation.

All firefighters safely exited the structure and left the roof to establish ladder pipe operations and hand lines for an exterior fire attack. 81 firefighters achieved a knockdown of the fire in 1 hour and 22 minutes with no injuries reported. A human remains detection K9 team responded to the incident to conduct a thorough search to ensure no victims were hidden under the debris. The cause of the fire is under active investigation by the LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section.

LAFD Incident: 102719-0465

Mobile Home Fire Takes One Life by Los Angeles Fire Department

At 5:31PM on November 30, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 20652 W Lassen Street in Chatsworth. Upon arrival to the manufactured home park, firefighters located one unit with heavy fire showing and exposures on two sides.

As fire attack made entry, they encountered excessive storage conditions which created challenges reaching the seat of the fire. Information gathered at the command post indicated the potential for a trapped victim and a primary search was underway as the flames were extinguished.

45 firefighters, under the command of Battalion Chief Karen Richter, knocked down the fire in 26 minutes. Their quick work prevented the fire from extending to the closely situated homes on either side of the structure. The primary search did not reveal any victims but with one of the occupants unaccounted for, crews continued their efforts. A short time later, firefighters located the 80 year old female occupant buried under four feet of debris. Sadly, she was determine deceased on scene.

Excessive storage conditions in the home not only hampered firefighter access but prevented the occupant from being able to safely exit the home. She instead was trapped as the tall piles fell down on top of her. There were also no signs of functioning smoke alarms which might have provided early warning.

The cause of the fire is under active investigation by LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism section per protocol for a fatality fire.

LAFD Incident 113021-1272

Inside the Flames...A firey HELL by McAllister

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Faith McAllister, "Inside the Flames", Sony Digital Camera, Faith McAllister_JFD Collection, Jasper GA

This picture is of the inside of an actual residential structure fire. In honor of the Privacy Act, the exact location, nor the names of the homeowners may be disclosed to any non-personnel. The house caught fire one night and was extinguished and preserved by Jasper Fire and Rescue Station 1, Pickens County Fire Station 11, and Talking Rock Volunteer Fire Station 7. Several volunteers also responded to this call. The owners of the home decided to rebuild and donated the structure to be used as a controlled burn, also known as a training fire. The inside of a structure fire, depending on the type of materials being burned and gasses being omitted, is about 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit after only 3-1/2 minutes of engulfment! The inside of other rooms that are not even on fire yet can reach over 300 degrees, which is hot enough to melt plastic without flames. The inside of the house will be completely dark within only 4 minutes, regardless of the lighting. A single-wide trailer can burn to the ground in only 7 short minutes.

Imagine such a horrendous fire happening on a night over 100 years ago, when fire apparatus and training wasn't nearly as advanced as it is now...Catastrophic. Well, they did happen back in 1871, and changed the way that America fights fire today. On Sunday evening, October 8, 1871, The Great Chicago Fire and the Preshtigo fire raged on the same night, just 262 miles apart from one another.

In 1871, Chicago was considered a "boom town" with around 60,000 buildings. 40,000 of those then magnificent buildings were constructed of wood, and had roofs made of either felt, wood, or wooden shingles. The construction laws were extremely lax, and fire codes were practically nonexistent. Chicago was extremely dry that night due to lack of rain for the three weeks prior. The Great Chicago Fire was rumored to have been started by a cow kicking over a lantern in a barn. Ignition did occur in a barn on the west side of the city; however, I'm convinced that the cow should remain innocent since she was never proven guilty!

The boys of the Chicago Fire Department were exhausted from fighting a fire earlier that day that spanned four blocks. Their response time to what is now known as The Great Chicago Fire was delayed due to errors in judgement of the location of the fire and in signaling the alarm. The fire fighters were first sent to the wrong neighborhood, causing the loss of precious time. Upon their arrival, the fire was already spreading out of control to the east and north and was consuming EVERYTHING in it's path. Private homes and mansions, as well as commercial buildings were all raging out of control--fueling the flames of Chicago's Hell. With limited equipment and personnel, the Chicago Fire Department seemed to be meeting it's match! The Great Chicago fire raged on relentlessly for 3 days and was finally extinguished by Mother Nature as the rain finally began to fall on the morning of October 10, 1871. The entire central business and heart of the city was completely leveled to ash and smouldering rubble. More than 2,000 acres and 17,000 homes were destroyed, leaving upwards of 100,000 people homeless. The city suffered more than $200 million in damages, and at least 300 people were killed.

On that same fateful October day, (10/08/1871) the under-publicized Preshtigo Fire occurred, just 262 miles north of Chicago. Preshtigo, Wisconsin had been the host to a large logging operation, which left the forest floor carpeted with pine branches and sawdust. Clearing projects at the time used a "slash and burn" method, in which tiny, controlled fires were used to dispose of the refuse. The city was under drought-like conditions for the entire summer of 1871 and was severely dry by the fall. Several of the "slash and burn" fires caught wind and were swept up into a huge cyclonic fire storm. This "tornado of fire" quickly grew to more than 1,000 feet high and 5 miles wide. The Preshtigo Fire Company consisted of a single, horse-drawn steam pumper and was NO match for a forest fire of this magnitude--their efforts were hopeless. The Preshtigo Fire blazed on destroying more than 2,400 square miles of forest, as well as several small communities. It claimed the lives of more than 2,200 settlers. It then became a firestorm and actually jumped the Green Bay-which was about 60 miles wide. It then went on to completely burn and destroy several hundred more miles of land and settlements on the northeast peninsula of Wisconsin.

In the light of these two tragic fires, America began to enact strict building and fire codes. Improvements in communications are still constantly being made. Advances in firefighting equipment as a whole were set in force then to ensure that these such tragedies do not recur. The Preshtigo Fire is still known as the biggest forest fire in North American History today.

Jones and Bartlett. "Fundamentals of Fire Fighter Skills, Second Edition" (10-12) Print

"Hot Facts About House Fires". www.ok.gov/health/documents/house_fires.pdf . Retrieved July 28, 2011.

"The Great Chicago Fire". www.chicagohs.org/history/fire.html . Retrieved July 28, 2011.

"The Great Preshtigo Fire of 1871". www.preshtigofire.info/ . Retrieved June 27, 2011.

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peshtigo_Fire

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Chicago_Fire

Residential Fire Damages Three Structures by Los Angeles Fire Department

CANOGA PARK - At 2:49 PM on March 16, 2022, Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a structure fire on the 7300 block of North Loma Verde Avenue. Firefighters found heavy fire coming from a one-story single-family home, which had spread to one neighboring home (and minor damage to a detached garage). The incident commander requested additional units and divided the fire ground crews into groups to attack all burning structures simultaneously. Ultimately, it took 39 firefighters 31 minutes to eliminate all threat of fire in the area. Although there were no injuries, sadly, one family canine perished in the blaze. Fire cause under investigation.

LAFD Incident: 031622-1016

Firefighters Evacuate Businesses and Residences While Fighting Downtown Blaze by Los Angeles Fire Department

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DOWNTOWN - Los Angeles City Firefighters battled a Downtown structure fire, which began as a large outside rubbish fire which spread to several businesses in a row of commercial buildings, that had occupied residential units across the second floor.

Firefighters responded to the Flower District of Downtown Los Angeles at 3:12 PM on June 22, 2023, to find heavy fire involving outside storage in the rear behind a long 2-story building, with residential units over a row of commercials, with heavy fire showing. The Incident Commander called for waves of additional firefighters, and placed companies in all involved units on the first floor, second floor, roof, and outside to the rear.

The fire appeared to have originated as an exterior fire to the rear, with flames rapidly spreading inside the first floor commercial space, and threatening to burn more units horizontally. Firefighters assisted with evacuations, and performed a rapid and systematic search of all units, and halted the horizontal spread. Fortunately, no victims were trapped.

Ultimately, it took 148 firefighters one hour and thirty-five minutes to extinguish the blaze. The fire unit of origin was a venue rental business, who loaned out supplies for

weddings, and social events, therefore there was a heavy fuel load inside that fueled the fire.

As always, we mourn the loss of the approximately four commercial units downstairs and four residential units directly above suffered damaged, but remain thankful that this incident did not end up being significantly worse. Red Cross responded to assist approximately 30 residents who were displaced. Thankfully, only one person (a 28-year-old female) was transported to the hospital in fair condition, and a second (a 50-year-old male) was evaluated and declined transport (both had symptoms of smoke inhalation). Arson investigators responded to determine fire origin, per protocol.

LAFD Incident 062223-1024

Abandoned North Hollywood Restaurant Goes Up In Flames by Los Angeles Fire Department

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NORTH HOLLYWOOD - On the morning of October 26, 2022, the Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned to a Greater Alarm Structure Fire at 6261 North Laurel Canyon Boulevard in North Hollywood.

The first arriving firefighters discovered heavy, pressurized smoke coming from a 100' x 100' vacant one-story commercial building. Knowing this structure was the site of a previous burn, the Incident Commander quickly directed all companies to fight the fire from the exterior only, referred to as "Defensive." As the fire rapidly developed and flames burst through the roof, several additional task forces were requested, along with specialty companies (i.e. USAR, RS3, Heavy Equipment, etc.) and Fire-cause Investigators.

With no reports of occupants inside, firefighters patiently applied large amounts of water from heavy streams, including ladder pipes and large-diameter hand lines. The building sustained substantial collapse, further speaking to the wisdom of defensive operations being used on this incident.

Over 100 LAFD personnel were able to extinguish the flames in two hours and five minutes, without injury. LAFD's remote-control firefighting robot, RS3, was called in to do work in excessively dangerous areas, and LAFD heavy equipment (excavators) will be used to uncover smoldering debris. Smoke may be seen in the area for an extended period of time during this work.

Arson Investigators were called to the scene to attempt to determine the fire's cause. They arrived and received word of ten other fires (including rubbish, autos, etc.) within less than a mile of the incident, that will be included in the scope of their investigation, which remains active. LAFD brought in two Fast Response Vehicles to provide a mobile solution and rapid extinguishment of the smaller fires, while keeping the fire engines on the large fire or available to respond to new emergencies. Two individuals have been detained for questioning. One was released and one was booked for "arson of property" (Penal Code 451-D). LAFD will release further information as it becomes available.

LAFD Incident 102622-0278

Abandoned North Hollywood Restaurant Goes Up In Flames by Los Angeles Fire Department

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NORTH HOLLYWOOD - On the morning of October 26, 2022, the Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned to a Greater Alarm Structure Fire at 6261 North Laurel Canyon Boulevard in North Hollywood.

The first arriving firefighters discovered heavy, pressurized smoke coming from a 100' x 100' vacant one-story commercial building. Knowing this structure was the site of a previous burn, the Incident Commander quickly directed all companies to fight the fire from the exterior only, referred to as "Defensive." As the fire rapidly developed and flames burst through the roof, several additional task forces were requested, along with specialty companies (i.e. USAR, RS3, Heavy Equipment, etc.) and Fire-cause Investigators.

With no reports of occupants inside, firefighters patiently applied large amounts of water from heavy streams, including ladder pipes and large-diameter hand lines. The building sustained substantial collapse, further speaking to the wisdom of defensive operations being used on this incident.

Over 100 LAFD personnel were able to extinguish the flames in two hours and five minutes, without injury. LAFD's remote-control firefighting robot, RS3, was called in to do work in excessively dangerous areas, and LAFD heavy equipment (excavators) will be used to uncover smoldering debris. Smoke may be seen in the area for an extended period of time during this work.

Arson Investigators were called to the scene to attempt to determine the fire's cause. They arrived and received word of ten other fires (including rubbish, autos, etc.) within less than a mile of the incident, that will be included in the scope of their investigation, which remains active. LAFD brought in two Fast Response Vehicles to provide a mobile solution and rapid extinguishment of the smaller fires, while keeping the fire engines on the large fire or available to respond to new emergencies. Two individuals have been detained for questioning. One was released and one was booked for "arson of property" (Penal Code 451-D). LAFD will release further information as it becomes available.

LAFD Incident 102622-0278

Firefighters Battle Flames in 119-year-old Abandoned Home by Los Angeles Fire Department

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UNIVERSITY PARK - On July 6, 2024, firefighters spent 35 minutes in largely defensive operations, after arriving on-scene to find the second story of an abandoned two-story home engulfed in flames. Built in 1905, the boarded structure at 718 West 30th Street appeared to have no occupants; no injuries to either firefighters or civilians were reported.

LAFD Incident 070624-1738

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

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

Fire Box 6-7 Chicken house fire by LeafsHockeyFan

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Hurlock, Dorchester County, Maryland. Fire Box 6-7 on a foggy morning, multiple fire departments responded for a working chicken house fire. May 3, 2019.

Abandoned North Hollywood Restaurant Goes Up In Flames by Los Angeles Fire Department

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NORTH HOLLYWOOD - On the morning of October 26, 2022, the Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned to a Greater Alarm Structure Fire at 6261 North Laurel Canyon Boulevard in North Hollywood.

The first arriving firefighters discovered heavy, pressurized smoke coming from a 100' x 100' vacant one-story commercial building. Knowing this structure was the site of a previous burn, the Incident Commander quickly directed all companies to fight the fire from the exterior only, referred to as "Defensive." As the fire rapidly developed and flames burst through the roof, several additional task forces were requested, along with specialty companies (i.e. USAR, RS3, Heavy Equipment, etc.) and Fire-cause Investigators.

With no reports of occupants inside, firefighters patiently applied large amounts of water from heavy streams, including ladder pipes and large-diameter hand lines. The building sustained substantial collapse, further speaking to the wisdom of defensive operations being used on this incident.

Over 100 LAFD personnel were able to extinguish the flames in two hours and five minutes, without injury. LAFD's remote-control firefighting robot, RS3, was called in to do work in excessively dangerous areas, and LAFD heavy equipment (excavators) will be used to uncover smoldering debris. Smoke may be seen in the area for an extended period of time during this work.

Arson Investigators were called to the scene to attempt to determine the fire's cause. They arrived and received word of ten other fires (including rubbish, autos, etc.) within less than a mile of the incident, that will be included in the scope of their investigation, which remains active. LAFD brought in two Fast Response Vehicles to provide a mobile solution and rapid extinguishment of the smaller fires, while keeping the fire engines on the large fire or available to respond to new emergencies. Two individuals have been detained for questioning. One was released and one was booked for "arson of property" (Penal Code 451-D). LAFD will release further information as it becomes available.

LAFD Incident 102622-0278

Winnetka Structure Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

At 1:06PM on April 16, 2023 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 20100 block of W Gilmore St for a reported structure fire.

Firefighters arrived to find heavy fire showing from an attached carport which extended into the back of a single family dwelling.

44 firefighters extinguished the fire in 28 minutes and defended to two adjacent residences from damage.

LAFD Incident 041623-0833

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

Downtown Los Angeles Commercial Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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

Winnetka Garage Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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

Early Morning Trailer Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 2:04AM on March 28, 2020 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 9400 block of S Main St. Firefighter quickly extinguished fire in a 50 foot trailer which was exposed a commercial structure. No injuries were reported

LAFD Incident 032820-0098

East Hollywood Fire Destroys Building by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 8:33AM on October 27, 2019 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 4760 W Melrose Ave in East Hollywood. Firefighters arrived to find a two story, vacant center hall apartment building with heavy fire showing.

Interior fire attack immediately made entry while the truck company went to the roof to provide vertical ventilation. Heavy fire was encountered both on the first and second floors. As firefighters successfully extinguished the bulk of the fire on the first floor, the structural integrity of the building started to falter. With visible signs of pending collapse, Incident Commander Asssitant Chief Kristina Kepner made the call to transition to a defensive operation.

All firefighters safely exited the structure and left the roof to establish ladder pipe operations and hand lines for an exterior fire attack. 81 firefighters achieved a knockdown of the fire in 1 hour and 22 minutes with no injuries reported. A human remains detection K9 team responded to the incident to conduct a thorough search to ensure no victims were hidden under the debris. The cause of the fire is under active investigation by the LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section.

LAFD Incident: 102719-0465

Early Morning Fire in Boyle Heights by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 5:18AM on December 5, 2018 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 400 block of S Soto St #BoyleHeights. It took only 20 minutes for 37 firefighters to extinguished the flames in one unit on the second floor of a vacant two story building, previously used as a hospital.

LAFD Incident: 120518-0203

Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Adam VanGerpen

Flames Destroy Hollywood Home by Los Angeles Fire Department

HOLLYWOOD - The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned to the 1400 block of North Martel Avenue at 4:42 PM on November 3, 2022 for a structure fire involving a one-story single family home. Firefighters navigated around downed wires on approach, where flames consumed the home. It took 42 firefighters 43 minutes to access, confine, and extinguish the flames, without injury. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

LAFD Incident 110322-1304

Stubborn Flames Damage Granada Hills Home by Los Angeles Fire Department

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GRANADA HILLS - It took 42 City of Los Angeles Firefighters just 34 minutes to fully extinguish stubborn flames that raced through the attic, patio and rear portion of a 1,600 square-foot one-story home at 17411 Hiawatha Street on the afternoon of April 23, 2021. Four occupants safely escaped the burning home prior to LAFD arrival. The two residents displaced by the fire are being assisted by the American Red Cross.

LAFD Incident: 042321-0643

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