structurefire photos on Flickr

Large Garage Fully Involved by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 11:50PM on January 19, 2019 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded toa reported structure fire in the 13800 block of W Polk Street in #Sylmar. Firefighters found a two story, metal clad garage fully involved in fire and extending to a 1 story garage directly behind it. 48 firefighters achieved full extinguishment in 36 mins with no injuries reported. The main residence was not damaged.

LAFD Incident: 011919-1692

Commercial Fire in Chatsworth by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 1:23PM on September 21, 2019 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 9500 block of N Owensmouth Av in Chatsworth. A one story, industrial building (with six units) had fire showing from one unit. A closely coordinated roof ventilation and interior fire attack operation resulted in the stubborn fire being primarily contained to one unit. 39 firefighters fully extinguished the blaze in 29 minutes.

LAFD Incident: 092119-0735

Chatsworth Auto Fires Quickly Extinguished by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 12:29AM on February 26, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 21100 block of W Superior Street in Chatsworth for a reported structure fire. Crews arrived to find multiple autos fully involved in fire, exposing a building. Their quick work ensured the building was not damaged and no injuries were reported.

LAFD Incident: 022621-0021

Firefighters Save Critical Parts of Building at Major Emergency by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 8:08PM, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to 4020 S Compton Av in South Los Angeles to find a large food processing plant with a fire originating in the kitchen equipment and rapidly spreading through the duct work in the attic. The fire evolved into a Major Emergency fire with a defensive operation. Firefighters made a tremendous save, protecting half of the building and saving critical business papers and computers. The full story www.lafd.org/news/relentless-effort-firefighters-prevents...

LAFD Incident: 040317-1422

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

STRUCTURE FIRE SOUTH LA by Rick McClure

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A "future firefighter" assists with pulling hose after fire in South LA. Photo by Rick McClure

King near Maunakea St. by Tad Tamura

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Fire in a building on N. King St. between Kekaulike Mall and Maunakea St.

Camera test- done on the day camera was received. (Took it down to downtown/ Chinatown and caught the end of a building fire.)

Firefighters Save Critical Parts of Building at Major Emergency by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 8:08PM, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to 4020 S Compton Av in South Los Angeles to find a large food processing plant with a fire originating in the kitchen equipment and rapidly spreading through the duct work in the attic. The fire evolved into a Major Emergency fire with a defensive operation. Firefighters made a tremendous save, protecting half of the building and saving critical business papers and computers. The full story www.lafd.org/news/relentless-effort-firefighters-prevents...

LAFD Incident: 040317-1422

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

Greater Alarm Fire in South LA by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 5:26PM on November 24, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 120 block of E Washington Bl in South Los Angeles. 116 LAFD firefighters took just 26 minutes in offensive operations to extinguish the bulk of flame in a 150' x 200' two story strip mall with no injuries reported.

LAFD Incident 112421-1235

LAFD Confines Fire to Outside Shed by Los Angeles Fire Department

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SYLMAR - At 5:52 PM on September 6, 2021, LAFD responded to the 15200 block of West La Valle Street, where firefighters quickly extinguished flames consuming a detached shed behind a residence.

LAFD Incident 090521-1279

Chatsworth Auto Fires Quickly Extinguished by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 12:29AM on February 26, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 21100 block of W Superior Street in Chatsworth for a reported structure fire. Crews arrived to find multiple autos fully involved in fire, exposing a building. Their quick work ensured the building was not damaged and no injuries were reported.

LAFD Incident: 022621-0021

Chatsworth Auto Fires Quickly Extinguished by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 12:29AM on February 26, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 21100 block of W Superior Street in Chatsworth for a reported structure fire. Crews arrived to find multiple autos fully involved in fire, exposing a building. Their quick work ensured the building was not damaged and no injuries were reported.

LAFD Incident: 022621-0021

Van Nuys Structure Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 8:29AM on December 1, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 15300 block of W Archwood St in Van Nuys. 28 firefighters extinguished the fire in 19 minutes. This was determined to be an outside fire that extended into the vacant structure. Firefighters quickly addressed the exposed building and limited the fire to the eves.

LAFD Incident: 120121-0367

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

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

Panorama City Greater Alarm Structure Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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PANORAMA CITY - In the early morning hours of Monday, July 20, 2020, it took 60 LAFD firefighters one hour and 42 minutes to extinguish the one-story commercial building in the 14500 block of W Arminta Street (business name/type unknown) that was consumed by flames. Heavy fire and wires down blocking the access point caused firefighters to battle with a defensive posture, applying heavy streams including ladder pipes. No reported injuries. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

LAFD Incident: 072020-0070

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 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

One Man Dies Overnight in a South LA Commercial Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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CENTRAL-ALAMEDA - A late-night commercial fire destroyed an industrial building and killed one man inside of his business.

In the last few remaining minutes of Monday, May 3, 2021, at 11:57 PM, the alarm went out to alert firefighters of a commercial building engulfed in flames on the 1800 block of East 57th Street. Firefighters immediately recognized the need to use defensive tactics and fight this fire with copious amounts of water from the exterior. The Incident Commander called for additional fire crews, making it a Greater Alarm incident. Firefighters positioned themselves on all sides of the building to protect the many surrounding structures. Firefighters protected adjacent buildings from all but minor flame impingement.

LAFD's robotic firefighting unit was utilized during the incident. RS3 was able to enter the structure and apply water to harder-to-reach areas without exposing firefighters to the collapse risk of the burned out structure. Ultimately, sixty-seven firefighters extinguished the flames in seventy-two minutes.

After the fire was out, firefighters discovered that, tragically, one man had perished inside. The Coroner responded and met with the family to verify his identity. The family reported that he was a carpenter and often worked during the late evening and early morning hours. The wood and materials from his business appear to have added to the intense fire load within the building, causing the fire to grow extremely fast. Crews remained on scene overnight to ensure the debris did not reignite.

The cause of the fire is under active investigation.

LAFD Incident: 050321-1661

Attic Fire in Arleta by Los Angeles Fire Department

At 2:20PM on April 21, 2020, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 13500 block of W Bromwich St in Arleta. A 1,236 sq-ft one-story single family home built in 1952 was found to have smoke showing from a fire in the attic. It took 30 firefighters 33 minutes to shield belongings in the living space below, and access/extinguish the flames in the attic

LAFD Incident: 042120-0707

Firefighters Save Multi-Family Dwelling from Westlake Blaze by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 3:52PM on February 26, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 1500 block of W 8th Street in the Westlake community. Firefighters arrived only four minutes later to find an outside fire extending into a one story, craftsman style dwelling and exposing a two story four-plex.

With multiple structures at risk, additional companies were requested and the incident reached the Major Emergency level.

Two separate fire attack and roof ventilation operations ensued while more firefighters checked an exposed commercial building built onto the back of the craftsman. A well entrenched attic fire quickly extended to the commercial add-on and created more flames which lapped up the eaves of the four-plex and took root in it's attic as well.

While the truck companies on the roof of the four-plex worked to ventilate and extinguish the attic fire, crews on the inside conducted salvage operations to protect the contents from water damage. Their combined efforts were successful and the fire was contained to only a portion of the attic and did not damage the living spaces below.

The craftsman and attached commercial building sustained the heaviest damage.

The 105 firefighters, operating under the command of Assistant Chief Timothy Ernst, fully extinguished the fire in all three structures in 31 minutes. One firefighter was transported for non-life threatening burn injuries limited to one arm.

Per protocol, the LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism section is actively investigating the cause of the fire.

Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Cody Weireter

LAFD Incident: 022621-0978

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

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

Fatality Fire in Mid-Wishire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 3:48 AM on July 7, 2017 to 1103 S Sycamore Avenue in the Mid-Wilshire district, where firefighters arrived quickly to find smoke showing from the first floor of a two story residential duplex.

Two older adult male relatives living in the burning unit were apparently alerted by functional smoke alarms. Though the 88 year-old uncle escaped with smoke inhalation, his 75 year-old nephew was found in grave condition among excessive storage inside the 85 year-old building, which was not equipped with optional residential fire sprinklers.

Both men were taken to an area hospital, where the nephew died, and the uncle remains in serious condition;

Thirty-five firefighters under the command of Battalion Chief Scott Anderson took just 16 min to fully extinguish the blaze, which was confined to the downstairs unit. Four occupants of the upstairs unit, who were the first to call 9-1-1 after being awakened by their functional smoke alarms, were not injured and are expected to return to their minimally damaged residence.

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

Monetary loss from the fire is still being tabulated. The official cause of the fire is undetermined/accidental.

The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 3:48 AM on July 7, 2017 to 1103 S Sycamore Avenue in the Mid-Wilshire district, where firefighters arrived quickly to find smoke showing from the first floor of a two story residential duplex. Two older adult male relatives living in the burning unit were apparently alerted by functional smoke alarms. Though the 88 year-old uncle escaped with smoke inhalation, his 75 year-old nephew was found in grave condition among excessive storage inside the 85 year-old building, which was not equipped with optional residential fire sprinklers. Both men were taken to an area hospital, where the nephew died, and the uncle remains in serious condition; Thirty-five firefighters under the command of Battalion Chief Scott Anderson took just 16 min to fully extinguish the blaze, which was confined to the downstairs unit. Four occupants of the upstairs unit, who were the first to call 9-1-1 after being awakened by their functional smoke alarms, were not injured and are expected to return to their minimally damaged residence. A positive identification of the dead man, as well as the cause, time and manner of his death will be determined by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner. Monetary loss from the fire is still being tabulated. The official cause of the fire is undetermined/accidental.

LAFD Incident: 070717-0154

Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Harry Garvin

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

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

South Australia Police | Unmarked | Holden VF Commdore Evoke (Wagon) by southaustesp

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N/A

Deadly Fire at Venice Hotel by Los Angeles Fire Department

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The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 2:04 AM on February 7, 2020, to 8686 West Venice Boulevard in Mid-City Los Angeles, where firefighters arrived quickly to find fire raging from both floors of a two-story hotel.

One hundred five firefighters under the command of Assistant Chief Kepner confined the fire to the structure of origin, extinguishing the flames in just 39 minutes. Firefighters assisted residents with a building-wide evacuation. At least thirty residents were staying on the premises and were displaced due to the fire.

Eight patients resulted from the blaze. Sadly, one patient succumbed to their injuries on scene, while five were transported to local hospitals (including one firefighter), one declined transport, and one was transported by private auto. A positive identification of the deceased, as well as the cause, time and manner of his death will be determined by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner.

Volunteers from the American Red Cross assisted at least 30 displaced hotel clients, while Inspectors from the City's Department of Building & Safety assessed the structure for damage and structural integrity.

Fire loss to the Venice Hotel is still being tabulated. The cause of this greater alarm fire has been determined to be accidental due to a space heater being used in close proximity to combustible materials. This is a sobering reminder that space heaters need space. The recommended space around a heater is three feet from any paper, clothing, blankets, curtains, walls, or anything else that could catch fire.

LAFD Incident 020720-0108

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

Attic Fire in Arleta by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 2:20PM on April 21, 2020, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 13500 block of W Bromwich St in Arleta. A 1,236 sq-ft one-story single family home built in 1952 was found to have smoke showing from a fire in the attic. It took 30 firefighters 33 minutes to shield belongings in the living space below, and access/extinguish the flames in the attic

LAFD Incident: 042120-0707

LAFD Assistings LACoFD at Pallet Yard Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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On the evening of October 30, 2019 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the 9400 block of S Alameda St to provide assistance to Los Angeles County Fire Department in handling a large pallet yard fire. The fire expanded over half a city block.

LAFD Incident: 103019-1491

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

Woman Trapped By Flames in Woodland Hills Home by Los Angeles Fire Department

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WOODLAND HILLS - A relentless fire attack and well-coordinated search by Los Angeles Firefighters allowed the rescue of a woman trapped in a fast-moving house fire in the 23500 block of Burbank Boulevard on January 23, 2020. The woman, whose pulse was restored by a team of veteran LAFD Paramedics, was admitted to an area hospital in grave condition.

LAFD Incident: 012320-0930

Large Garage Fully Involved by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 11:50PM on January 19, 2019 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded toa reported structure fire in the 13800 block of W Polk Street in #Sylmar. Firefighters found a two story, metal clad garage fully involved in fire and extending to a 1 story garage directly behind it. 48 firefighters achieved full extinguishment in 36 mins with no injuries reported. The main residence was not damaged.

LAFD Incident: 011919-1692

Commercial Fire in Chatsworth by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 1:23PM on September 21, 2019 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 9500 block of N Owensmouth Av in Chatsworth. A one story, industrial building (with six units) had fire showing from one unit. A closely coordinated roof ventilation and interior fire attack operation resulted in the stubborn fire being primarily contained to one unit. 39 firefighters fully extinguished the blaze in 29 minutes.

LAFD Incident: 092119-0735

Stubborn Commercial Fire in Pico-Robertson by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 11:32AM on July 24, 2020 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 9041 W Pico Blvd. Firefighters arrived to find a 100’ x 50’ commercial building with heavy smoke showing.

Firefighters quickly threw ground ladders to the building, took a fire attack line inside and ascended the aerial ladder to initiate vertical ventilation. After working an aggressive, offensive attack for 28 minutes the conditions continued to deteriorate and the Incident Commander made the call to move to a defensive operation.

With master streams applying copious amounts of water into the structure, using the collapsed roof as a way to access the pockets of fire, crews gained the upper hand. 115 firefighters, working under the command of Assistant Chief Dean Zipperman, extinguished this Greater Alarm structure fire in two hours and 13 minutes. One firefighter was transported to the hospital for a non-life threatening heat related illness.

While no evacuations of the area were required, there was one home to the rear of the fire unit which was blanketed with the smoke. An elderly couple was sheltered in place and two paramedics stayed with them to ensure they were safe. They did not require any medical treatment and the home remained free of smoke.

One of the operations firefighters conduct at structure fire is called, Salvage. This entails covering, removing or otherwise protecting contents of a structure, as best as possible, from suffering damage during an emergency. This usually happens inside of a home; however, at this incident firefighters took the initiative to cover three vehicles with tarps. The cars were right in the middle of the fire ground and would likely be dinged or damaged in some way.

The initial stages of the cause investigation, by LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section, revealed evidence of a possible drug operation in the structure. The investigation remains active and on-going.

Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Tom Johnson

LAFD Incident: 072420-0570

Multiple Businesses Saved in Woodland Hills by Los Angeles Fire Department

At 5:26PM on June 14, 2019 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 20934 W Victory Blvd in Woodland Hills. Firefighters arrived to find a large (16,544 sq ft), one story row of commercials with fire showing from the end unit. The truck company went to the roof as fire attack intiated their entry through the front. An additional company went around to the back of the structure to evaluate possible access points. While roof division began cutting ventilation holes, fire attack reported difficulty in locating the seat of the fire. Firefighters continued pushing into the unit but the intense heat prevented their advance before reaching the (still not located) fire. With fire in the building's common attic, it became an untenable position for interior fire attack. Incident Commander, Assistant Chief Corey Rose, made the call to transition to a defensive operation. The companies at the back of the structure were able to open up a rolling steel door and using large diameter handlines, hit the fire from the outside.

Once the bulk of the flames abated, the incident reverted to an offensive operation and firefighters moved inside to pull ceiling and ensure no extension through the attic. Official 'knockdown' was achieved by 106 firefighters at the 49 minute mark. Their diligent efforts stopped this fire from moving across businesses and leaving a trail of destruction. The business adjacent to the fire unit suffered water/smoke damage and the two additional units only sustained smoke damage.

Paramedics evaluated one civilian patient who declined LAFD transport. Two firefighters were transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries. LAFD Arson responded and this remains an active investigation with cause and dollar loss to be determined.

Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Cody Weireter

LAFD Incident: 061419-1138

Man Injured, Eight Others DIsplaced by Pacoima Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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PACOIMA - One resident sustained serious burn injuries, and eight other persons were rendered homeless but uninjured, when flames erupted at a one-story home in the 12800 block of Mineola Street on May 13, 2020. It took 45 Los Angeles Firefighters just 23 minutes to fully extinguish the blaze.

LAFD Incident 051320-0967

Encino Apartment Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

At 8:41PM on March 19, 2020 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 5400 block of N Yarmouth Av in Encino. Firefighters chased a stubborn fire in the walls which extended to the common attic of a building with two story apartment units. The fire was extinguished in 56 minutes with no injuries reported.

LAFD Incident: 031920-1354

Autos on Fire Threaten Building by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 3:17PM on April 24, 2020 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported auto fire which was then upgraded to a structure fire response in the 8800 block of N San Fernando Rd in Sun Valley. Firefighters found a one story, commercial building with multiple vehicles on fire (outside) impinging on the structure. 38 firefighters took only 18 minutes to fully extinguish the fire and prevent any extension into the structure.

LAFD Incident: 042420-0942

Attic Fire in DTLA Commercial Building by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 1:59PM on Tuesday 1 August, 2017, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 1000 block of S Santee St.

Firefighters arrived to find a two story, commercial building with heavy smoke showing from the 2nd floor. Additional resources were requested, raising the incident to a Greater Alarm status.

As fire attack crews made entry and the truck began vertical ventilation operations on the roof, a raging attic fire was discovered. The fire extended to the 2nd floor and firefighters quickly extinguished that section of the fire.

The battle against the attic fire continued, working to hit all corners of the attic to knockdown the stubborn blaze. 90 firefighters, under the command of Assistant Chief Surgey Tomlinson, achieved complete knockdown in 34 minutes. All occupants were clear of the structure and no injuries were reported.

LAFD Incident 080117-0772

Photo by: LAFD Brandon Silverman

West Hills Isolated Attic Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

At 7:20PM on April 14, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 8500 block of N Eatough Av in West Hills.

Firefighters arrived to find a two story, single family dwelling with smoke showing from the attic.

With the interior clear on both floors, the isolated attic fire was extinguished in 24 minutes with no injuries reported.

LAFD Incident 041422-1499

Detroit Fire - Box Alarm, 9615 Montrose St., 04/30/2015 by Hooks & Halligans

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Detroit Fire Department responded to a box alarm at 6915 on Montrose St. in Detroit's west end on April 30th, 2015.

Crews arrived to find a single family dwelling well involved with fire. Firefighters had to knock the bulk of the fire on the exterior of the structure before making an advance on the interior seat of the fire. Ladder ops were established to hit the flames that had breached the roof and exterior walls on the Bravo side.

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

Public Storage Fire in Sylmar by Los Angeles Fire Department

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

Sun Valley Major Emergency Structure Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 11:30PM on November 7, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 8100 block of N Sunland Bl in Sun Valley. Firefighters arrived to a two story, commercial building (site of previous burn) with heavy fire showing. In a mostly defensive operation, 87 firefighters battled flames with at least four ladder pipes and several other heavy streams in operation on the commercial building for over two hours before safely achieving a knockdown.

LAFD Incident 120721-1589

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 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 Photo by Gary Apodaca

LAFD Incident 062223-1024

Winnetka Apartment Destroyed by Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

At 12:20PM on December 22, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 20200 block of W Cantara St in Winnetka. The first arriving 50 firefighters took just 36 minutes in a well coordinated offensive fire attack to access, confine and fully extinguish flames within a single three-story residential unit of two occupied floors above a ground level garage. Firefighters quickly and safely evacuated a mobility impaired female resident from a unit adjacent to the fire. No civilian or responder injuries have been reported.

LAFD Incident 122221-0748

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