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FLORENCE - It took 52 members of the Los Angeles Fire Department less than forty-five minutes to fully extinguish heavy fire in a vacant and boarded one-story home in the 100 block of East 59th Place early April 14, 2021. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
© Photo by Raphael Richardson
LAFD Incident: 041421-0084
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LOS ANGELES - LAFD responded to 1620 South Los Angeles Street at 2:44 A.M. on January 18, 2020. A one-story commercial building contained a fire inside being held in check by fire sprinklers. This caused excessive smoke to build up with only minimal growth of the fire. Interior fire attack companies searched for the seat of the fire in very low visibility conditions, while navigating through excessive storage of textiles. Firefighters on the roof cut holes to ventilate the structure, letting some of the thick smoke out into the early morning sky, improving conditions for firefighters inside. Ultimately, 55 firefighters extinguished the fire in 49 minutes, with no reported injuries. The cause of the fire is unknown and under investigation.
LAFD Incident 011820-0151
© Photo by Ryan Winner
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At 2:53AM on 8 June, 2018 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 15000 block of N Glenoaks Blvd. Firefighters extinguished a fully involved mobile home in 20 minutes with no injuries. Sadly one pet dog and cat died in the fire.
© Photo by: Brandon Buckley
LAFD Incident 060818-0130
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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
©Photo by Rick McClure
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Heavy fire billowed out of a townhouse and extended into the apartments behind it, damaging multiple units before firefighters got the upper hand and saved the rest of the building.
At 2:52PM on March 5, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 8800 block of N Cedros Ave in Panorama City. The first arriving fire company found fire showing from the 1st floor of a two-story townhouse (8839 Cedros) extending up to the 2nd floor. As fire attack made their way into the structure, they quickly saw the fire was already into the exposed building (8849 Cedros) at the rear of the fire unit.
Due to active fire in both buildings, the incident commander immediately requested additional resources and this incident rose to the Greater Alarm level (between 7 – 15 fire companies on scene).
Fire attack made quick progress against the flames in the townhouse in 8839 Cedros, limiting the fire to one unit which was fully involved and minor extension into the adjacent townhouse.
Meanwhile, in the two –story O-shaped apartment building to the rear (8849 Cedros) firefighters were both inside fighting fire in two units and on the roof working to stop an entrenched attic fire from spreading through the building.
Under the command of Assistant Chief Corey Rose, the dedicated efforts of the 96 firefighters on scene fully extinguished the fire in both buildings at the one hour and 11 minute mark. They limited damage, especially in 8849 Cedros, defending the rest of the complex through ventilation and aggressive firefighting tactics.
Fortunately, functioning smoke alarms alerted some occupants and all (from both buildings) were able to safely exit with no injuries sustained.
The Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety deemed seven units unsafe for occupancy (red-tagged) while three were yellow-tagged (limited occupancy).
All occupants of the two buildings were evacuated and an evacuation group officer ensured everyone was able to safely gain access into their units (if able) to get needed belongings for the night. The Los Angeles Region American Red Cross responded to continue providing for any immediate assistance needed. S.A.V.E. (Supplying Aid to Victims of Emergency) cards ($250), provided by the California Fire Foundation, were given to those affected residents to help with basic necessities.
The LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section responded for the investigation per protocol for a Greater Alarm incident. The cause of the fire is officially deemed “Undetermined, with more than one accidental cause”. The fire was not incendiary (purposely started).
© Photo by Greg Doyle
LAFD Incident: 030521-0857
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At 11:24AM on June 24, 2023 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 8900 block of N Balboa Bl in Northridge.
Firefighters arrived to find a large retail store (DBA Target) with smoke showing from the roof.
While fire attack ensuring the interior of the store and attic were clear, the truck company ascended to the roof to find a portion of a solar array on fire.
They conducted a drop bag operation to bring a handline aloft and quickly extinguished the fire with no injuries reported.
The fire did not penetrate the roof into the attic or the structure.
© Photo by Greg Doyle
LAFD Incident 062423-0684
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WATTS - At 11:20 AM on February 5, 2022, LAFD responded to the 1700 block of South Santa Ana Boulevard to find an outside vegetation fire extending into a two-story house of worship. It took 76 Firefighters just 49 minutes in offensive operations to access, confine and fully extinguish the flames . No reported injuries. The specific cause of the fire is under active investigation.
LAFD Incident: 020522-0672
Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Harry Garvin
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SUN VALLEY - The Los Angeles Fire Department encountered heavy fire conditions on arrival at a one-story commercial building at 7524 Clybourn Avenue on March 1, 2020. As the fire was at the City of Los Angeles border to Burbank Airport, the 90 LAFD personnel at scene were joined in automatic aid by airport and City of Burbank emergency responders in the nearly half-hour battle to fully extinguish the flames, which thankfully caused no injury.
© Photo by Jacob Salzman
LAFD Incident: 030120-0756
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Chicken house fire on Delmar Road in 74’s due. Delmar, Laurel, Hebron and SCEMS were on the initial dispatch. Command then requested a Tanker Task Force which brought additional units from Parsonsburg, Gumboro, Mardela Springs, Sharptown, Blades and Seaford.
Salisbury Truck 1 and Parsonsburg Tanker 608 provided coverage at Delmar fire station during the incident.
Heavy fire billowed out of a townhouse and extended into the apartments behind it, damaging multiple units before firefighters got the upper hand and saved the rest of the building.
At 2:52PM on March 5, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 8800 block of N Cedros Ave in Panorama City. The first arriving fire company found fire showing from the 1st floor of a two-story townhouse (8839 Cedros) extending up to the 2nd floor. As fire attack made their way into the structure, they quickly saw the fire was already into the exposed building (8849 Cedros) at the rear of the fire unit.
Due to active fire in both buildings, the incident commander immediately requested additional resources and this incident rose to the Greater Alarm level (between 7 – 15 fire companies on scene).
Fire attack made quick progress against the flames in the townhouse in 8839 Cedros, limiting the fire to one unit which was fully involved and minor extension into the adjacent townhouse.
Meanwhile, in the two –story O-shaped apartment building to the rear (8849 Cedros) firefighters were both inside fighting fire in two units and on the roof working to stop an entrenched attic fire from spreading through the building.
Under the command of Assistant Chief Corey Rose, the dedicated efforts of the 96 firefighters on scene fully extinguished the fire in both buildings at the one hour and 11 minute mark. They limited damage, especially in 8849 Cedros, defending the rest of the complex through ventilation and aggressive firefighting tactics.
Fortunately, functioning smoke alarms alerted some occupants and all (from both buildings) were able to safely exit with no injuries sustained.
The Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety deemed seven units unsafe for occupancy (red-tagged) while three were yellow-tagged (limited occupancy).
All occupants of the two buildings were evacuated and an evacuation group officer ensured everyone was able to safely gain access into their units (if able) to get needed belongings for the night. The Los Angeles Region American Red Cross responded to continue providing for any immediate assistance needed. S.A.V.E. (Supplying Aid to Victims of Emergency) cards ($250), provided by the California Fire Foundation, were given to those affected residents to help with basic necessities.
The LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section responded for the investigation per protocol for a Greater Alarm incident. The cause of the fire is officially deemed “Undetermined, with more than one accidental cause”. The fire was not incendiary (purposely started).
© Photo by Greg Doyle
LAFD Incident: 030521-0857
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At 2:44PM on October 12, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 7056 N Van Nuys Blvd in Van Nuys. The first fire company arrived to find a one story, vacant commercial building (7,600 square feet built in 1957) well involved in fire.
After initially deploying an offensive fire attack, the incident commander quickly transitioned to a defensive operation due to the extent of fire involvement. As crews established hand lines, a collapse zone of 30’ was implemented at the front of the building due to concern about the stability of the façade. Approximately 20 minutes into the incident, an ‘Emergency Traffic’ radio alert was issued informing all on the fire ground of the full collapse of the façade. All firefighters were safely outside the collapse zone and continued their operation without delay.
The building to the North (on the Bravo side) abutted the fire building while there was a small separation with the building to the South (on the Delta side). Despite the close proximity of the two exposures and the heavy fire present, firefighters battled and succeeded in defending the structures from fire damage – saving over thirty businesses.
It was a long, extended operation due to the amount of fire and challenges in safely access all areas of the building. The RS3, Robotic Fire Fighting Vehicle was deployed to apply high volumes of water (master streams) more deeply into the building than was safely possible by firefighters. The combination of hand lines, ladder-pipes, RS3 and the team of over 85 firefighters, working under the command of Assistant Chief Corey Rose, fully extinguished the fire in over four hours.
One firefighter was transported to the hospital in fair condition with heat exhaustion. There were no other injuries reported.
Per protocol, LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section (ACTS) responded and is actively investigating the cause of the fire.
© Photo by Greg Doyle
LAFD Incident 101222-1068
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LOS ANGELES - Two members of the Los Angeles Fire Department were briefly hospitalized for non-life threatening injury, as they joined 126 of their colleagues in battling a greater alarm fire at a metal fabricating firm in the 1300 block of Newton Avenue south of downtown Los Angeles, on February 9, 2016.
Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Harry Garvin
LAFD Incident # 020916-0314
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TUJUNGA - LAFD responded to the 7000 block of West Floramorgan Trail on Tuesday, May 4, 2021, where 49 firefighters defended nearby homes and heavy brush during a structure fire in a small 835 sq-ft two-story descending hillside home.
The fire was well-developed on the bottom floor when firefighters arrived, and it was already extending to the upper floor. Structural integrity was in question and led firefighters to use defensive tactics, remaining outside and flowing water inward.
It took 69 minutes to extinguish the fire, while skillfully keeping the flames confined to the home-of-origin (no brush or other structures involved). Thankfully, the occupant(s) evacuated safely. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
© Photo by Mike Meadows
LAFD Incident: 050421-0385
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GRANADA HILLS - Your LAFD responded to a structure on fire at 1:17 PM at the 17000 block of West Los Alimos Street on February 25, 2023. The first arriving 20 LAFD Firefighters took just 22 minutes to access, confine and fully extinguish stubborn flames that began near the floor furnace and quickly traveled through the the walls to the attic of an 1,119 square foot one-story home (built 1954) on LAFD arrival. Firefighters successfully protected neighboring homes and there were no reported injuries.
© Photo by Greg Doyle
LAFD Incident 022523-1310
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At 9:10PM on July 3, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 6000 block of N De Soto Av for a reported structure fire.
The first arriving fire company found a large, one story commercial (vacant) building with heavy fire showing through the roof.
Firefighters immediately initiated a defensive operation and quickly determined the entire building was fully involved in fire.
With multiple ladder pipes flowing and large diameter hand lines deployed around the structure, firefighters battled for over an hour to quell the blaze. Their efforts ensure the neighboring buildings were not damaged. There were no injuries reported and there is an on-going cause investigation.
© Photo by Brandon Taylor
LAFD Incident 070322-1566
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At 2:44PM on October 12, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 7056 N Van Nuys Blvd in Van Nuys. The first fire company arrived to find a one story, vacant commercial building (7,600 square feet built in 1957) well involved in fire.
After initially deploying an offensive fire attack, the incident commander quickly transitioned to a defensive operation due to the extent of fire involvement. As crews established hand lines, a collapse zone of 30’ was implemented at the front of the building due to concern about the stability of the façade. Approximately 20 minutes into the incident, an ‘Emergency Traffic’ radio alert was issued informing all on the fire ground of the full collapse of the façade. All firefighters were safely outside the collapse zone and continued their operation without delay.
The building to the North (on the Bravo side) abutted the fire building while there was a small separation with the building to the South (on the Delta side). Despite the close proximity of the two exposures and the heavy fire present, firefighters battled and succeeded in defending the structures from fire damage – saving over thirty businesses.
It was a long, extended operation due to the amount of fire and challenges in safely access all areas of the building. The RS3, Robotic Fire Fighting Vehicle was deployed to apply high volumes of water (master streams) more deeply into the building than was safely possible by firefighters. The combination of hand lines, ladder-pipes, RS3 and the team of over 85 firefighters, working under the command of Assistant Chief Corey Rose, fully extinguished the fire in over four hours.
One firefighter was transported to the hospital in fair condition with heat exhaustion. There were no other injuries reported.
Per protocol, LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section (ACTS) responded and is actively investigating the cause of the fire.
© Photo by Greg Doyle
LAFD Incident 101222-1068
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HYDE PARK - It took Los Angeles Firefighters just 26 minutes to fully extinguish a stubborn non-injury fire in one unit of a one-story residential triplex in the 3500 block of West Florence Avenue on January 4, 2019. © Photo by Justin Johnson
LAFD Incident: 010419-0979
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SOUTH PARK - The Los Angeles City Fire Department battled a Major Emergency Structure Fire early Sunday morning, on Patriot Day, at the Victory Baptist Church. Intense fire weakened the structural supports and collapsed, trapping several firefighters and sending three to the hospital.
Approximately 150 firefighters were ultimately called to the 4800 block of South McKinley Avenue in the early morning hours of Sunday, September 11, 2022, where 9-1-1 callers had reported smoke coming from Victory Baptist Church. Crews initially made entry to find heavy smoke inside the structure. As firefighters made entry, inevitably introducing more air to the conditions inside, fire behavior worsened quickly.
Approximately 30 minutes after the arrival of firefighters, there was a structural collapse inside, trapping several LAFD members. Two consecutive mayday calls were put out on the radio alerting the fire ground of trapped firefighters. Nearby crews quickly effected a rescue of three firefighters. One was transported immediately to a local hospital in moderate condition, while a second finished battling the fire and was transported in fair condition after the flames were declared to be knocked down. The third followed up with care on his own after the incident.
After the interior collapse, crews withdrew into defensive operations, utilizing heavy streams from the exterior of the building. It took one hour and forty minutes to extinguish the flames. LAFD Heavy Equipment was called out to assist with moving debris to access hot spots. Crews will remain working throughout the day to continue uncovering smoldering debris in the rubble.
LAFD's House of Worship Task Force and Arson/Counter-Terrorism Section are working together to conduct the fire-cause investigation, which remains active.
Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Harry Garvin
LAFD Incident: 091122-0156
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KOREATOWN - Despite near triple-digit heat in the region, the well coordinated effort of 110 Los Angeles Fire Department firefighters took just 52 minutes to fully extinguish heavy fire on both floors and within the attic of a vacant and boarded 107 year-old two-story craftsman-style home at 936 South Fedora Street on June 10, 2022. LAFD crews prevented flames from damaging adjacent apartment buildings or causing civilian injury. Two firefighters were treated at scene for minor injuries.
LAFD Incident: 061022-0640
Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Gary Apodaca
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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
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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.
© Photo by Austin Gebhardt
LAFD Incident 102622-0278
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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.
© Andy Nimri
LAFD Incident 052822-1075
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VAN NUYS - The Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a structure fire consuming two mobile homes and several vehicles at the 7600 block of North Balboa Boulevard at 5:22 AM on December 18, 2022. It took 42 LAFD firefighters just 42 minutes to access, confine and fully extinguish fire that destroyed two modular homes, in Space 57 (origin) and Space 56 to the east. Firefighters greatly limited damage to an exposed modular home to the west in Space 58, as well as nearby industrial buildings. No injuries reported. Fire cause under investigation.
© Photo by Ismael Miranda
LAFD Incident 121822-0335
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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
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At 2:44PM on October 12, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 7056 N Van Nuys Blvd in Van Nuys. The first fire company arrived to find a one story, vacant commercial building (7,600 square feet built in 1957) well involved in fire.
After initially deploying an offensive fire attack, the incident commander quickly transitioned to a defensive operation due to the extent of fire involvement. As crews established hand lines, a collapse zone of 30’ was implemented at the front of the building due to concern about the stability of the façade. Approximately 20 minutes into the incident, an ‘Emergency Traffic’ radio alert was issued informing all on the fire ground of the full collapse of the façade. All firefighters were safely outside the collapse zone and continued their operation without delay.
The building to the North (on the Bravo side) abutted the fire building while there was a small separation with the building to the South (on the Delta side). Despite the close proximity of the two exposures and the heavy fire present, firefighters battled and succeeded in defending the structures from fire damage – saving over thirty businesses.
It was a long, extended operation due to the amount of fire and challenges in safely access all areas of the building. The RS3, Robotic Fire Fighting Vehicle was deployed to apply high volumes of water (master streams) more deeply into the building than was safely possible by firefighters. The combination of hand lines, ladder-pipes, RS3 and the team of over 85 firefighters, working under the command of Assistant Chief Corey Rose, fully extinguished the fire in over four hours.
One firefighter was transported to the hospital in fair condition with heat exhaustion. There were no other injuries reported.
Per protocol, LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section (ACTS) responded and is actively investigating the cause of the fire.
© Photo by Garet Jatsek
LAFD Incident 101222-1068
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At 2:44PM on October 12, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 7056 N Van Nuys Blvd in Van Nuys. The first fire company arrived to find a one story, vacant commercial building (7,600 square feet built in 1957) well involved in fire.
After initially deploying an offensive fire attack, the incident commander quickly transitioned to a defensive operation due to the extent of fire involvement. As crews established hand lines, a collapse zone of 30’ was implemented at the front of the building due to concern about the stability of the façade. Approximately 20 minutes into the incident, an ‘Emergency Traffic’ radio alert was issued informing all on the fire ground of the full collapse of the façade. All firefighters were safely outside the collapse zone and continued their operation without delay.
The building to the North (on the Bravo side) abutted the fire building while there was a small separation with the building to the South (on the Delta side). Despite the close proximity of the two exposures and the heavy fire present, firefighters battled and succeeded in defending the structures from fire damage – saving over thirty businesses.
It was a long, extended operation due to the amount of fire and challenges in safely access all areas of the building. The RS3, Robotic Fire Fighting Vehicle was deployed to apply high volumes of water (master streams) more deeply into the building than was safely possible by firefighters. The combination of hand lines, ladder-pipes, RS3 and the team of over 85 firefighters, working under the command of Assistant Chief Corey Rose, fully extinguished the fire in over four hours.
One firefighter was transported to the hospital in fair condition with heat exhaustion. There were no other injuries reported.
Per protocol, LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section (ACTS) responded and is actively investigating the cause of the fire.
© Photo by Andy Nimri
LAFD Incident 101222-1068
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At 11:39PM on September 28, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 1600 block of E 1st St for a reported structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find a one story commercial building, approximately 50' x 100' with heavy fire showing on at least one side. After an initial offensive fire attack met a deep seated fire and difficulty making entry, safety considerations required the transition to a defensive operation. Ultimately, over 100 firefighters fully extinguished the fire in just over two hours with no injuries reported. LAFD Arson section is actively investigating the cause of the fire.
© Photo by Rick McClure
LAFD Incident 092821-1686
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BOYLE HEIGHTS - Relentless and well coordinated defensive firefighting operations by more than 120 members of the Los Angeles Fire Department, helped bring massive flames under control without injury in just 90 minutes early November 4, 2022, when fire engulfed a 17,115 square foot one-story building that housed a vast supply of smoking materials, including a huge volume of tobacco and butane canisters, the latter of which led to a prolonged volley of small explosions that rained debris at the peak of the fire.
© Photo by James Hedlund-Kaiser
LAFD Incident 110422-0088
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At 3:35PM on 12 March, 2018 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 700 block of S Fresno St in Boyle Heights. 38 firefighters quickly handled a well developed attic fire in the single family dwelling. Extinguishment achieved in 19 minutes with no injuries reported.
Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Robert Barna
LAFD Incident: 031218-1055
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At 7:36PM on November 22, 2019 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 1200 N Vermont Ave in East Hollywood.
Firefighters arrived to find a 5,546 square foot vacant medical clinic (mixed one and two story) with fire showing from the second floor. Crews quickly established hand lines and made entry on the first floor but encountered heavy fire throughout the area. With fire burning above them and the roof deemed unsafe for vertical ventilation, the incident transitioned to a defensive operation.
Over 115 firefighters, under the command of Assistant Chief Timothy Ernst, used heavy streams both from ladder pipes and hand lines to fully extinguish the fire in one hour and 51 minutes.
Despite initial bystander reports, no occupants were found and no injuries reported. The cause of the fire is under active investigation by the LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section (ACTS).
LAFD Incident 112219-1405
© Photo by Mike Meadows
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HARVARD PARK - It took 38 Los Angeles Fire Department responders just 24 minutes to extinguish a non-injury fire in an unoccupied row of residential bungalows in the 6200 block of South Western Avenue late May 19, 2021.
© Photo by Justin Johnson
LAFD Incident: 051921-1607
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VAN NUYS - The Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a structure fire consuming two mobile homes and several vehicles at the 7600 block of North Balboa Boulevard at 5:22 AM on December 18, 2022. It took 42 LAFD firefighters just 42 minutes to access, confine and fully extinguish fire that destroyed two modular homes, in Space 57 (origin) and Space 56 to the east. Firefighters greatly limited damage to an exposed modular home to the west in Space 58, as well as nearby industrial buildings. No injuries reported. Fire cause under investigation.
© Photo by Ismael Miranda
LAFD Incident 121822-0335
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At 11:14AM on July 25, 2023 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 570 block of N Normandie Av in East Hollywood.
Firefighters arrived to a vacant to story fourplex with heavy fire showing.
Crews initiated an offensive operation, simultaneously conducted vertical ventilation and interior fire attack.
The incident rose to the Greater Alarm level with over 70 firefighters achieving knockdown in two hours and three minutes.
Two firefighters were transported to the hospital with heat related illness and returned to duty later that day.
© Photo by Henry Berkson
LAFD Incident 072523-0706
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NORTH HILLS - It took 42 Los Angeles City Firefighters just 36 minutes to extinguish a fully involved vacant one story commercial building in the 15700 block of Roscoe Boulevard early September 23, 2020. No one was injured by the blaze.
© Photo by Rick McClure
LAFD Incident: 092320-0035
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WEST LOS ANGELES - The Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 9:09 PM on December 1, 2022 on the 2100 block of South Malcolm Avenue. It took 24 firefighters 23 minutes to fully extinguish flames that consumed a detached garage and nearby carport. Firefighters saved one canine from the burning building. No reported injuries. Cause under investigation.
Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Harry Garvin
LAFD Incident 120122-1670
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At 9:10PM on July 3, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 6000 block of N De Soto Av for a reported structure fire.
The first arriving fire company found a large, one story commercial (vacant) building with heavy fire showing through the roof.
Firefighters immediately initiated a defensive operation and quickly determined the entire building was fully involved in fire.
With multiple ladder pipes flowing and large diameter hand lines deployed around the structure, firefighters battled for over an hour to quell the blaze. Their efforts ensure the neighboring buildings were not damaged. There were no injuries reported and there is an on-going cause investigation.
© Photo by Leo Kaufman
LAFD Incident 070322-1566
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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
© Photo by Brandon Buckley
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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
© Photo by Matthew Hartman
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At 5:39AM on February 28, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 13300 block of W Chandler Blvd in Sherman Oaks. Firefighters arrived to find a large (approximately 10,000sq ft), two story, single family dwelling with fire showing through the roof. Over 80 firefighters made an aggressive, offensive attack but the well-developed fire on the 2nd floor caused a partial roof collapse and extended down into the floor joists, causing the floor to burn through. Full extinguishment was achieved in one hour and 12 minutes with no injuries reported. The home appeared to be either newly constructed or under-going renovations and was not occupied. LAFD Arson Section responded and is actively investigating the cause.
© Photo by Austin Gebhardt
LAFD Incident 022822-0286
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ARLETA - Los Angeles City Firefighters responded to the 7800 block of North Vicky Avenue to find an attached garage on fire, spreading to the main living quarters of a single-family home through the attic. It took 32 firefighters 22 minutes to extinguish the flames. No reported injuries. Cause under investigation.
© Photo by Brandon Taylor
LAFD Incident 062122-1108
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VAN NUYS - The Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a structure fire consuming two mobile homes and several vehicles at the 7600 block of North Balboa Boulevard at 5:22 AM on December 18, 2022. It took 42 LAFD firefighters just 42 minutes to access, confine and fully extinguish fire that destroyed two modular homes, in Space 57 (origin) and Space 56 to the east. Firefighters greatly limited damage to an exposed modular home to the west in Space 58, as well as nearby industrial buildings. No injuries reported. Fire cause under investigation.
© Photo by Ismael Miranda
LAFD Incident 121822-0335
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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
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At 4:29AM on August 14, 2019 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to 2501 S Main Street for a reported structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find a 50‘ x 100’ commercial building, with fire showing on all sides.
The well entrenched fire required a defensive operation from the start. Firefighters deployed master streams to include ladder pipes and large diameter hand lines. As the roof collapsed on the 66 year old structure, crews continued to safely apply copious amounts of water from the exterior.
Once Incident Commander, Assistant Chief Kristina Kepner, deemed the blaze under control and conditions safe, she directed a return to an offensive operation so firefighters could reach the isolated pockets of fire and ensure full extinguishment.
115 firefighters waged the battle for one hour and 29 minutes before a complete knockdown was determined. Their tenacious efforts ensured the neighboring businesses were undamaged and no injuries were reported.
The LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section is actively investigating the cause per protocol for an incident of this scale.
LAFD Incident 081419-0160
© Photo by Zak Holman
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At 11:24AM on June 24, 2023 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 8900 block of N Balboa Bl in Northridge.
Firefighters arrived to find a large retail store (DBA Target) with smoke showing from the roof.
While fire attack ensuring the interior of the store and attic were clear, the truck company ascended to the roof to find a portion of a solar array on fire.
They conducted a drop bag operation to bring a handline aloft and quickly extinguished the fire with no injuries reported.
The fire did not penetrate the roof into the attic or the structure.
© Photo by Greg Doyle
LAFD Incident 062423-0684
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At 4:29AM on August 14, 2019 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to 2501 S Main Street for a reported structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find a 50‘ x 100’ commercial building, with fire showing on all sides.
The well entrenched fire required a defensive operation from the start. Firefighters deployed master streams to include ladder pipes and large diameter hand lines. As the roof collapsed on the 66 year old structure, crews continued to safely apply copious amounts of water from the exterior.
Once Incident Commander, Assistant Chief Kristina Kepner, deemed the blaze under control and conditions safe, she directed a return to an offensive operation so firefighters could reach the isolated pockets of fire and ensure full extinguishment.
115 firefighters waged the battle for one hour and 29 minutes before a complete knockdown was determined. Their tenacious efforts ensured the neighboring businesses were undamaged and no injuries were reported.
The LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section is actively investigating the cause per protocol for an incident of this scale.
LAFD Incident 081419-0160
© Photo by Zak Holman
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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.
© Photo by Mike Meadows
LAFD Incident: 040321-0852
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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.
© Photo by Mike Meadows
LAFD Incident: 011019-0908
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At 4:29AM on August 14, 2019 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to 2501 S Main Street for a reported structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find a 50‘ x 100’ commercial building, with fire showing on all sides.
The well entrenched fire required a defensive operation from the start. Firefighters deployed master streams to include ladder pipes and large diameter hand lines. As the roof collapsed on the 66 year old structure, crews continued to safely apply copious amounts of water from the exterior.
Once Incident Commander, Assistant Chief Kristina Kepner, deemed the blaze under control and conditions safe, she directed a return to an offensive operation so firefighters could reach the isolated pockets of fire and ensure full extinguishment.
115 firefighters waged the battle for one hour and 29 minutes before a complete knockdown was determined. Their tenacious efforts ensured the neighboring businesses were undamaged and no injuries were reported.
The LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section is actively investigating the cause per protocol for an incident of this scale.
LAFD Incident 081419-0160
© Photo by Zak Holman
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