Mike Meadows
On behalf of the more than 3,300 Firefighters, Paramedics, Dispatchers, Inspectors, and Pilots of United Firefighters of Los Angeles City, IAFF Local 112 (UFLAC), I am proud to present the 2017 Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Year in Review Photo Book. Each year, this publication provides valuable insight into the day-to-day lives of our dedicated members who receive nearly 500,000 emergency calls for service throughout the City of Los Angeles. In 2017, our Firefighters and Paramedics not only responded to hundreds of thousands of emergency calls here in Los Angeles, but they also provided Mutual Aid at largescale incidents throughout the country, including the North Bay Fires in Northern California and disaster relief efforts in Texas, Florida, and Puerto Rico. Our elected officials continued to make the rebuilding of our LAFD a top priority as we worked to restore previously closed Engine and Truck Companies at our local fire stations. This past year, the LAFD was awarded a $15.46 million grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that will be used to staff Fire Engines at stations in Lincoln Heights, Echo Park, Reseda, and Mission Hills. This Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant will allow the LAFD to hire an additional 48 Firefighters in an extra recruit class. This book is dedicated to our rank and file members who risk their lives every day to keep the people of Los Angeles safe. We would like to make special mention of our brother, Firefighter Kelly Wong, who lost his life in the Line of Duty on June 5, 2017. Firefighter Wong’s tragic death was yet another reminder of the dangers that we face on this job. UFLAC will continue to work to ensure that our Firefighters are as safe as possible in a profession that is inherently dangerous. I couldn’t be prouder of the men and women of the LAFD. It is my honor to serve with the best Firefighters in the world right here in Los Angeles.
Sincerely,
Tony Gamboa President United Firefighters of Los Angeles City, IAFF Local 112
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LOS ANGELES CITY POPULATION
4,100,000
3,900,000
4,041,707
3,485,398
3,700,000
3,500,000
3,300,000 1990
2000
2010
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
500,000
492,648
480,000
CALLS FOR SERVICE
460,000 440,000 420,000 400,000 380,000 360,000
327,782
340,000 320,000 2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
LAFD INCIDENT CLOCK An emergency medical service call every
…1 minute and 16 seconds
INCIDENT BREAKDOWN
A structure fire every
…2 hours and 4 minutes An automatic fire alarm every
…15 minutes and 10 seconds A rescue every
…56 minutes
DAILY AVERAGES Call For Service
1,350 EMS
1,132
BLS
Fire
195,447
20,738
ALS
Other
217,586
58,880
2017 STATISTICS The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) is an all-risk fire and rescue agency that serves over four million people in the City of Los Angeles. The mission of the LAFD is to preserve life and property, promote public safety, and foster economic growth through a commitment to prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery as an emergency service provider. The proud men and women of the LAFD call 106 Fire Stations spread across their 471 square mile jurisdiction home. These neighborhood fire stations are staffed by 3,327 sworn Firefighters on three rotating shifts who respond to an average of nearly 1,350 emergency calls for service on a daily basis.
STAFFING LEVELS
3700 3600
3,562
3500 3400
3,327
3300 3200 3100 2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
NEW YEAR’S DAY HOUSE FIRE January 1 NORTH HOLLYWOOD - 30 Firefighters used rotary saws and other methods to gain access to a vacant house on New Year’s Day and quickly extinguish the fire before it spread to surrounding structures.
LA RIVER RESCUE January 5 ATWATER VILLAGE - Just before noon, approximately 100 Firefighters rescued a 47-year old man from the Los Angeles River. The LAFD Swift Water Rescue Team was able to pull the man to safety from the rapid current created by heavy rainfall.
Rick McClure
Matt Hartman
Yvonne Griffin
BUNGALOW ARSON January 8 HYDE PARK - Firefighters and Police Officers responded to reports of a fire in the 6100 block of 11th Avenue around 12:40AM to find a row of bungalow-style apartments ablaze and one unit fully involved in flames. A woman and her daughter, along with their pet dog, were able to escape the fire, telling Arson Investigators that it was her son who set their home on fire. The mother was treated on the scene for smoke inhalation.
Matt Hartman
CHRISTMAS TREE FIRE January 9 VALLEY VILLAGE - A dried out Christmas tree caught fire in an apartment on Ben Avenue, but thankfully a mother and daughter were able to escape the residence. Firefighters doused the flames within 15 minutes and kept the fire from spreading to other apartment units in the building.
Mike Meadows
Harry Garvin
Rick McClure
Yvonne Griffin
MAJOR COMMERCIAL STRUCTURE BLAZE January 11 CHINATOWN - 75 Firefighters responded at 12:30AM to a major structure fire at a commercial building on Main Street. Crews used extreme caution while battling this blaze as it was quickly determined that the structure was prone to a possible collapse. The fire was extinguished in just over an hour.
Yvonne Griffin
VEHICLE EXTRICATION January 13 TOLUCA WOODS - Just after midnight, Firefighters responded to a major traffic collision on Cahuenga Blvd. that required the use of the Jaws of Life to extricate a female victim from one of the cars involved in the accident. Firefighters are specially trained to utilize the Jaws of Life in order to save lives in automobile accidents and other confined space emergencies that require extrication. Rick McClure
Rick McClure
BOAT FIRE January 14 TERMINAL ISLAND - Fire Boat Crews and landside Fire Engines worked together to extinguish a fire aboard the Cape Blanco fishing boat at the Port of Los Angeles.
Chris Conkle
Steve Gentry/OnSceneTV
HEROIC RESCUE January 16 SOUTH LA - In a dramatic rescue at a residential fire, a Firefighter climbed through the rear window of a home to extract four children, ages two through seven. With zero visibility, the children were quickly located and brought out of the burning home to safety where Crews worked to revive them. It took 90 Firefighters 16 minutes to extinguish the blaze. Thanks to the quick action of Firefighter Bryce Gutierrez, the lives of four young children were saved. UFLAC was proud to participate in two presentations honoring the bravery and courage of Firefighter Gutierrez. Assemblymember Mike Gipson led one ceremony at the State Capitol and LA City Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson recognized Firefighter Gutierrez along with all of the Fire Crews who were on scene in a presentation at LA City Hall.
COMMERCIAL BUILDING FIRE January 17 BOYLE HEIGHTS - Around 5:16PM, more than 140 Firefighters were required to fight a Major Emergency structure fire at a two-story commercial building in an industrial area on Union Pacific Avenue. It took Firefighters approximately 45 minutes to extinguish the blaze. Harry Garvin
Yvonne Griffin
Yvonne Griffin
JEFFERSON BLVD CAR ACCIDENT January 20 SOUTH LA - Two cars were involved in a hit-and-run accident near USC just past midnight. Firefighters treated and transported four critically injured victims, while the driver of one of the cars involved in the crash fled on foot.
Mike Meadows
Mike Meadows
Mike Meadows
Mike Meadows
HILLSIDE HOUSE FIRE January 21 HOLLYWOOD - Approximately 75 Firefighters extinguished a residential fire at a home in the Hollywood Hills. Firefighters prevented the blaze from spreading to nearby houses, extinguishing it in 35 minutes.
John Conkle
RESTAURANT FIRE January 22
Harry Garvin
Mike Meadows
BEVERLY GROVE - 84 Firefighters responded to a fire at a newly-opened restaurant around 5:16AM. The raging flames were contained in just over an hour and the damage was primarily limited to the attic of the restaurant.
SELF-STORAGE BUILDING BLAZE January 27 SYLMAR - 110 Firefighters from 17 different Fire Companies responded to a massive two-story self-storage business on Foothill Boulevard. The fire was extinguished in about an hour and a half, but there was extensive damage to the structure and loss of property in the storage units.
Mike Meadows
RECYCLING YARD FIRE February 1 SUN VALLEY - 32 Firefighters quickly responded to a large fire at a recycling yard that was extinguished in 30 minutes, preventing it from spreading to adjacent buildings and facilities.
Rick McClure
Rick McClure
FOUR VEHICLE COLLISION February 3 SUN VALLEY - Firefighters responded to a four vehicle traffic collision on Clybourn Avenue with multiple injuries. Crews were able to safely rescue two young children who were injured in the accident. Mike Meadows
SCHOOL FIRE February 12 SUN VALLEY - 30 Firefighters contained a fire in a detached bungalow at Napa Street Elementary School within 24 minutes. Fortunately, school was not in session, but damage was extensive to the south classroom.
Greg Doyle
Mike Meadows
Greg Doyle
MULTIPLE TRAIN CRASHES February 15 HIGHLAND PARK - Two train-vehicle collisions occurred just five hours apart on the Metro Gold Line. The first crash occurred around 1:00PM between the Highland Park and Southwest Museum Stations before the second crash, which happened at 6:00PM near Avenue 54 and Marmion Way. Multiple Firefighters and Paramedics were dispatched to the accidents and one person was transported to the hospital.
Matt Hartman
SINKHOLE RESCUE February 17
Rick McClure
Adam VanGerpen
STUDIO CITY - Two vehicles fell into a 20-foot wide sinkhole with rushing water that opened up after excessive rains on Laurel Canyon Boulevard. When Crews reached the scene, they found a woman who was approximately 10 feet below street level standing on top of her vehicle, which was upside down after it plunged into the large gaping hole. Firefighters successfully rescued her by lowering an extension ladder, allowing her to climb out. The other driver whose car fell in after more of the roadway gave way was able to escape on his own.
FLOODING February 17 SUN VALLEY - Firefighters rescued at least eight people from swift moving water and floods along the intersection of San Fernando Road and Tuxford Street and the Sepulveda Basin. The Swift Water Rescue Team spent several days saving people and four dogs that were trapped in flood zones.
Rick McClure
MAJOR EMERGENCY COMMERCIAL FIRE February 18 TARZANA - A major emergency commercial fire erupted at 2:30AM with 125 LAFD Firefighters responding and extinguishing the flames in just over one hour. Firefighters successfully prevented this massive blaze from reaching adjacent commercial buildings and nearby residential neighborhoods.
ROLLOVER TRAFFIC ACCIDENT February 18 NORTH HOLLYWOOD - Firefighters responded to a rollover collision with a trapped individual on Laurel Canyon Boulevard and cut through the car windshield to safely extricate the patient who suffered non-life-threatening injuries.
Rick McClure
Mike Meadows
Mike Meadows
HOME BLAZE February 22 VALLEY GLEN - Firefighters quickly extinguished a fire at a vacant one-story house on Woodman Avenue. The blaze was contained in 17 minutes and confined to one room and the attic.
Mike Meadows
Adam VanGerpen
Adam VanGerpen
FIRE LOSS IN $ Property Loss
$160,161,833 Content Loss
$144,426,164 Total Loss
$304,587,997 Adam VanGerpen
KITCHEN FIRE February 25 WINNETKA - A residential fire broke out at a house in the San Fernando Valley where 13 Firefighters took just over 10 minutes to douse the flames, containing most of the damage to the kitchen area of the residence.
FIRE PREVENTION BUREAU INSPECTIONS Brush Clearance Unit
145,391 Public Safety Section
9,026 Industrial & Commercial Section
7,883 Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA)
4,675 Fire Development Services Section
9,810 There are over 60,000 Fire Hydrants in the City that are inspected on an annual basis.
CONFINED SPACE RESCUE March 2 DOWNTOWN LA - Firefighters rescued a construction worker who fell 20 feet into a concrete vault at a construction site at 11:30AM. 61 Firefighters worked in a carefully coordinated manner to save the victim in less than 15 minutes and transport him to a hospital.
Harry Garvin
HOUSE FIRE DISPLACES NINE PEOPLE March 3 SOUTH LA - A fire broke out just before 4:00AM and Firefighters worked to extinguish the blaze in under half an hour. The Red Cross provided assistance in obtaining temporary shelter for the nine displaced residents after the fire destroyed the home.
Yvonne Griffin
HILLSIDE FIRE March 11 SHERMAN OAKS - Firefighters knocked down a fire that scorched four acres of brush just north of Mullholland Drive. Water-dropping helicopters and Los Angeles County Fire Department crews assisted in the firefight to extinguish the blaze in just over one hour, preventing the fire from spreading to nearby residential homes and a school.
Mike Meadows
Yvonne Griffin
Yvonne Griffin
Yvonne Griffin
Greg Doyle
INDUSTRIAL BUILDING BLAZE March 11 SAN FERNANDO - 36 Firefighters skillfully extinguished a fire at a commercial building on 1st Street in 20 minutes and prevented it from spreading to an adjacent apartment complex.
Greg Doyle
Chris Conkle
Chris Conkle
John Conkle
LARGE COMMERCIAL FIRE MARCH 12 DOWNTOWN LA - Over 190 Firefighters responded to a massive commercial fire on Central Avenue and used ladder pipes, portable monitors, and 2½-inch hand lines to combat the blaze, knocking it down in approximately one hour. Flames were contained to one unit, sparing adjacent commercial businesses from potential fire damage. Chris Conkle
Chris Conkle
Harry Garvin
John Conkle
FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR: CHARLES RUDDELL MARCH 22 DOWNTOWN LA - The Los Angeles Firefighters Association hosted their 50th Annual “Firefighter of the Year” luncheon honoring Captain II Charles Ruddell of Fire Station 89. Charles “Chuck” Ruddell has served the people of Los Angeles for 36 years in the Department, following in the proud footsteps of his father, Ronald, who served for decades in the LAFD before ending his career as a Captain I from Fire Station 17.
FATAL STRIP MALL FIRE MARCH 27 SOUTH LA - Two people were killed in a fire at a 99 Cent Plus store located in a strip mall in the 4700 block of South Broadway Street. Unfortunately, it appears that the man and woman who died in the fire were the owners of the store who were likely sleeping in the facility, which had no rear exit and was not zoned to be a safe place of residence.
Yvonne Griffin
Adam VanGerpen
STRUCTURE FIRE CIVILIAN FATALITIES
12
LAFD GIRLS CAMP April 1- 2 PANORAMA CITY - The LAFD held a two-day Girls Camp for young women ages 14 to 18 to expose them to a possible career in the fire service. Professional female Firefighters from the LAFD and across the country participated in mentoring dozens of young ladies who were trained in Firefighting and Emergency Medical Services. UFLAC has been a proud sponsor of the LAFD Girls Camp since the inception of the program.
Adam VanGerpen
Greg Doyle
APARTMENT BUILDING FIRE April 2 NORTH HILLS - Firefighters rapidly responded to a four-story apartment building blaze with heavy flames and smoke pouring out of a top floor unit. Ventilation operations were initiated to help contain the fire and prevent if from spreading to adjacent residential buildings.
Greg Doyle
FOOD PROCESSING PLANT FIRE April 3 SOUTH LA - For over three hours, more than 170 Firefighters battled a large fire at a one-story food processing plant on Compton Avenue. The inferno started in the kitchen area and quickly involved half of the building. Two Hazardous Material Task Force teams were on scene to identify the chemicals in the facility.
Mike Meadows
Mike Meadows
Yvonne Griffin
Yvonne Griffin
Mike Meadows
OVERTURNED TANKER April 4 ATWATER VILLAGE - Firefighters responded to a four-vehicle collision on the 2 Freeway near Glassell Park that included an overturned tanker carrying milk. Three critically injured victims were trapped in their vehicles and required extrication. A total of seven people were injured and transported to local hospitals.
Matt Hartman
Matt Hartman
Rick McClure
Rick McClure
Rick McClure
Rick McClure
VEHICLE FIRES April 10 SUN VALLEY - Two vehicle fires occurred within 20 minutes of each other. The first blaze was an RV that went up in flames at 1:09AM along San Fernando Road and Tuxford Street and the second ignited a box truck at 1:26AM on Saticoy Street at Kraft Avenue.
STORAGE FACILITY FIRE April 11 SHERMAN OAKS - Flames ripped through the third floor of a public storage facility with 56 Firefighters knocking down the blaze in 35 minutes. Fire Crews managed to limit the flames to the roof and the attic, sparing a majority of the building.
FIREFIGHTERS BATTLE DUPLEX BLAZE April 14
Yvonne Griffin
Yvonne Griffin
WESTLAKE - Over 80 Firefighters extinguished a large fire at a historic 112-year old duplex on Alvarado Street near Downtown Los Angeles. Firefighters contained the blaze to the attic and fortunately no injuries were reported.
Yvonne Griffin
Adam VanGerpen
Adam VanGerpen
MAN INJURED IN CARPORT FIRE April 21 PACOIMA - Arson Inspectors were dispatched to a suspicious fire under a carport in the Northeast San Fernando Valley. One man was burned and four vehicles sustained considerable fire damage. Over 30 Firefighters put out the fire in about 16 minutes and prevented it from spreading to an adjacent commercial building.
Matt Hartman
Mike Meadows
Harry Garvin
BIG RIG CRASH April 25 LOS FELIZ - Fire Crews responded to a crash involving three big rigs, three passenger vehicles, one van, and a truck along the 5 Freeway near Griffith Park. Paramedics established a triage area at the scene to treat the victims. One male truck driver and his dog were killed, while 10 people sustained critical injuries. Firefighters extinguished the big rig blaze within 20 minutes.
Harry Garvin
MAJOR EMERGENCY INFERNO April 27 WESTLAKE - 160 Firefighters responded to an early morning inferno that engulfed two apartment buildings. Fire Crews heroically worked to keep the fire from spreading to a nearby convalescent hospital and extinguished the massive blaze within 90 minutes.
Harry Garvin
Harry Garvin
LAFD ARSON COUNTER-TERRORISM SECTION Number of Investigations
744
Number of Incendiary Fires
352
Number of Arrests
187
Total Responses Conviction Rate
2,182 Approximately
94%
Mike Meadows
Harry Garvin
HOUSE FIRE April 30 NORTH HILLS - 46 Firefighters suppressed a fast-moving fire that extended to a one-story home in less than 30 minutes. The fire had also spread to a shed at an adjacent yard.
Mike Meadows
FURNITURE STORE BLAZE May 5 STUDIO CITY - 70 Firefighters battled a stubborn fire at a furniture store along Ventura Boulevard. The firefight lasted for nearly an hour before Fire Crews were able to knock it down.
Greg Doyle
Mike Meadows
Greg Doyle
DUPLEX BLAZE May 6 VALLEY VILLAGE - 36 Firefighters worked to put out a residential fire on the second floor of a duplex, containing the blaze within 33 minutes.
Dan Curry
Kelly Seidel
FIRE DAMAGES POSTAL ANNEX May 6 WESTWOOD - 52 Firefighters were dispatched to the Federal Building where a one-story postal annex that was undergoing exterior renovation caught fire at about 6:15PM. Thanks to the quick, skillful work of the Firefighters, several adjacent businesses were spared. John Conkle
John Conkle
Mike Meadows
FIRE DAMAGES SEVEN BUSINESSES May 7
Mike Meadows
MAR VISTA - Fire personnel arrived just after 11:47AM to find a one-story, 9,000 square foot building completely entrenched in flames. Seven businesses were damaged by the massive fire that took nearly 120 Firefighters more than 90 minutes to put out.
Mike Meadows
FIRE SERVICE DAY May 13 LOS ANGELES - Thousands of City residents participated in the annual LAFD Fire Service Day, joining Chief Ralph Terrazas and hundreds of our Firefighters at community Stations to learn more about the Fire Department, including home fire safety tips and CPR training.
Mike Meadows
Chris Conkle
Harry Garvin
FIVE-STORY HOUSE FIRE May 17 PACIFIC PALISADES - 89 Firefighters extinguished a five-story, hillside house fire in less than two hours. Thankfully, the damage was limited to just one structure. Harry Garvin
HOUSE FIRE May 21 NORTHRIDGE - 31 Firefighters tackled a residential fire in Northridge, which started in the back of the house and quickly progressed into the attic. Fortunately, Firefighters were able to douse the blaze within 21 minutes.
Greg Doyle
Rick McClure
TOWNHOUSE FIRE May 24
Adam VanGerpen
Adam VanGerpen
CHATSWORTH - 50 Firefighters were able to knock down a large townhouse fire in 25 minutes in the 10000 block of Topanga Canyon Boulevard. The fire was successfully confined to a portion of two attached townhomes.
THREE-STORY HOUSE FIRE May 25 SHERMAN OAKS - 87 Firefighters battled a stubborn fire at a hillside home, which rapidly spread to all floors. A helicopter was dispatched to aid in the firefight and Crews extinguished the blaze in less than an hour, keeping the flames from spreading to nearby brush. Rick McClure
Mike Meadows
Rick McClure
Rick McClure
STRIP MALL BLAZE May 25 VALLEY GLEN - 95 Firefighters battled a commercial fire at a one-story strip mall around 9:47PM. Despite a partially collapsed roof, Firefighters were able to stop this fire from destroying multiple units and achieved full containment in just over an hour.
ATTIC FIRE May 29 NORTH HILLS - At 10:30AM, more than 30 Firefighters battled a residential blaze, aggressively ventilating the roof of the structure in order to release trapped gasses and heat to successfully contain the fire in 20 minutes.
Greg Doyle
Rick McClure
BOARD AND CARE HOME FIRE May 30 CHATSWORTH - 30 Firefighters snuffed out a structure fire within 23 minutes at a facility that served as a residential board and care home for 15 adults around 3:00AM. One Firefighter suffered non-life-threatening injuries and several of the residents were displaced due to the damage.
APARTMENT FIRE June 3 NORTH HOLLYWOOD - 66 Firefighters arrived at the 1100 block of West Oxnard Street in North Hollywood in response to a two-story structure fire fully ablaze that left 31 people displaced. Due to the swift action of the Fire personnel on the scene, Crews confined the fire to the roof and attic portion of the eight-unit building and contained the blaze within 34 minutes.
Mike Meadows
Greg Doyle
FIREFIGHTER APPRECIATION NIGHT June 5
Adam VanGerpen
Adam VanGerpen
DODGER STADIUM - The Los Angeles Dodgers hosted their Annual Firefighter Appreciation Night where a portion of the proceeds from all tickets sold went to benefit Firefighters and our First Responders from throughout Southern California. On this special night, fallen Firefighters Kelly Wong & Ryan Osler were honored for paying the ultimate sacrifice in service to others.
Adam VanGerpen
Adam VanGerpen
Mike Meadows
Mike Meadows
FIREFIGHTER INJURED IN CONSTRUCTION BLAZE June 12 EAST HOLLYWOOD - At 6:04AM, Fire Crews arrived at two, three-story apartment buildings under construction in the 400 block of North Heliotrope Drive fully engulfed in flames. 107 Firefighters were called to the scene and battled the inferno, dousing the flames in 42 minutes. One single-story home nearby suffered minor damage and an additional apartment building suffered smoke damage. In total, 10 adults and 10 children were displaced and one Firefighter was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries.
FIREFIGHTER SUFFERS BURN INJURY June 13 VAN NUYS - A large structure fire was reported at 3:19PM near the 14700 block of Aetna Street where heavy fire engulfed the rear of an auto repair facility. Fire Crews attacked the flames within the one-story building that also threatened nearby structures. Unfortunately, a Fire Captain sustained a burn injury and was taken to a regional hospital for further care.
Yvonne Griffin
Mike Meadows
Mike Meadows
CASTAIC LAKE WILDFIRE June 17 CASTAIC LAKE - At 2:00PM, LAFD Helicopter Fire 1 was dispatched to fulfill a mutual aid request from the Los Angeles County Fire Department and Angeles National Forest Firefighters to battle a rapidly moving conflagration near Castaic Lake that had burned over 1,000 acres. LAFD Air Support joined over 450 Firefighters who battled the blaze from the ground where two outbuildings were destroyed.
Mike Meadows
David Gardner
OVERTURNED CEMENT TRUCK June 24 VALLEY VILLAGE - Shortly before 9:30AM, a traffic accident caused a cement truck to overturn on the northbound 101 Freeway near Laurel Canyon Boulevard and spill approximately 75 gallons of fuel. Firefighters and Hazmat Crews arrived at the scene and closed all lanes while they built barriers to prevent more fuel from entering the storm drains.
Mike Meadows
BURBANK FIRE SUPPORT June 28 BURBANK - Around 3:00PM, LAFD air and ground crews worked alongside allied agencies from Burbank to assist with a brush fire that broke out over 10 acres near the 1000 block of Hamline Place in the Verdugo Mountains. Some residential areas were under mandatory evacuations while Fire Helicopters and Ground Crews used water to protect nearby homes threatened by the fire. The blaze was contained by 5:45PM.
Mike Meadows
Mike Meadows
MULTIPLE HOUSE FIRES July 1
Mike Meadows
SHERMAN OAKS - Shortly before 2:30AM, 66 Firefighters arrived at the scene of a blaze in a two-story home under construction and another in the attic of a single-story duplex next door in the 6000 block of Morella Avenue. The fire was extinguished within 35 minutes due to the quick work of firefighters.
TRAFFIC COLLISION July 3 NORTH HILLS - Firefighters arrived at the scene of a three-vehicle traffic collision shortly before 10:00AM in the 9900 block of North Haskell Avenue. A van carrying 11 special needs students collided with a pickup truck, causing the truck to hit a smaller car. Only the truck driver required medical attention and was transported to the hospital with minor injuries.
Mike Meadows
CONDO FIRE DISPLACES FAMILIES July 4 CHATSWORTH - A structure fire was reported in a 47-year old, four-condominium building just before 5:00PM in the 22100 block of James Alan Circle. A propane tank or barbeque equipment sparked the blaze that required 122 Firefighters and a Helicopter to extinguish the wind-driven flames in 81 minutes. Two Firefighters sustained non-life-threatening injuries, while the American Red Cross helped all four families displaced from the complex.
Greg Doyle
David Blaire
Greg Doyle
David Blaire
HEAT WAVE CAUSES BRUSH FIRE July 6 ELYSIAN PARK - More than 100 Firefighters and several Helicopters converged on a small vegetation fire that erupted and spread over two acres shortly before 12:30PM in Elysian Park. The hot temperatures and dry terrain prompted a wildland evacuation. The spot fires were completely extinguished in 40 minutes. Harry Garvin
Harry Garvin
Brian Litt
DWP FACILITY EXPLOSION July 8 NORTHRIDGE - At around 7:00PM, a mechanical malfunction at a LADWP transmission site at the intersection of Wilbur Avenue and Parthenia Street created a fire and power outage that left 94,000 San Fernando Valley homes and businesses without power. Fire Crews fought back heavy flames and black smoke caused by minerals on the site that had combusted at the facility. Firefighters were able to knockdown the fire in two hours. Crews worked through the night to clear multiple damaged conductors, circuit breakers, and transformers from the scene. Power was later restored to the communities of Northridge, Winnetka, Lake Balboa, Tarzana, North Hills, Granada Hills, Chatsworth, West Hills, Canoga Park, and Woodland Hills.
Mike Meadows
Brian Litt
Mike Meadows
INJURY CRASH July 20 VALLEY GLEN - Around 1:00PM, Firefighters arrived at the scene of a two-vehicle accident at the intersection of Victory Boulevard and Coldwater Canyon Avenue. One car collided with another car that had attempted to make a left turn, which lost control and slammed into a nearby coffee shop. The LAFD Urban Search & Rescue Team later helped stabilize the structure. Neither driver was injured, but three customers were hospitalized and five others treated on the scene for minor injuries.
Greg Doyle
Mike Meadows
Mike Meadows
HELICOPTER DOWN July 21 SHERMAN OAKS - Around noon, Firefighters from the Van Nuys Airport were dispatched to a helicopter crash in the 15000 block of West Valleyheart Drive. The chartered helicopter pilot attempted to make an emergency landing on a residential street near a Sherman Oaks miniature golf course and managed to avoid homes or people on the ground. Thankfully, the pilot and three passengers (two adults and one teenage girl) sustained minor injuries and were transported to a local hospital for evaluation.
HIKER RESCUE July 22 CHATSWORTH - Just after 2:00PM, a female hiker who complained of heat exhaustion was rescued from Santa Susana Pass State Historic Park by a LAFD Rescue Helicopter. The woman was hiking within the 680-acre urban wilderness park and became lost in the nearly 100-degree temperature. Greg Doyle
Greg Doyle
DIVER RESCUE July 22 SAN PEDRO - The LAFD responded by air, land, and sea to assist a recreational SCUBA diver experiencing a sudden medical emergency. The man was brought to shore by a LAFD Fireboat, as neighborhood firefighters secured a landing zone for a Fire Department air ambulance helicopter to transport him the 23 miles across the Pacific Ocean for specialized care at hyperbaric chamber on Catalina Island.
Chris Conkle
Chris Conkle
GREATER ALARM STRIP MALL FIRE July 22 WINNETKA - More than 100 Firefighters put out a Greater Alarm Fire just after 11:00PM in a 4,452 square foot, four-tenant commercial building in the 20800 block of Sherman Way. The heavily engulfed building was extinguished in just 36 minutes with damage confined to the original structure due to the swift work of the Fire Crews on scene. Greg Doyle
FIREFIGHTERS MITIGATE DAMAGE July 22
Harry Garvin
PICO ROBERTSON - Fire resources were called to the scene of a traffic collision where a vehicle damaged a 35-foot pole sign that became wedged between the vehicle and a building in the 1700 block of South La Cienega Boulevard. LAFD Heavy Rescue and Urban Search and Rescue personnel were called in to lower and disassemble the large billboard sign and prevent any further damage.
VAN INJURES PEDESTRIANS July 30
Harry Garvin
MID-WILSHIRE - A van drove off of the road near a restaurant located at 5088 West Pico Boulevard and plowed into a crowd, injuring nine people, including one off-duty LAFD Firefighter. LAFD personnel treated the injured patients, including the van driver. Eight of the injured were transported to local hospitals with one 44 -year old male in critical condition, three adults in serious condition, and four patients in fair condition.
ANNUAL PHOTOGRAPHER APPRECIATION LUNCHEON August 1 UFLAC invited several of our local photographers to the Union Hall for an annual appreciation luncheon to recognize the extraordinary effort they put forth to capture our Firefighters in action. Thank you to all the photographers who contribute their images year-round and help to tell the story of our men and women on the frontlines.
SANTEE FIRE August 1 DOWNTOWN LA - 90 Firefighters were deployed to the scene of a large fire in the Fashion District. This fire occurred just after 2:00PM and was knocked down in about 34 minutes. Thankfully, no injuries were reported in this densely populated area of the City. Yvonne Griffin
WORLD POLICE AND FIRE GAMES August 7-16 LOS ANGELES - Los Angeles Firefighters joined more than 8,600 active and retired law enforcement athletes and Firefighters from 70 countries to usher in the 2017 World Police and Fire Games at the historic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Since 1985, this biennial event has brought athletes together to compete across 65 different Olympic-style games over 11 days. One of the most rewarding parts of this year’s event was the Parade of Nations ceremony where athletes carried the national flags of the 70 participating countries.
Branden Silverman
Yvonne Griffin
VACANT HOME FIRE August 24
Rick McClure
NORTH HILLS - Firefighters doused a fire that broke out in a vacant home in the 9400 block of N. Sepulveda Boulevard at 6:11PM. The structure was heavily boarded and compartmentalized, which created entry challenges; however, Crews on the scene were able to put out the blaze in just 33 minutes and prevented the flames from spreading to an adjacent building.
Rick McClure
Rick McClure
TWO VEHICLE INJURY CRASH August 25 SUN VALLEY - Firefighters responded to a two-car collision which caused one vehicle to overturn near the intersection of Saticoy Street and Farmdale Avenue. Three people were injured with one in serious condition following his ejection from the vehicle.
Mike Meadows
Mike Meadows
Yvonne Griffin
Yvonne Griffin
GREYHOUND TERMINAL FIRE August 30 DOWNTOWN LA - Approximately 124 Firefighters fought a major structure fire at the old Greyhound Terminal at 630 South Los Angeles Street. Resources were called at 6:34PM to the 366,824 square foot concrete building where heavy smoke poured from a row of commercial units on the first floor. Due to the nature of the concrete structure, additional Fire Companies were called in to battle separate fires in units and gain entry to the apex of the fire. A knockdown was achieved after one hour and 48 minutes.
LA TUNA FIRE September 1 SUN VALLEY - Firefighters sprang into action over the course of nine days to contain a fire that broke out near the 10800 block of West La Tuna Canyon Road, north of Interstate 210 that forced a freeway closure. With high temperatures and shifting winds, the fire quickly spread in all directions and became the largest wildfire in Los Angeles City history. Mayor Eric Garcetti and Governor Jerry Brown both declared a state of emergency to the burn area that spanned 7,194 acres by the time it was 100 percent contained on September 9th. Over 1,061 Firefighters from multiple jurisdictions were called in to fight the fire and protect approximately 1,400 endangered homes in Burbank, Glendale, and Sunland-Tujunga. Over 206 Engines, nine Helicopters, five Water Tenders, and four Dozers worked to calm the flames. Due to the incredible work of Firefighters and First Responders throughout the region, it is remarkable that only five homes and five outbuildings were destroyed. Matt Hartman
Mike Meadows
Brian Litt
Harry Garvin
Gary Apodaca
9/11 TRIBUTE Each year, Los Angeles Firefighters gather at various sites throughout Los Angeles, including the LAFD 9/11 Memorial located at the Frank Hotchkin Memorial Training Center to remember the brave Firefighters and First Responders who lost their lives saving others on that fateful day. LAFD Chief Ralph Terrazas joined California Secretary of State Alex Padilla, LAPD Chief Charlie Beck, and other City officials to speak on the significance of this date and the lasting impact of the more than 400 dedicated First Responders who lost their lives saving thousands in the terror attack at the Twin Towers in New York City. The ceremony closed with a joint ringing of a bell in recognition of September 11th as a National Day of Service and Remembrance.
Gary Apodac
Gary Apodaca
Gary Apodaca
Yvonne Griffin
Yvonne Griffin
Mike Meadows
Steve Gentry
Mike Meadows
GAS EXPLOSION September 20
GREATER ALARM HARDWARE STORE FIRE September 25
WEST HILLS - At 3:04PM, Firefighters responded to a natural gas explosion in a residential area in the 7500 block of North Sale Avenue that destroyed a building behind a home and scattered debris throughout the neighborhood. The explosion left six homes damaged, three of them red-tagged.
Steve Gentry
SUN VALLEY - At 1:50PM, 97 Firefighters were called to a Greater Alarm structure fire in the 11600 block of Tuxford Street, where they found a one-story, 14,000 square foot manufacturing building under heavy fire. As many as 10 employees were able to escape the business as Firefighters deployed hose lines and aerial ladder resources to contain the blaze. The inferno was extinguished in just 53 minutes as Firefighters were able to contain the fire to the building of origin. One veteran Firefighter sustained an injury and was taken to a local hospital in good condition.
LAS VEGAS MASS SHOOTING October 1 LAS VEGAS - Off-duty Los Angeles Firefighters sprang into action to help protect dozens of victims in one of the most horrific mass shootings in recent history. A gunman opened fire from a room at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino onto concert goers, injuring over 527 people and killing at least 59 people. Two LAFD Firefighters were struck by gunfire, but their injuries were not life-threatening. Because of the tremendous impact on the firefighting community, the International Association of Firefighters, led by General Secretary-Treasurer Ed Kelly and District Vice President Frank Lima, coordinated a full response, which included mobilizing a Peer Support team.
RECYCLING FACILITY FIRE October 5 Matt Hartman
DOWNTOWN LA - At 1:18PM, 89 Firefighters responded to a structure fully ablaze at a 14,000 square foot paper recycling facility. After battling the flames and helping all 50 facility workers escape injury, Crews were able to contain the fire within two hours. One Firefighter sustained a back injury and was transported to a local hospital. Firefighters remained on scene the following day to ensure the flames were completely snuffed out and to assess possible damage to nearby buildings.
Yvonne Griffin
STRUCTURE FIRE October 9 BELL CANYON - A large blaze ignited at a three-story hillside home close to El Escorpion Park around 7:45AM. Fire Engines from Los Angeles County and Ventura County provided additional assistance to extinguish the flames. The fire emanated from multiple levels of the descending hillside home, but was contained to the structure of origin before it was able to spread to surrounding brush.
Adam VanGerpen
MAJOR EMERGENCY FIRE INJURES FIREFIGHTERS October 10 HIGHLAND PARK - Heavy fire billowed from a Craftsman-style home at 219 North Avenue 53 that sparked another house fire next door around 9:48AM. 126 Firefighters were called in to knockdown the stubborn blaze that extensively damaged both homes and lasted for 70 minutes. Crews were able to save an adjacent apartment threatened by the flames, but sadly, three Firefighters suffered from heat exhaustion and two of them were transported to a local hospital.
Matt Hartman
Matt Hartman
Chris Conkle
David Blaire
MAJOR EMERGENCY COMMERCIAL FIRE October 14 BOYLE HEIGHTS - A quick-moving fire at a large fabric wholesaler in the 1600 block of South Soto Street burned for more than two hours and damaged several nearby businesses. At approximately 6:43PM, over 130 Firefighters battled the Major Emergency blaze that tore through the roof of the one-story structure and spread to adjacent buildings. The thorough work of the Firefighters on scene limited further damage to the commercial area.
Harry Garvin
Harry Garvin
Yvonne Griffin
HOUSE FIRE October 18 KOREATOWN - A home was damaged during an early morning fire in the 300 block of South Oxford Avenue as Firefighters worked tirelessly to extinguish the fire in 36 minutes and prevent the flames from spreading to nearby apartment buildings, keeping hundreds of residents out of harm's way.
Harry Garvin
Yvonne Griffin
ARSON FIRES October 19 NORTH HOLLYWOOD - A series of four fires triggered an arson investigation due to their suspicious nature. At about 5:35AM, the first tree fire was reported in the 5900 block of Carpenter Avenue; a second tree fire was called in at 5:46AM in the 5900 block of Irvine Avenue; the third tree fire was reported at 5:50AM in the 11600 block of Oxnard Street; and the final fire was at 5:53AM in the 5700 block of Beck Avenue. All four fires caused damage to trees on private property and the final fire set several cars ablaze, destroying physical property. These fires were similar in nature to an earlier series of fires set in September and Arson Investigators were brought to the scene to determine the cause of the fires. Mike Meadows
CARPORT FIRE October 21
Mike Meadows
VALLEY VILLAGE - Approximately 75 Firefighters arrived to the scene of a multi-vehicle fire in a condominium carport that scorched four vehicles in the 12700 block of Burbank Boulevard just before 1:00PM. While the fire was extinguished in just 20 minutes, heavy smoke blackened all three floors of the attached townhome before HazMat crews cleaned-up water that was contaminated by the burned cars. Arson Investigators were called to determine the cause of the suspicious fire.
Rick McClure
COMMERCIAL BLAZE IN FASHION DISTRICT November 6 DOWNTOWN LA - At 2:01AM, 97 Firefighters arrived to the 700 block of East Washington Boulevard to fight an inferno at a four-story commercial building engulfed in flames in the Fashion District. Firefighters worked to get hose lines into the textile business near the top floor of the structure and were able to extinguish the fire in only 32 minutes. The Arson Unit was called in to investigate the blaze. Mike Meadows
CHURCH FIRE November 6 VAN NUYS - A Greater Alarm Fire ripped through a historic two-story church in the 14300 block of Sherman Way shortly after 6:00PM. It took around 48 minutes for approximately 100 Firefighters to knockdown the fire. Crews remained on the scene for several hours to monitor the smoldering flames from the second floor.
Mike Meadows
FIREFIGHTERS SUSTAIN BURN INJURIES November 25 WESTLAKE - 13 residents were displaced as a result of an early morning blaze in the 2900 block of Sunset Place at 5:45AM. 106 Firefighters fought off the flames in the four-story apartment where two Firefighters sustained burns and were taken by ambulance to an area hospital. There were no injuries to occupants of the 72-unit building and the American Red Cross was on hand to help the displaced residents.
HOTEL FIRE December 3 DOWNTOWN LA - At about 2:34PM, 102 Firefighters responded to a Greater Alarm Structure Fire that started in one unit of a three-story hotel on Skid Row. The fire’s origin was reported to have started on the top floor and took Crews 25 minutes to extinguish. Authorities reported that several people were displaced, but no one sustained injuries in the incident.
Harry Garvin
Harry Garvin
CREEK FIRE December 5 - January 9 LAFD Firefighters joined hundreds of Firefighters from neighboring Departments to battle the Creek Fire, which was a large wildfire that started on December 5 and burned in Kagel Canyon and the Angeles National Forest north of Sylmar. Before it was finally contained more than one month later on January 9, 2018, over 120 structures were completely destroyed, including 60 homes.
Greg Doyle
The Creek Fire burned more than 15,000 acres of land and caused the evacuation of 115,000 people from their homes. Firefighters worked around the clock to both fight the ongoing fires and to evacuate local residents and animals, including several horses who were put at risk in this massive fire.
Greg Doyle
Greg Doyle
John Conkle
SKIRBALL FIRE December 6 BEL-AIR - The Skirball Fire burned 422 acres in West Los Angeles, destroying six homes and damaging 12 others. Three Firefighters suffered injuries from this fire that was caused by an illegal cooking fire at a nearby homeless encampment.
John Conkle
GREATER ALARM COMMERCIAL FIRE December 8 CRENSHAW - Firefighters responded to a Greater Alarm Fire with heavy flames showing at a one-story commercial building. Fire Companies engaged in defensive operations to extinguish the large blaze.
Harry Garvin
MAJOR EMERGENCY COMMERCIAL FIRE December 16 PANORAMA CITY - Over 100 Firefighters were dispatched to a major fire in the San Fernando Valley. Firefighters attacked this blaze from aerial ladders and from ground level. Unfortunately, several commercial buildings were destroyed in this massive fire.
Mike Meadows
Greg Doyle
STORAGE FACILITY FIRE December 31 NORTH HOLLYWOOD - Firefighters spent several hours working to battle persistent flames coming from a densely packed storage facility. Six Fire Companies battled flare-ups and performed overhaul operations at this Greater Alarm Fire, successfully preventing any injuries to Firefighters or civilians.
Mike Meadows
Mike Meadows
LAFD RECRUIT TRAINING ACADEMY GRADUATIONS In 2017, the LAFD held four graduation ceremonies from Drill Tower 81 located in Panorama City and Drill Tower 40 located in San Pedro in which 190 new Firefighters joined the ranks. The Academy Graduations are a celebration of the completion of a 20week rigorous training that prepares recruits for a successful career with the Department. The Swearing-In Ceremony and Badge Presentation are followed by a comprehensive skills demonstration. Thanks to the support of Mayor Eric Garcetti and the entire Los Angeles City Council, the LAFD continues to hire the Firefighters and Paramedics that our Department desperately needs to keep our neighborhoods safe.
Adam VanGerpen
Gary Apodaca
Jorge Arellano
Gary Apodaca
Gary Apodaca
Gary Apodaca
Jorge Arellano
Jorge Arellano
Gary Apodaca
Jorge Arellano
Gary Apodaca
LAFD AWARDED $15.46 MILLION SAFER GRANT LOS ANGELES - The LAFD was awarded a $15.46 million grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that will be used to staff fire engines at four LAFD stations. The Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) hiring grant allowed the LAFD to hire an additional 48 Firefighters in an extra recruit class in early 2018. The additional staffing will enable the Department to staff fire engines beginning in early summer 2018 at stations in Lincoln Heights, Echo Park, Reseda, and Mission Hills. In addition to the federal grant, the LAFD will contribute $9.6 million over three years to fund the cost of the new Firefighters. This marks the first time that the LAFD has been awarded a Federal SAFER grant in the 12-year history of the program.
GIVING 15TH ANNUAL ST. BALDRICK'S FOUNDATION FUNDRAISER
FAHRENHEIT 2017 May 7
March 4 Los Angeles Firefighters once again participated in the 15th Annual St. Baldrick's Foundation event to fight childhood cancer. Each year, LAFD Firefighters and LAPD Officers gather at Fire Station 89 in North Hollywood to get their heads shaved in a sign of solidarity with children impacted by cancer. Our First Responders help raise nearly $100,000 each year to support the work of the St. Baldrick's Foundation, with over $1 million having been raised since the inception of this event.
The Los Angeles Fire Foundation hosted their annual fundraising event “Fahrenheit 2017� with special guest Earvin "Magic" Johnson serving as the Honoree for the evening. Since 2010, the LA Fire Foundation has raised money to support LAFD Youth Programs, Equipment, Technology, and Leadership Development in the Department. UFLAC is a proud supporter of the Foundation and the Fahrenheit Fundraising Event.
12TH ANNUAL MDA FILL THE BOOT April 18 - 20
Mike Meadows
Mike Meadows
For the 12th consecutive year, LA Firefighters were proud to support the Annual Fill the Boot campaign to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), the world's leading nonprofit health agency dedicated to finding treatments and cures for muscular dystrophy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and other neuromuscular diseases.
BACK Lisette Kennedy
DANIEL A. TERRY SCHOLARSHIP Named after the former President of the California Professional Firefighters and Founder of the California Fire Foundation, the Daniel A. Terry Scholarship provides higher education financial assistance to the children of California’s fallen Firefighters. This year’s local recipients were Lauren McKnight and Jessica Urquiza.
HOPE FOR FIREFIGHTERS June 1 Fire Stations, businesses, and thousands of supporters from throughout the City came together at Hope Street and 3rd Street in the Financial District to raise money in support of the Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association’s Widows, Orphans and Disabled Firemen’s Fund. This lunchtime event is now in its 20th year, where more than 20 sponsored teams prepared special meals and desserts and winners were judged in a variety of categories such as Best Food, Best Dessert, and Best-Themed Booth. Lisette Kennedy
LAUREN MCKNIGHT Lauren is the daughter of fallen Firefighter Matthew McKnight, attending University of California, Santa Barbara majoring in Computer Science and minoring in Spanish.
JESSICA URQUIZA Jessica is the daughter of fallen Firefighter Ralph Urquiza, attending West Coast University where she plans to receive her Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
FIRE VELO CYCLISTS REACH FINISH LINE August 27 Approximately 25 cyclists completed a six-day journey from San Francisco to Los Angeles with a purpose - to raise awareness and funds to fight cancer in the Fire Service. At the 11th Annual SF to LA “Fire Service Cancer Awareness” Bicycle Ride, the riders began their trek across the San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge with an opening ceremony at SFFD Fire Station 51 and were escorted by Santa Monica police motorcycles and fire trucks to their final destination at the Santa Monica Pier and Lifeguard Headquarters six days later. The riders, some of whom are also cancer survivors, are active duty or retired Firefighters from several fire departments in California, including LA County Fire, LA City Fire, San Francisco Fire, and various others. Over the past 11 years, the SF to LA Ride has raised more than $300,000 to support cancer prevention efforts and organizations.
MUTUAL HURRICANE HARVEY August 27
HURRICANE IRMA September 6
Adam VanGerpen
ALABAMA GULF COAST - The team of more than 70 members of the LAFD who were originally deployed as part of the FEMA Urban Search and Rescue Task Force in Texas during Hurricane Harvey headed to Alabama to prepare for Hurricane Irma relief efforts. Known as FEMA’s California Task Force 1, the LAFD Firefighters joined with a civilian support staff of medical doctors, K-9 handlers, engineers, and a ground support crew to conduct water rescue, urban search and rescue, and hazardous materials response. The extended deployment undertaken by these men and women shows the true strength, selflessness, and capability of Los Angeles Firefighters.
TEXAS GULF COAST - A team of 70 Firefighters, including several LAFD personnel, were deployed to assist in the rescue efforts in the wake of devastating floods caused by Hurricane Harvey along the Texas Gulf Coast. The LAFD maintains one of eight Urban Search and Rescue teams under the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in California. Each Urban Search and Rescue Task Force is comprised of Firefighters, at least one physician, structural engineers, and a civilian K-9 search team member who are joined by a 10-member ground support crew to search for victims and aid in natural disasters and emergencies. Adam VanGerpen
HURRICANE MARIA September 29
Adam VanGerpen
Adam VanGerpen
Adam VanGerpen
ALABAMA GULF COAST - Los Angeles Firefighters leapt into action in hurricane ravaged Puerto Rico as part of the FEMA Urban Search and Rescue Task Force 1. The highly-trained teams of Firefighters, engineers, medical doctors, K-9 handlers, and ground support crews collaborated to search for and rescue victims from the impact of Hurricane Irma that left thousands of Puerto Rican communities without food, water and power. Thanks to all of the brave men and women who extended their deployment to help save thousands of lives throughout the treacherous terrain of this tropical island territory.
AID CANYON FIRES September 25 & October 9
Mike Meadows
ANAHEIM - On September 25th, a collision between an automobile and a road flare from a Caltrans sweeper-train crew ignited dry brush on the side of the 91 freeway and Coal Canyon starting what was known as Canyon Fire 1 near the border of Orange and Riverside Counties. The Canyon 1 fire burned 2,662 acres, damaged five structures (including four homes in Corona), and forced hundreds of evacuations before its containment on October 4th. Hot embers from smoldering oak trees scattered and created spot fires near Sierra Peak in the Cleveland National Forest that were the cause of Canyon Fire 2. Flames spread rapidly across highways and traveled several miles, threatening homes in Anaheim Hills and forcing mass evacuations. In total, Canyon Fire 2 burned more than 9,200 areas and destroyed 10 structures and 15 residences.
NORTH BAY FIRES October 8 NORTHERN CA - Los Angeles Firefighters sprang into action to aid their colleagues in Northern California to contain the series of wildfires that wrecked communities across Napa, Lake, Mendocino, Sonoma and Yuba Counties. Strike Teams battled the inferno that stretched to nearly 180,000 acres and claimed the lives of at least 42 people over its 19day duration. In total, over 5,700 structures were destroyed and thousands of residents were displaced. Governor Brown declared a State of Emergency in the region which allowed California to receive disaster assistance for victims.
Mike Meadows
Matt Hartman
THOMAS FIRE December 4 VENTURA COUNTY - Firefighters from multiple jurisdictions came together to battle the Thomas Fire, the largest wildfire in California history. Nearly 282,000 acres burned across large parts of Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties, destroying 1,063 structures, damaging 280 others, and costing more than $177 million over eight long days. Los Angeles Firefighters were part of 8,500 Crews who provided support in this suppression effort, by far the largest mobilization of Firefighters to combat any wildfire in California history. Strong Santa Ana winds combined with hot, dry air were the largest contributors to the fire’s rapid expansion that forced over 104,607 residents to evacuate. Sadly, Cal Fire San Diego Engineer, Corey Iverson, died of thermal injuries and smoke inhalation while fighting with a Strike Team of five engines providing mutual aid near Fillmore. One other Firefighter suffered non-life-threatening injuries and one 70-year old woman died in a car accident during evacuations. Adding to the devastation, heavy rains pelted the scorched hillsides in early January 2018, creating flash floods and massive mudslides that destroyed 129 homes and damaged 307 more in the Montecito area. In total, 21 deaths were attributed to the debris flow from the fire and mudslides. Mike Meadows
HONORING CAPTAIN II DAVID T. MOORMAN
BATTALION CHIEF JEROME BOYD
FIREFIGHTER KELLY WONG
The LAFD mourns the loss of Captain II David T. Moorman, age 50, who passed away due to a medical emergency while off-duty at his home on February 5th. Captain Moorman was a 27-year veteran of the LAFD and was assigned to Fire Station 96 in Chatsworth on the “C� platoon. He leaves behind his wife and two children. We will deeply miss our beloved brother.
Los Angeles Firefighters mourn the loss of Battalion Chief Jerome Boyd, age 55, who died suddenly during a medical emergency while on duty in Downtown Los Angeles on April 28th. Chief Boyd was a 30-year veteran of the Department and was most recently assigned to the Public Safety Section of the Fire Prevention Bureau. Born in Los Angeles, Boyd attended Crenshaw High School and Santa Monica City College before transferring to Oregon State. He played professional football for the Seattle Seahawks before joining the LAFD in 1986. Chief Boyd leaves behind his wife, daughter, and three sons.
Los Angeles Firefighters mourn the loss of Firefighter Kelly Wong, who passed away on June 5th as a result of injuries he suffered during a training exercise in Downtown Los Angeles. Firefighter Wong was assigned to Fire Station 92 in Rancho Park after earning the distinction as the Top Academic Recruit and graduate of LAFD Recruit Academy 40 on Terminal Island in August 2015. A memorial service was held at the Cathedral of our Lady of the Angels. Firefighter Wong leaves behind his wife Danielle, son Colton, and mother Anne.
CAPTAIN II KEITH STEWART The LAFD was saddened to announce the death of Captain II Keith Stewart on December 10th, who died while off-duty. Captain Stewart served in the Department for 24 years and was a dedicated member of the Stentorians, as well as a certified Hazmat Specialist and Technician. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Brother Stewart.
OUR FALLEN IAFF MEMORIAL The LAFD Honor Guard and the UFLAC Executive Board traveled to Colorado Springs to join fire representatives from across the United States and Canada to recognize 190 fallen Firefighters who lost their lives on the job or through work-related exposure to toxic substances. This year, Wendy Cummings and Darrayle Prosser were added to the over 7,600 names who died in the line of duty and are displayed on the IAFF Memorial Wall of Honor. CALIFORNIA FIREFIGHTERS MEMORIAL CEREMONY The California Fire Foundation hosted their 15th Annual California Firefighters Memorial Ceremony on September 30th in Sacramento, an event that honored 31 California Firefighters who have died in the line of duty. Los Angeles Firefighters Wendy A. Cummings, Darrayle B. Prosser, Michael P. Reddy, Jerome Anthony Boyd, and Kelly Ka Lai Wong were all added to the more than 3,100 names currently etched into the California Firefighters Memorial Wall. FALLEN FIREFIGHTERS MEMORIAL CEREMONY The LAFD Historical Society, UFLAC, active and retired LAFD personnel, and family and friends paid tribute to the 266 fallen comrades in the Department’s 131-year history during a ceremony at the Los Angeles Firefighter Museum at Old Fire Station 27. This annual ceremony is a time when all Los Angeles Firefighters can reflect and remember the men and women of the LAFD who have made the ultimate sacrifice. We will never forget these brave Firefighters who have courageously served the citizens of Los Angeles.
RECOGNITION PHOTO CONTRIBUTORS
LAFD
Gary Apodaca
Greg Doyle
Brian Litt
Jorge Arellano
David Gardner
Rick McClure
David Blaire
Steve Gentry
Mike Meadows
Chris Conkle
Yvonne Griffin
Kelly Seidel
John Conkle
Matt Hartman
Branden Silverman
Lisette Kennedy
Public Service Officer Amy Bastman
Public Service Officer Brian Humphrey
Public Information Officer Erik Scott
Battalion Chief Daniel Curry
Public Information Officer David Ortiz
FireStat Manager Drew Steinberg
Arson Forensic Photographer Harry Garvin
Public Information Director Peter Sanders
Public Service Officer Margaret Stewart
All photos and images used in this publication are subject to the copyright of their respective owners. All rights reserved.
UNITED FIREFIGHTERS OF LOS ANGELES CITY EXECUTIVE BOARD President Tony Gamboa 1st Vice President Chuong Ho
Treasurer Domingo Albarran
Director Randy Yslas
2nd Vice President Fred Escobar
Director Adam VanGerpen
Director Adam Walker
Secretary David Pimentle
Director Selwyn Lloyd
Director Dave Riles
Paid for by United Firefighters of Los Angeles City, Local 112 – Issues Committee
Chris Conkle