Los Angeles Fire Department Year in Review - 2015

2015 LOS ANGELES FIRE DEPARTMENT YEAR IN REVIEW

Photo by Shawn Kaye

United Firefighters of Los Angeles City

On behalf of the 3,200 Firefighters, Paramedics, Dispatchers, Pilots, and Inspectors of the United Firefighters of Los Angeles City, Local 112, it is my honor to present the 2015 Los Angeles Fire Department Year in Review Photo Book. This book helps to tell the story of our dedicated members who protect lives and property in Los Angeles 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

In 2015, our Firefighters and Paramedics responded to over 460,000 calls for service throughout Los Angeles. Every 35 seconds, a LAFD resource is called out to respond somewhere in our City. After over five years without hiring a single Firefighter or Paramedic, the LAFD is finally beginning to hire new sworn personnel to staff our community fire stations, but we still remain the busiest, most understaffed big city fire department in America.

UFLAC would like to give special thanks to Mayor Eric Garcetti and the Los Angeles City Council for making the LAFD a top priority. We would also like to thank the people of our great City for their ongoing support. From Watts to Chatsworth, Pacific Palisades to Boyle Heights, our Firefighters are supported and appreciated by Angelenos. We are grateful for this support and we are honored to serve you each and every day.

This book is dedicated to the men and women who serve on the frontlines of the LAFD. As you risk your lives to save others, remember to stay safe, remain vigilant, and look out for one another.

It is truly my honor to be a Los Angeles City Firefighter and to represent the men and women of the greatest fire department in the nation.

Sincerely,

Captain II Frank Lima Los Angeles City Fire Department President, United Firefighters of Los Angeles City International Association of Fire Fighters, Local 112

FIRE STATION LOCATIONS S IE R R A

H W LD O E

TH

§ ¦5 ¨

Y

RD

Olive View

SA YR E UB ST BA R D ST

H

RD N YO CA N A JU NG TU BIG BL VD

OCEAN VIEW BLVD *****

S GL N BRAND BLVD EN DA LE AV

N

MA

R

112

SHEPARD ST

40 ! (

D

! ( 111

! ( 110

¥

ST BLVD CK DO EAN OC

N AV E 64

51 IN

AV

TE R N AV NE AS

ST OT O

NS

N FAIR OAKS AV

BLV D

S EASTERN AV

LANT IC S AT LV D

GARFIELD AV

LAKEWOOD BLVD

PA RAMOUN TB

N PARAMOUNT BLVD

AV

CHERRY AV

WY

ED A S T L AM

ATLANTIC AV

N LONG BEACH BLVD W ANAHEIM ST

AN BLVD W OC E

N RE D O N D O AV

CHERRY AV E 7TH ST

E OC

EA N

REDONDO AV

W I ST

AV

103

N LAK EWOO D BLVD

AV S SA

SANTA FE AV

E SPRING ST E WILLOW ST

710

AL AM ITO S

ST AL AM ED A

!

W NE

! ( S PACIFIC AV

DL

LL IS

AV

NTEREY R D MO

IF F

R

RRA ST SIE

DALY ST

CALIFO RNIA

CLOVIS AV

AV GT ON IN W ILM

§ ¦ ¨

48 ! (

W 25TH ST

CO

AVE

N AVE 50 N

ST ION

D IV IS

N AVE 54

B LV D

S CENTRAL AV

COMPTON AV

AVALON BLVD

S CENTRAL AV

SA

S V ER M O NT AV

S NORMANDIE AV

! (

LINCOLN AV

D R G O VE

S SAN PEDRO ST

S BROADWAY

WESTERN AV

VAN NESS AV A R LIN GT ON AV

SW

E ST E R N AV

MADRONA AV

RO CK

G LE

M WY STAD IU

HO O

S SAN PEDRO ST S MAIN ST

S BROADWAY

S FIGUEROA ST

S VERMONT AV

S HOOVER ST

S WESTERN AV

S VAN NESS AV

U RD

N AV

OW S G ER S RA T ND AV

AV PE R

S WESTERN AV

EA

AV AA V HY PE RION

MY R

N VERMONT AV

N NORMANDIE AV

SU N IO

S FL

ARLINGTON AV

8TH AV S 8TH AV

CRENSHAW BLVD

YUKON AV

PRAIRIE AV MAPLE AV

EARL ST

S

W 19TH ST

E CARSON ST

¦ ¨ ¥ §

E ANAHEIM ST

49 ! ( !

LH

SOUTH ST

W 7TH ST

36 ! (

S PA S

E 223RD ST

47

RIA

D E L AMO BLV D

W DEL AMO BLVD

E SEPULVEDA BLVD

38 ! (

PE

ALONDRA BLVD

E AR TESIA BLVD

CARSON

110

S FAIR OAKS AV S ARROYO PKWY

CANADA BLVD

AV E O LIV E

AV E

AV N TE R W ES

O LIV W

BLV D WEST BLVD

BIRCH AV HAWTHORNE BLVD

D B LV

N

IO

COMPTON

E CARSON ST

W 6TH ST

IM

NTA FE

SU

BLVD BA RH AM

N LA BREA AV N HIGHLAND AV

N FAIRFAX AV

N GARDNER ST S HAWTHORNE BLVD

S PRAIRIE AV

S LA CIENEGA BLVD

INGLEWOOD AV S INGLEWOOD AV

S AV IATION BLVD N AVIATION BLVD

PACIFIC AV

S NORMANDIE AV

S FAIRF AX A V

AV

S LA B REA

D B LV ER

MAIN ST

DR W

S SO TO ST

NL AN

D

VINELAND AV

WHITSETT AV DR

CO L DWATE R C A N Y ON

RD A V GA

CU LV

MO NT

S LA CIENEGA BLVD

CR EN SH AW

HAZELTINE AV

ROSCOMARE RD AV IA RN FO

E

FULTON AV

LANKERSHIM BLVD

SH

WOODMAN AV

VAN NUYS BLVD

H AYV EN

N S EP ULVE DA B L VD

VIL LE CA N YO N R D

MA ND E

O L

CA LI

LE IM

LK

PO

HASKELL AV

ST AV HUR

O AV NZ

O W

COLFAX AV

BALBOA BLVD

LINDLEY AV

W HITE OAK AV

LOUISE AV

RESEDA BLVD AV

KESTER AV

WILBUR AV

CORBIN AV AV WINNE TKA

VANA LDEN AV

CA N O GA AV

NES TLE

SU

H IL

S V ERDES

ABBOT T RD

S ATLANTIC AV

O PAL

SOUTH GATE

E ROSECRANS AV ROSECRANS AV

W ROSECRANS AV

AV

EASTER N AV

E EL SEGUNDO BLVD

E DEL AMO BLVD

Wilmington

San Pedro

T AV

§ ¦ ¨ 105

IA ST E VICTOR

Batt. 6

DR OL PI T CA

E

EM ON S FR

Watts

W PACIFIC COAST HWY

ST

N AV

E GAGE

TIC AV

RD

IM

E SL AU S O

FLORENCE AV

ATL AN

AIR P OR T B LV D

B A LB O A B LVD

RUFFNER AV

Z EL Z A H AV

VANALDEN AV

TAMPA AV

WINNETKA AV

LOUISE AV

CANOGA AV

D E SO T O AV

OWENSMOUTH AV

MASON AV

DE SOT O AV

FALLBROOK AV

LE BL VD CI R C

EY

N T OP AN G A C A NY O N BLV D

LA A ST UE RO N FIG

DR

T

AH E

Y ST

DE S

ES

O

AN

RN ES D

S T RD C RE

PA LOS VER

CR

TWEEDY BLVD

AV

W

D ER SV

COMMERCE

§ ¦ ¨ MAYWOOD

FIRESTONE BLVD

65 ! (

E LOMITA BLVD

N G A F FE

W

T

FIGUERO A ST

RD

HS

BLVD

EW AS HING TO ND N BL IN I VD BLVD

HUNTINGTON PARK

E IMPERIAL HWY

S F IG U ER O A S T

RD AK PE N D IA RIDG E R D HIGH

A DL M

ES T

WHIT TIER

W WILLOW ST

85 ! (

D

ROLLING HILLS

RANCHO PALOS VERDES

0T

LOMITA W LOMITA BLVD

L PA

CR

Harbor City

AV

B LV

228TH ST

R

ST

AW

C A BR IL L O

H NS

W 223RD ST

O

E CR

B LV D YP AR KD

AM

ITA

TO N

TH ST

IN

PA S

ROLLING HILLS ESTATES

BA

EL

NE W

60 ¥

D

23 5

SK

WY

MONTEREY PARK

710

E 120TH ST

W CARSON ST

PZ

LO M AS TH

19

BLVD EY LL VA

GAGE AV

91 ¥

S MAIN ST

AV

CO

E 37TH ST

S WILMING TON

W

A

25 ! (

Batt. 1

SLAUSON AV

AVALON BLVD

ZA AN

Non EIT Battalion HQ

SI N

79 ! (

ST

ALHAMBRA

E 3RD PL E 3RD ST

B LV D L O NG BE A CH

AV

AY OR CL M

ST

AIN

W MISSION RD

CESAR E CHAVEZ AV

W ALONDRA BLVD

W 1 8 2 ND S T

WM

Monterey Hills

10 § ¦ ¨

Boyle Heights

W COMPTON BLVD

190TH ST

SE PU LVEDA BLVD

VIA C A M PE

!

(2

§ ¦5 ¨

E 92ND ST

! (

MISSION ST

SOUTH PASADENA

16 ! (

El Sereno

E 55TH ST

E COLDEN AV

W 161ST ST W GARDENA BLVD

CARSON ST

N BROADWAY

VERNON

21 ! (

110

DR

E OLYMPIC BLVD

GARDENA

AVE I

CIF IC

17 ! (

E VERNON AV

64

W EL SEGUNDO BLVD

TORRANCE

N

¥

BLVD

RD

V FE A

W 92ND ST

DEL AMO BLVD

PA

ST

W MARINE AV

182ND ST

V YA LE

S IO M IS

47 ! (

NTA

ND

RIP

N

E 1 ST S T

RK

HIL L

A SS

57 ! (

W 120TH ST

GRANT AV

IN MA ST

E 7TH ST

ST

E 41ST

33

INGLEWOOD

405

!

(1 N

710

MA RD

52

TH

E 23 RD DA MS ST B LV D

! ( !

W GA G E AV

LAWNDALE

AT

TH

YO

12 ! (

VE SA

16

G

E 4 TH S T

9

12

LO

MERIDIAN ST

Batt. 2

E SLAUSON AV

Hyde Park

W 90TH ST

E

DR

66 ! (

W FLORENCE AV

W MANCHESTER BLVD

D

4

W 135TH ST

TOR RA NC E BLV D

PALOS VERDES ESTATES

Batt. 13

W IMPERIAL HWY

REDONDO BEACH

EIT Battalion HQ

46 ! (

W VERNON AV

DR

Chinatown

14 ! (

W 48TH ST

§ ¦ ¨

ST

E

EA

E

! ( ! ! (

ST

134

EM ITE DR

!

¥

¥

42 ! (

Y OS

ACADEMY

S ALAMEDA ST

LA

I AV

10 ! (

VD BL

HAWTHORNE

MARINE AV

AV

B LV W 9 D TH

D

15 ! (

EXPOSITION BLVD

AV

N CENTRAL AV

E EL SEGUNDO BLVD

IC

ID

DR

PASADENA

55 ! ( !

RD

E IMPERIAL HWY

E MARIPOSA AV

AV

W JEFFERSON BLVD

O TT

!

(3

T

B LV

H

26

95 ! (

O

YC

E AV

VD BL

E GRAND AV

LD

RT

PIC

§ ¦ ¨

Eagle Rock

Echo Park

11 ! (

O LY MP

W AL TA DE NA

D

DR

W

STO CK E R

ST

EV

44 ! ( S

R

W ADAMS BLVD

Crenshaw

W

HS

BLV

210

E AS

VE

26

34 ! (

6T

W

¥ 2

Mt Washington

RI

A ER

GLENDALE BLVD

TIJ

! ( !

13

E FA IR VIE W B LV D CE NT IN EL AA V

N E L A AV

W

Batt. 11

! (

CH

S VERDUGO RD

L

NT I

20 ! ( (6 £ ¤ !

Westlake

ILL

SE

WOODLAKE AV

AV

RD

DE

DR

VIS

R

CE

SC

101

! ( 29

BLVD

10 § ¦ ¨

Silver Lake

MELROSE AV

50 ! (

56 ! (

! ( 35

BE V ER LY B LVD

E

Atwater Village

BLVD

FE LIZ

O TH

E BROADWAY

W COLORADO ST

RIN GS

D RK PA

52 ! (

68

FO

N TA

O

W BROADWAY

W 3RD ST

! ( !

LVD

C HEVY C H A

CE ES

ND

TH

27

PIC BLVD

PIC O

V ER D UG O B

DR

LO S

D

Hollywood

W 54TH ST

51 ! (

IGH

January 12, 2015

LE

Loz Feliz

82 ! (

! ( !

94 ! (

NH

G:\MAP_LIBRARY\Office_Maps\ReOrg2014

FI

VA L

Park

GLENDALE

SP TAL

GR IF

101

Prepared by the LAFD GIS Maps Unit

N O AK SA S B N L FE VD R

Z O O DR

DR

W SLAUSON AV

L RY BE

R

G LE

CR YS

41 ! (

AV

5

LA

PIER

LOS ANGELES FIRE DEPARTMENT

WY

! ( !

BATTALION HEADQUATERS (HQ)

BL VD

Batt. 5 Griffith

76 ! (

R EA AB NL

R GD

M AR

HIN

D EL

RS PE

VIS

D AV AN

Y

DR

VD BL

AV

R PKWY

GO U

Map 105

WN LA

D O

INA FIC CI PA

Batt. 4

80 ! (

W

TO R

A AV

D

ST

Westchester

WESTC HESTE

VIC

ED

NA

O OD

LL AN

2ND ST

Miles

ST RE

WILSHIRE BLVD

EL SEGUNDO

2

CR

PL

LLYW N HO

O

W

67 ! (

W IM PE R IAL H W Y

! !

S

RODEO RD

HERMOSA BEACH

Battalion Boundaries

LA

AV

D

R OS E C RA N S AV 33RD ST

BUREAU OFFICE

VD BL

W LE

90 ¥

XW Y

BL VD

AM W AL

FO

LA CANADA FLINTRIDGE

AV

S

A AY PL

G

Y IW

LU

AK

IN

VIA MAR

FIJ

GR

^ ^

ET

BLVD

CULVER CITY

D

D AR ALL AV E O NC LVD LE B G LN O C

ST

LIN

A IN M

Y M A RI N AE

NO LU

NO

AV

AV

BLV

62 ! (

V AA

Y W

63 ! (

S

VD K BL

61 ! (

58 ! (

BLV E N IC VE DU QU ES NE AV

A ED

B LV

EL IN

N

S

NT CE

SO

LM PA

D

AK

W PICO BLVD

43 ! (

U LV

S

ST

IL NE

V EA

Century City

P SE

Mar Vista

DR

D

AV

S RO

R 23

N EA

RK PA

D

O

RY

W 6TH ST

S

ND Y

C O

N EA

BLV

NS

W OLYM

R TO

LVD

D

MU LH O

BURTON WY

IONA L B LVD N AT

S BU

ST

OC

B LV

AN

RIVERSIDE DR

Toluca Lake

97 ! (

W SU

VD BL

VD BL

CB PI

AV

H 7T

¥

O

59 ! (

O

G LE N

FRANKLIN AV HOLLYWOOD BLVD

92 ! ( Batt. 18

LLE TE

ON

AD

W SA

GT

ST

PIC

1

Batt. 14

O

IN

H

YM

SANTA MONICA

O

M

N

BURBANK

CA M A RIL L O S T

134

M

RR

T 14

ST

BR

CLYB OURN

B

LVD

BA

H

E

TA

D V B LV N A D A OO ER TW VE T

S

T 20

IL W

IR SH

AY W

N SA

A

RB

60

¥!

86 (

BEVERLY HILLS

LB LV D

LE G

EB W

TUJUNGA AV

NB

37

W BU

! ( !

West Hollywood

ES W

DR

! ( !

Sawtelle

§ ¦5 ¨

VI CT O

LVD ET B AV NS SU AD O EL EV E AV MEL ROS

N IC

TH IL

D

HO

Studio City

! (

19 ! (

! (

V EN TU R A BL VD

! (

71

BLV D EN TE V N VIC AA W SA AN

ST

R CA N YO N

VICTORY BLVD

78 ! (

SOUTH BUREAU Battalions 6, 13, 18

State Plane Coordinate System North American Datum 1983 California, Zone 5

X TU

RD FO

A LA TU N

North Hollywood

VALLEY BUREAU Battalions 10, 12, 14, 15, 17

1

89 ! (

Valley Village

WEST BUREAU Battalions 4, 5, 9

0

RIA

MAGNOLIA BLVD

Westwood

DAY ST

Tujunga FO O

ST

77

170

LE

Bel Air Estates 405

74 ! (

§ ¦ ¨

¥

Beverly Glen

§ ¦ ¨

Sunland

210

L RE

VAL L

D R O D AN N VD R BL FE AV N N AIR YO SA LF AN C TE

U LA

P L AT T AV

AV

VD BL

Batt. 10

24 ! (

ST

OXNARD ST

CENTRAL BUREAU Battalions 1, 2, 11

1

O PE

108

Bureau Boundaries / Colors

Freeways Primary Streets Secondary Streets City Boundaries

ST

VICTORY BLVD

99 ! (

LLAND D LHO R MU

VD BL

W EN TW ORT H

Shadow Hills

MOORPARK ST

DEPARTMENTAL ORGANIZATION BUREAU

Fire Stations

ON

102

ADMIRALTY W

! (#

Lake View Terrace

VANOWEN ST

YG RL VE

ES

Pacific Palisades

ST

CE

Batt. 12

ST

Sherman Oaks

BLVD

N

S SATIC OY

D EL

! (

D

D Y DR N B UN

SAD

BLV D

I PAL

N NYO CA

T SE

ST

E

BE

A NG PA

! (

N

! ( !

88 ! (

Batt. 9

69 ! (

23

TO

AK

101

Brentwood

Castellamare PACIFIC COAST HWY

N

A LL

N

TO

Palisades Highlands

! ( 81

39

V

Encino

R

SHERMAN WY

£ ¤ 83 ! (

AL

N FE

NO

Tarzana R

ROSITA ST

S O

R BO

BE

VANOWEN ST

109

MALIBU

LE G

93 ! (

T

AV

100

! (

S

VD BL

ST

KS

H 7T

AR

LL

CL

HI

TA

84

LE

! (

118

PIE

ST

Panorama City

A

! ( !

AR

ST

O XNAR D S T

D

MU LH OL LA ND DR

AM

RA

SHERMAN WY

Reseda

VICTORY BLVD

Woodland DUM ETZ RD Hills

CALABASAS

SATICOY ST

TO PH

R TE

ROSCOE BLVD

114

Y

VEN TU RA B LV D S LU I

Arleta

PAR TH EN IA S T

North Hills

73 ! (

¥

! ( !

!

(7

W O ODLE

ERWIN ST

LASSEN ST

! (!

90 (

ST

Pacoima

PLUMMER ST

Northridge

Y LA

98

DEVONSHIRE ST

103

Winnetka

72 ! (

AC M

DR TH R O ST SW X AT FO CH

NORDHOFF ST

A

SAN

! ( !

STRATHERN ST

VICTORY BLVD

405

87 ! (

70

! (

S CA

AVE

T

104

Batt. 17

105

FS

! (

Canoga Park

! (

HO F

PARTHENIA ST

SATICOY ST

AV CH

VANOWE N ST

D

R MA

West Hills

VD BL

107

N ORD

ROSCOE BLVD

Granada Hills

A AV

T

SAN JOSE ST

! (

96 ! (

CHASE ST

RINALDI ST

LASSEN ST

PLUMMER ST

106

§ ¦ ¨ 75 ! (

CHATSWORTH ST

DEVONSHIRE ST

! (

AV

118

O

SAN FERNANDO

EY

Chatsworth

!

(8

¥

DL

28 ! (

PASS RD

91 ! (

OO

SUS ANA

18 ! (

Batt. 15

GAVIN

FO

W

B LVD

V BUR A W IL

SAN TA

DA VE UL

S ES NO N

Porter Ranch

BO R DE N HE AV R R AD IC K AV LE Y NA AV N D O R

BR

FE R

ST

P SE

SA N

BLVD

E

PA CI F

IC

C O

AS T

HW

Y

2015 STATISTICS LOS ANGELES CITY POPULATION 4,100,000

PEOPLE

3,900,000 3,700,000 3,500,000 3,300,000

1990

2000

2010

2012

2013

2014

2015

YEAR

CALLS FOR SERVICE 470,000 455,000 440,000 425,000

CALLS

410,000 395,000 380,000 365,000 350,000 335,000 320,000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

YEAR

STAFFING LEVELS 3700

FIREFIGHTERS

3600 3500 3400 3300 3200 3100

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

YEAR The LAFD has 106 Fire Stations staffed by 3,253 sworn Firefighters who respond to an average of over 1,100 emergency calls daily. In 2015, the LAFD held three swearing-in ceremonies where 124 graduates joined the ranks. However, the LAFD is barely keeping up with attrition as there are 175 DROP Exits projected for Fiscal Year 2015-2016. Budget cuts during the recession forced the LAFD to slowdown the hiring process since 2008 and during that period, hundreds of Firefighters retired and were not replaced. In 2015, the Los Angeles City Council, along with the Mayor, worked to restore the Department and authorized continuous Drill Tower Academies and approved up to 65 Firefighter recruits for each class at Drill Tower 81 and up to 50 recruits for each class at Drill Tower 40, maximizing their capacity. These new Firefighters will be essential for staffing our neighborhood fire stations.

CHRISTMAS TREE SPARKS HOUSE FIRE January 6 NORTH HOLLYWOOD - Around 3:45am, Firefighters responded to a blaze at a one-story home in the 1300 block of Delano Street. Apparently, a Christmas tree caught on fire and quickly engulfed the home.

46 Firefighters arrived on scene and extinguished the flames within 30 minutes. Three Firefighters suffered minor burns and were taken to the hospital in fair condition. Fortunately, four people inside the home escaped unharmed.

Photos by Shawn Kaye

LANDSCAPE DESIGN CENTER FIRE January 16

Photo by John Conkle

BALDWIN HILLS - A 12,300 square foot, one-story garden design center and showroom located at 6050 West Jefferson Blvd. caught on fire at about 7:30pm.

135 Firefighters knocked down the massive blaze within 68 minutes. The 63-year-old building suffered major damage, but luckily no injuries were reported.

APARTMENT BUILDING FIRE January 18 VAN NUYS - At about 3:48pm, a Christmas tree sparked a large fire at an apartment complex located at 6825 Haskell Avenue. 37 Firefighters responded to the scene and witnessed flames pouring out of the third floor balcony of the three-story apartment complex. The fast moving blaze was put out within 16 minutes. Paramedics treated a woman for smoke inhalation and a non-responsive cat was administered oxygen and survived.

Photo by Greg Doyle

DOG RESCUE January 30 CAHUENGA PASS - An 18-pound Welsh Corgi mixed breed was rescued from the fast moving LA River during a sudden winter storm. At 3:45pm, a Firefighter was lowered via helicopter into the rain-swollen river and was able to successfully pull the small dog out of the freezing water. “Lucky,� the name given to him by his rescuer, was brought back to safety in good condition. Unable to locate his owners, the woman who called for help when she witnessed the little dog struggling in the river, happily adopted Lucky and even brought him back to the LAFD Air Operation unit in Van Nuys to thank his heroes!

ATWATER VILLAGE HOUSE FIRE February 2 ATWATER VILLAGE - A massive fire broke out at 7:12am at the one-story home at the intersection of Glenhurst Ave. and Glendale Blvd. near a strip mall. 45 Firefighters battled the intense blaze and were able to contain the fire to the exterior of the house and the attic. Firefighters rescued a dog and, fortunately, no injuries were reported.

Photos by Adam VanGerpen

HOUSE FIRE February 3 WEST ADAMS - A quick moving blaze broke out just after 2:00pm at a home in the 2600 block of South Palm Grove Avenue. Firefighters battled flames that ripped through the attic and rear of the 1,305 squarefoot, one-story home. Fortunately, a 90-year-old woman who lived in the house managed to escape unharmed. She was transported to the hospital in good condition as a precautionary measure.

Photos by Adam VanGerpen

HOUSE FIRE CAUSES BURN INJURIES February 13 ENCINO - A large fire was reported around 5:52pm at a home in the 1600 Block of Magnolia Blvd. Three CHP officers, who were citing a vehicle in the area, spotted the flames and ran into the house to rescue a woman who was trapped inside. 55 Firefighters tackled the intense flames and extinguished the fire within two and a half hours. The massive blaze was visible from the 101 Freeway and heavy smoke and flames were seen billowing out of the structure for miles. The woman who was rescued suffered burns across her body, as did the woman’s son who rushed inside the burning structure to help save his mom.

Photos by Steve Gentry

SHIPPING CONTAINER FIRE February 16 ARLETA - A quick moving fire consumed a group of shipping containers located in the 8900 block of Woodman Avenue during the early morning hours. Firefighters acted quickly and prevented the fire from damaging adjacent buildings. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

Photos by Greg Doyle

Photo by Greg Doyle

MULTI-VEHICLE CRASH February 22 VAN NUYS - At about 12:30pm, a five-car collision took place in the 6800 block of Van Nuys Blvd. Firefighters rescued and assisted eight injured people at the scene of the accident. Five passengers were taken to the hospital, but thankfully none of the injuries were life-threatening.

Photo by Juan Guerra Photo by Mike Meadows On average, LA Firefighters and Paramedics transport 571 patients to the hospital on a daily basis.

STRIP-MALL FIRE February 25 EAST HOLLYWOOD - Firefighters responded around 7:20am to a blaze at 4854 Santa Monica Blvd., a 5,700 square foot building. It took 84 Firefighters about 40 minutes to knock down the fire that had fully engulfed one unit of the building and the common attic of several businesses. Fire crews had to force their way into six smoke-filled units and extend aerial ladders to the roof to allow for vertical ventilation. Firefighters then found a pulseless and non-breathing woman in the back of retail shop and immediately transported her to the hospital in grave condition. A dog was later found deceased inside the store.

Photos by Adam VanGerpen

HOUSE FIRE March 2 VAN NUYS - Five Engine Companies responded to a blaze at a single-family home in the 6800 block of Gloria Ave. It took Firefighters approximately 15 minutes to put out the fire. Two dogs were rescued from within the home and no injuries were reported.

VINTAGE PLANE CRASH March 5 VENICE - A vintage World War II-Era, singleengine plane went down at Penmar Golf Course around 2:20pm. The plane had just taken off from the Santa Monica Municipal Airport 20 minutes earlier, but engine failure caused the aircraft to make an emergency landing. On its way down, the plane hit a tree, but no one on the ground was hit and the aircraft managed to land intact. The 72-year old pilot, who happened to be Harrison Ford, was the only passenger on the plane. When Firefighter/Paramedics arrived, they found him conscious and breathing. He was transported to the hospital in moderate condition.

Photo by Shawn Kaye

Photos by Steve Gentry

CAT STUCK IN TREE March 6 SYLMAR - Firefighters managed to rescue a black and white cat that got stuck in a tall Redwood tree more than 40 feet above ground. A fire engine ladder was hoisted high up to bring the cat down to safety.

Photo by Mike Meadows

THREE-CAR COLLISION EXTRICATION March 10 VAN NUYS - Firefighters rushed to the scene of a dramatic early morning collision involving a van, sedan, and sport utility vehicle at the intersection of Van Nuys and Victory Blvds. US&R and Heavy Rescue teams were called upon to help extricate two women who were critically injured and trapped inside their vehicle which had flipped over on impact. A total of eight people sustained moderate to serious injuries.

Photo by Shawn Kaye

Photo by Adam VanGerpen

The LAFD 24-hour US&R resources are geographically located by Bureau for optimum coverage. Presently, there are six US&R Task Forces, two in Valley Bureau, two in West Bureau, one in Central Bureau, and one in South Bureau.

Photo by Adam VanGerpen

Photo by Rick McClure

PALLET YARD FIRE March 20 SOUTH LOS ANGELES - Shortly after 3:00am, Firefighters received a call about a raging fire at a pallet yard located in the 1600 block of 48th Place. The highly flammable wooden pallets were stacked as high as 20 feet, causing the flames to shoot up into the air. Thick, heavy black smoke was visible for miles. 72 Firefighters from 10 Engine Companies battled the quick moving blaze for 68 minutes.

ST. BALDRICK’S March 21 UFLAC, LAFD, and LAPD personnel gathered at Station 89 in North Hollywood for the annual St. Baldrick’s head-shaving event to raise funds to fight childhood cancers. A child is diagnosed with cancer every three minutes worldwide. The fundraiser featured a pancake breakfast, blood drive, face painting, and a silent auction. Thank you to all those who participated in the event!

GRIFFITH PARK FIRE March 30 GRIFFITH PARK - Firefighters battled a stubborn vegetation fire along the Los Angeles River near Victory Blvd. The blaze, which grew quickly due to overall dry conditions, was fought on the ground and via air units. The LAFD worked alongside the Burbank and Glendale Fire Departments to extinguish the blaze without any injuries.

Photos by Mike Meadows

Firefighter of the Year Captain Jack Fry April 1 Captain II/Paramedic Jack Fry was awarded the LAFD’s 2014 Firefighter of the Year by the Los Angeles City Firefighter’s Association.

This honor of distinction is given to a member who, not by any single act, has distinguished himself as one of outstanding character, dedication, and loyalty to the Department, the Fire Service, and the community. Captain Fry has more than 35 years of service with the LAFD and has been a Captain for over 24 years. He is currently assigned to the Joint Regional Intelligence Section within the Homeland Security Division. He promoted to the rank of Captain I on April 5, 1992 and Captain II on April 15, 2007. Captain Fry has distinguished himself in the area of training and education because he is passionate about safety. He has completed numerous State Fire Marshal, Hazardous Materials, and Terrorism courses to enhance his skills in organizational leadership and has been teaching hazardous materials and EMS courses for several years. During his career, Captain Fry was also recognized as the “Hazardous Materials Instructor of the Year” for his continued efforts training fire service, military, and private sector personnel. Captain Fry was congratulated at the ceremony by Fire Chief Ralph Terrazas and Fire Commissioner Jimmy Hara, MD.

Photo by David Ortiz

DEADLY MOTEL FIRE April 2 WILMINGTON - At 3:13am, Firefighters responded to a fast moving fire that ripped through a two-story, 20-unit motel located at 111 East C Street. The flames were so intense that some of the 29 hotel occupants were forced to jump out of the windows to escape the flames. Over 100 Firefighters worked tirelessly to extinguish the blaze in 50 minutes. Unfortunately, one adult male perished in the fire. A total of 15 people were injured 12 were treated and transported to the hospital, while three people declined transportation. The LAFD, the American Red Cross, and LA City Councilman Joe Buscaino’s Office provided assistance to those individuals and families that were displaced.

Photos by Yvonne Griffin

HIGH-RISE COMMERCIAL FIRE April 7

WESTLAKE - A massive fire was reported around 7:45pm in the 1500 block of West Olympic Blvd. The fire was burning on the fifth floor of a six-story office building and contained to the southwest corner of the high-rise. 170 Firefighters conducted an aggressive fire attack and combed the 66,000 square foot building looking for anyone stuck inside the structure. Firefighters rescued a trapped couple from the fifth floor via an aerial ladder and brought them down to safety to be evaluated

by Paramedics. The fire was contained in 1 hour and 20 minutes.

A 62-year-old man was treated at the scene for smoke inhalation and one Firefighter was transported to the hospital for exertion.

Photos by Chris Conkle

CAR PLUNGES INTO THE PORT OF LA April 9 PORT OF LA - Firefighters arrived to Berth 73 at the Port of Los Angeles at 6:10pm. A car traveling at 20–30 mph crashed and sank about 30 feet into the murky water. An adult man and women swam to the surface screaming for help and notifying rescuers that their two children were trapped in the submerged car. Witnessing the parents’ desperation, Firefighter Miguel Meza jumped into the water in an attempt to save the two kids. 100 fire personnel, including Firefighters and Divers, were involved in the rescue operation, along with four LAFD Fireboats. Divers rescued the two brothers, ages 13 and 8, and immediately transported them to the hospital. Unfortunately, the 13-year old boy died at the hospital hours after being rescued and the 8-year old boy died two days later.

FIGHT FOR AIR STAIR CLIMB April 11 Off-duty and retired LAFD Firefighters, dressed in full gear, participated in the annual Fight For Air Climb by scaling the 62-story Aon building in Downtown Los Angeles. Firefighters are disproportionately affected by lung disease and have been longtime supporters of this event benefiting the American Lung Association. The American Lung Association is the leading organization dedicated to saving lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy and research. The Lung Association provides support and education for those living with asthma, lung cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Photo by David Ortiz

29 DISPLACED IN APARTMENT BUILDING FIRE April 16

Photos by Adam VanGerpen

PANORAMA CITY - At about 9:15pm, a greater alarm blaze was reported at an 18-unit, two-story garden-style apartment building located at 9010 Cedros Avenue. 89 Firefighters worked the massive blaze, which consumed two units on the second floor and one unit below. The intense flames were knocked down in 32 minutes with fire damage spreading to five other units. 19 adults and 11 children were displaced from their homes and assisted by the American Red Cross. One woman suffered minor burns and two Firefighters were taken to the hospital for facial burns and an eye injury.

LOS ANGELES FIRST RESPONDERS GRANT CHILD’S WISH April 22-24

Photos by Jeremy Oberstein

Los Angeles’ First Responders were privileged to team up with The Make-A-Wish Foundation, a non-profit organization that grants the wishes of children with life-threatening diseases, to help eight-year-old Noah Cohen fulfill his dream: experiencing the excitement of being a Los Angeles Firefighter and Los Angeles Police Officer. When Noah landed at the airport in Los Angeles, he was greeted by Firefighters, Police Officers, and cameras all ready for his three-day adventure. Noah got to ride in a fire truck to his “welcoming ceremony" where he was presented with special gifts and his uniform and toured emergency vehicles. Over the next couple of days during his visit with the LAFD, he had the opportunity to gain and use some newly acquired skills to extinguish a fire, take vital signs in a simulated medical emergency, and assist in the extrication of a trapped victim from a traffic collision. After completing these tasks, Firefighter Cohen went through a graduation ceremony and had a Firefighter badge pinned on him. Noah concluded his time with the LAFD at Fire Station 112 in San Pedro where he got a trip out to sea on Fireboat 2. LA Firefighters were proud to be a part of this moving experience and hope that Noah will always remember the time he spent with LA’s finest.

Photos by Mike Meadows

40-ACRE BRUSH FIRE April 27 GRANADA HILLS - Firefighters were called to respond to a brush fire at 12311 Highwater Road around 11:00am. A nearby homeowner was clearing dry brush from his property with a steel-blade power tool, which sparked the fire. His attempt to control the flames by using his jacket scattered embers, causing the fire to spread. Approximately 200 Firefighters from 49 Engine Companies battled the vegetation fire, which at one point, threatened 10 homes and burned 40 acres. With the aid of LA County Fire, Firefighters had the flames under control within one and a half hours. Two Firefighters had to be taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Photo by David Ortiz

OVERTURNED ANIMAL TRAILER April 29 SYLMAR - The westbound 210 Freeway had to be shutdown at 11:00am due to an overturned 30-foot trailer that was transporting livestock. Upon arrival, 40 Firefighters and Animal Control personnel assisted with the removal of the three sheep and a dog, which appeared to be uninjured. However, two cows were pinned underneath the vehicle, which prompted Urban Search & Rescue and Heavy Rescue crews to cut a hole in the trailer and hoist them out to safety. The driver was seriously injured and taken to a nearby hospital. Unfortunately, one cow did not survive, but the other was removed in stable condition.

The Heavy Rescue is a specialized tow-truck that operates out of Fire Station 56 in the community of Silverlake and covers the entire City. This large apparatus is utilized in a variety of situations, including righting overturned big rigs, pulling crushed vehicles apart, and lifting heavy objects.

STRUCTURE FIRE May 1 LINCOLN HEIGHTS - A fire broke out at 5:45am at a shed in the backyard of a home in the 2300 block of Hancock Street. 48 Firefighters responded to the scene and controlled the flames in 15 minutes. Overhead power lines had to be cut, making the firefight extremely dangerous for all those involved. Before the blaze was extinguished, the flames had spread to three adjacent structures and a motor home.

FIRE SERVICE RECOGNITION DAY May 9 On May 9th, the LAFD held a citywide Open Firehouse celebration. Community members were invited to tour their neighborhood fire stations, enjoy enhanced displays, and meet their local Firefighters.

Photo by Adam VanGerpen

Photo by Mike Meadows

Photo by Juan Guerra

Photo by Matt Lyneis

CHEMICAL BLAZE May 10 PACOIMA - 110 Firefighters arrived at 12825 Rangoon Street around 1:36pm to tackle a chemical blaze at an industrial property. The unidentified chemical was contained within the premises, avoiding potentially dangerous runoff making its way into the storm drain. No injuries or evacuations were reported.

The LAFD is an all-hazards response organization, and the HazMat Program is designed to address the natural, technological, or purposeful response challenges, including chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive threats to our community and national security.

RENTAL STORAGE FACILITY FIRE May 10 NORTH HOLLYWOOD - At 2:37pm, Firefighters responded to a fire at a one-story rental storage facility in the 7300 block of Bellaire Avenue. 60 Firefighters tackled the blaze that engulfed at least half-a-dozen small rental units. The fire was extinguished within 72 minutes.

Photos by Juan Guerra

Photos by Jeremy Oberstein

LAFD CLASS 2014-1 GRADUATION May 14 The LAFD proudly graduated 29 recruits from its training academy at Drill Tower 81. The recruits completed a rigorous 20-week training curriculum aimed at preparing them for a successful career with the LAFD. The graduation ceremony included the badge presentation and the administering of the Oath of Office and was followed by a skills demonstration from the members of class 2014-1.

LA TUNA CANYON BRUSH FIRE May 20 SUN VALLEY - A fire was reported at about 1:45pm in the 9300 Block of La Tuna Canyon Road and the 210 Freeway. 350 firefighters from the LAFD, LA County Fire, Glendale Fire, and the Angeles National Forest Mountain Recreation and Conservation Authority battled the intense brush fire, which was contained in approximately 90 minutes. Just over four acres burned in La Tuna Canyon near the Hansen Dam Recreation area.

Photo by Mike Meadows

10TH ANNUAL MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY ASSOCIATION FILL THE BOOT CAMPAIGN May 20-22 Los Angeles City Firefighters participated in the 10th Annual Fill the Boot campaign that benefits the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). The MDA is the world’s leading nonprofit health agency dedicated to finding treatments and cures for muscular dystrophy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and other neuromuscular diseases. 2015 marked the 61st year that Firefighters have collected funds to support the MDA; and over the past 9 years, the partnership with the United Firefighters of Los Angeles City and the Los Angeles Fire Department has raised more than $1,278,030 through the annual Fill the Boot campaign. Councilmember Mitchell Englander led a Los Angeles City Council presentation to kickoff the fundraising efforts.

VAN FIRE May 31 NORTH HOLLYWOOD - Firefighters from Station 60 quickly extinguished a minivan that caught on fire in the 6100 block of Fair Ave. The vehicle was in a residential area, but fortunately, no other injuries or damages were reported.

Photo by Mike Meadows

FIREFIGHTER INJURED BATTLING BLAZE June 2 KOREATOWN - Heavy flames and thick smoke were billowing out of a two-story commercial building located at 3144 West Olympic Blvd. just past midnight. The building housed textile and apparel materials, which only intensified the flames and the heat. The fire was contained within 25 minutes by 42 Firefighters. Unfortunately, one Firefighter suffered minor injuries, but hospitalization was not required.

HOPE FOR FIREFIGHTERS June 4 The 18th Annual Hope For Firefighters was held June 4th in Downtown Los Angeles. Approximately 25 Fire Stations from all over the city prepared delicious meals that were featured at this annual food faire and street festival, which is attended by about 5,000 people each year. All proceeds raised benefitted the nonprofit Los Angeles Firemen's Relief Association's Widows, Orphans, and Disabled Firemen's Fund.

FAHRENHEIT 2015 June 6 The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation held its annual fundraising gala, Fahrenheit 2015, at Fire Station 88 in Sherman Oaks. The 2015 Honorees included Queen Latifah and Loreen Arbus and the event featured a silent auction, Fire Department exhibits, demonstrations, and live entertainment. The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation supports the LAFD in protecting life, property, and the environment by providing essential equipment, training, and public outreach programs to supplement city resources.

Photo by Eric French

Photo by Adam VanGerpen

Photos by Rick McClure

CAR ON FIRE June 6 ARLETA - Station 80 responded quickly to a car fire in the 10500 block of Sharp Ave., adjacent to the 5 Freeway offramp. Firefighters extinguished the flames within minutes and no injuries were reported.

FIREFIGHTER APPRECIATION NIGHT AT DODGER STADIUM June 8 UFLAC and Los Angeles City Firefighters participated in the 2nd Annual Firefighter Appreciation Night at Dodger Stadium on June 8th benefiting the California Fire Foundation. The California Fire Foundation provides emotional and financial assistance to families of fallen Firefighters. The Foundation also created and maintains the California Firefighters Memorial in Sacramento to honor Firefighters killed in the line of duty.

GRATEFUL HEARTS June 18 The 10th Annual Grateful Hearts Food and Music Festival benefiting the LAFD and LAPD was held on June 18th at Warner Center Park in Woodland Hills. The Valley Cultural Center and local valley businesses host this annual food faire and fundraiser in honor of our local first responders.

This year, the Valley Cultural Center presented LAFD Battalion 17 with a $10,000 check donation.

Photo by Adam VanGerpen

Photo by Mike Meadows

FIREFIGHTER HOSPITALIZED June 19 TOLUCA LAKE - A fire was reported at an apartment building under construction in the 4600 block of North Riverton Ave. Since the new building’s wooden framing was exposed, the flames spread quickly and the heat was intense. A woman in her 30s was forced to jump out of an apartment window to avoid being overcome by flames. She suffered minor burn injuries but was not taken to the hospital. An adjacent three-story apartment complex also caught on fire. 122 Firefighters worked to contain the fast moving fire and were able to extinguish it in just over an hour. One Firefighter was transported to the hospital for smoke inhalation.

Photo by Juan Guerra

Photo by Mike Meadows

MULTI-AGENCY FIRE RESPONSE June 24 SANTA CLARITA - A massive brush fire erupted around 1:15pm near the 5 Freeway by Calgrove Blvd. Approximately 450 Los Angles City, County, and U.S. Forest Service fire personnel battled the rapidly moving blaze, which scorched 350 acres.

1000 people and 500 homes were evacuated from surrounding areas. 30 horses were moved to a temporary animal evacuation center. Seven helicopters and four fixed-wing aircrafts dropped 1,000 gallons of water at a time on the flames. By 10:00pm, the fire was 45% contained. Due to the harsh conditions, one Firefighter was hospitalized after a fall that resulted in a burn injury.

6 FIREFIGHTERS INJURED IN WAREHOUSE BLAZE June 28 EL SERENO - Firefighters responded to the scene of a vacant warehouse located at 4390 East Valley Blvd. that was fully involved in flames around 11:30am. 160 Firefighters battled the blaze under extreme heat conditions and were able to knock it down after two hours and 35 minutes. Unfortunately, six Firefighters were injured during the firefight with two hospitalized in stable condition.

Photo by Greg Doyle

Photo by Adam VanGerpen

Photo by Mike Meadows

DEADLY HOUSE FIRE July 4 ECHO PARK - At 8:20am, Firefighters responded to a structure fire at 804 North Alvarado Street on the Fourth of July Holiday. As Firefighters arrived on the scene, a one-story home was fully engulfed in flames from an attic converted into living space. Over 50 Firefighters aggressively fought the blaze and extinguished it in 36 minutes. A total of six people were injured, with two males transported to local hospitals in critical condition, one male and one female treated at the scene and released, and one Firefighter transported in fair condition. Sadly, one adult male was found inside beyond medical help and was declared dead at the scene.

Photo by Mike Meadows

Photo by John Conkle Photo by Adam VanGerpen

Photo by Greg Doyle

Photo by Greg Doyle

BRUSH FIRE SPARKS CHURCH BLAZE July 7 GLASSELL PARK - At 2:38pm, a brush fire was reported along the southbound 2 Freeway at Verdugo Road, where embers from the rapidly moving fire spread to the roof of a nearby church. More than 180 Firefighters attacked the blaze through a roof ventilation operation, where they cut holes in the roof to expose the fire. While the heavy flames caused the roof to collapse, the fire was knocked down in approximately two hours as Firefighters worked to salvage church documents and valuable property. Two Firefighters were injured and both were transported to a local hospital in good condition.

Photos by Amy Osborne

Photo by Greg Doyle

Photo by Mike Meadows

Photo by Mike Meadows

Photo by Mike Meadows

SPECIAL OLYMPICS WORLD GAMES July 25 - August 2 Every two years, Special Olympics athletes come together to compete at the Special Olympics World Games. During the Summer of 2015, Los Angeles welcomed over 6,500 athletes from 177 countries for the Special Olympic World Games to show the true meaning of courage, joy, and determination. 2015 marked the first time in sixteen years that the biennial Special Olympics World Summer Games were hosted by the United States and the second hosted by Los Angeles since 1972. Athletes competed in 25 different sports at venues throughout Los Angeles, including USC and UCLA. United Firefighters of Los Angeles City was proud to sponsor Aswani Guddevulugulu from Bharat, India in the sport of handball. As the host IAFF Local, UFLAC took the initiative to sponsor a child in need after every athlete from the USA Team was sponsored.

UFLAC was also honored to welcome the delegations hosted by the West San Fernando Valley with a BBQ manned by LA City Firefighters.

SEPULVEDA BASIN BRUSH FIRE August 6

Photo by Ryan Babroff

SEPULVEDA BASIN - At 3:36pm near the 6500 block of Woodley Avenue, 60 Firefighters responded to a five-acre fire that burned through brush near the Apollo XI model aircraft field. Due to the swift action of the Firefighters, the blaze was extinguished in less than one hour and no injuries or structural damage was reported.

GARAGE FIRE August 8 VALLEY VILLAGE - Firefighters responded to a structure fire in the 4900 block of Bluebell Avenue at 8:28pm.

A single-family residence was reported to have smoke coming from the garage. Fortunately, Firefighters were able to make a forced entry, knock down the blaze, and contain it to the garage before it spread to the main house.

Photo by Shawn Kaye

Photos by David Blair

TIRE SHOP FIRE August 17 FLORENCE-GRAHAM - Firefighters were called to the 100 block of East Manchester Avenue to fight a blaze that erupted at a tire shop. The crews aggressively fought the blaze and limited damage to the single business. The fire was contained and knocked down in 17 minutes.

LAFD CLASS 2014-2 GRADUATION August 20 In late August, the LAFD was proud to welcome 43 new members to its ranks. During a ceremony at Drill Tower 40, the recruits received their badges and were sworn-in before an audience that included Mayor Eric Garcetti, Councilmember Joe Buscaino, Councilmember Paul Krekorian, and members of the Fire Commission. The newest Firefighters then performed drills that included donning turnouts under a strict time limit, ladder work, and extinguishing a car fire.

Photos by Adam VanGerpen

Photo by Adam

COSTANSO FIRE STATION 84 PARK DEDICATION August 29 After two years of neighborhood input, design, and construction, the new park at the former Fire Station 84 at the corner of Canoga Ave. and Costanso St. was officially dedicated on August 29 as the Costanso Fire Station 84 Park in honor of the brave Firefighters who served our San Fernando Valley communities from that location with honor, valor, and distinction for more than 60 years. Official plaques and newly installed shade structures were unveiled at the dedication ceremony. Thank you to Council District Three Councilmember Bob Blumenfield for making this park a reality for the community.

Photo by Ryan Babroff

Photo by Juan Guerra

m VanGerpen

Photo by Adam VanGerpen

COMMERCIAL WAREHOUSE FIRE September 10 VAN NUYS - At 12:30am, 100 Firefighters were called to battle a major structure fire at a 44,000 square foot commercial warehouse on Calvert Street just east of the 405 Freeway. The fire fully engulfed the building, which was home to a flooring company, a medical supply company, and a sound stage filled with combustible materials. Two dozen engines were on hand to battle the blaze that was ultimately knocked down in two hours and four minutes, but extensive damage to the interior structure caused the building to be declared a total loss. One Firefighter was treated for exertion and later returned to fight the fire.

9/11 TRIBUTE Every year, LA Firefighters gather for Patriot Day and National Day of Service and Remembrance events on September 11th to honor the memory of all who were tragically killed in New York, Pennsylvania, and Northern Virginia on September 11, 2001. The Los Angeles Fire Department 9/11 Memorial is located at the Frank Hotchkin Memorial Training Center and is dedicated to the 343 New York Firefighters killed in the World Trade Center attacks. The 23-ton, approximately 22-foot tall steel column was originally part of the lobby structure of the WTC. We Shall Never Forget!

Photos by Adam VanGerpen

Photos by Harry Garvin

SWIFT WATER RESCUE September 15 CYPRESS PARK - Firefighters rescued three people from a fast moving, dangerous current along the LA River at San Fernando Road and Elm Street at around 6:56am due to heavy rains. Firefighters and the Swift Water Rescue Team were able to pluck two adult males and a dog from a tree near Taylor Yard as the river swelled to a raging torrent. Moments later, the crews responded to a distressed person about one mile upriver and lifted them to safety. In all, three people and one dog were rescued and two patients were transported to nearby hospitals in fair condition.

DISPATCHERS The LAFD service area encompasses 464 square miles, covered by 106 Fire Stations located throughout the City. The LAFD currently has 3,253 sworn members, 1,042 of which are dedicated First Responders onduty daily. In 2015, the LAFD responded to 464,416 emergency incidents. To provide premier emergency service delivery and efficient response times, the LAFD dispatches the closest available resources to each incident, providing an optimum level of service to every community in Los Angeles. The Metropolitan Fire Communications facility is much more than a 9-1-1 call center, it is a “Command and Control” hub where our highly trained LAFD Dispatchers track the availability of resources and oversee resource coverage across the whole City, in addition to managing emergency incidents, including situations when a Firefighter’s safety is in jeopardy.

COMMERCIAL BUILDING FIRE September 19 PLAYA VISTA - At 7:25am, Firefighters responded to the 11800 block of Teale Street where a structure fire on the second floor of a promotional products business was raging. The fire began on the third floor of a three-story building and quickly spread to the attic and second floor while Firefighters worked to ventilate the structure. Approximately 100 Firefighters tackled the blaze and extinguished the flames in under two hours. Urban Search and Rescue Crews assessed the building and determined that the first and second floors were structurally sound, which allowed for Firefighters to make entry and extinguish any remaining hot spots.

Photos by Mike Meadows

Photo by Rick McClure

GARAGE FIRE September 21 SUN VALLEY - A garage fire in the 8400 block of Bradley Avenue at 8:43pm was quickly knocked down by Firefighters. The structure was fully involved when Firefighters arrived on the scene and reports indicated the garage may have been the site of a marijuana growing operation. No one was home at the time of the fire and there were no injuries reported.

Photo by Mike Meadows

HOUSE FIRE September 27 VAN NUYS - Crews arrived at the 14300 block of Kittridge Street at 10:43am to find a 1,124 square foot, one-story home on fire. 44 Firefighters confined the blaze to the single structure in around 16 minutes. Paramedics treated four occupants in the home before transporting them to local hospitals, where one man and his infant daughter were listed in serious condition with serious burns to their face and arms. Unfortunately, two family pets, a dog and a bird, did not survive the blaze.

Photo by Rick McClure

Photo by Harry Garvin

Photo by Rick McClure

Photo by Harry Garvin

THREE-ALARM COMMERCIAL FIRE October 7 SOUTH LOS ANGELES - Fire crews were sent to the 5700 block of South Hooper Ave. shortly after 1:00am where a three-alarm fire erupted at a commercial building.

It was determined that the fire started in a metal clad building where materials inside fueled the blaze, which spread to 10 buildings and damaged 12 businesses.

Flames reached as high as 100 feet from the roof of the building that caused power lines to fall near the building.

Thankfully, the 250 Firefighters called to assist were able to extinguish the fire and prevent flames from destroying two homes located behind the buildings. Six residents were displaced and at least five businesses were deemed a total loss. One Firefighter sustained minor injuries while battling the blaze.

GRAND OPENING OF FIRE STATION 15 October 10 UFLAC was honored to join Mayor Eric Garcetti, Councilmember Curren Price, University of Southern California President C. L. Max Nikias, Fire Commission President Delia Ibarra, and Fire Chief Ralph Terrazas at the Grand Opening of Fire Station 15 on October 10th.

The 17,000 square foot, Italian Romanesque station sits on one acre near USC Village. As part of the USC Village Master Plan, the University agreed to preserve and relocate the old firehouse and build a new one to serve the West Adams neighborhood. USC’s historic Fire Station No. 15, built in the 1950s and weighing 250 tons, was loaded up on a custom rig atop three, 12-wheeled trailers and made its way to its new home on 32nd Street, where it will be repurposed as a sound studio for the USC School of Cinematic Arts.

COMMERCIAL FIRE October 10 SYLMAR - At 11:23am, Firefighters were called to combat a commercial fire at the 15500 block of Cobalt Street where smoke from paint supplies emanated from the roof of an occupied unit. Approximately, 40 Firefighters were called to the scene where they cut a hole in the roof to release the heat and toxic gases. One Firefighter involved in the operation fell 10 to 20 feet inside the structure, but was swiftly rescued and taken to safety where he suffered a hand injury. The fire was extinguished in 22 minutes.

Photo by Rick McClure

E AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC SAFETY October 15 The E Awards For Excellence in Public Safety presented by LA City Councilman Mitch Englander are a continuation of a long tradition of recognizing public safety heroes for their extraordinary acts of bravery and service, starting with the Police Officers, Firefighters, and Paramedics Recognition Luncheon initiated by former Councilmember of the 12th District Hal Bernson (and continued by Councilmember Greig Smith) and the Z Awards for ExZellence, started by Councilmember Dennis Zine.

These awards are a tribute to our local heroes for the incredible service they provide and who put their lives on the line each and every day to protect our community. Congratulations to the LA Firefighters who were recognized at the 2015 E Awards For Excellence in Public Safety for their dedicated service to the City: Captain II Roger Fowble, Captain I Gregory Terrill, Captain II Sergio Franco, Engineer Sean Williams, Pilot III Phillip Clark, & Apparatus Operator Donald W. Dillenberger.

GRAND OPENING OF FIRE STATION 7 October 17 The LAFD was proud to celebrate the opening of the new Fire Station 7 on Plummer Street in Panorama City. UFLAC joined Controller Ron Galperin, Councilmember Nury Martinez, Deputy Chief Daryl Arbuthnott, and hundreds of local community members for the unveiling of the 16,000 square foot, state-of-the-art facility. This new building replaces the old Fire Station 7, commonly known as the “little house,� at Nordhoff Street and Woodman Avenue. Fire Station 7 houses an Engine and Paramedic Ambulance and serves the San Fernando Valley communities of Arleta, Panorama City, Pacoima, Mission Hills, and North Hills.

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH MAKING STRIDES AGAINST BREAST CANCER WALK October 17 Firefighters from Fire Station 10 dropped by the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk at LA Live in Downtown Los Angeles. Throughout the month of October, UFLAC Board Members and Firefighters wear pink to show their solidarity and support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Photos by Rick McClure

Photo by Rick McClure

ARSON FIRES October 25 SAN FERNANDO VALLEY - Firefighters responded to a series of eight fires that broke out beginning at 3:00am, where one of the fires consumed a storage yard at the 7200 block of Camellia Avenue. Six on-call Investigators responded to the fire and suspected that they were intentionally set as they ranged from trash bins set on fire to a burning mattress laid against an automobile to structures near a commercial building that were ignited. Due to swift action by Firefighters, all of the fires were quickly extinguished with no reported injuries.

Photo by Adam VanGerpen

PALISADES BRUSH FIRE November 10 PACIFIC PALISADES - Shortly before noon, Firefighters responded to a brush fire that approached homes above Pacific Coast Highway near Temescal Canyon Road. A total of 81 Firefighters and three aerial helicopters took approximately 52 minutes to knock down the fire that covered two and half acres. Officials stated this area is a frequent site for homeless encampments and warming fires in colder weather, which could be a source of the brush fire.

Photos by Adam VanGerpen

SOUTH LA HOUSE FIRE November 11 VERMONT SQUARE - At about 7:00am, fire engulfed a 1,410 square foot home in the 1000 block of West 46th Street and caused the roof to collapse. 63 Firefighters bravely fought the blaze and were able to knock down the fire in 31 minutes. The family was able to escape and Firefighters were able to return the family dog that was inside the house back to the owners. Luckily, no injuries were reported.

MEDAL OF VALOR CEREMONY November 12

Photo by Alex Gillman

The LAFD hosted the Medal of Valor awards luncheon at the LA Hotel Downtown. 31 Firefighters and Paramedics who have demonstrated bravery in the face of adversity were presented with the Department’s highest honors. UFLAC was a proud sponsor of this event with President Frank Lima offering words of gratitude and support to these courageous and valiant members who went above and beyond the call of duty.

Photo by Adam VanGerpen

HOUSE FIRE November 13 NORTH HILLS - 33 Firefighters worked to contain a blaze at a densely packed home that erupted in flames in the 8700 block of Aqueduct Avenue. The home was filled with personal storage items that caught fire and the flames were knocked down in 26 minutes.

One resident was injured and taken to a local hospital to be treated for minor burns.

Photo by Rick McClure

Photo by Mike Meadows

ROCK CLIMBER RESCUE November 14 CHATSWORTH - At around 2:00pm, Firefighters came to the aid of a 23-year-old rock climber who fell approximately 20 feet and was trapped between two boulders in the Stoney Point Park area. Los Angeles Firefighters used a rescue helicopter to hoist the badly injured man to safety and transport him to a local trauma center, where he was listed in serious condition.

Photo by Adam VanGerpen

Photo by Mike Meadows

Photo by Rick McClure

Photo by Harry Garvin

RESTAURANT FIRE November 16

KOREATOWN HOUSE FIRE November 18

SUNLAND - Firefighters responded to a structure fire at a fast food restaurant in the 12900 block of West Foothill Boulevard at 6:16am. With smoke coming from the kitchen area, Firefighters used saws to break through the tiled roof and prevent the fire from spreading further due to high winds. In total, 45 Firefighters were able to contain the blaze within 45 minutes.

KOREATOWN - Around 1:07am, Firefighters responded to a fire at a vacant two-story home in the 800 block of South Crenshaw Boulevard. 111 Firefighters were able to contain the fire in 1 hour and 28 minutes, limit the damage to the 88-year-old building, and prevent its spread to nearby structures. Two Firefighters suffered injuries when the floor gave way underneath them, causing them to fall and become trapped by debris. Fortunately, both Firefighters were rescued by colleagues and transported to local hospitals. One was treated for a significant ankle injury and released and the other was treated for second-degree burns to 10 percent of his body.

WESTSIDE OFFICE BUILDING FIRE November 20 WEST LOS ANGELES - At around 8:35pm, a structure fire erupted at an office building in the 1100 block of South Beverly Drive. Approximately 120 Firefighters responded to the fire that originally started in one unit on the sixth floor of the seven-floor building. Due to the fast work of Firefighters, the blaze was contained in 29 minutes.

FIRE PREVENTION BUREAU Our dedicated LAFD Inspectors are experts who work tirelessly to ensure that our buildings are safe, our underground storage tanks are built to code, and they help protect the public from hazardous waste and unsafe conditions in our communities, homes, and businesses.

2015 INSPECTIONS 762

NUMBER OF HIGH RISES NUMBER OF FIRE HYDRANTS

65,331

NUMBER OF VHFHSZ* PARCELS INSPECTED

139,791

*Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone

BOAT FIRE November 24

Photos by Chris Conkle

SAN PEDRO - Firefighters responded to a report of a fire on a 40-foot boat at Berth 43 in the Port of Los Angeles.

Land and Sea operations were able to extinguish the fire on this fishing vessel in 27 minutes. Fire Station 112 houses the second largest Fireboat in the nation with the capability of pumping 38,000 gallons of water per minute.

Photo by Harry Garvin

LAFD CLASS 2015-1 GRADUATION November 24 Right before the Thanksgiving Holiday, Fire Chief Ralph Terrazas sworein 52 more members of the LAFD. During a ceremony at Panorama City's Drill Tower 81, Mayor Eric Garcetti spoke about the hope of this new class. Recruit Training Academy 81 is one of two state-of-the-art training Drill Towers for LAFD recruits.

Photo by Jeremy Oberstein Photo by Jeremy Oberstein

Photo by Mike Meadows

THANKSGIVING DAY HOUSE FIRE November 26 VERMONT KNOLLS - At approximately 4:04am on Thanksgiving morning, Firefighters responded to a single-story home consumed in flames in the 1100 block of West 73rd Street and were able to safely extinguish the fire in 46 minutes. Thankfully, the residents were not home at the time, but suffered a major property loss. Firefighters were able to provide support to the displaced family through the American Red Cross and the SAVE Program. Thanks to the Supplying Aid to Victims of Emergency (SAVE) program created by the California Fire Foundation, the LAFD was able to provide a $100 gift card to the family to help with their immediate needs. Knowing how difficult the day would be for the family, Firefighters from Fire Station 33 invited them back to the station for a home-cooked Thanksgiving meal. The family lost Christmas presents that had been purchased, so through the Spark of Love toy donation program, the Firefighters were also able to provide some replacement gifts.

Images from OnScene.TV

HISTORIC BUILDING FIRE December 4 DOWNTOWN - Approximately 73 Firefighters were able to knock down a blaze that began on the ground floor of a historic five-story building in the 800 block of Los Angeles Street in Downtown LA’s Fashion District. No injuries were reported and it took Firefighters two hours to contain the blaze.

Fire Station 9 is one of the busiest ďŹ re stations in the nation, generating an average of nearly 42 calls for service per day.

Photos by Harry Garvin

SUPPLYING AID TO VICTIMS OF EMERGENCY (SAVE) PROGRAM December 10 The Los Angeles City and County Fire Departments joined forces with the California Fire Foundation (a nonprofit organization) to provide urgent aid for victims of catastrophic fire and disaster. The Supplying Aid to Victims of Emergency (SAVE) program provides families that suffer a significant loss in a fire or disaster on-the-spot assistance to help them get through those chaotic first hours following a significant property loss. Los Angeles City and Los Angeles County are among the more than 60 fire departments, with their respective local union or bargaining unit, throughout California that are implementing SAVE. Funding comes from the Foundation, whose contributors largely consist of Firefighters themselves. CA Fire Foundation, UFLAC Local 112, LA County Local 1014, LAFD, and LA County Fire Department Officials joined a South LA family that lost their home on Thanksgiving to showcase this creative partnership at a news conference in downtown Los Angeles.

SPARK OF LOVE STUFF-A-BUS CAMPAIGN December 11 ABC7 and Southern California Firefighters celebrated the 23rd year of the Spark of Love Toy Drive. On December 11, UFLAC participated in the ABC7 “Stuff-A-Bus� campaign at Westfield Topanga where local residents dropped off enough new unwrapped toys to fill several large buses. Over the past two decades, the Spark of Love Toy Drive has successfully collected more than 9 million toys. The campaign collects new, unwrapped toys and sports equipment for under-served children and teens in Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Orange, Ventura, and Riverside counties.

Photo by Mike Meadows

Photo by Harry Garvin

RECYCLING PLANT FIRE December 12 HARBOR GATEWAY - More than 160 Firefighters were called to respond to a major industrial blaze at a recycling plant in the 20300 block of S. Normandie Avenue. The industrial fire, which contained bales of combustible material, was first reported at 10:15am and was contained by 2:00pm, although Firefighters continued to monitor the fire for the next several hours to ensure the fire was completely out. Helicopters picked up foam from the old Navy base in San Pedro and City Fire Commanders asked for support units to supply drinking water to dehydrated Firefighters and trucks to recharge their air tanks. One Firefighter was treated for a minor injury and no other injuries were reported.

Photo by Harry Garvin

Photo by Mike Meadows

Photo by Mike Meadows

Photo by Greg Doyle

SOUTH LA HOUSE FIRE December 23 SOUTH LOS ANGELES - At approximately 9:19pm, Firefighters responded to a blaze that broke out at a three-bedroom, single-story house in the 500 block of W. 59th Place. The cause of the fire was due to an overloaded electrical cord and the house suffered extensive damage. 27 Firefighters limited the blaze to the single structure, but the extent of the blaze left the family homeless and without any possessions. The Fire Department was able to provide the family with monetary aid from the California Fire Foundation’s SAVE Program and temporary placement assistance through the American Red Cross.

Photo by Nick Colbert

HOUSE FIRE December 26 NORTH HOLLYWOOD - A single-story house fire was reported at around 8:39pm at a residence in the 12700 block of Gault Street. 29 Firefighters responded to the fire and were able to extinguish the flames in approximately 13 minutes.

Photo by Ryan Ling

Photo by Ryan Ling

Photo by Rick McClure

DEADLY HOLLYWOOD TRAFFIC COLLISION December 28 HOLLYWOOD - Around 1:59am, Firefighters responded to a double fatal traffic collision involving a car and a Metro facilities van located at the intersection of Hollywood Blvd. and Gower Street. A male driver in his 20s apparently attempted to elude a LAPD traffic stop and crashed into the Metro facilities van that erupted into flames. Firefighters were able to extinguish the blaze, but the van driver was pronounced dead at the scene. The male driver was transported to a local hospital in critical condition, but later died from his injuries.

Photo by Ryan Babroff

HONORING Photo by Timothy Kelly

PILOT/FIREFIGHTER III STEVEN L. ROBINSON

HELICOPTER CRASH CEREMONY

The Los Angeles Fire Department mourned the loss of Pilot/Firefighter Steven L. Robinson who passed away on August 9, 2015. Pilot/Firefighter Robinson served the people of Los Angeles for nearly 30 years as a Firefighter, Pilot, and Dispatcher with the Los Angeles Fire Department.

On March 23rd, 17 years after the tragedy, LA Firefighters continued to honor the fallen. Capt. II Scott Souter (FS 35), Capt. Jared Cooper (FS 82) and Apparatus Operator Trevor Cooper (FS 27) led a private memorial, which was also attended by Battalion 5. The ceremony began with a detail formation, march to the crash site, presenting of arms, a short prayer, and a moment of silence.

On March 23, 1998, Pilot/Firefighter Robinson was involved in a helicopter crash while transporting a critically injured 12-year-old girl to the hospital. Due to mechanical failures, the helicopter went down near Griffith Park, but not before Steven steered the copter away from all residential areas to avoid greater harm to the general public. Tragically, LAFD Firefighter/Paramedic Michael Butler, Firefighter/Paramedic Eric Reiner, and Apparatus Operator Michael McComb all lost their lives on this fateful day, along with the 12-year old girl who was being transported. Steven Robinson survived this crash along with Crew Chief Firefighter Dennis Silgen, but both sustained major injuries.

While unable to work in the field due to the injuries that he received from this crash, Steven chose to continue to contribute to the City of Los Angeles as a dedicated LAFD Dispatcher.

Every single member of the LAFD who had the honor of working with Pilot/Firefighter Steven Robinson will always remember his positive attitude, commitment to the job, and his love for his fellow Firefighters. He touched the lives of thousands of his colleagues and the people who he served.

Our Brother Steven Robinson will be deeply missed.

Photo by Mike Meadows

THE FALLEN DANIEL A. TERRY SCHOLARSHIP PRESENTED TO LUCAS REINER On behalf of the California Fire Foundation, CPF 8th District Vice President Frank Lima and UFLAC Members had the privilege of presenting a Daniel A. Terry Scholarship to Lucas Reiner, the son of fallen LAFD Firefighter/ Paramedic Eric Reiner. The check presentation was held at Fire Station 9 where Eric's widow, Lisa, spoke to the crew about the significance of the continued support by fire agencies and families across the nation and the importance of honoring Eric's legacy through his children. Lucas is the youngest of four children that Eric left behind and was just two years old when he lost his father in the line of duty. He is now a student at Loyola Marymount University.

IAFF MEMORIAL The LAFD Honor Guard and UFLAC Executive Board Members traveled to Colorado Springs for the 29th IAFF Fallen Fire Firefighter Memorial Observance. The Memorial honors more than 7,300 Firefighters and Paramedics who died in the line of duty. The names include those who died on the job, as well as the alarming number who died from toxic exposures, including more than 120 who succumbed after being exposed to deadly carcinogens while searching for survivors at Ground Zero. LAFD Captain Matthew G. McKnight's name was added to the wall this year and his extended family, including Mike and Mitch McKnight who are both LA City Firefighters, were present for the unveiling of the Memorial.

RECOGNITION SPECIAL THANKS Photographer Ryan Babroff

Photographer Shawn Kaye

LAFD Captain Mark Woolf

Photographer David Blair

Photographer Ryan Ling

LAFD Firefighter David Ortiz

Photographer Nick Colbert

Photographer Matt Lyneis

LAFD Firefighter Eric French

Photographer Chris Conkle

Photographer Rick McClure

Photographer John Conkle

Photographer Mike Meadows

LAFD Public Information Director Peter Sanders

Photographer Greg Doyle

LAFD Public Service Officer Erik Scott

Photographer Harry Garvin Photographer Steve Gentry Photographer Alex Gillman Photographer Yvonne Griffin Photographer Juan Guerra

LAFD Public Service Officer Brian Humphrey

LAFD Senior Project Coordinator Jeremy Oberstein LAFD Battalion Chief Tim Kelly OnScene.TV

LAFD Public Service Officer Katherine Main

Continental Colorcraft, A Graphic Communications Company

LAFD Public Service Officer Margaret Stewart

Blackman & Associates

All photos and images used in this publication are subject to the copyright of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

UFLAC EXECUTIVE BOARD President Frank Lima 1st Vice President Tony Gamboa

Treasurer Brian Hishinuma

Director Adam VanGerpen

2 Vice President Chuong Ho

Director Domingo Albarran

Director John Libby

Secretary Fred Escobar

Director Dave Pimentle

Director Selwyn Lloyd

nd

Paid for by United Firefighters of Los Angeles City, Local 112 – Issues Committee