With increased winds and low relative humidity forecast for Los Angeles on Oct. 29, 2015, the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) will augment staffing and pre-deploy firefighting resources due to the heightened wildfire danger, according to LAFD spokesperson Brian Humphrey.
The plan authorized by Los Angeles Fire Chief Ralph M. Terrazas, will include the temporary staffing of 11 additional Engines at fire stations in Tujunga, Mission Hills, Chatsworth, Reseda, Pacific Palisades, Glassell Park, Palms, Century City, Echo Park, Lincoln Heights and Central City East.
In addition, 10 regularly staffed LAFD Engines from areas with historically low wildfire danger will be pre-deployed in highly mobile Strike Teams in the central San Fernando Valley and Hollywood Hills, while a trio of other Engines will be sent to stations in Bel Air, Sylmar and West Hills.
To assure an optimal and sustained response to any wildfire in the region, LAFD will also deploy a Brush Patrol Strike Team of four-wheel drive firefighting vehicles in the south San Fernando Valley, as well as a pair of 2500-gallon water tenders at stations in Sun Valley and Sherman Oaks.
To oversee and coordinate these and other resources, the Department is deploying a trio of additional Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams. Firefighters certified in command support operations will accompany these and all field Chief Officers on Thursday, while LAFD Air Operations will be bolstered with an additional Pilot and Helicopter Coordinator.
Crews at fire stations across the City will continue their commitment to neighborhood emergencies, while staying prepared and equipped for the unique challenge of battling any wind-driven wildfire.
With that in mind, the men and women of the LAFD ask you to be firewise in all that you do, and to report any smoke or fire immediately to 9-1-1.
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