LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — The Los Angeles Fire Department will increase staffing and pre-deploy resources Thursday due to a heightened threat of wildfire danger.
Firefighters explained the temporary staffing comes amid a forecast of increased winds and low relative humidity, which poses a threat for vegetation fires to erupt.
Eleven additional engines will be deployed at fire stations in Tujunga, Mission Hills, Chatsworth, Reseda, Pacific Palisades, Glassell Park, Palms, Century City, Echo Park, Lincoln Heights and Central City East.
“Ten 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,” said Firefighter Brian Humphrey. “A trio of other engines will be sent to stations in Bel Air, Sylmar and West Hills.”
Firefighters will also deploy a brush patrol strike team, which includes four-wheel drive firefighting vehicles in the south San Fernando Valley.
A pair of 2,500-gallon water tenders will be sent to stations located in Sun Valley and Sherman Oaks.
Authorities said a trio of battalion chief officer command teams will oversee and coordinate the use of these resources.
Anyone who may see smoke or fire has been urged to immediately call 911.
The plan was authorized by Chief Ralph M. Terrazas.
Sourse: losangeles.cbslocal.com