**Dramatic Air Attack Saves Brentwood and Encino from Palisades Fire**
On Friday afternoon, the winds across the Santa Monica Mountains suddenly shifted, and the Palisades fire pushed north and east, making a run in two different directions: toward Encino and Brentwood. Terrified Angelenos watched as leaping flames and massive plumes of smoke continued to rise over ridgelines well into the night, worried that the already catastrophic blaze could devastate new parts of the city.
### **Critical Differences in the Fight**
This time, there were two critical differences in the firefight: a squadron of massive water- and retardant-dropping aircraft at the ready, and winds that, although strong, still allowed for them to take flight. Pilots went to work, initiating an all-out attack of air resources in the next 24 hours, with enough helicopters responding to the fire’s flare-up that the choppers were, at times, lined up, just waiting for orders to make their next drop.
### **Massive Push to Hold Back Flames**
Conveniently located water sources, particularly the Encino Reservoir, less than a mile from the northern front of the fire, helped expedite tank refills. By Saturday evening, much of the region had breathed a collective sigh of relief as the massive push held the flames back from making another major run into urban areas.
### **Total Teamwork: Air and Ground Crews**
While the air attack proved critical, it only works in coordination with ground crews. Brett Willis, Los Angeles Fire Department’s battalion chief over air operations, emphasized the importance of teamwork in fighting the blaze. He highlighted the critical role the air assets played in the large-volume saves during the intense firefight.
As the blaze raged on and winds remained a concern, residents like Sarah Cohen expressed awe and gratitude for the tireless efforts of the firefighters. Cohen, who spent Friday night hoping the fire wouldn’t reach her Tarzana home, praised the firefighters, saying they deserved a parade and bonuses for their heroic efforts.
Despite the devastation and losses, the coordinated efforts of air and ground crews proved instrumental in containing the Palisades fire. The relentless determination and strategic coordination of the firefighting teams saved homes and communities from further destruction, showcasing the power of teamwork in the face of a raging inferno.