Former LAFD Officials Criticize Lack of Preparedness for 2021 Windstorm
Thirteen years ago, the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) was gearing up for a potentially catastrophic windstorm that could have wreaked havoc across the city. However, recent events have shed light on a stark contrast in the department’s preparedness levels between then and now.
Former LAFD Assistant Chief Patrick Butler, who spearheaded the agency’s preparations in 2011, revealed that the department had taken significant preemptive measures ahead of the windstorm expected on December 1 that year. With red flag warnings issued and gusts predicted to reach up to 90 miles per hour, the LAFD deployed at least 40 extra fire engines to high-risk areas, including the Palisades.
But fast forward to 2021, during the Palisades fire, the department’s response was notably lacking. Despite similar wind alerts and dire forecasts, the LAFD opted not to deploy several dozen available engines to combat potential fires fueled by the winds. This decision, according to former LAFD officials, underestimated the threat posed by the windstorm and hindered the firefighting efforts.
Experts Criticize Current LAFD Leadership for Lack of Action
Former LAFD Battalion Chief Rick Crawford, with over three decades of experience in the department, expressed disappointment in the handling of the Palisades fire. He highlighted the need for a more offensive approach in preparing for such wind events, suggesting that a more proactive stance could have minimized the damage caused by the blaze.
Deputy Chief Richard Fields, responsible for staffing and equipment decisions leading up to the fire, defended the department’s plan as appropriate for an immediate response. However, the comparison to the more robust preparations in 2011 raised questions about the current state of the LAFD’s resources and decision-making.
Lessons Learned from the Palisades Fire
The aftermath of the Palisades fire, which burned nearly 24,000 acres and claimed numerous lives, serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of adequate preparedness and swift action in the face of natural disasters. Former LAFD officials emphasized the need to learn from past mistakes and avoid repeating the errors that contributed to the devastating impact of the 2021 windstorm.
As the city grapples with the aftermath of the Palisades blaze and the subsequent Eaton fire, it is crucial for the LAFD to reassess its protocols, resource allocation, and decision-making processes to ensure better outcomes in future emergencies. The dedication and resilience of the firefighters on the ground remain unwavering, despite the challenges they face, underscoring the critical role of effective leadership and preparedness in safeguarding communities from disaster.