Yes We Are A Much More “Ready City”

 April 19, 2013

Los Angeles - Today at a press conference held at the City of Los Angeles’  state-of-the-art Emergency Operations Center, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa announced the awarding of  $5 million in federal grants to the  Los Angeles/Long Beach regions to expand the  Earthquake Early Warning  System (EEWS).

The EEWS provides up to a 50 second warning before strong shaking begins. Officials said that’s enough warning for doctors to stop surgery or for elevators to stop and open at the next floor, as an example.

The City of Los Angeles Emergency Management Department along with the Los Angeles Police Department and Los Angeles Fire Department have participated in a pilot program of the EEWS for the past year.  

James Featherstone, General Manager of the City’s Emergency Management Department was among the scheduled speakers at today’s press conference. A transcript of his remarks follows:

* * *

We’ve had many accomplishments under Mayor’s leadership and guidance including participating in the Earthquake Early Warning   System.  We actually have it in active use in the Emergency Management Department, LAPD Real-Time Analysis and Critical Response Division and in Metro Fire Communications.

The Mayor’s intent since 2007 was to move emergency management and emergency preparedness in this city to a world class state; to make the Emergency Management Department in Los Angeles  an industry leader. Through the Mayor’s leadership and guidance and the corporate commitment the Mayor has shown for emergency management during his tenure, we have achieved a lot of accomplishments.  We are Vice Chair of the Big Cities Emergency Management Group, which are the 15 most populous and most at risk jurisdictions in the nation. Big Cities represents 30% of the nation’s population. The Mayor insists that we be involved in issues like that.  

I read a New Yorker article earlier today and it talked about what happened in Boston and it said “it is the cultural legacy of September 11th and all the things that have happened in the past decade since.”  It’s the kind of orchestration that happened across their city; that same kind of orchestration can happen across this city.  Those are the things that make us the ready city that we are today.

People ask about preparedness. Preparedness to us in the common lexicon denotes an end state - that you are prepared. We’d like to say we are a much more ready city. And thanks to the Mayor’s commitment and support of the Emergency Management Department  during his time in office, we are a much more ready city. Are we as ready and as prepared as Boston was the other day when the bombing occurred? Yes we are a very ready city.

Carmageddon, the Space Shuttle Move and other planned events we coordinate are sets and reps; they are opportunities for us to practice as we will play before the balloon actually bursts.

So we are a much more ready city than we were September 10th. We are a much more ready city than we were yesterday. It’s about the corporate commitment from the Office of the Mayor and also the collaboration from the partners we have including City, County, local, private, non-profit and faith based organizations.

We all matter. The whole of government and the whole of community in Los Angeles are much better prepared, much more ready for something today than we were yesterday.

 

Rosendahl, LAFD announce emergency contingency plan for Carmageddon

For Immediate Release: September 26, 2012

Contact: Tony Arranaga 213-304-3880

ROSENDAHL, LAFD ANNOUNCE EMERGENCY CONTINGENCY PLAN FOR CARMAGEDDON

LAFD deploys additional first responders in critical areas near the 405 Freeway closure

LOS ANGELES — Councilmember Bill Rosendahl and the Los Angeles Fire Department are working together to ensure adequate fire and emergency medical resources are deployed on the Westside during the full closure of the 405 Freeway this weekend.

The closure, which was dubbed Carmageddon II after a similar closure last summer, will shut down the Sepulveda Pass between the 101 and 10 Freeways. Crews say this is necessary in order to finish the demolition of the Mulholland Bridge that started during the first Carmageddon.

The closure will take place from Friday, September 28th at 7:00pm to Monday, October 1st at 5:00am.

The LAFD plans to deploy the same level of increased staffing and pre-deployment of additional resources as occurred last year — like utilizing motorcycle teams that can easily navigate traffic and provide rapid emergency response.

“I’m very pleased that the LAFD has once again committed to increasing staffing levels in my geographically isolated communities to ensure my residents will not be put in peril should a significant emergency incident occur during this weekend closure,” said Rosendahl. “The innovative use of motorcycle teams to respond to emergencies should shave precious minutes off an emergency medical response, and allow for the quick stabilization of a patient prior to the arrival of an ambulance crew.”

In response to the successful debut of unique motorcycle teams during the first Carmageddon, two “Motor Teams” each consisting of two Firefighter/EMTs will be strategically placed on the east and west sides of the 405 Freeway to reduce response times in the neighborhoods most affected by the closure. These teams will also be utilized to provide up-to-the-minute intelligence on access and egress issues, as well as continuous monitoring of alternative response routes.

Additional fire and emergency medical resources will be strategically deployed at three fire stations and two staging locations in the communities most impacted by the closure:  

 

—Fire Station 109 serving the Mountain Gate/ Encino Hills community

—Fire Station 99 serving the Bel-Air/Beverly Glen community

—Fire Station 59 in West LA

—and the two staging areas on either side of the 405 Freeway

 

In addition, an LAFD Incident Management Team (IMT) has been formed as a component of a larger multi-agency unified command structure consisting of the LAPD, Emergency Management Department, Department of Transportation, California Highway Patrol, Metro and Caltrans to manage the public safety needs and monitor traffic conditions in real-time. The IMT will strategically deploy emergency resources based on traffic conditions and community coverage needs to ensure response times are not impacted by the closure.

Angelenos dubbed last year’s closure Carmageddon out of fear the event would create a complete meltdown of LA’s transportation system. As a result of tremendous public outreach efforts, the freeways and streets were virtually empty during last year’s event. Instead of driving, Angelenos took the opportunity to spend less time in their cars and more time exploring their neighborhoods via bike, public transportation, and on foot.

“Last year’s closure of the 405 was a success due to the media’s campaign and the various news outlets informing the Los Angeles community of the 405 closure and all of the activities occurring throughout their neighborhoods,” said LAFD Chief Brian Cummings.  ”I am confident that the additional Fire Department staffing, the establishment of an Incident Management Team and the use of motorcycle teams will once again prove to be a huge success in managing any impact associated with this project.”

For continuous updates on the closure, please subscribe Metro’s 405 updates on Facebook, Twitter, or Nixle.

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Photo courtesy of Metro

LA heat wave continues to prompt extended hours at cooling centers

Cooling facilities will extend their hours until 9 p.m. Monday and Tuesday

The locations of cooling centers with extended hours are noted above in yellow.

The Los Angeles Office of the National Weather Service forecasts hot temperatures for the next few days. Downtown Los Angeles is expected to reach a high of 92 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures in the San Fernando Valley are expected to climb to triple digits.  

Cooling Facilities:

The following Recreation and Parks facilities will remain open until 9p.m. today, Monday, August 13th and Tuesday August 14th.  City facilities provide reasonable accommodations to ensure accessibility and effective communication for people with disabilities, access and functional needs. For more information, visit: http://disability.lacity.org/. 

Canoga Park Senior Citizen Center

7326 Jordan Ave.

Canoga Park, CA 91303

(818) 340-2633 Sepulveda Recreation Center

8801 Kester Ave.

Panorama City, CA 91402

(818) 893-3700

North Hollywood Recreation Center

11430 Chandler Blvd.

North Hollywood, CA 91601

(818) 763-7651

Sylmar Recreation Center

13109 Borden Ave.

Sylmar, CA 91342

(818) 367-5656

Sunland Senior Citizen Center

8640 Fenwick St.

Sunland, CA 91040

(818) 353-9571

Sherman Oaks East Valley Adult Center

5060 Van Nuys Blvd.

Sherman Oaks, CA 91423

(818) 981-1284

Preventing vehicular heat stroke fatalities:

High temperatures can cause vehicular heat stroke fatalities.  It is imperative that adults never leave children (or pets) alone in cars. Individuals should be particularly mindful of this during periods of excessive heat. The Los Angeles Police Department has provided several tips for preventing vehicular heat stroke:

  • Never leave a child or pet unattended in a vehicle, even if the windows are partly open or the engine and air conditioning are running.
  • Look inside the vehicle, front and back, before walking away.
  • Place a purse, briefcase or other necessary item in the back seat so you’ll see a child or pet left behind.
  • Don’t let kids play in an unattended vehicle.
  • Lock the car doors and trunk and keep the keys out of a child’s reach.
  • Call 911 if you see a child or pet left inside a vehicle.

For more information on vehicular heat stroke deaths among children, visit KidsAndCars.org.

Los Angeles Department of Water and Power:

No heat related outages have been reported at this time. Should power outages occur, residents that require power to run medical or other life saving equipment can contact DWP’s Customer Service Line at 1-800-DIALDWP (342-5397), or go to www.ladwp.com for more information about their Lifeline Services Program. 

Other Tips to Beat the Heat:

During periods of extreme heat, there is an increased risk of heat exhaustion, heat cramps and sunstroke. Here’s what you can do to protect yourself against extreme heat:

  • Drink plenty of water regularly and often, even if you do not feel thirsty. Attempt to stay hydrated. Persons who have epilepsy; heart, kidney or liver disease; are on fluid-restricted diets; or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake. 
  • Avoid unnecessary sun exposure, wear a hat, preferably with a wide brim, when in the sun and use sunscreen.
  • Check on family members, seniors, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.
  • Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
  • Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun. Consider spending the warmest part of the day in public buildings such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping malls and other community facilities. Circulating air can cool the body by increasing the perspiration rate of evaporation. 
  • Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings or louvers.  
  • Stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available. 
  • Eat well-balanced, light and regular meals. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
  • Limit intake of alcoholic beverages. 
  • Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible. 
  • Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat and take frequent breaks. 

To learn more preparedness tips, visit readyla.org, the City’s official readiness, response and recovery website. 

Sign up to have emergency notifications sent to you whether at home or on the go at alert.lacounty.gov.

EMD Social Media and Information Sites:

Twitter (twitter.com/readyla) 

Facebook (www.facebook.com/readylaemd) 

readyla.org 

emergency.lacity.org

EMD Information Helpline (800) 439-2909 

About the City of Los Angeles Emergency Management Department

In 2000 the Los Angeles City Council and Mayor established, by ordinance, the Emergency Management Department (EMD). EMD is dedicated to leading the City in comprehensive emergency management planning, mitigation and preparation as well as response to and recovery from natural, manmade and accidental incidents of high consequence. 

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Excessive heat continues in Los Angeles

Select cooling facilities will remain open over the weekend until 9 p.m. 

The locations of cooling centers with extended hours are noted above in yellow.

The Los Angeles Office of the National Weather Service forecasts that excessive heat will continue over the weekend in Los Angeles. Temperatures in the west and north San Fernando Valley could climb as high as 110 degrees Fahrenheit. The relative humidity will make temperatures feel even hotter. 

Cooling Facilities 

To help Angelenos during this period of excessive heat, the following Recreation and Parks facilities will be open on Saturday, August 11th and Sunday, August 12th until 9:00 p.m. 

(click on links to open in Google Maps)

Canoga Park Senior Citizen Center 

7326 Jordan Ave. 

Canoga Park, CA 91303 

(818) 340-2633 

North Hollywood Recreation Center 

11430 Chandler Blvd. 

North Hollywood, CA 91601 

(818) 763-7651 

Sunland Senior Citizen Center 

8640 Fenwick St. 

Sunland, CA 91040 

(818) 353-9571 

Sepulveda Recreation Center 

8801 Kester Ave. 

Panorama City, CA 91402 

(818) 893-3700 

Sylmar Recreation Center 

13109 Borden Ave. 

Sylmar, CA 91342 

(818) 367-5656 

Sherman Oaks East Valley Adult Center

5060 Van Nuys Blvd.

Sherman Oaks, CA 91423

(818) 981-1284

Pet Safety in Extreme Heat 

The Los Angeles Animal Services Department reports that there has been an increase in the number of calls reported regarding pets being left in vehicles. Some of those calls have required the assistance of the Los Angeles Police Department due to the distress of those pets. Too much heat can be extremely dangerous or even fatal for pets. To protect your pet from the summer heat, the Los Angeles Animal Services Department offers the following safety tips: 

  • Always make sure that your dog or cat has plenty of fresh water to drink. A bucket that holds a gallon or more of water will stay cool longer than water in a shallow pan. Some dogs consider ice cubes a treat, and you can add a few to the water bowl. 
  • Dogs and cats do sweat a little through the pads of their feet. Dogs often enjoy having cool water on their feet. Some dogs enjoy walking through or even lying in a child’s wading pool. 
  • It is dangerous to leave your dog or cat in a car alone for more than five minutes. If the animal cannot go inside at every stop with you, the pet is safer at home on hot days. Car interiors heat very quickly in the hot sun, even with the windows open. If it is 85 degrees outside, it will climb to 102 degrees Fahrenheit inside your car within ten minutes. In half an hour, it will reach 120 degrees or more. If it is 90 degrees Fahrenheit out, temperatures can top 160 degrees Fahrenheit faster than you can walk around the block.
  • While walking your dog outdoors, pay particular attention the hot pavements or sidewalks that can burn their feet. Early morning and later evening walks are preferable. 
  • Animals that go outside need access to shade. Dark coats absorb heat. Lighter coated animals, especially white ones, are at higher risk for skin cancer from exposure to the sun and they are more susceptible to sunburn.
  • Longer coated dogs and cats that are brushed regularly have natural insulation from the heat. However, if the coat is matted, a trim will make your pet much more comfortable. Remember, newly clipped animals can get sunburned. 
  • If your pet spends time in the yard, make sure he or she has access to shade. Shaded trees, a covered patio or a cool spot under the porch can help keep your pet comfortable. 

People with Disabilities, Access and Functional Needs 

City facilities provide reasonable accommodations to ensure accessibility and effective communication for people with disabilities, access and functional needs. For more information, visit: http://disability.lacity.org/. 

Los Angeles Department of Water and Power 

No heat related outages have been reported at this time. Should power outages occur, residents who require power to run medical or other life saving equipment can contact DWP’s Customer Service Line at 1-800-DIALDWP (342-5397), or go to www.ladwp.com for more information about their Lifeline Services Program. 


Other Tips to Beat the Heat:

During periods of extreme heat, there is an increased risk of heat exhaustion, heat cramps and sunstroke. Here’s what you can do to protect yourself against extreme heat:

  • Drink plenty of water regularly and often, even if you do not feel thirsty. Attempt to stay hydrated. Persons who have epilepsy; heart, kidney or liver disease; are on fluid-restricted diets; or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake. 
  • Avoid unnecessary sun exposure, wear a hat, preferably with a wide brim, when in the sun and use sunscreen. 
  • Check on family members, seniors, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone. 
  • Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles. 
  • Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun. Consider spending the warmest part of the day in public buildings such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping malls and other community facilities. Circulating air can cool the body by increasing the perspiration rate of evaporation. 
  • Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings or louvers. 
  • Stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available. 
  • Eat well-balanced, light and regular meals. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician. 
  • Limit intake of alcoholic beverages. 
  • Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible. 
  • Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat and take frequent breaks. 

To learn more preparedness tips, visit readyla.org, the City’s official readiness, response and recovery website. Sign up to have emergency notifications sent to you whether at home or on the go at alert.lacounty.gov. 

EMD Social Media and Information Sites 

Twitter (twitter.com/readyla) 

Facebook (www.facebook.com/readylaemd) 

readyla.org 

emergency.lacity.org 

EMD Information Helpline (800) 439-2909 

About the City of Los Angeles Emergency Management Department 

In 2000 the Los Angeles City Council and Mayor established, by ordinance, the Emergency Management Department (EMD). EMD is dedicated to leading the City in comprehensive emergency management planning, mitigation and preparation as well as response to and recovery from natural, manmade and accidental incidents of high consequence. 

                                               # # #

Photo Credit: Cat’s_101/ Flickr Creative Commons

National Weather Service forecasts excessive heat for Los Angeles

Air quality could be unhealthy for sensitive individuals.

Media contacts: 

Chris Ipsen (213) 359-2234

Veronica Hendrix (213) 505-5461

The Los Angeles Office of the National Weather Service  forecasts excessive heat for Los Angeles  effective today and tomorrow, August 10, 2012.  High heat  is  expected in the San Fernando Valley where temperatures  will range  between 105 degrees Fahrenheit  and 110 degrees Fahrenheit.

According to the South Coast Air Quality Management District, air quality will be unhealthy for sensitive individuals  in the Santa Clarita, East San Gabriel and West San Fernando Valley. Los Angeles County Health Officer and Public Health Director Jonathan E. Fielding, MD, MPH, advises people with heart disease, asthma or other respiratory diseases that live or work in these areas minimize to outdoor activities. 

Cooling Facilities

          Recreation and Parks Facilities

The City has extended the hours of the following facilities to provide additional relief from the heat. These facilities will be open until 9:00 p.m. through Sunday, August 12th.

Canoga Park Senior Citizen Center

7326 Jordan Ave.

Canoga Park, CA 91303

(818) 340-2633

Sepulveda Recreation Center

8801 Kester Ave.

Panorama City, CA 91402

(818) 893-3700

North Hollywood Recreation Center

11430 Chandler Blvd.

North Hollywood, CA 91601

(818) 763-7651

Sylmar Recreation Center

13109 Borden Ave.

Sylmar, CA 91342

(818) 367-5656

Sunland Senior Citizen Center

8640 Fenwick St.

Sunland, CA 91040

(818) 353-9571

Sherman Oaks East Valley Adult Center

5060 Van Nuys Blvd.

Sherman Oaks, CA 91423

(818) 981-1284

People with Disabilities, Access and Functional Needs

City facilities provide reasonable accommodations to ensure accessibility and effective communication for people with disabilities, access and functional needs. For more information, visit: http://disability.lacity.org/.

Los Angeles Department of Water and Power

No outages have been reported at this time. Should power outages occur, residents who require power to run medical or other life saving equipment can contact DWP’s Customer Service Line at 1-800-DIALDWP (342-5397), or go to  www.ladwp.com for more information about their Lifeline Services Program.

Tips to Beat the Heat

During periods of extreme heat, there is an increased risk of heat exhaustion, heat cramps and sunstroke. Here’s what you can do to protect yourself against extreme heat:

  • Drink plenty of water regularly and often, even if you do not feel thirsty. Attempt to stay hydrated. Persons who have epilepsy; heart, kidney or liver disease; are on fluid-restricted diets; or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake.
  • Avoid unnecessary sun exposure, wear a hat, preferably with a wide brim, when in the sun and use sunscreen.
  • Check on family members, seniors, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.
  • Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
  • Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun. Consider spending the warmest part of the day in public buildings such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping malls and other community facilities. Circulating air can cool the body by increasing the perspiration rate of evaporation.
  • Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings or louvers.
  • Stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available.
  • Eat well-balanced, light and regular meals. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
  • Limit intake of alcoholic beverages.
  • Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible.
  • Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat and take frequent breaks.

To learn more preparedness tips, visit readyla.org, the City’s official readiness, response and recovery website. Sign up to have emergency notifications sent to you whether at home or on the go at alert.lacounty.gov.

EMD Social Media and Information Sites:

Twitter (twitter.com/readyla)

Facebook (www.facebook.com/readylaemd)

emergency.lacity.org

EMD Information Helpline (800) 439-2909

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Photo Credit: Woodleywonderworks/ Flickr Creative Commons

Alert LA: Warning you when disaster strikes

                     

Try this: Read through the following and determine which could befall your neighborhood.

  • a catastrophic earthquake
  • a wildfire burning down homes
  • a hazardous chemical spill
  • an evacuation due to fire or other emergency
  • a public health-related outbreak of a contagion or other medical emergency

You should have answered yes to all, or at least most, of the above. Every area throughout the City of Los Angeles, or any city in the world for that matter, is prone to a wide variety of emergencies. And you need to know — and have a right to know — if any of these emergencies are happening in your neighborhood immediately. But how will you know if these situations are occurring?

Solution: Alert LA. It’s a mass notification system, and by providing your cell phone and email address at Alert.lacounty.gov, you will receive emergency notifications right to your devices. Currently, the system uses the 9-1-1 database to make automated phone calls to your land line phone. But because residents are often on the go and might not be in their homes during an emergency to pick up the line, it’s crucial that Angelenos sign up with this system, just like thousands of others have done.

It’s quick. It’s easy. And it’s vital to your safety and the safety of your family. Sign up for Alert LA today, and know that you’ll be informed and prepared when disaster strikes.

                                                                       Alert.lacounty.gov 

County reports first 2012 human case of West Nile Virus

The first human case of West Nile Virus this year has been reported in Los Angeles County, according to the Department of Public Health. The adult who was infected by the virus was hospitalized earlier this month but is expected to recover. The virus is passed to humans through bites from infected mosquitoes. For information on West Nile Virus, click here.

The Los Angeles Department of Public Health has more on the incident:

LOS ANGELES - The first human case of West Nile virus (WNV) in 2012 has been reported in the county. The middle-aged adult, who lives in the San Gabriel Valley, was hospitalized for a short time earlier this month and has other chronic health conditions not related to WNV. The patient is now home and expected to recover. West Nile virus is passed to people through the bite of an infected mosquito; mosquitoes obtain the virus by
feeding on infected wild birds. The Los Angeles County Health Officer would like to remind all residents to take precautions against mosquito bites.

“While most people bitten by a mosquito are not exposed to West Nile virus, some individuals may become infected with this disease and may experience symptoms that can last for months, or even years, such as fatigue, malaise, and depression,” said Jonathan E. Fielding, MD, MPH, Director of Public Health and Health Officer. “I urge all residents to
protect themselves and their family and friends from mosquito bites by getting rid of stagnant water around their homes; wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors; and using a repellant when in mosquito-prone areas, especially around dawn or dusk.”

As of today, vector control districts have detected WNV in 16 dead birds in LA County. The samples were taken in various parts of Los Angeles County, demonstrating that the virus can affect any location. While agencies such as the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District and the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District
are actively treating areas with high mosquito populations, residents are urged to do their part.

“Vector control agencies in LA County cannot do it alone. It is imperative that the public help us by minimizing the risk of being bitten and removing sources of water on their property that can breed mosquitoes. This is not a virus to take lightly,” said Kenn Fujioka,
District Manager for the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District. “Additionally, residents should report dead birds, and also report sources of standing water to their local vector control agencies.”

Dead birds may be reported by calling (877) 968-2473 or logging onto
http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/vet/disintro.htm. Stagnant swimming pools or “green pools” should be reported to the Public Health Environmental Health Bureau at (626) 430-5200, or to a local vector control agency.

Photo credit: dr_relling/Flickr Creative Commons

Excessive heat warning in LA: Cancelled

All City cooling centers have returned to regular business hours.

The National Weather Service has cancelled its excessive heat warning effective today, July 12, 2012. All designated cooling centers in the City of Los Angeles whose hours were extended to 9:00 p.m. return to regular business hours.

City facilities are always open to residents seeking relief from the heat during normal business hours. Those facilities include libraries, city-operated senior centers and Recreation and Parks (RAP) locations. To find a cooling center near you and hours of operation, call 3-1-1 or click here.

Health Concern: Preventing vehicular heat stroke fatalities

High temperatures can cause vehicular heat stroke fatalities. It is imperative that adults never leave children (or pets) alone in cars. Individuals should be particularly mindful of this during periods of excessive heat. The Los Angeles Police Department has provided several tips for preventing vehicular heat stroke: Never leave a child or pet unattended in a vehicle, even if the windows are partly open or the engine and air conditioning are running. Look inside the vehicle, front and back, before walking away. Place a purse, briefcase or other necessary item in the back seat so you’ll see a child or pet left behind. Don’t let kids play in an unattended vehicle. Lock the car doors and trunk and keep the keys out of a child’s reach. Ask your day-care provider to call if your child doesn’t show up on time. If a child is missing, check the car and trunk. Call 911 if you see a child or pet left inside a vehicle.

For more information on vehicular heat stroke deaths among children, visit KidsAndCars.org.

Tips to help beat the heat:

  • Drink plenty of water regularly and often, even if you do not feel thirsty. Attempt to stay hydrated. Persons who have epilepsy; heart, kidney or liver disease; are on fluid-restricted diets; or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake. 
  • Check on family members, seniors, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone. 
  • Never leave children or pets in closed vehicles.
  • Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun. Consider spending the warmest part of the day in public buildings such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping malls and other community facilities.
  • Circulating air can cool the body by increasing the perspiration rate of evaporation. Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings or louvers. 
  • Stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available. 
  • Eat well-balanced, light and regular meals. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician. Limit intake of alcoholic beverages. 
  • Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible. Protect face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat. 
  • Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat and take frequent breaks. Slow down and avoid strenuous activity.

For general information regarding safety when temperatures are high, visit our website at readyla.org.

EMD Social Media and Information Sites:

  • Twitter (twitter.com/readyla) 
  • Facebook (facebook.com/readylaemd) 
  • readyla.org 
  • emergency.lacity.org 
  • EMD Information Helpline (800) 439-2909 L.A. 
  • City 3-1-1 Information Line (8:00 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.)

About the Emergency Management Department:

In 2000 the Los Angeles City Council and Mayor established, by ordinance, the Emergency Management Department (EMD). EMD is dedicated to leading the City in comprehensive emergency management planning, mitigation and preparation as well as response to and recovery from natural, manmade and accidental incidents of high consequence.

Photo Credit: igloo101/ Flickr Creative Commons

Heat wave prompts extended hours at specified cooling centers

July 11, 2012  

Media contacts:

Chris Ipsen (213) 359-2234

Veronica Hendrix (213) 505-5461

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an excessive heat warning for the San Fernando Valley effective today, July 11, 2012, at 11 a.m. through 7 p.m. Thursday, July 12, 2012. It is predicted that temperatures will peak Thursday. By Friday, July 13, 2012, temperatures will begin to drop. All Recreation and Parks (RAP) facilities, libraries and city-operated senior centers are used as cooling centers to provide the public with relief from the heat and can be accessed during normal business hours. To find a cooling center near you, call 3-1-1.

However, excessive heat warnings issued by the NWS prompt the City of Los Angeles to extend the hours of specified cooling centers in the areas most impacted by the heat.

The following cooling centers will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.:

Sunland Senior Citizen

8640 Fenwick St., Sunland, CA 91040

(818) 353-9571

Canoga Senior Citizen

7326 Jordan Ave., Canoga Park, CA 91303

(818) 340-2633

Sherman Oaks East Valley Adult Center

(formally Van Nuys Sherman Oaks Senior Center)

5060 Van Nuys Blvd., Sherman Oaks, CA 91423

(818) 981-1284

North Hollywood Recreation Center

11430 Chandler Blvd., North Hollywood, CA 91601

(818) 763-7651

Sylmar Recreation Center

13109 Borden Ave., Sylmar, CA 91342

(818) 367-5656

Sepulveda Recreation Center

8801 Kester Ave., Panorama City, CA 91402

(818) 893-3700

LADWP Update:

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) requests customers report power outages by calling DWP’s Customer Service Line at 1-800-DIALDWP (342-5397). Residents who require power to run medical or other life-saving equipment can contact DWP’s Customer Service Line at 1-800-DIALDWP (342-5397), or go to www.ladwp.com for more information about their Lifeline Services Program. 

Since energy use does tend to spike during periods of hot weather, the DWP offers a few ways to conserve energy during this heat wave:

  • Turn off lights when not in use.
  • Adjust thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit to reduce energy usage.
  • Limit the use of appliances during peak hours of the day — use washing machines, dishwashers, vacuum cleaners and other heavy appliances during evening hours.
  • Try to avoid cooking during peak hours of the day since it will add to the heat inside the home.
  • Ventilate your home at night by opening windows and doors to clear out the heat and allow cooler air to circulate.

Follow these tips to help beat the heat:

  • Drink plenty of water regularly and often, even if you do not feel thirsty. Attempt to stay hydrated. Persons who have epilepsy; heart, kidney or liver disease; are on fluid-restricted diets; or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake. 
  • Check on family members, seniors, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.
  • Never leave children or pets in closed vehicles.
  • Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun. Consider spending the warmest part of the day in public buildings such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping malls and other community facilities. Circulating air can cool the body by increasing the perspiration rate of evaporation. 
  • Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings or louvers.  
  • Stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available. 
  • Eat well-balanced, light and regular meals. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
  • Limit intake of alcoholic beverages. 
  • Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible. 
  • Protect face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat. 
  • Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat and take frequent breaks. 
  • Slow down and avoid strenuous activity.

EMD Social Media and Information Sites: 

  • Twitter (twitter.com/readyla) 
  • Facebook (facebook.com/readylaemd) 
  • readyla.org 
  • emergency.lacity.org
  • EMD Information Helpline (800) 439-2909 
  • L.A. City 3-1-1 Information Line (8:00 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.)

 

 

Photo Credit: Muffet/Flickr Creative Commons

Heat wave continues in City of Los Angeles

The triple-digit temperatures may worsen air quality.

July 10, 2012  

MEDIA CONTACTS

Chris Ipsen (213) 359-2234

Veronica Hendrix (213) 505-5461

The National Weather Service forecasts that hot conditions will continue across the City of Los Angeles through Thursday, July 12.  Temperatures could reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the San Fernando Valley. Mountain and desert thunderstorms are also possible during the afternoon and evening hours through Friday, July 13. Temperatures are expected to cool down by Friday. 

The low humidity, high temperatures and dry brush around the mountain regions raise fire concerns. Residents living near brush areas should clear the brush around their homes and make sure they have an evacuation and emergency plan in place. Visit readyla.org, the City’s readiness, response and recovery website, for more information. 

The hot and dry conditions associated with heat waves may worsen air quality. If you plan to be outdoors, the risk of heat exhaustion, heat cramps and sunstrokes increases. The Emergency Management Department (EMD) encourages the public to take precautions in order to protect themselves from the effects of the heat in the following ways:

Find a cooling center:

Designated City facilities are used as cooling centers to provide the public with relief from the heat.  City facilities are always open to the public during regular business hours. Those facilities include Recreation and Parks (RAP) facilities, senior citizen centers operated by RAP and City libraries. During periods of high temperatures, the City may extend the hours of such facilities beyond regular business hours. At this time, the City has not extended any facility’s hours beyond normal business hours. 

For more information regarding City facilities, contact the following: 

  • RAP Facilities - hours of operation vary by facility. The public can find specific hours of operation at www.laparks.org. RAP facilities are physically accessible to persons with access and functional needs
  • Library Facilities - hours of operation for libraries vary by facility. The general public should visit www.lapl.org/branches or call (213) 228-7000 for specific hours of operation.
  • City operated senior centers - hours of operation vary by facility. Call (323) 816-6712 or visit http://www.laparks.org/dos/senior/senior.htm

Follow These Tips to Help Beat the Heat:

  • Drink plenty of water regularly and often, even if you do not feel thirsty. Attempt to stay hydrated. Persons who have epilepsy; heart, kidney or liver disease; are on fluid-restricted diets; or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake. 
  • Check on family members, seniors, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.
  • Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
  • Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun. Consider spending the warmest part of the day in public buildings such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping malls and other community facilities. Circulating air can cool the body by increasing the perspiration rate of evaporation. 
  • Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings or louvers.  
  • Stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available. 
  • Eat well-balanced, light and regular meals. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
  • Limit intake of alcoholic beverages. 
  • Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible. 
  • Protect face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat. 
  • Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat and take frequent breaks. 
  • Slow down and avoid strenuous activity.

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) reports no power outages at this time. Power outages can be reported by calling DWP’s Customer Service Line at 1-800-DIALDWP (342-5397). Residents who require power to run medical or other life- saving equipment can contact DWP’s Customer Service Line at 1-800-DIALDWP (342-5397), or go to www.ladwp.com for more information about their Lifeline Services Program. 

EMD Social Media and Information Sites: 

  • Twitter (twitter.com/readyla) 
  • Facebook (facebook.com/readylaemd) 
  • readyla.org 
  • emergency.lacity.org
  • EMD Information Helpline (800) 439-2909

About the Emergency Management Department

In 2000 the Los Angeles City Council and Mayor established, by ordinance, the Emergency Management Department (EMD). EMD is dedicated to leading the City in comprehensive emergency management planning, mitigation and preparation as well as response to and recovery from natural, manmade and accidental incidents of high consequence. 

Photo credit: The Conservation Law Foundation/ Flickr Creative Commons