Training Modules Developed for Flood Preparedness

As local emergency preparedness events are being conducted to prepare the public for flood and debris flow conditions in post-burn areas, LACoFD personnel are being trained for what to expect as well. “Mud and Debris Flows: First Responder Awareness & Safety Considerations” was conducted by USAR Fire Captain Larry Collins at Fire Station 82 in La Canada Flintridge, with Battalion Chief Bart Matta and personnel from Fire Stations 82, 19, 63, 66, 74, and USAR 103 all present. The course is one of two separate training modules being developed by Special Operations, with another class designed for chief officers. The classroom training includes dramatic photos of historic mud and debris flow events from County archives to better prepare firefighters and foresters for what might be expected in and around the Station Fire burn areas. The instruction is based on previous work by Collins and Battalion Chief Terry DeJournett, when official Departmental mud and debris flow response procedures were still young. “Mud flowing after the Old Topanga Fire in 1994 caused up to take another look at our strategy,” Collins says. The terrain around the Station Fire areas is considered to be the worst in terms of mud and debris flow hazards than any other place in North America. Pictured is mud flow from last night in La Canada Flintridge. (Picture from middletownjournal)