Los Angeles Fire Department Fails to Notify DWP of Fire Hydrant Repairs
In a recent turn of events, the Los Angeles Fire Department fell short in sharing crucial information with the city’s Department of Water and Power regarding the urgent need for repairs on over 1,000 fire hydrants. The Fire Department had been aware of these issues for several months but did not inform DWP until mid-February. This revelation came to light following a devastating fire in Palisades on January 7, which left thousands of homes destroyed and firefighters struggling with low water pressure.
Inspection Oversight and Surprise Discovery
City records and officials disclosed that the Fire Department had identified the damaged hydrants during routine inspections leading up to the Palisades fire. However, it was only on February 12 when KCBS-TV reported that LAFD had compiled a list of 1,350 fire hydrants in dire need of repairs. Some of these issues had been flagged as early as January 2024, as revealed by the list obtained through a public records request.
The discovery of the lapse in communication between LAFD and DWP sparked surprise and concern within the Department of Water and Power. DWP heavily relies on the Fire Department to conduct annual inspections of the city’s approximately 66,000 fire hydrants. Despite receiving an annual report from LAFD in August, no hydrants were marked for repairs. This lack of communication became evident post-Palisades fire when DWP repeatedly stated they had not been informed of any damaged hydrants.
Collaborative Efforts and Ongoing Repairs
Amidst the confusion and miscommunication, both DWP and LAFD have been working diligently to rectify the situation. DWP, responsible for the maintenance of the city’s fire hydrants, has already taken steps to address the repairs. With over 200 hydrants already fixed as of the latest update, the department is committed to ensuring the safety and functionality of these vital resources.
Despite the challenges faced, DWP remains optimistic about the future. Chief Executive and General Manager Janisse Quiñones highlighted ongoing efforts to establish a more robust quality control process in collaboration with LAFD. The goal is to prevent similar oversights and missteps in the future, ensuring that the city has a reliable network of working fire hydrants.
As the city continues to recover from the aftermath of the Palisades fire, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of effective communication and collaboration between city departments. By learning from past mistakes and implementing proactive measures, Los Angeles can strive towards a safer and more resilient community.
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