Firefighters in Action – A Day to Remember in Downtown LA

January 16, 2025 Rosalyn A. Kahn Events 0
Beauty in the mass of disaster On January 8, 2025, traveling south on the 405, merging onto the 101 at Sepulveda and Ventura Blvd, I looked east to see the fires raging in the Palisades. Tall buildings along Sepulveda and Ventura Blvd are framed against the thick smoke. The scene shows the contrast between the buildings and the chaos of the fire, a reminder of nature’s resilience even in disaster
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Just the other day, I witnessed a surreal scene outside the Sheraton Grand  Hotel in Los Angeles. My first thought? What’s happening now? Seeing 15 fire engines, with three facing south and the rest lined up diagonally, blocking Hope Street between 7th and 8th, was both daunting and humbling.

It’s one thing to see flames on TV or social media, but standing there, watching the firefighters work tirelessly, I truly understood the magnitude of their bravery. Behind the fire hoses are real people—heroes—putting their lives on the line.

Sunfire Around 4 p.m. on January 10, 2025, in Burbank and Murrieta, the sun blends with a tower of smoke. It’s a striking moment where nature and the chaos of a burning horizon meet. The sunlight mixes with the flames, creating a surreal scene that’s both beautiful and tragic.

I took a moment to personally thank a few of the firefighters staying at the hotel. Their response? A humble, “We’re just doing our job.” That simple reply said so much about their character and dedication.

In LA County alone, 17 states, Canada, and Mexico have joined forces to combat these fires. Over 7,500 emergency personnel, including 1,040 firefighters and 260 fire engines, have been deployed through the State Fire and Rescue Mutual Aid System.

I saw engines from places like Butte County, Weed County, Plumas Eureka Fire Department, Denver Fire, and even Las Vegas Fire. These heroes were supported by water tenders, helicopters, bulldozers, and specialized crews.

Ready, Set, Go A line of fire trucks stands outside the Sheraton Grand Hotel on Hope Street in downtown Los Angeles, ready for action. They represent the calm before the storm, prepared to respond at any moment. It’s a tribute to the dedication of first responders who stay vigilant, ensuring safety for everyone. Photo taken Sunday night, January 12th, around 8 p.m.

It’s inspiring to see communities come together—firefighters from Oregon, Utah, Washington, Idaho, and beyond. Many of these brave individuals bring experience from battling the Woolsey Fire in Southern California and the Camp Fire in Northern California.

Just heard the latest—the fires have now expanded to Ventura and Oxnard. The situation continues to evolve, and more support is needed. Contact the following organizations to offer your support:

  • Dream Center
  • Friends in Deed
  • Los Angeles Regional Food Bank
  • YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles
  • La Cañada Congregational Church
  • LA Galaxy
  • LA Fire Mutual Aid Resources

Let’s not forget the families and colleagues impacted by these events. If you’d like to help, here are some ways to get involved:

To everyone who has ever been impacted by wildfires—whether directly or indirectly—thank you for your strength and resilience. Let’s continue to honor these firefighter heroes.

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