On Thursday, September 20, at 4:21 AM, 15 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 4 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 2 Arson Units, 1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit, 1 Rehab Unit, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, Los Angeles County Health Hazmat, 2 EMS Battalion Captains, 4 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, and 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, all under the direction of Assistant Chief Timothy Manning responded to a Greater Alarm Structure Fire at 9356 1/2 San Fernando Rd. in Sun Valley.
When Firefighters arrived on scene, they were immediately confronted with heavy fire through the roof of a single-story commercial building, approximately 70' x 125'. As hoselines were being extended into the interior of the structure, it was noted that the building was placarded as potentially having hazardous materials stored inside. A decision was made to withdraw Firefighters from the interior attack and progress into a defensive firefighting effort to contain the spread of the fire and prevent damage surrounding buildings.
Firefighters were able to contain the fire in one hour to the building of origin, doing business as “Active Magnetic Inspection Inc.”, an aircraft parts plating company. LAFD Hazardous Materials teams, in concert with a L.A. County Health Hazardous Material unit are currently evaluating the runoff for possible contaminates. Preliminary tests indicate that there are no chemical hazards. One Firefighter suffered second-degree burns to his hand, was evaluated at Sherman Oaks Hospital, and placed off duty. The cause of the fire is under investigation and the dollar loss is still being tabulated.