LAUREL CANYON—As of August 7, there have been two fires along Laurel Canyon Boulevard within a span of just four days.
The fires come one week after California Governor Jerry Brown declared a state of emergency regarding the recent forest fires ravaging the state. At that time, Brown mobilized the California National Guard, a federally funded military force, to help with containment efforts.
The first fire occurred on Monday, August 3, at 2898 North Laurel Canyon Blvd, just down the street from the Laurel Canyon Dog Park. The fire was reported around 11:22 a.m., and, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department, was extinguished a little under an hour later at 12:20 p.m. No property damage or injuries were reported as a result of that fire.
The second fire occurred very early on Friday, August 7. It began at about 1:20 a.m. in a residential home located on the 3600 block of Laurel Canyon. The LAFD reported that the fire was put out in approximately 30 minutes. No injuries were reported, but the fire damaged the house’s attic and garage. In the garage, flames severely damaged a Bentley automobile as well.
These fires have been increasingly common in the Hollywood Hills and Studio City areas, where the dry land and arid climate increase fire risk. On August 1, 75 firefighters and air support were necessary to contain and extinguish a Sherman Oaks fire. In July, a Topanga Canyon home was completely destroyed in a two alarm fire. In the wake of the July fire, the local community came together to offer donations and support for the family of four who owned the house.
Governor Brown has mandated that all state agencies and organizations employ actions and measures that are consistent with the direction of the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services and the State Emergency Plan. He also recommends that all citizens should heed the advice of emergency officials in order to protect their safety.
