LAFD Recognizes CA Regional Task Force 9 For Winter Storm Deployment
On Thursday, January 11, 2018, US&R Regional Task Force 9, comprised of 29 individuals along with two K-9 search dogs, were deployed to Santa Barbara and Montecito to assist in search and rescue operations after a major storm deluged the area.
The intense rains dislodged boulders and caused heavy mudflow along hillsides that were scarred by the sprawling Thomas Fire late last year. A number of homes were ripped from their foundations, with some pulled more than half a mile by water and mud before they broke apart. There was a significant death toll caused from massive debris flows that buried homes and cars under a torrent of mud and boulders in Montecito. Approximately 100 homes were destroyed, along with 8 commercial properties, and 300 homes were damaged in the mudslides.
Also, LAFD Strike Team 1001A and 1880C was deployed to the January Storms. They were tasked with search and rescue of 300 structures, structure assessment, evacuation, and performing “disabilities and functional needs” support. Additionally, we sent two search teams that consist of (2) Live Find dogs and (2) Human Remains dogs to perform search and rescue.
In total, the LAFD sent over 85 personnel to assist Ventura County with their search efforts. "We are very proud of all the members assisting the residents in need. Our mission to preserve life and property often takes us out of our jurisdiction, but our immediate response and desire to help is what the LAFD is all about." - Fire Chief Terrazas.
