Long Beach
Fire Department

 The wharf fire in the Port of Los Angeles (POLA) is having impacts on Long Beach.  Our Fire Department has responded to calls for mutual aid and has sent resources to assist.  The POLA fire is underneath a warehouse on the wharf, and is very difficult to extinguish due to the building materials and location.  The Fire Department was requested to assist last night and the fire continues to burn in some sections this morning.   Long Beach Fire Department continues to operate at the fire and the operation is expected to continue throughout the day.  The Long Beach Police Department was requested for perimeter security. 

 Additionally, smoke from the Fire is impacting Port of Long Beach operations.  Three (3) out of the six (6) cargo container terminals in the Port of Long Beach have shut down operations due to smoke plumes from the Port of LA fire. 

 The Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services is issuing a smoke advisory today for portions of coastal and West Long Beach due to the wharf fire.  In any area impacted by smoke or the smell of smoke, residents should avoid any vigorous outdoor activity.  This is especially advised for residents with respiratory or heart disease, the elderly, and children who should all remain indoors today in these impacted areas.  Windows and doors in impacted areas should be kept closed.  The situation is being continuously monitored today Tuesday Sept. 23rd, 2014 in coordination with the South Coast Air Quality Management District. 

This information is preliminary and is intended for early information use rather than being a formal investigative report.