After the recent Palisades fire, the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) faced serious criticism over its preparedness and response. Fire officials pointed to a significant number of broken fire engines and a shortage of mechanics as key factors that hampered their ability to fight the blaze effectively.
The fire, which started on January 7, 2025, quickly escalated into one of the most destructive disasters in Los Angeles history. Fire Chief Kristin Crowley noted that the department had around 40 engines out of service during the fire. She suggested that if those engines had been operational, the outcome might have been different. The department was unable to deploy enough personnel to high-risk areas as the winds picked up, and they even sent home firefighters who had arrived to assist.
However, a review of the LAFD’s engine work orders revealed that many of the broken engines had been out of service for months or even years. This was not solely due to a lack of mechanics. In fact, the LAFD had other engines available that could have been staffed and deployed prior to the fire. The underlying issue appears to be the aging fleet of fire engines, with more than half of the department’s vehicles operating beyond their recommended lifespans.
According to a recent report, 127 out of 210 fire engines and 29 out of 60 ladder trucks were overdue for replacement. The department has struggled with funding for years, leading to a reliance on older vehicles that are increasingly difficult to maintain. Assistant Chief Peter Hsiao explained that as the fleet ages, repairs become more complicated and time-consuming.
The financial situation has worsened due to rising costs for new fire engines, which have nearly doubled since the pandemic. A new engine that once cost about $775,000 now approaches $1.5 million and can take over three years to build. This has forced the LAFD to depend heavily on reserve engines, which are older and not ideal for front-line service.
Firefighters and union officials have expressed concern about the chronic underfunding of the department. Freddy Escobar, president of the United Firefighters of Los Angeles City, emphasized that the LAFD lacks sufficient funding for mechanics and parts to keep the fleet operational. This situation has persisted for over a decade, with previous reports highlighting the department’s outdated equipment and insufficient maintenance staff.
Despite the challenges, the city has allocated funding for new vehicles. Mayor Karen Bass announced $51 million last year for the purchase of fire engines and ambulances, with an additional $68 million approved for the current budget cycle. However, the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen, as the department continues to grapple with systemic issues.
As the LAFD faces scrutiny following the Palisades fire, officials are under pressure to improve their readiness for future emergencies. The department’s reliance on an aging fleet and the need for better funding and resources are critical issues that must be addressed to ensure the safety of the community.