Ports and Critical Infrastructure

A CBS Los Angeles investigation reports extensive maintenance and capability issues across Los Angeles Fire Department fireboats safeguarding the Port of Los Angeles, citing internal documents and an LAFD report to the fire commission last week that the reserve apparatus out‑of‑service rate ‘consistently exceeds 95%.’ A firefighter whistleblower says Fireboat 1 has been down for repairs since January and Fireboat 2 lists 19 problems, including a nonfunctional engine and crane, raising concerns about the port’s readiness after a recent container‑ship blaze and recalling a 2014 wharf fire.