Sam DiGiovanna is a 35-year fire service veteran. He started with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, served as Fire Chief at the Monrovia Fire Department and currently serves as Chief at the Verdugo Fire Academy in Glendale.
The Latest
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Safety Tips to Know When Winds Pick Up in Southern California
Fire danger is not the only hazard we have to concern ourselves with during high winds and red flag warnings. Strong winds can cause considerable damage on their own, even without fires.
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Need Some Motivation to Remove Your Christmas Tree? Here Are Some Fire Facts
We have had little rain and a lot of Santa Ana dry winds drying Christmas trees out faster than normal. Its important to dispose of them sooner than later.
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After the Fire: What to Know When It Rains in Wildfire Burn Areas
The danger from wildfires doesn’t end when the flames go out. Even one modest rainfall after a fire can cause a deadly landslide.
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Fire Prevention Week: Serving Up Safety in the Kitchen
The National Fire Protection Association, the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 95 years, has announced “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen as the theme for Fire Prevention Week.
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After the Fires: Preparing for the Slide Dangers and Flooding
Hillsides stripped of vegetation are prone to slides that can carry trees and other debris. Here are some tips from Chief Sam. Be prepared to evacuate. Listen to local authorities and leave if you are told to evacuate. Decide in advance where you would go in case you can’t return home for weeks or months. Inspect: Look around home...
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Wildfires FAQ: When It's Time to Evacuate, Remember These Tips
Southern California is facing triple-digit heat this weekend and heightened concerns about the rapid spread of brush fires. Residents should be prepared and have plans set in place. If by chance you are near a wildfire, you may be asked to evacuate. Here are some things you should know if you find yourself in that situation: When should I leave?…
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Fourth of July Safety: What to Know in a Year Without Large-Scale Holiday Events
With Covid-19 forcing cancellation of large-scale events, many of the nation’s public fireworks displays and Fourth of July parades have been called off for 2020. Unfortunately, this will increase the use of more dangerous and deadly illegal fireworks as well as the “safe and sane” fireworks that many community organizations will be supporting and selling. Remember, though safe and sane,...
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How to Protect the Most Vulnerable Parts of Your Home From Wildfires
A brush fire started in the hills above the Orange County coast and quickly burned uphill into a neighborhood, burning at least 20 homes this week. It is a stark reminder of the threat posed to neighborhoods by fast-moving wildfires. Residents should be prepared for a continued threat from wildfires as we enter the hot and dry summer months. Below…
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Caught in the Middle of Civil Unrest: Safety Tips
Like any type of incident, preparedness is key. Knowing you and your family is prepared and safe will bring peace of mind. Here are some tips if you find yourself in the middle of civil unrest and are concerned for your safety. Before hitting the road, keep informed on conditions through news and your own agency. If you become...
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Warm Weather Tips: Your Stay-Cool Strategy for Extreme Heat
Temperatures can soar any time of year in Southern California. So, how are you going to stay cool? Ice cubes, Ice cream or Ice water are certainly what we need with the heat wave It is important to keep your cool during this dangerous hot spell, and here are some suggestions. Stay hydrated! The more hydrated you are, the more…
