The US Forest Service increased the clearance from 30 feet to 100 feet so that federal rules are in line with Los Angeles County Fire Department recommendations, according to LA County Supervisor Michael Antonovich.
“It is essential that we take as many precautionary measures as possible to prevent another Station Fire,” Antonovich said.
The Station Fire, which began in August, was caused by arson. It was not fully contained until October. More than 160,570 acres of forestland burned and 209 structures were destroyed, including 89 homes. The fire started in the Angeles National Forest near the the Angeles Crest Highway (State Highway 2).
Two firefighters, Arnaldo Quinones & Tedmund D. Hall, were killed on Aug. 30 while attempting to escape the flames when their fire truck plunged off a cliff.
Another change approved by the US Forest Service is the nighttime use of firefighting planes and helicopters along with daytime use of SuperScoopers on National Forest fires. This is the third change in federal policies after the fire.
Federal officials announced the change last week, and Antonovich hailed their decision to accept recommendations from L.A. County firefighters.
“This year's drought conditions make the changes even more necessary,” he added.
A 300-foot clear zone was also ordered around public safety radio towers, TV and FM transmitters and astronomical installations on Mt. Wilson, which were almost destroyed during the Station Fire.
