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LA County Fire Increases Staffing Due To Red Flag Warning

SANTA CLARITA (CBSLA.com) — The Los Angeles County Fire Department has ramped up staffing Thursday in response to increased fire danger caused by gusty winds and extremely warm temperatures.

Due to a Red Flag warning, the LACFD has staffed 15 additional units, 11 extra engines, nine extra patrols, and seven water tenders. The state of California has also sent a strike team to the Southland.

"They are positioned throughout the county, the Antelope Valley, the Malibu area and Santa Clarita," Capt. Tom Richards said.

Temperatures are expected to range from 90 to 100 degrees Thursday with extremely low humidity, the National Weather Service said.

A Red Flag warning is in effect until 5 p.m. Friday with wind gusts expected to reach 70 to 75 mph in some areas.

"It's our job to get in front of it . . . so with the extra man power and extra patrols we can hopefully spot it earlier," Capt. Richards said.

The LACFD recommends residents remove flammable vegetation within 30 feet of all structures, landscape with drought and fire-resistant plants and to clearly post addresses in front of all structures.

Parking restrictions are in effect for canyons within Los Angeles city limits from 8 a.m. Thursday through 8 a.m. Friday or until further notice, officials said.

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