The recent wildfires in Los Angeles neighborhood of Palisades have created a sense of urgency among residents and policymakers regarding fire safety and management. With the devastating loss of more than 10,000 homes and businesses and the tragic deaths of 16 individuals in the January fires, it is crucial to examine the underlying factors contributing to this crisis. Besides wind, four critical elements stand out: the suspension of prescribed burns, the dangers posed by fires related to homelessness, and significant budget cuts impacting the fire department’s operations, and water supply.

The Suspension of Prescribed Burns

In October 2024, the U.S. Forest Service suspended prescribed burns across California, citing the need to conserve resources for potential wildfire responses. While the motives behind this decision may be understandable, experts such as Stanford's Michael Wara warned that halting controlled burns—especially during the optimal fall season—could exacerbate long-term fire risks. Controlled burns are vital for managing wildfire risks by reducing flammable underbrush and creating defensible spaces around communities. Without them, California faces an increased threat from wildfires, with the risk of larger, uncontrolled blazes rising significantly.

Homeless Encampments and Fire Risks

Compounding the fire crisis is the alarming increase in fires ignited by homeless encampments. In 2023, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported 13,909 fires started by the homeless population, nearly double the figures from just three years prior. A troubling trend has emerged where the homeless tap into city electrical systems for makeshift power sources, significantly heightening the danger and leading to fires that can spread rapidly to nearby structures.

During the wildfires, a homeless man was tackled by citizens who claimed to have seen him using a “flamethrower” to start blazes near the area where one of the latest wildfires broke out. The unidentified suspect was seen riding a bicycle in Woodland Hills, setting fire to several old Christmas trees and garbage cans just as the Kenneth Fire began. Although he was taken into custody by police, he was released a few hours later due to insufficient evidence for arson charges, according to LAPD Assistant Chief Dominic Choi. As the city grapples with extensive damage from the fires, homeless individuals have been caught setting blazes yet remain uncharged.

As the homelessness crisis persists, residents feel increasingly vulnerable. Community members have expressed their fears, and while city officials recognize the challenges of addressing homelessness, urgent action is necessary. The overlapping issues of homelessness and fire safety demand immediate attention and effective solutions focused on ensuring safety for all.

The Impact of Budget Cuts on Fire Services

Adding another layer of complexity, funding for the Los Angeles Fire Department was reduced by $17.6 million in the 2024-25 fiscal year compared to the previous year. Fire Chief Kristin Crowley outlined in a December 4 budget document how these cuts negatively impacted the department's ability to maintain core operations, drastically reducing overtime hours and limiting preparedness for large-scale emergencies. With fewer resources available for brush clearance inspections and residential safety checks, the potential for wildfires and fires related to encampments has only worsened.

Critics argue that policymakers must prioritize investments in fire management and safety, especially given the increasing threats posed by climate change and the growing number of homeless encampments. The aftermath of the January fires highlights how the consequences of inadequate funding and planning can be catastrophic.

Lack of Water Resources

A 117-million-gallon reservoir in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles, was out of service due to repairs when the Palisades Fire started, limiting the water supply for firefighting efforts. Fire hydrants dried up during the response. California Governor Gavin Newsom initially reported to President Biden that the water shortage was due to power being cut off to pumping stations and called for actions against misinformation by President-elect Trump and others. Then the New York Times broke this root cause of the shortage story, followed by Newsom calling for an investigation of his own state officials' actions into the water supply issues and the reservoir's unavailability.

A Call for Comprehensive Solutions

The tragic fires in Los Angeles are not merely the result of natural disasters but also point to systemic failures in policies and resource management. As we confront the intertwined issues of controlled burn suspensions, homelessness, and the allocation of water and fire department resources, it is imperative that policymakers act decisively. Solutions must include effective wildfire management strategies, adequate funding for fire services, and meaningful measures to address the negative impacts of homelessness, ensuring safety for all community members.

By addressing these contributing factors with urgency and foresight, we can strive towards a more resilient Los Angeles, prepared for future challenges while protecting both its residents and environment. The time for action is now.