A coalition of environmental experts and specialized organizations, including the U.S. Coast Guard National Strike Force Pacific Strike Team, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), Republic Services Fire Hazmat, and the Los ANgeles Fire Department was seen inspecting homes in Pacific Palisades on Saturday, January 18, 2025. These inspections are part of ongoing recovery efforts following the catastrophic Palisades Fire, which began on January 7, 2025. The wildfire burned over 23,000 acres, caused at least 27 fatalities, and destroyed more than 12,000 structures, displacing over 100,000 residents across Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The U.S. Coast Guard National Strike Force Pacific Strike Team (PST), recognized globally for its expertise in hazardous substance response and emergency management, brought its specialized skills to the inspections. Alongside them, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency worked to ensure that environmental and public health risks were minimized, consistent with its mission to protect human health and the environment. The Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) assessed properties for contamination and toxic hazards, furthering its mission to protect California’s communities and environment from harmful substances. Republic Services Fire Hazmat, a leader in waste management and hazardous material handling, played a key role in ensuring the safe disposal and recycling of fire-impacted debris. Together, these organizations form a collaborative force dedicated to safeguarding public health, restoring the environment, and helping the community rebuild in the aftermath of the disaster. Their efforts highlight the critical importance of specialized expertise and coordinated action during large-scale recovery operations, providing hope and a foundation for resilience for the affected residents.
Saturday, January 18, 2025
𝗙𝗥𝗢𝗠 𝗔𝗦𝗛𝗘𝗦 𝗧𝗢 𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡: U.S. EPA Leads Coalition Inspecting Palisades Homes After Devastating Fire

Friday, January 17, 2025
LAPD Therapy Dogs Bring Comfort to Military Police and Firefighters Amid Palisades Fire Recovery

Tuesday, January 14, 2025
Police Arrest Suspects Roaming Evacuation Zones: Burglary Tools, Fake Plates, and Drugs Seized
Santa Monica, CA – Over a seven-day period, Santa Monica Police Department officers made more than 40 arrests in the Palisades Fire evacuation zones, with charges ranging from burglary and possession of burglary tools to narcotics violations and outstanding warrants. Below is a brief account of key arrests made during the operation:
Police Chief Batista commended the officers for their vigilance and professionalism, noting that their proactive work significantly reduced crime in the affected neighborhoods. The department, supported by mutual aid partners and the National Guard, continues to enforce curfews and prevent unauthorized access to the evacuation zones.
Residents are reminded to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

Friday, January 10, 2025
National Guard Military Police Deployed in Santa Monica to Assist SMPD Amid Palisades Fire Emergency

Thursday, January 9, 2025
Santa Monica Issues Nighttime Curfew and Emergency Order as Palisades Fire Escalates
SANTA MONICA, Calif. — In response to the escalating impacts of the Palisades Fire, the city of Santa Monica has issued a local emergency order, including a nighttime curfew in mandatory evacuation zones and other critical measures to support emergency efforts.
City Manager David White signed the order late Wednesday, and the Santa Monica City Council is expected to convene a special session within seven days to officially certify it. The curfew will be in effect from sunset to sunrise in areas under a mandatory evacuation order, aiding law enforcement in safeguarding affected neighborhoods.
“The Palisades Fire has placed nearly 2,500 households in Santa Monica under mandatory evacuation orders, with over 8,000 additional households under a voluntary evacuation warning,” said Mayor Lana Negrete. “This emergency order ensures that first responders have the necessary tools to protect residents, manage the crisis, and support eventual recovery.”
Santa Monica Police, along with mutual aid law enforcement agencies, have been actively assisting in evacuations and protecting property throughout the city. “The local emergency order enhances our ability to secure evacuated areas,” said White. “It helps prevent unauthorized individuals from entering these zones, especially those who may seek to exploit the situation.”
Key provisions of the local emergency order include:
- Temporary school relocation: Impacted schools may operate in non-residential zones.
- Parking enforcement suspension: Preferential parking rules are suspended for residents hosting evacuees.
- Price gouging protection: Emergency and recovery goods and services are protected from price gouging.
- Eviction restrictions: Residential tenants providing temporary shelter to evacuees and their pets are shielded from eviction.
- Construction halt: Non-essential construction in evacuation areas is temporarily prohibited, with extended deadlines granted for ongoing projects.
Residents can stay updated on evacuation orders, available services, and recovery resources by visiting SantaMonica.gov.

Thursday, January 2, 2025
𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗥𝗢𝗥𝗜𝗦𝗠 𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗣𝗢𝗡𝗦𝗘: Santa Monica Police Fortifies Pier with New High-Tech Barricades
In response to the horrific act of terrorism in New Orleans, the Santa Monica Police Department has increased its security presence across the city and taken proactive steps to ensure public safety.
On January 2, 2024, police officers, in collaboration with Jovani Iraheta, Chief Engineer of Meridian Rapid Defense Group, installed the Archer Beam Gate System at the Santa Monica Pier. This state-of-the-art barricade is designed to enhance public safety by preventing unauthorized vehicles from entering crowded areas, ensuring the protection of pedestrians while slowing vehicles to a safe stop.
In a statement, the Santa Monica Police Department extended their condolences to the families affected by the tragedy and reassured the community of their commitment to safety. Chief Batista emphasized the department’s heightened visible presence in high-traffic areas, continuous monitoring for potential threats, and collaboration with regional and federal law enforcement agencies.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. “Public safety takes all of us,” the department noted, highlighting the importance of community cooperation during these times.
Santa Monica remains united in its dedication to maintaining a secure environment for all

Wednesday, January 1, 2025
Hanukkah’s Grand Finale: Menorah Lighting Brightens Santa Monica Pier on New Year’s Day
On Wednesday, January 1, 2025, the Santa Monica Pier came alive with light and celebration as Rabbi Isaac Levitansky of Chabad in Simcha Monica led the menorah lighting ceremony on the eighth and final night of Hanukkah. The event, organized by the Chabad of Santa Monica, marked the culmination of the Festival of Lights, drawing families and community members together for a moment of unity, reflection, and joy.
The evening began with an energetic welcome, including a message of hope and resilience. Attendees heard an inspiring Hanukkah message originally written by the Lubavitcher Rebbe in 1980, emphasizing the festival's themes of triumph, illumination, and the enduring power of light over darkness. Rabbi Levitansky highlighted the spiritual significance of the eighth night, symbolizing the supernatural and encouraging all to persist in spreading goodness and light in the world.
In addition to the menorah lighting, the celebration featured lively music, dancing, doughnuts, chocolate gelt, and the appearance of the beloved Dreidel Mascot. Attendees were reminded to continue the tradition at home by lighting their own menorahs and performing the mitzvah of spreading light in their households and beyond.
The event was not just a celebration of Hanukkah but a call to action, urging everyone to embrace the holiday's lessons of perseverance and faith. Rabbi Levitansky's message underscored the importance of adding positivity to the world, creating a ripple effect of light and peace for all. A special acknowledgment was given to the Santa Monica Police Department at the event.
As the sun set over the Pacific Ocean, the glowing menorah illuminated the pier, serving as a beacon of hope and unity. Attendees shared in the joy of the occasion, marking the end of Hanukkah with blessings, prayers, and heartfelt wishes for a brighter future. The event concluded with an invitation for all to enjoy doughnuts, take photos by the menorah, and continue the celebration at home.
Happy Hanukkah to all!
