Flames, heroes and memories

Re “Hundreds flee as wind drives flames through Griffith Park,” May 9

When I was young, I used to go to Griffith Park regularly with my family. We loved to drive through a park that made us feel as if we had gone into the countryside for a real outing. Even though a park is usually the crown jewel of any world-class city, Griffith Park has fallen into disrepair and is now mostly shut off from the public. I guess it’s just like our schools and streets -- it has taken a back seat to other political interests.

LEE MENTLEY

East Los Angeles

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Let the pundits question the culture and professionalism of Los Angeles’ firefighters -- until a week like this happens. The women and men of the Los Angeles Fire Department were met with scorching weather, blistering winds, terrain that would make an avid hiker blush and a raging brush fire in the nation’s largest municipal park. Firefighters braved the elements and beat back catastrophe in Griffith Park. Question the motives of the rare employee who acts outside of his or her professional scope. We will too. Question the personal biases of the infinitesimal minority who bring unwanted behavior into the work environment. We will too. But remember that, when L.A. burns and L.A.’s firefighters shine, the proud firefighters of Los Angeles serve with distinction and bravery while never questioning your needs.

STEVE TUFTS

Los Angeles

The writer is president of the United Firefighters of Los Angeles City, Local 112.

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Re “A rush to grab pets and wallets,” May 9

The Times’ coverage of the Griffith Park fire provides a clear-cut example of the necessity for household evacuation and financial recovery plans in the land of natural disasters. One Los Feliz resident would not follow neighborhood evacuation calls because his family had not yet come home. An evacuation plan should always include a family meeting location or an out-of-area contact in case the family is separated.

Another 25-year resident thought it would never happen in his backyard -- but it can and does. An analysis of California Department of Forestry data by our organization found that 7.2 million California homes, including more than 6 million in urban areas, were at high risk of wildfire damage. All Californians must prepare themselves and their families against the risk of catastrophic loss, whether it is earthquakes, floods, storms or wildfires.

CANDYSSE MILLER

Los Angeles

The writer is executive director of the Insurance Information Network of California.