FF's Capture An Elusive Alligator In Los Angeles

[x635 4,066]

Animal Assist

25820 S. Vermont Av.

Harbor City

Thursday, May 24, 2007

TIME: 3:27 PM

INCIDENT #: 0814

On Thursday, May 24, 2007 at 3:27 PM, 2 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 1 LAFD Rescue Ambulance, 1 Battalion Chief Officer Command Team, Park Rangers, Animal Regulation, Rec and Parks, Fish and Game and Councilwoman Hahn, all responded to an Animal Assist at 25820 S. Vermont Av. in the Harbor City area.

Apparently, an Alligator had been seen sunbathing in a cordoned off area of the Ken Mallory Regional Park over the last three weeks. The "gator" had no intentions of leaving this "well catered" area, today, dining on a whole chicken. Joggers found the "gator" sunning after the exquisite meal, and put in a call to the office of Janice Hahn. Councilwoman Hahn just happened to be meeting with representatives from the Zoo, Animal Regulation and Rec and Parks, discussing the possible capture of "Reggie" the following week! Meeting adjourned ! A 911 call was made for the "experts."

All was a buzz at the OCD Dispatch Center after receiving the 911 call to "assist Animal Regulation in the capture of an alligator." Once on scene, Fire Department resources observed two Park Rangers trying to subdue a very large alligator. Calling for the use of technical equipment, a roll of duct tape, the animals snout and tail were secured, much to his disapproval. With much hissing, most likely upset for leaving the other half of that chicken, the "gator" was packaged up utilizing the durable plastic SKED stretcher, part of the SKED rescue system for confined space or technical rescues. Fire personnel facilitated the transport of the alligator to the Animal Regulations vehicle, which then transported him to the L.A. Zoo. Having reached Rock Star status, "Reggie" arrived at the L.A. Zoo, complete with cheering section and entourage.

Who needs "alligator wranglers" and so called "gator experts" to capture "Reggie" when you have the men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department and also save a couple bucks!

###

d'Lisa Davies

Firefighter/Specialist

Public Service Officer

Emergency Public Information Center

Los Angeles Fire Department

[x635 4,066]

And here's the video:

http://www.yahoo.com/s/588964

The elusive Alligator is reptile royalty in LA!