Disaster at AT&T site in Gardena: Fire leads to 911 service outage, cellphone, internet disruptions
In the early hours of 2022, a significant fire broke out at an AT&T communications center located on South Vermont Avenue, Gardena, California. The fire, which lasted for approximately five hours, affected a communications building and caused a partial telecommunications outage in the surrounding area [1].
The fire, which started as a trash fire, reportedly spread to the communications building, causing damage to lead-acid batteries, electronics, batteries, and power systems for telecommunications equipment [1]. Despite the extensive damage, no injuries were reported as a result of the incident [1].
The fire caused a brief disruption to parts of the 911 system, but regular phone lines seemed to remain unaffected, albeit with intermittent 911 calls [1]. In an emergency situation, AT&T encourages customers to use their cell phones to call 9-1-1 [1].
Local residents were asked to shelter in place due to the fire. Over 100 firefighters, including a Hazmat team, responded to the incident. The fire resulted in a partial roof collapse [1]. Firefighters will remain onsite overnight to ensure no additional issues occur [1].
The telecommunications outage affected nearly 2,000 home phone or internet customers in the area, with some mobile phone customers in the area also experiencing limited impact [1]. In response, AT&T has been working with other providers to help address these service issues [1].
AT&T has expressed their gratitude for the quick response of the Los Angeles Fire Department. They also confirmed that all their employees are safe [1]. The official investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.
[1] Source: Local News Outlet, Date: [Insert Date]
- The communication center fire in Gardena, California, originated as a trash fire and later affected the telecommunications building, causing damage to lead-acid batteries, electronics, and power systems, incidentally leading to a partial roof collapse and a telecommunications outage that impacted nearly 2,000 home phone or internet customers in Los Angeles.
- The fire department comprising over 100 firefighters, including a Hazmat team, swiftly responded to the AT&T communications center fire in Los Angeles, and while there were no reported injuries, the incident led to a brief disruption to parts of the 911 system, affecting some mobile phone users as well.
