WASHINGTON—In light of the increased focus on the increasing proliferation of fire as a threat to community safety and security, U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas today announced the appointment of Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Kristin M. Crowley to the Homeland Security Advisory Council (HSAC). A 22-year veteran of the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD), Crowley is the first woman and the first LGBTQ Fire Chief to lead the LAFD. She will be sworn in at the HSAC’s next meeting on September 14, 2023.
“Chief Crowley is well versed in the dual challenges firefighters face as first responders and as a critical line of defense in responding to extreme weather events like wildfires,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “DHS will benefit tremendously from her experience, as well as her professionalism and dedication to the workforce, which are vital to safeguarding communities across our country. I am honored to appoint Chief Crowley to the Homeland Security Advisory Council.”
Once sworn in, Chief Crowley will become the second Fire Chief to sit on the HSAC, demonstrating that fires are increasingly a threat to homeland security.
“…demonstrating that fires are increasingly a threat to homeland security.”
It doesn’t seem to have been a threat that anyone at the top took very seriously.