Inside the Palisades Fire. Untold Frontline Stories.
Inside the Palisades Fire. Untold Frontline Stories.
A firsthand account of the Palisades Fire: the response, the sacrifice, and the effort to keep the public informed during one of the most destructive disasters in Los Angeles history.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
ERIK SCOTT
LAFD PIO, Author, & Public Speaker
Erik Scott is a Los Angeles Fire Captain and is the lead Public Information Officer during major emergencies across the region. During the Palisades Fire, he was part of the effort to provide clear, timely information to the public while thousands of firefighters, pilots, and first responders worked to protect lives and homes.
In Calm Amidst Chaos, Erik shares the untold stories behind the headlines, from the fireground to the press briefings, while honoring the firefighters, residents, and community members who faced the disaster together.
“Captain Erik Scott has a gift for humanizing crises—his steady communication kept Angelenos informed and reassured when they needed it most. Calm Amidst Chaos is a powerful reflection and moving story of that same grace under pressure.”
Eric Garcetti — Former Mayor of Los Angeles, and U.S. Ambassador to India
“I’ve served alongside Erik Scott for more than two decades. He’s a firefighter’s firefighter, a credible officer who leads with both head and heart. Calm Amidst Chaos honors every first responder who has ever stood between danger and the people they protect.”
Frank Lima — General Secretary-Treasurer, International Association of Fire Fighters
“When breaking news unfolds in Los Angeles, Captain Erik Scott is the voice journalists trust. Calm Amidst Chaos takes you behind the cameras to show how leadership and empathy can save lives.”
Robert Kovacik — Anchor & Reporter, NBC Los Angeles
“I drove through the fire with my four-month-old son in the backseat and later worked nonstop to help our community find reliable information. During that chaos, Captain Erik Scott’s updates were our constant. His clarity, consistency, and willingness to share what we needed, often before we asked, helped steady an entire community.”
Larry Vein — Founder, Pali Strong
Media & Interviews
Media &
Interviews
Erik Scott has appeared on local and national media discussing the Palisades Fire and the story behind Calm Amidst Chaos. These conversations highlight the response to the fire, the effort to keep the public informed during the crisis, and the people who faced the disaster together.
Spectrum News SoCal
KTLA
The Baker Podcast
Erik brings firsthand experience and practical insight to audiences ranging from professional organizations to community groups. He is available for speaking engagements, panels, and podcast appearances on topics including crisis leadership, media communication, and resilience.
WHAT READERS ARE SAYING
National Correspondent Matt Gutman
Available Now
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