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Los Angeles County firefighters are opposing the Prairie Song battery storage project in Acton, citing safety risks associated with energy storage systems (ESS) near residential areas. In a cease-and-desist letter dated January 2, Local 1014 urged fire officials to halt consideration of such projects, emphasizing documented dangers of lithium-ion batteries, including thermal runaway, explosions, and toxic gas release.

The union warns that these risks threaten both firefighters and nearby residents. Fire stations, considered residential under California codes, should not be located near ESS facilities, which could endanger public safety. Local 1014 requests a formal response from fire officials within five business days confirming the rejection of the Prairie Song proposal, as community members see the firefighters' stance as a pivotal moment in their fight against the facility.