Universal Studios Thanks Fictitious Fire Department For Support

(Pic credit: Mike Meadows, via LAFD News & Information blog.)

Universal Studios Hollywood has sent the word out that it's "open for business" and that none of the theme park's rides have been affected -- well, other than the tram ride, which has incorporated the fire (and obviously no longer visits the charred King Kong) as part of the experience.

The park has begun airing radio ads promoting the fact -- but I was struck by this: In the ads, Universal thanks "The Southern California Fire Department" for its heroics.

Southern California Fire Department? No such agency exists. The Los Angeles County Fire Department battled the blaze, with a huge assist from the Los Angeles Fire Department. Actually, I'll let the LAFD's d'Lisa Davies describe who all came out to assist:

On Sunday, June 1, 2008 at 4:50 AM, 31 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 9 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Arson Unit, 1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit, 2 Rehab Units, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 4 Helicopters, 4 EMS Battalion Captains, 7 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, Emergency Air 1, Foam Tenders 60 & 100, the Heavy Equipment and Dozer Company, Supply & Maintenance Mobile Mechanic, 1 CERT Coordinator, under the direction of Agency Representative Assistant Chief Greg West, responded to assist the L.A. County Fire Department, to a Backlot Soundstage Fire at 3900 Lankershim Bl. in the Studio City area.

Guess "Southern California Fire Department" was easier to say.