David Yamahata brings 36.5 years of experience as a firefighter and Chief Officer to The Safe Community Project and MySafe:LA. Retiring as Chief Deputy of Emergency Operations of the Los Angeles Fire Department (2nd in command), David’s career covered a wide range of expertise. After his initial promotion to Apparatus Operator, he moved quickly through the ranks as Captain, Battalion Chief, Assistant Chief, and finally to the number two spot directly under the Fire Chief. David’s experience includes field operations, dispatch, employee relations, chief of staff, and division command.

David also brings extensive leadership expertise to MySafe:LA. This includes positions with the National Fire Academy, IAFC, LAFD Chief Officer’s Association, L.A. City Employees Asian American Association, Little Tokyo Public Safety Association, and membership in the LAFD Historical Society. David holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from UCLA and a Master’s Degree in Emergency Services Administration from CSULB.