A fire broke out today at a recycling yard in Atwater Village, sending flames and plumes of smoke skyward near the Golden State (5) and Ventura (134) freeways and forcing crews to pour water on the flames from the perimeter of the blaze.
The fire was reported about 5:20 p.m. at 4560 Doran St., according to the Los Angeles Fire Department.
That address corresponds to American Reclamation Inc., described on its website as ``a family-owned waste collection and recycling company that has been operating for over 50 years.''
Nearly 80 firefighters battled the blaze from a defensive posture, using hose streams to ``surround and drown'' the flames, Nicholas Prange of the LAFD said.
The firefight continued more than 90 minutes after the blaze was reported.
There were no immediate reports of injuries or structures threatened but crews would likely be involved in an extended operation, Prange said.
Residents and those at area businesses were advised to stay indoors with doors and windows closed. Motorists were advised to turn off their air conditioners or modify settings to recirculate cabin air.