The Explosive History of “Emergency!” – A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Iconic TV Show

The 1970s television show “Emergency!” captivated audiences with its dramatic rescues and high-stakes emergencies. But beyond the fictionalized world of paramedics and firefighters, the show had a real-world impact, particularly in its use of practical effects and its collaboration with the city of Compton, California. One notable episode, “Survival on Charter #220,” showcased a spectacular plane crash and subsequent explosions, raising questions about how such scenes were filmed in the heart of a major metropolitan area.

The answer lies in a unique partnership between the show’s producers and the Compton Community Redevelopment Agency. The agency was looking to demolish several dilapidated buildings to make way for new development. The “Emergency!” production team, in need of a location for their explosive scenes, saw a mutually beneficial opportunity. This collaboration allowed the show to create realistic disaster scenarios while simultaneously aiding in urban renewal efforts.

Alt: A dramatic still from the “Emergency!” episode “Survival on Charter #220” depicting a simulated plane crash with debris and smoke amidst damaged buildings in Compton, California.

The pre-production process involved a surprising twist. Before the destruction could begin, the condemned buildings were given a temporary facelift. New paint, landscaping, and interior repairs were made to prepare for scenes set before the disaster. This ironic beautification led to inquiries from passersby about renting the soon-to-be-demolished properties.

The scale of the production was immense. A crew of 100 people, along with $80,000 (equivalent to approximately $315,000 in 2016) worth of special effects, were employed. The process involved meticulously placing airplane wreckage, strategically positioning damaged cars, and setting up elaborate systems for controlled fires and explosions.

The most spectacular effect involved rigging a two-story house with hundreds of gallons of gasoline, plastic explosives, and dynamite. The resulting explosion sent a fireball soaring over 100 feet into the air. Precautions were taken, such as having a glass company on standby to repair any window damage caused by the blast, which proved necessary as several nearby homes and a church suffered broken windows.

Alt: Behind-the-scenes photo from the “Emergency!” TV show depicting a controlled explosion on the set in Compton, California, with crew members visible in the foreground observing the stunt.

The filming took place at the intersection of Laurel and S. Willowbrook in Compton. However, due to the subsequent redevelopment, this intersection no longer exists. A portion of Laurel Street was removed and transformed into a smaller alleyway or driveway. The former location is now situated east of S. Willowbrook near Compton City Hall.

While the collaboration between “Emergency!” and Compton proved successful in creating dramatic television and facilitating urban renewal, it also raises questions about the environmental impact of such large-scale special effects, particularly in a region known for its air pollution challenges. Whether the production obtained necessary permits or faced any fines for open burning remains unclear. Regardless, the story of “Survival on Charter #220” provides a fascinating glimpse into the behind-the-scenes realities of creating compelling television and the sometimes unexpected partnerships that make it possible.