April 9, 2009 - Fire Chief Brian Crawford attends Governor’s Press Conference to unveil Louisiana’s Urban Search and Rescue Initiative

These USAR Task Force Teams will be stationed in key-areas throughout the State

Today, Fire Chief Brian A. Crawford traveled to Louisiana’s State Capital to attend the Governor’s Press Conference with other officials as Governor Bobby Jindal unveiled his plan for Louisiana’s Urban Search and Rescue Initiative. Governor Jindal’s plan includes three (3) Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Task Force teams. These USAR Task Force Teams will be stationed in key-areas throughout the State -- USAR Task Force Team 1 will be stationed in New Orleans, USAR Task Force Team 2 will be stationed in Baton Rouge, and USAR Task Force Team 3 will be stationed in Shreveport/Bossier. In all, $1.3 million dollars has been dedicated and ear-marked for Louisiana’s USAR initiative.

The Shreveport/Bossier USAR Task Force Team 3, with oversight by the Shreveport and Bossier Fire Departments, will receive $440,000 to purchase equipment. Fire Chiefs Brian Crawford and Sammie Halphen will oversee the local team.

During the press conference, Chief Crawford was asked by Homeland Security Director Mark Cooper to speak on behalf of Northwest Louisiana. “The official formation and funding of the State’s USAR teams will provide a great benefit for our area in the event of a natural or manmade disaster, and it will also allow for greater response capabilities to other parts of the State in the event of a statewide emergency,” said Crawford. “I would also like to thank Governor Jindal for the inclusion of the Northern part of the state on behalf of both Shreveport and Bossier City citizens.”