October 19, 2009 - SFD is the First Louisiana Fire Department to Implement New Reserve Fire Corps Program

The Shreveport Fire Department in conjunction the Caddo-Bossier Citizen Corps is seeking volunteers for a new Reserve Fire Corps Program.

Today, Fire Chief Brian A. Crawford announced that the Shreveport Fire Department plans to implement a Reserve Fire Corps Program—the first in the state of Louisiana. According to Chief Crawford that program will utilize the talents of private citizens working side-by-side with trained fire professional within the Department in limited capacities and in non-emergency roles.

The initial Reserve Fire Corps class will consist of 10-15 citizens. Reserve Fire Corps members will perform the following duties: accompany members of the Fire Prevention division on schools and daycare visits; protect the public and fire professionals by redirecting traffic away from major fire scenes; provide basic needs such as food and water to emergency personnel during large scale emergencies; and assist with some of the day-to-day operations around the fire station.

Interested applicants must be at least 18 years old, pass a background check, and complete a 2-week comprehensive training program. The Department plans to offer two classes per year in order to maintain at least 40 Reserve Corp members on staff.