Shreveport, LA – This week, the Shreveport Fire Department hosted a series of training sessions focused on firefighter safety and hazardous materials response. The sessions were held across multiple dates to allow broad participation among department members.
The training featured the Responding to Battery and Energy Storage Emergencies course, taught by instructors from the International Association of Fire Fighters. The course was made possible through the support of the department’s local union, IAFF Local 514.
According to the department, the eight-hour course was designed to provide firefighters and emergency responders with the knowledge and skills needed to safely manage incidents involving renewable energy and energy storage systems.
Training covered hazards associated with solar panels, electric vehicles, and battery energy storage systems, along with system fundamentals, safety protocols, and emergency response strategies. The sessions included both classroom instruction and hands-on, scenario-based exercises.
Fire Chief Clarence Reese Jr. emphasized the importance of the training, noting that firefighter safety remains the department’s top priority as emergency response challenges continue to evolve.
He said the training helps ensure firefighters are prepared to respond safely and effectively to new and emerging hazards within the community.
The Shreveport Fire Department said it remains committed to ongoing training, firefighter safety, and preparedness to better serve and protect the public.