LSP FIRE DEPARTMENT

Louisiana State Penitentiary (LSP) is committed to providing a safe and humane environment for those who are committed to its custody, employees, and residents of the Angola community.  Toward that end, the LSP Fire Department is an integral entity in that its members provide an invaluable service to the inmate population, staff, residents, citizens of West Feliciana Parish and the general public.

Since June 2002, through our cooperative relationship with Louisiana State University - Fire & Emergency Training Institute, thirty-nine Louisiana State Penitentiary firefighters have been internationally certified to the minimum of Hazardous Materials Awareness and Firefighter 1.  During this same time period, numerous LSP firefighters have received international certification at the levels of Firefighter 2, Hazardous Materials Operation, Fire Officer 1, Fire Inspector, Fire Instructor 1 and Fire Investigator.

Since September 11, 2001, there has been enhanced national awareness of the critical importance of the fire service.  The LSP Fire Department recognizes the necessity of continual training.  During 2003, the LSP Fire Chief and Assistant Fire Chief have completed training in Urban Search and Rescue.  Included in this training are Rope Rescue, Trench Rescue, Structural Collapse and Confined Space Rescue.

The LSP Fire Department has four Fire Inspectors that work closely with the Louisiana Fire Marshal's Office to insure that all life safety standards of the American Correctional Association and state fire/safety codes are adhered to.

The LSP Fire Department is registered with the Louisiana Fire Marshal's Office with a department number of 63001.

The LSP Fire Department apparatus includes one engine, one tanker and one rescue truck.  Within the confines of LSP, the fire department has responsibility for approximately 500 buildings, including inmate and employee housing areas.  Having mutual aid agreements with both West Feliciana Parish and Wilkinson County, Mississippi, everyone in the surrounding area benefits from the training and experience of the LSP Fire Department.

In August 2002, the LSP Fire Chief developed and implemented a standard operating procedure manual for use by LSP Firefighters in performing their duties in a safe and professional manner commensurate with their level of training.

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