The following article provides a comprehensive overview of key insights and achievements from the 2023 Annual Report of the Baton Rouge Fire Department (BRFD). This report highlights the department’s progress in public safety, community initiatives, and response capabilities, showcasing its dedication to the citizens of Baton Rouge over the past year.
In 2023, the BRFD made significant strides in expanding its operations, improving its resources, and enhancing the safety and well-being of the community. The department’s commitment to excellence is evident through new programs, personnel growth, and technological advancements, as detailed in the annual report.
A Message from the Fire Chief
Fire Chief Michael J. Kimble highlighted the department’s commitment to the safety and well-being of Baton Rouge residents. With the addition of 49 new members, including firefighters and communications personnel, the department now boasts 561 employees. Among the most notable initiatives of 2023 was the launch of the Community Connect program, a tool that allows citizens to register their homes to improve emergency response times.
Furthermore, the BRFD upgraded its fleet with five new fire engines, two ladder trucks, two heavy rescue vehicles, and 230 self-contained breathing apparatuses, thanks to funding through the American Rescue Plan.
BRFD Vision and Mission
- Mission: The department remains steadfast in its mission to protect life, reduce injury, and conserve property through ongoing training, planning, and public education.
- Vision: As a Class 1 fire department, BRFD strives to deliver professional public services with the highest standards.
Organizational Growth and Personnel
In 2023, BRFD’s personnel expanded, with clear allotments for administrative roles, fire suppression, hazardous materials, fire communications, and more. The department’s structure, including divisions like Training, Fire Safety, and Hazardous Materials, ensures smooth operations and readiness for emergencies.
The organizational chart above showcases the leadership hierarchy, from the Fire Chief to division heads, ensuring streamlined operations and efficient emergency response. (Image Source: Baton Rouge Fire Department).
(Image Source: Baton Rouge Fire Department).
Incident Response in 2023
The Baton Rouge Fire Department responded to 34,465 calls in 2023, a slight decrease from the previous year. Calls included:
- Medical/Rescue: 66.5%
- False Alarms: 11%
- Fire Incidents: 6.6%
- Other Incidents: 12.1%
The breakdown of fire incidents reveals that residential fires accounted for most building fires, with an estimated $16.28 million in property loss across various types of structures.
Fire Safety and Public Education
The Fire Safety Division is crucial in investigating accidents and injuries involving BRFD personnel and maintaining safety records. In 2023, there were significant time losses due to both on-duty and off-duty injuries, with sprains and heart/lung conditions being the most common.
(Image Source: Baton Rouge Fire Department).
BRFD also conducted public education programs, including school visits and community outreach. The department utilized the Fire Safety House and Patches the Fire Dog Robot to teach children and adults about fire safety.
Training and Certifications
The Training Division logged over 176,932 training hours in 2023, ensuring that personnel maintained the necessary certifications in firefighting, hazardous materials handling, and emergency medical services. The training programs emphasize continual development in crucial areas such as fire suppression, hazmat response, and rescue operations.
(Image Source: Baton Rouge Fire Department).
Fire Prevention and Investigations
BRFD’s Fire Prevention Bureau focused on reducing the risk of fires through rigorous inspections and code enforcement, particularly for commercial properties in Baton Rouge. The bureau’s proactive measures aim to minimize the need for emergency response by identifying potential hazards before they escalate.
Meanwhile, the Fire Investigations Division handled 337 fire investigations, identifying suspicious fires, with $23.57 million in non-arson-related loss and $2.75 million in arson-related loss.
Special Services and Hazardous Materials
The Special Services Division ensures the department’s equipment, vehicles, and stations remain fully operational. This division works closely with other fire departments in the region to maintain a high standard of readiness.
The Hazardous Materials Division (HazMat), with 12 highly trained officers, responded to 495 chemical-related incidents in 2023. The division plays a key role in coordinating responses to hazardous material releases, which include incidents involving explosives, flammable liquids, and corrosive substances.
Enhancing Communications and Technology
The Fire Communications Division dispatches emergency calls to the appropriate units. In 2023, the division handled all of the BRFD’s 34,465 calls and assisted five other fire departments within the parish.
Additionally, the Information and Technology Specialist was instrumental in implementing the Community Connect program, a new initiative that allows residents and businesses to provide crucial information to aid firefighters in emergency responses. This technology-driven program enhances BRFD’s preparedness and ability to respond efficiently.
Conclusion
The 2023 Annual Report highlights the Baton Rouge Fire Department’s commitment to safeguarding the community through constant improvement, investment in new technology and equipment, and a focus on education and prevention. As the department moves forward into 2024, it remains dedicated to enhancing its capabilities and continuing to serve the citizens of Baton Rouge with excellence and professionalism.
Want to dive deeper into the details?
Explore the 2023 Baton Rouge Fire Department Annual Report to learn more about the department’s initiatives, statistics, and plans for the future. Download or read the full report to see how BRFD is making a lasting impact on the safety and well-being of Baton Rouge.