Jude Savoie

Jude Savoie, a fire chief in Calcasieu Parish and a member of the Louisiana Fire Chiefs Association, told The Advocate on Oct. 8 there has been a desire within the state to have an urban search and rescue team since the 9/11.

Savoie added they've been running into problems since they received a $1 million grant. Some equipment was bought, but the organization system still needs to be put in place, according to Savoie.

Savoie also expressed frustration in how far the nearest federal search and rescue team is.

"(It's) eight hours or better before they can get there [Lafayette] if a tornado goes through and collapses buildings," he told The Advocate.

Among those making the announcement were Mark Cooper, the state's homeland security director; Jude Savoie, president of the Louisiana Fire Chiefs Association; and Chad Leger, president of the Louisiana Police Chiefs Association.

President - Chief Jude Savoie

7th District Representative - Jude Savoie Email

Board Appointed Positions

During Louisiana's planning process, Chief Jude Savoie became the new 2006-2007 president of the LFCA.He completed the work initiated by Chief Pearson.

The plan was accepted by the LFCA in September, ensuring that at least the Louisiana fire service was prepared to respond more effectively and efficiently to the next disaster to hit the state.

The IAFC congratulates Chief Savoie and the Louisiana mutual aid planning committee for the time, effort and experience they put into completing the Louisiana Fire Service Statewide Emergency Response Plan.A special thank you and congratulations is in order as well to Chief Pearson for his commitment and discipline during the initial stages of Louisiana's planning process.