SHREVEPORT, La.
It's a second chance for the firefighters, a good deal for the fire department.

The Shreveport Times reported on Wednesday that six former Bossier City firefighters, laid off there, are taking part in the latest Shreveport Fire Department training class.

It's a five-week session instead of the normal 18-22 weeks because all the members, are certified firefighters who have worked in other jurisdictions.

"I feel grateful to have a second chance to continue my career in the fire service," said Brian Jones, who was laid off in Bossier City. "And I thank God Shreveport was willing to give me a second chance, and I was successful through the process."

In addition to the six former Bossier City firefighters, the class has one from the city of Natchitoches and another from South Bossier Parish Fire District

Officials say hiring the experienced firefighters saved the city roughly $200,000.

Overall, 12 laid-off firefighters from Bossier City applied. The group was chosen out of the nearly 200 applicants who sought to become Shreveport firefighters. A total of 17 recruits were selected, and the remaining nine are set to begin class in April.

"They were put in the same process with all of the individuals. They were not given any preferential treatment," Fire Chief Brian Crawford said. "It just so happened that these guys fell in that top 17 with the interviewing and testing requirements."

The deal has more advantages than just money saved, Crawford said.

"It saves us money, but the bigger issue is they make an immediate impact," Crawford said. "I need those guys on fire trucks today. I don't have to wait till the summer. By April 15, they are going to be fighting fires and saving lives in the Shreveport community, which is the greatest benefit of all."

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Information from: The Times, http://www.shreveporttimes.com


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