The National Association of State Fire Marshals (NASFM) has presented Ward 6 Fire Department Chief Todd Parker with its Leadership in Incident Response Award (LIRA) for outstanding emergency response.
Chief Parker was honored with the award today at the NASFM national conference in Biloxi, Mississippi. It acknowledges Chief Parker and his crewโs response during a Carbon Dioxide pipeline release in Sulphur on April 3, 2024, as well as his ongoing efforts to strengthen training as well as collaboration between industries and first responders.
โNASFM commends Chief Parker for his outstanding service and professionalism,โ said Phil Oakes, chief of Operations and Training, National Association of State Fire Marshals. โHis commitment to education, awareness, and training showcases how even unfortunate incidents can teach us and serve as a model for all emergency and first responders dedicated to protecting their communities.โ
In addition to his response to the incident, as well as his focus on specialized training, Chief Parker was hailed for regularly sharing his experience in the firefighting community in ExxonMobil-sponsored HazMat Liquid & COโ Pipeline and Industrial Fire Emergencies trainings. Such trainings have provided nearly 650 firefighters and emergency responders across the country with advanced training that includes managing simulated pipeline releases.
โIt is a true honor to receive NASFMโs Leadership in Incident Response Award. I share this recognition with all Calcasieu Parish first responders who work tirelessly to protect our community,โ said Chief Parker. โPipelines provide critical services to our communities, and we all play a role in keeping them safe. Collaboration between operators, regulators and industry groups is critical for safety. By sharing information and training together, we close gaps and make our communities more secure. I commend the men and women of NASFM for their hard work and sacrifice in championing this vital partnership.โ
