For years, fire fighters at Shreveport, Louisiana’s Fire Station 20 worked out of a building that was making them sick. At least 16 were diagnosed with cancer. Four died. On Aug. 11, they finally moved into a new station – built after the IAFF and Local 514 intervened in 2023.
“This has been a long, tough process, but it was worth it to have a safe working environment for our Local 514 members assigned to Station 20,” Local 514 President Barbara Sellers said. “We appreciate the cooperation from the city and the port for the testing, clean up, and extensive renovations.”
Station 20 is located on the grounds of Port of Caddo-Bossier, four miles south of Shreveport. Fire fighters and emergency medical workers assigned there respond to emergencies at the port and in southeast Shreveport neighborhoods.
As far back as 2010, fire fighters raised concerns about unsafe conditions at the station, including chronic mold, fungus, and bacteria. Over the years, fire fighters assigned to that station were diagnosed with various forms of cancer, including colorectal and brain cancer.
The IAFF and Local 514 brought those concerns to Fire Chief Clarence Reese Jr. and the city administration.
An environmental assessment found multiple types of mold inside the station and signs of moisture intrusion and structural deterioration. The IAFF brought in experts to review the findings and advise the Local.
The city closed Station 20 in August 2023 while officials determined how to address the conditions. Crews were temporarily relocated but continued responding within the station’s service area.
“Hearing about the conditions of Fire Station 20, the IAFF stepped in right way to give us the support we needed,” Sellers said. “They made every resource available from medical experts to the IAFF General Counsel. All of us working together for the safety of Local 514 members was really what ultimately made this a success.”
The city and port gutted and rebuilt the station, remediating the mold and addressing the building’s deterioration. The project also included upgraded living quarters and a reinforced storm shelter. A new fire engine was assigned to the station.
“Rebuilding Station 20 is an important win for our Local 514 brothers and sisters,” General President Edward Kelly said, “but it came at a terrible cost. Firehouses should not make our members sick. The IAFF will always put its full weight and resources behind ensuring members have safe workplaces.”
