The scariest moments for a family are when a possible fire is threatening their home and family. That is when trained firefighters are the greatest line of defense. For Red River Parish Fire Protection District the callouts they respond to each week are always treated with the utmost respect for every family.

Meet C-Shift

This week we highlight the men of C-Shift who are charged with protecting the citizens of Red River Parish.

Under the direction of Captain Randal Bradley this shift is committed to training and the community. Bradley is a 26-year veteran married to Rachel Bradley, and they are raising their two children here in Red River Parish. He is trained in National Incident Managements systems 200, 300, 400, 700, 800 and National Registered Emergency Medical Technician. He has Hazmat awareness and operations, firefighter 1 and 2, Driver operator, mobile water supply, fire instruction 1, fire officer 1, public educator 1, Louisiana State Certified EMS Instructor, and more than 1000 hours of continued education in fire and EMS training.

“This team in Red River is amazing. The cooperation between the fire department, Red River EMS, and Red River Sheriff’s Office works for the betterment of everyone in our parish”. “Working in Red River Parish is and has always been an honor for me. I have proudly served the people of this area for over 19 years.

Brandon Spears is a 25-year career firefighter who has been with Red River for 8 years. In the time he has spent in firefighting, Spears has been trained in not only Firefighter 1 and 2, but he is also certified with HazMat awareness and operations.

His most recent training is in Heavy Rescue Training. Spears is an integral member of the fire family for Red River Parish.

Brandon Dowlen is not only familiar with all Red River Parish’s people, but he also has many family connections too. Dowlen is a 10-year veteran with Red River Fire Protection. “I remember when Red River Fire was just a small station by the train tracks. Now see where we are today. Our fire ratings have improved, our people are well trained, and we are all committed to continuing education.

Dowlin just finished Heavy Extraction and rescue training. He has Hazmat Awareness and Operations certifications, Fire Fighter 1 and 2, and fire Apparatus Driver/Operator. He is certified Fire Service Instructor 1.

“I am proud to be from Red River and to serve the people of this parish”.