HAITI MISSION
Disaster Training Specialist (DTS) goal to implement a 21st Century Fire/Rescue plan for the country of Haiti was first presented in 2011 after the devastating earthquake the prior year.
Lieutenant Nate Lasseur, a West Palm Beach Firefighter with roots in Haiti reached out to a DTS team member, also a firefighter with LA County expressing help and the need for fire equipment and training for firefighters in Haiti.
DTS collaborated with LA County Stentorians and LA City Fire to procure an ambulance. The ambulance was prepared for service and fully equipped prior to its delivery to Port au Prince in 2011.
In 2015 DTS once again supported the Haitian fire personnel with equipment. Through the connections of DTS, they were able to acquire a donated fire engine from Compton Fire. The engine needed repair and refurbishment. In partnership with LA Trade Tech College and its students, the fire engine was brought back into service. The fire engine was completely equipped with protective equipment, breathing apparatus, ladders, and crash/rescue equipment with the help of LA County Stentorians and other partners.
The fully equipped fire engine along with a team of four arrived in Carrefour Haiti in November of 2015. The team conducted classroom instruction, hands-on training on the use and maintenance of the fire engine. The team did a ride-along with the Haitian Firefighters as they delivered a baby!
DTS leaders met with Haitian leaders including the Vice President, Minister of Civil Protection, and Minister of Interior to discuss developing a sustainable 21st Century Fire/Rescue program for the country of Haiti.
Pictured on left: Former Haiti President Jovenel Moïse
Pictured on left and far right: Former Haiti President Jovenel Moïse and Former Mayor of Carrefour
