LyondellBasell Matagorda Complex Supports Local Firefighters

MATAGORDA COUNTY, March 14, 2017 – The Matagorda Complex of LyondellBasell, one of the world's largest plastics, chemical and refining companies, today announced the donation of firefighting equipment to three Matagorda County volunteer fire departments and has sent local firefighters to industrial fire training school.

Among the donated equipment was a fire pumper truck which was given to Matagorda Volunteer Fire Department. Bunker gear, or personal protective equipment, was also donated to that fire department as well as to the Markham and Midfield volunteer fire departments.

In addition to the equipment donations, the plant paid for two Markham firefighters and two Matagorda firefighters to attend industrial fire training in February with LyondellBasell’s fire team. The training took place at Brayton Fire Training Field in College Station with the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX), an internationally-recognized leader in emergency response training and firefighting. The TEEX training focused on responding to industrial-related incidents that may involve different hazardous materials that require specialized response tactics.

"We recognize the challenges fire departments face in obtaining this unique type of training and even in acquiring the proper equipment needed to do their jobs safely," said Joe Hoinkis, site manager for LyondellBasell’s Matagorda Complex. "These brave men and women put their lives on the line every time they respond to a fire. A key part of our company’s mission is to be a good neighbor in the communities where we operate and we’re pleased we can help them do their jobs better and safer, because ultimately, it helps all of us."

Matagorda County Emergency Management Coordinator Doug Matthes said the fire equipment donations and the training will further enhance the county’s response readiness.

"LyondellBasell has been active with the Local Emergency Planning Committee and the Southeast Texas Mutual Aid Group in Matagorda County and shows again with these gifts, their involvement in our community," said Matthes. "What great industry partners now and in the past." 

The donations represent LyondellBasell’s most recent effort to partner with and support local first responders. Last year, the company funded a hazardous materials training scholarship with TEEX for six Houston-area fire departments and donated funds to purchase essential safety equipment for the Harris County Sheriff’s Department, the Houston Police Department, and the Houston Fire Department. The company also regularly coordinates with fire departments and other mutual aid groups to cross train at its facilities in order to increase overall response effectiveness.

Joe Hoinkis, site manager for LyondellBasell’s Matagorda Complex, presents three Matagorda County volunteer fire departments with firefighting equipment and industrial fire training hours.

Media Contact: Meredith Matthews O: 713-309-3605 C: 281-217-6049 meredith.matthews@lyb.com