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Arson Suspect Arrested by Fire Investigators

December 16, 2013, 10:56 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Prince George’s County Fire Investigators have arrested a suspect charged with 3 Felony counts related to a set fire.  On December 13, 2013, Fire Investigators arrested Louise Blount, 59 years of age, of no fixed address.  She is charged with 1st and 2nd Degree Arson and Malicious Burning.  These charges stem from a fire that occurred on November 7, 2013, inside an apartment building in the 2100 block of Alice Avenue in Oxon Hill.

Arson in the 1st Degree is a Felony and punishable by up to 30 years in jail.
Arson in the 2nd Degree is a Felony and punishable up to 20 years in jail.
Malicious Burning 1st Degree is a Felony punishable by up to 5 years in jail.


Blount is currently incarcerated at the Department of Corrections in Upper Marlboro on a $100,000 bond.
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Open Casting Call for EMS in America - Prince George's County - Maryland

December 20, 2013, 12:16 pm
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Firefighters Deliver Early Christmas Cheer Tonight

December 23, 2013, 9:48 am
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Firefighters from the Sixth Battalion including the Laurel Volunteers will visit a family in need of some Holiday cheer today. The Santa crew will arrive at the family home at 7506 Haines Court, Laurel, MD at 6:30 pm on-board Fire/EMS units.

Santa and firefighters will greet the family including 3 male children, ages 1, 5 and 6, and provide them with food baskets and a gift each.

While the young children take a ride on Santas sleigh around the block, firefighters will sneak in additional toys to be opened up on Christmas morning.

The family has agreed to allow media to attend.

This family was selected by firefighters in the Countys 6th Battalion.

Toys were donated through the Public Safety Toy Program and food baskets provided by the Public Safety Assistance Program.

Mark E. Brady
Chief Spokesman/PIO
Prince George's County Fire/EMS




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Firefighters Deliver Christmas to Displaced Landover Hills Family

December 25, 2013, 9:25 am
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Story by Darcy Spencer WRC - NBC 4 Washington DC...

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Laurel Apartment Fire - Hunting Lane

December 25, 2013, 9:33 am
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Story by Jackie Bensen - WRC - NBC 4 Washington DC




Prince George's County Fire Investigators believe the fire started in a second floor furnace closest located on the apartments balcony.  No injuries were reported.  The County Citizen Services unit, apartment complex management and the American Recross are assisting the displaced residents.

Mark E. Brady - PGFDPIO
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Christmas Evening Fires Damage Homes - Upper Marlboro and Capitol Heights

December 26, 2013, 8:19 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Two fires occurring on Christmas evening destroyed homes in Upper Marlboro and Capitol Heights.  Fortunately, no civilian or firefighter injuries were reported. 

The first fire was reported at about 8:40 pm in the 14900 block of Rolling Meadows Lane, an 1800 square foot, 1-story single family home. This home is located in a non-hydrant area requiring firefighters to use the water carried on their engines with additional large amounts of water shuttled to the scene by Fire Department Water Tankers.  Firefighters arrived to find fire showing from the structure and initiated an interior attack and search.  All personnel were forced to evacuate the burning home shortly afterwards.  After the bulk of the fire was knocked down from the safety of exterior positions, firefighters re-entered the structure to completely extinguish the fire.  It required 60 minutes to declare the fire under control.  Firefighters remained on the scene late into the night overhauling and ensuring the fire remained extinguished.

Fire loss is estimated at $200,000.  The cause of the fire remains under investigation and is currently classified as “undetermined.”  Two adult residents were displaced.

The second home fire occurred just before 10:30 pm at a 2-story, 900 square foot, single-family home in the 1000 block of Iago Avenue in Capitol Heights.  Firefighters arrived to find fire showing from the first floor.   Crews initiated an interior attack and a search of the interior as initial 911 calls indicated that someone may have been trapped inside the burning house.  The fire was knocked in about 20 minutes and all searches for trapped occupants were negative.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation and is currently classified as “undetermined.”  Fire loss is estimated at $50,000.  Occupants displaced but did not require any assistance.
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Internal PGFD Memo - In Search of - Fire Rescue Magazine’s “Company Officer Award of the Year”

December 26, 2013, 8:56 am
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INTER-OFFICE MEMORANDUM
                                 PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, MARYLAND

December 16, 2013

TO:        All Sworn, Civilian, and Volunteer Personnel Memo                        
                                          
FROM:   Marc S. Bashoor   original signed by
               Fire Chief
                           
RE:    Fire Rescue Magazine’s “Company Officer Award of the Year” (AMENDED)

        Each year, Fire Magazine demonstrates its commitment to company officer development and recognition through the “Company Officer of the Year Award” that is sponsored by the American Military University—Serve, Learn, Lead.  The award honors company officers with excellent leadership skills, tactical knowledge, and community involvement.  The award is open to both sworn and volunteer members who are active lieutenants, captains, first-line supervisors, and company officers.    

        The recipient of the Company Officer of the Year Award will receive airfare, hotel and registration for FDIC, and a $1,000 cash award.  Additionally, they will also receive a scholarship that covers the cost of the Center for Public Safety Excellence Fire Officer credentialing and designation program.  Liberty Art Works will donate the physical award, the Speaking Trumpet, which is an important symbol of authority within the fire service. 

        Listed below are the “Nomination Criterions.”  Share how your nominee excels in following areas, limiting each response to 350 words.  After responding to the six criterions, you are welcome to add any other information you like about you nominee.  You may also include quotes from others if you wish, but it is not necessary. 
             
Nomination Criterions:

1.     Leadership– what makes the nominee an exemplary leader, and how are they regarded within the department?

2.     Training– how often does the nominee train with their crew, and how do they reinforce the importance of training/fitness for firefighter preparedness?

3.     Incident Command Effectiveness– provide an example of how the nominee demonstrated command presence at a specific incident.

4.     Commitment to Safety– how has the nominee made their crew safer, and what do they do to support a safety culture at the department?

5.     Interpersonal Communication– how effective is the nominee in communicating with firefighters, chief officers, members of the public and city/government officials?

6.     Community Involvement– what organizations and/or community activities is the nominee involved in?

        Additionally, be sure your submission contains contact information (phone number and email address) for you and the nominee’s direct supervisor.  The nominee’s information should include their name, rank, department, phone number, and email address.  

        To be considered for nomination of this prestigious award, you will need to provide documentation pertinent to the aforementioned criterions to Ms. Diane Cunningham in the Public Information office.  Station personnel are also invited submit their company officer for consideration as a nominee.  Submissions may be hand delivered or forwarded via email to dvcunningham@co.pg.md.us. 

        Please be advised that all submissions for nominees in consideration of this award are due in the Public Information by the close of business on Wednesday, January 8, 2014.  If you have questions or require additional assistance, Ms. Cunningham may be reached at 301-883-5222.     
       
       
MSB:dvc


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Upper Marlboro Man Arrested for Attempted Arson

December 26, 2013, 9:07 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Officials from the Office of the Prince George’s County Fire Marshal arrested and charged an individual with two felonies related to an incident that occurred on December 16, 2013.

On December 17, 2013, Prince George's County Fire Investigators charged and arrested Markus DeAngelo Callends, DOB 6/8/1994, of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, with 1st Degree Attempted Arson and Reckless Endangerment.  The incident occurred at a grocery store at 12100 Central Avenue in Bowie, MD, where the suspect is reported to have doused himself and other products in the store with an ignitable liquid and attempted to ignite but failed.

1st Degree Attempted Arson is a Felony and carries a penalty of up to $50,000 and 30 years in jail if found guilty.  Reckless Endangerment is a Felony and carries a penalty of up to $5,000 and 5 years in jail if found guilty.

Markus DeAngelo Callends was remanded to the Department of Corrections and being held on $100,000 Bond.
 
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2-Alarm Condo Fire - Brinkley Road

December 27, 2013, 7:53 pm
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Over 2 dozen residents of a Temple Hills condominium building will be displaced after a 2-Alarm fire this afternoon.

At around 4:30 pm firefighters were alerted to the fire at 3122 Brinkley Road, a 3-story garden style condominium building, with fire showing from the top floor. A 2nd Alarm was quickly requested as the fire was extending in the attic of the building.

All occupants had evacuated prior to the fire departments arrival. No civilian injuries were reported, however, one firefighter sustained a knee injury and transported to an area hospital.

The bulk of the fire was knocked down in about 30 minutes. 17 adults and 10 children are displaced and that number will grow as additional residents arrive home from work. The County Citizen Services Unit and American Red Cross are assisting those displaced.

The cause of the fire is under investigation and fire loss is still being estimated.

Mark E. Brady
Chief Spokesman/PIO
Prince George's County Fire/EMS
240-508-7930
Sent from my Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Smartphone








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Oxon Hill Apartment Fire - Iverson Street

December 31, 2013, 7:08 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

A fire of accidental origin damaged an Oxon Hill apartment building on Monday, December 30, 2013.  At about 9:30 am firefighters from the Oxon Hill area and surrounding communities responded to 1404 Iverson Street and arrived to find a garden style apartment building with light smoke showing.

The fire started after an electrical malfunction in a bathroom ceiling.  The fire extended through the walls to upper floors before the fire was extinguished.  A fire inside of walls and floors is very work intensive as walls and floors must be removed to extinguish the fire and ensure it is out.  Fire loss is estimated at $10,000.  Medics treated one occupant suffering from difficulty breathing after being exposed to smoke inside of her apartment.  There were no transports and no other injuries reported.

It required about 30 minutes to declare the fire out.

14 apartments were declared uninhabitable.  Nine apartments are short-term displacements because of the lack of electric and gas service and 5 apartments due to damage from the fire.  The County Citizen Services Unit, complex management and the American Red Cross assisted the displaced residents.







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Largo House Fire - Falcon Drive

December 31, 2013, 7:49 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Fire Fighter/Medic Sara Shaffer holds a family pet that was resuscitated after being removed from burning home.  Photo by Billy McNeel, County Citizens Services Unit.
At around 7:00 am, Tuesday, December 31, 2013, firefighter/medics were alerted to a 911 report of a house fire in the 800 block of Falcon Drive in the Largo area.  Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke coming from the basement of a 2-story single family home.

Firefighters initiated an interior attack and search of the house.  An adult male occupant, 20ish years of age, had escaped the burning home prior to the Fire/EMS Department arrival, however, sustained burn injuries and smoke inhalation injuries.  He was treated by paramedics and transported to a Burn Unit with non-life threatening injuries.

Firefighters required 20 minutes to extinguish the fire.  During the search of the home four family pets, 1 dog and 3 cats, were found and removed from the house.  The cats were found lifeless and resuscitative efforts were initiated.  Firefighter/Medics were successful in reviving a cat, however, two cats perished.  The dog appeared to be in good condition.

A total of four adults will be displaced and assisted by the County Citizen Services Unit.  The cause of the fire is under investigation and damage estimates are still being tabulated.  There were no firefighter injuries reported.


PGFD Firefighter/Medics work to revive family pets.  Photo by Fire Chief Marc Bashoor
Courtesy of WUSA TV 9 News




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Leave Backyard Fireworks Out of Your New Year Celebrations

December 31, 2013, 8:07 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

The use of fireworks on New Years Eve into New Years Day is second only to the Fourth of July.   Citizens, residents and visitors should be aware that the use of all consumer fireworks in Prince George's County is illegal.  Firefighters and Paramedics recommend that you leave the pyrotechnics to the experts and leave consumer purchased fireworks out of your celebration planning.

Prince George’s County has banned the sale, use and possession of these fireworks based on the danger to our citizens caused by the misuse of these products.  The danger is particularly high and a matter of concern for firefighters and paramedics as many New Year celebrations involve the consumption of alcohol.  Alcohol may impair the judgement and common sense of the most well-intentioned individual and cause injury to themselves or innocent by-standers and ignite a fire.

The Law in Prince George’s County.

• It is illegal for any person to manufacture, possess, store, offer for sale, sell, discharge, use, burn, or explode any fireworks in Prince George's County, Maryland, except that an authorized display may be conducted by a licensed pyrotechnic professional. Penalties for violations of the law include a fine of up to $1,000 and/or six months in jail.

• Each year, thousands of people are injured and some killed in accidents involving the use of fireworks. These primarily involve those fireworks classified as 1.4g explosives by the U.S. Department of Transportation, commonly referred to as "consumer fireworks." 

Remember, SAFETY FIRST, will ensure everyone goes home.

Keep in mind that other jurisdictions allow the use of certain consumer fireworks.  Do not be confused with our law in Prince George's County - all consumer fireworks are illegal.  

This is a News Release recently posted by the Maryland State Fire Marshal.



       Maryland State Fire Marshal

News Release


STATE FIRE MARSHAL SUGGESTS ATTENDING PUBLIC FIREWORKS DISPLAYS TO CELEBRATE THE NEW YEAR
                                                
         STATEWIDE (December 31, 2013) – With the arrival of the New Year, State Fire Marshal Brian S. Geraci is suggesting that Marylanders should attend public fireworks displays. “I would suggest the safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend one of the public fireworks displays offered throughout the state.” stated Geraci.  To help Marylanders enjoy a safer start to the New Year, the State Fire Marshal offers several ways to enjoy fireworks while avoiding injury:

  • Consider attending a professional public fireworks display instead of taking the chance on a potential injury from a private display.  Leave fireworks to the professionals.

     For those individuals who insist on the use of consumer fireworks:

  • Purchase the fireworks in the location where you intend to discharge them. Check with the local municipality to determine what fireworks are considered legal for use in that area.
  • Read and follow label warnings and instructions.
  • Do not allow small children to use fireworks.
  • Do not consume alcoholic beverages while using fireworks.
  • Have a bucket of water or hose available
  • Fully extinguish remains of fireworks in water before disposal.

“Fireworks have been a long tradition of New Year’s celebrations.  Please make safety your number one priority so everyone can enjoy the holiday season.” adds the State Fire Marshal. “By acting responsibly, we can help eliminate fireworks injuries and property damage in Maryland.”

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          The Office of the State Fire Marshal is an agency of the Department of State Police dedicated to helping protect citizens from fire and explosion through a comprehensive program of education, inspection, investigation and fire protection engineering.  For more information on fire safety call 1-800-525-3124, log onto our website at: www.mdsp.org/firemarshal and/or http://facebook.com/MarylandStateFireMarshal.
Media contact: Bruce D. Bouch, Deputy State Fire Marshal; 443-324-6876
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PGFD "Safety First Day of the Month" New Year Resolution Recommendations - 2014

January 1, 2014, 4:00 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Are you having difficulty in choosing your 2014 New Year Resolutions???  The career, volunteer and civilian men and women of the Prince George’s County Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department (PGFD) have a few ideas for you.  We recommend you adopt the TOP TEN Fire/EMS Department "Safety First" Resolutions for the New Year.  These are listed in no particular order, as they are all important.

I will install new 10-Year smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms that emit a loud warning when smoke or CO is detected.  Purchase and install new 10-year, tamper proof, with hush feature smoke and CO alarms. 

I will check my smoke and CO alarms monthly by pushing the test button on the front cover and listen for a warning signal.  No sound = no protection.  Not working?? Replace with new alarm.

I will check my smoke and CO alarms on the first of every month.  The number one is easy to remember and should remind you "Safety First" and "your family comes first."

I am aware that CO Alarms in my home become Law on July 1, 2014 and 10-Year Smoke Alarms Law goes into effect at the end of 2014.  Never worry about changing a battery again.  New 10-year alarms will save lives.  These are laws we can "live" with.

I will designate one family member to be responsible for testing smoke and CO alarms monthly.  Everyone in the family should be made aware of the responsible person and reminders should be encouraged.

I will replace my smoke and CO alarm if it is 10 years old and than every 10 years after.  Properly maintained alarms work hard to protect you and your family every second of every day.  The alarm wears out after time and is not as reliable as it was when you first installed it; replace it every ten years with new 10-Year Smoke and CO alarms.  Start out you New Year with a New 10-Year Alarm!!!

I will include my smoke and CO alarms when I perform household cleaning.  Use a vacuum wand or clean rag to remove any dust that may have accumulated.  Dust particles may affect the timely sounding of the alarm.

I will install working smoke and CO alarms on every level of my home.  Most importantly is to have one in hallways outside of sleeping areas.

I will install a working smoke alarm in bedrooms where my family members sleep with their bedroom doors closed.

I will know and ensure my family knows what to do when a smoke or CO alarm sounds – “get down, get low, get out.”  Have a family escape plan and practice it to ensure everyone knows two ways out of every room in the house and designate a meeting place outside when 911 can be called in safety.

A working smoke alarm provides you an early warning of a fire in your home.  Your chances of surviving a fire in your home is increased by 50% by having a working smoke alarm.   Having a family home escape planned and practiced increases your chances of survival even more.

A working smoke alarm allows home occupants to escape safely and make a quick notification to the fire department equating to an earlier arrival and mitigation of the fire before it is allowed to spread thereby saving property and helping firefighters to stay safe and go home after every call.

A working CO alarm is the only reliable method homeowners can detect the presence of the "silent killer" in your home. CO can make you seriously ill and even cause death if not detected quickly.

The Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department resolves to continue to provide the very best in Fire and Emergency Medical Services to our residents, business and visitors.  We vow that if you call and say you need a new smoke alarm that we will come to your house and install a working smoke alarm for you and your family; free of charge.  Call our Safety First line at 301-864-SAFE (7233).

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Overview of PGFD Social Media and Internet Sites

January 1, 2014, 9:37 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

The Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department would like to provide a brief overview of our social media and Internet sites.  Each of these sites provides a wealth of information about the Department, incidents and our personnel.  PGFD is the largest and busiest combination; civilian, career and volunteer, Fire/EMS Departments in the Country.

In 2013, the Department responded on approximately 134,00 calls for services.  The majority of these response were for Emergency Medical Services.


COUNTY WEBSITE

An excellent resource for information about the Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department and other County agencies.  Visit the Fire/EMS Department County website by clicking here.

NEWS BLOG

In 2013, the Prince George's County Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department posted 367 stories on the PGFD News site;  PGFDNEWS.com.  We have listed the top 5 viewed stories during 2013.

#5.   Bowie Woman Rescued by Family Dog and Retired Fire Lieutenant Mills

#4.   Fire Chief Orders Volunteer Company to Leave Ambulance In-Service

#3.   In His Own Words - Danny McGown 

#2.   On-Line Registration for 9-11 Memorial Stair Climb and 3K Walk

#1.   2-Alarm Forestville House Fire Injures 3 Firefighters

Since PGFDNEWS.com was started in May 2007 we have had 1,178,938 page views.

Twitter

The Fire/EMS Departments official Twitter account, @PGFDPIO, provides incident updates, links to PGFD stories in other media and links to fire safety and injury prevention.  The Department has been active with Twitter at about the same time we launched the PGFDNEWS.com site in 2007.

Since we started, we have tweeted 7,391 times, follow 634 other twitter accounts and are followed by 7,265.   Follow the Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department @PGFDPIO.

PGFD Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor also has a Twitter account and can be followed @PGFD_Chief.

FACEBOOK

The Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department maintains a Facebook account that re-posts all of our Tweets along with stories and photos exclusive to Facebook.  The Official Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department Page has 7,733 "likes."

INSTAGRAM

The Department is relatively new to Instagram and only joined when they allowed 15 seconds of video to be posted.  This is a great tool to capture a brief video of an on-going incident allowing followers a glimpse of the action seconds after we capture and post the video.  The site allows us to post directly to Twitter and Facebook. Our title is PGFDPIO and we have 16 posts and 351 followers.

YOUTUBE

The Fire/EMS Department maintains a Youtube account where videos are posted of incidents, press conferences and more.  We currently have 291 subscribers and nearly 330, 000 views.  You can visit the PGFD YOUTUBE site by clicking here.

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Fire Investigators Close 3 Incidents of Arson with Arrests

January 2, 2014, 8:53 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Prince George's County Fire Investigators had a busy News Years Eve and Day investigating three separate incidents of Arson and associated crimes.  Each incident was closed with an arrest.  The three incidents occurred in Clinton, Temple Hills and Berwyn Heights on December 31, 2013 and January 1, 2014.  All 3 incidents are not related to each other.

On December 31, 2013, Jasmine Rebecca Swanson, DOB 7-11-1959, of Clinton, is alleged to have threatened to set her husband on fire.  There was minimal damage to the home interior in her attempt to follow through with her threat.  The incident occurred at a single family home in the 12200 block of Broken Lance Court in Clinton.

Fire Investigators charged Swanson with 1st Degree Arson, 2nd Degree Arson, Reckless Endangerment and Attempted 1st Degree Murder.  A warrant was issued and she was arrested on January 1, 2014.  She was remanded to the Department of Corrections and being held on $100,000 bond.  To view the current District Court status, click here.

Also on December 31, 2013, Donnell Kenneth Townsend, DOB 4-14-1970, of Temple Hills, is alleged to have committed Arson and Burglary in the 6500 block of Beechwood Drive, Temple Hills.

On January 1, 2014, a warrant was issued and Townsend was charged with 1st and 2nd Degree Arson and Burglary in the 1st and 4th Degree.  He was arrested and remanded to the Department of Corrections on a $100,000 bond.  To view the current District Court status, click here.

Early morning January 1, 2014, Simona Hilda Guzman-Rodriguez, DOB 12-15-1994, of Berwyn Heights, is alleged to have set a pile of clothes on fire inside of a single family home in the 5700 block of Quebec Street in Berwyn Heights.  She was arrested at the scene and charged with 1st and 2nd Degree Arson, 2nd Degree Malicious Burning and Reckless Endangerment.  She was remanded to the Department of Corrections on a $100,000 bond.  To view the current District Court status, click here.

Fire Related Charges - Maximum Penalty if found Guilty

1st Degree Arson - Felony - up to 30 years in jail.
2nd Degree Arson - Felony - up to 20 years in jail.
2nd Degree Malicious Burning - Misdemeanor - up to 18 months in jail.
Reckless Endangerment - Misdemeanor - up to 5 years in jail.
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Prevent Frozen Sprinkler Pipes Now

January 2, 2014, 9:05 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930

mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO
Prince George’s County homes constructed since the early 1990’s have a residential sprinkler system installed to save lives and protect property.  Therefore there are a large number of single family homes, in addition to commercial buildings and multi-family dwellings, that are equipped with these life-saving systems.  The Fire/EMS Department has documented hundreds of incidents since the law changed requiring residential sprinklers that demonstrate that lives have been saved and damage to property limited when fires have occurred.  Prince George’s County was the first County in the Nation to require the installation of residential sprinklers in all new home construction.

Home, apartment, condos and commercial building owners and management companies should take the time now to ensure that sprinkler systems are adequately protected against pipes freezing.  During long periods of below freezing temperatures exposed water-filled sprinkler pipes can freeze expanding the pipe to the point when it will break. Sprinkler pipes tend to freeze before other water pipes because the water is not moving. Most sprinkler systems are wet systems that contain water all the time.

When water freezes inside a sprinkler pipe, it creates an obstruction that can render the sprinkler system useless in the event of a fire. As the ice expands, it increases the internal water pressure in the pipe and causes the pipe to burst. Interestingly, the burst is often in a section of pipe that did not actually freeze.

Alternatively, the expanding ice can cause a pipe, fitting or sprinkler head to crack but the ice will block the flow of water while it is solid. In this case, the actual water damage will not be apparent until the ice melts and water flows out of the burst section.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

The best way to protect a residential fire sprinkler system from freezing is to provide sufficient insulation and maintain adequate heat during the winter months.   Insulation helps block the flow of heat or cold from one space to the next. Most sprinkler pipes are within the walls or ceilings of a home. Cold air can enter these concealed spaces through small gaps in the exterior sheathing and insulation and find its way into pipe chases and soffits that focus the air directly onto the sprinkler piping and accelerate freezing.

In attics, piping should be as close to the ceiling as possible with insulation placed over the sprinkler pipe.  If you inspect your sprinkler pipes that are in the attic and you can see exposed pipes; they need to be insulated immediately to prevent freezing.

When sprinklers are required in unheated spaces such as attics or crawl spaces, the use of a dry system, or special dry sprinkler heads are required.

If a sprinkler pipe bursts ensure that the location of the water shut-off valve is known and the proper method to turn it off.  Contact a residential sprinkler professional immediately to initiate repairs.  It is recommended that a sprinkler system is tested and inspected on a periodic basis to ensure it is in proper working order to prevent against rupture and flooding.
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Preventing Hypothermia: A Dangerous Health Condition

January 2, 2014, 9:36 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

The weather forecast for our area includes some winter weather followed by frigid temperatures with wind chills dropping into single digits.  The men and women of the Fire/EMS Department want you to stay safe and healthy and offer the following tips.

The Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department in conjunction with the County Health Department wants residents to be aware of the impact that over exposure to cold weather can have on your health during the winter months. Hypothermia and frostbite are two fairly common conditions that typically affect people at this time of year and residents should take precautions in order to ensure that they keep themselves and family members safe and warm. 

We want to remind residents to dress in layers, wear mittens versus gloves and to cover your head when outside for significant periods of time. These are just a few of the simple ways to prevent illness that may result from extreme cold weather conditions. When exposed to cold weather, our bodies lose heat faster than it can be produced which could result in bodily injury, illness, and even death.

As part of our "Neighbor Helping Neighbor' program the Fire/EMS Department asks all residents to check on your elderly relatives and neighbors to ensure they have adequate heat and protection from the cold.

Hypothermia is one of the serious health problems that can be caused by exposure during cold weather. If a person’s body temperature drops below 95 degrees, immediately seek medical attention.  

In mild cases the symptoms include:

• Uncontrollable shivering

• Pale and cold skin

Other more serious signs include:

• Confusion or sleepiness

• Slurred speech

• Shallow breathing

• Weak pulse

• Stiffness in the arms or legs

• Or, poor control over body movements

In the case of serious symptoms, contact the victim’s doctor or call 911.

In either case, until help arrives or the person is seen by a doctor, move the person to a warm room, warm the body with dry layers of blankets or clothing, and give warm beverages.

Frostbite refers to actual freezing and subsequent destruction of body tissue which is likely to occur any time skin temperature gets much below 32F. The areas most likely to freeze are toes, fingers, ears, cheeks and the tip of the nose.

Individual at risk for frostbite include those with impaired circulation, the elderly, the very young and anyone who remains outside for prolonged periods. The danger increases if the individual becomes wet.

Symptoms of frostbite include:

• Gradual numbness;

• Hardness and paleness of the affected area during exposure,

• Pain and tingling or burning in affected area following warming; and

• Possible change of skin color to purple

NEVER MASSAGE OR RUB FROSTBITTEN AREAS AS THIS MAY CAUSE FURTHER DAMAGE TO THE SKIN.

Follow these tips to weather the winter in a healthy way:

• Cover your head. You lose as much as 50 percent of your body heat through your head.

• Wear several layers of lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. The air between the layers acts as insulation to keep you warmer.

• Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect lungs from direct, extremely cold air. Cover your ears and lower part of your face as well.

• Wear mittens rather than fingered gloves. The close contact of fingers helps to keep your hands warm.

• Wear warm leg coverings and heavy socks or two pairs of lightweight socks.

• Wear waterproof boots or sturdy shoes to keep your feet warm and dry.

On a related note, The Prince George's County Hypothermia/Homeless Hotline 
can be contacted at: 888-731-0999.

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Colder Weather Home Fire Safety Tips

January 2, 2014, 9:52 am
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DC News FOX 5 DC WTTG

The National Weather Service is predicting an arctic blast of cold air to reduce temperatures below freezing for a Friday and most of next week.  It is no secret that firefighters fight more home fires in colder weather as compared to warm.  Typically, the cause of home fires during periods of cold weather are caused by residents trying to stay warm and kitchen fires.  Remember; Stay Informed, Stay Ready, Stay Safe.

The Prince George’s County Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department (PGFD) is reminding everyone that home fires are more prevalent in cold weather than in any other time of the year. This is due in part to an increase in cooking and heating fires.  Winter storms can interrupt electrical service and cause people to turn to alternative heating sources which also contribute to the increased risk of fire in winter.  This reminder involves the safe use of space heaters and general heating safety tips.

The PGFD want to remind everyone that fire safety and prevention are especially important during times of cold temperatures.  “Temperatures drop and fires increase,” said Prince George's County Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor.  According to NFPA statistics space heaters account for about one third of the home heating fires yet more than 80 percent of the home heating fire deaths. 



The Winter Residential Building Fires report released by USFA in 2010, reports an estimated 108,400 winter residential building fires occur annually in the United States, resulting in an estimated average of 945 deaths, 3,825 injuries, and $1.7 billion in property loss.  

Cooking and heating are the top causes of fires during cold weather. 

“The winter season brings the highest number of home fires than any other time of year,” said Fire Chief Bashoor. “Each winter season, home fires increase in part due to cooking and heating fires. Fire safety and injury prevention must not be lost in an effort to stay warm. Stay warm and do so safely.  Safety First ensures everyone goes home.” 

The men and women, career, civilian and volunteer, of the Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department recommend the following safety tips for space heaters. 



Electric Space Heaters



• Buy only heaters evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
 

• Check to make sure it has a thermostat control mechanism, and will switch off automatically if the heater falls over.
 

• Heaters are not dryers or tables; don't dry clothes or store objects on top of your heater. 


 • Space heaters need space; keep combustibles at least three feet away from each heater.
 

• Always unplug your electric space heater when not in use. 

  Turn off at night or whenever you sleep. - - Never use an extension cord with space heaters - plug directly into wall socket.

Using a kerosene heater???  Never refuel indoors.  Remove the kerosene heater outdoors, turn off and wait for it to cool down before refueling and only use the correct type of fuel.

General Heating Tips     
  • Furnaces, fireplaces and chimneys should be cleaned and checked each year by an appropriate professional prior to using.  Clear away any clutter from these heating devices, at least 3 feet away.
  • Only use seasoned wood in fireplaces and never use ignitable liquids to start a fire.
  • The 3-foot rule also applies to furnaces and fireplaces.  No combustibles items within 3 feet of these heating appliances.
  • Dispose of fireplace ash into a metal container and store outdoors away from structures on a concrete surface.  Fireplace ash can ignite a fire days after they have been discarded.

Finally, ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms are working by pushing the test button on the front cover.  If you do not hear an audible warning, replace your alarm with a new 10-year, tamper proof, with hush feature alarm.  Having a working smoke alarm dramatically increases your chances of surviving a fire. A working CO detector will protect you and your family from deadly "silent killer" fumes that may be building up in your home.  Remember to practice a home escape plan frequently with your family. 

Residents of Prince George’s County can contact our "Safety First" smoke alarm program at 301-864-SAFE (7233).  A firefighter will install a working smoke alarm in your home free of charge. 

For additional information from the USFA on Winter Fire Safety; click here.usfire.gov



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FOX 5 Snowy Ride-Along with PGFD

January 3, 2014, 5:52 am
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Cold Weather Safety Tips @myfoxdc and FC Bashoor

January 3, 2014, 7:34 pm
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