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Cold Weather Fire Safety, Injury Prevention and Warming Center Locations

January 6, 2014, 2:51 pm
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Record lows and "dangerous" wind chills are forecast for tonight and throughout the day on Tuesday.

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, general heating safety tips, Hypothermia and Frostbite prevention and location of Warming Centers.

Stay Safe

The civilian, career and volunteer men and women of the Fire/EMS Department 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 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, never use ignitable liquids to start a fire and do not overload your appliance.
•    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.
  
Residents are encouraged to utilize Prince George’s County’s CountyClick 311 system to obtain information about public services.

Stay Healthy

With temperatures reaching single digits and dangerously low wind chills tonight, Prince George’s County Health Department wants our residents to avoid serious health problems that can occur due to prolonged exposure to cold weather. The two most common conditions are hypothermia and frostbite.

 “All residents must take precautionary actions as a primary defense against injuries and illness resulting from extreme cold weather conditions,” said Pamela Creekmur, Health Officer. “When exposed to cold weather, our bodies lose heat faster than it can produce it, resulting in bodily injury, illness, and even death.”

The Health Department advises all residents to check on your elderly relatives and neighbors to ensure they have adequate heat and protection from the cold.  Limit the amount of time your pet spends outside.  Indoor pets when outside in the freezing cold, can also contract hypothermia very quickly.

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.

The Prince George’s County Office of Emergency Management, in collaboration with the Prince George’s County Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, have identified the following local warming centers.  Please call for specific hours of operation or refer to the Warming Centers page on the County website (www.myprincegeorgescounty)   
  


Warming Centers  
    
 

- Harmony Hall Regional Center (10701 Livingston Road) 301-203-6040  
 
- Suitland Community Park School Center (5600 Regency Lane) 301-736-3518; 
  TTY 301-203-6030  
 
- Bowie Community Center (3209 Stonybrook Drive) 301-464-1737  
 
- Seat Pleasant Activity Center (5720 Addison Road) 301-773-6685;   
    
   TTY 301-445-4512   
 
- Deerfield Run Community Center (13000 Laurel-Bowie Road) 301-953-7882;   
  TTY 301-218-6768   
 
- Kentland Community Center Park (2411 Pinebrook Avenue) 301-386-2278
  TTY 301-445-4512    

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WJLA Coverage of Capitol Heights House Fire - Rollins Avenue

January 7, 2014, 2:59 pm
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Inter-Agency Awareness Program Between Fire/EMS Department and Public Safety Communications

January 8, 2014, 7:33 am
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By: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     240-508-7930     @PGFDPIO

Inter-Agency Awareness Program Between Fire/EMS Department and Public Safety Communications

The Prince George's County Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department has embarked upon an "awareness" program, which involves career and volunteer personnel serving as Incident Commanders.  The program is a joint effort with Public Safety Communications (PSC) personnel who are responsible for 911 calls and the dispatch of Fire/EMS units.  PSC falls under a separate agency within County government but has daily interaction on a variety of subjects.

The inter-agency program’s official title is The Other Side of the Radio - PSC Awareness 101.  The nickname of “PSC Sit-Along" has commonly been used in the field to identify the program, as it shadows a traditional practice in the Fire/EMS Department.  This tradition allows non-firefighter/medics to "ride- along” on fire/EMS units, for the purpose of gaining a better perspective of operations. 

Assistant Fire Chief Thomas “TJ” James and PSC Shift Supervisor Howard “Chip” Ewing developed the program after discussing mutual frustrations from their personnel about the operations and rationale for why certain tasks are performed in each other’s jobs.  “This program was put together as a measure to bring a better understanding of what PSC does.  We felt that command level officers would gain the most from this awareness program,” stated Ewing.

“Over the years I've noticed there is sometimes a disconnect between the dispatchers, command officers, and crews in the field,” said Assistant Chief James. “Crews in the field have neither an idea of what resources PSC staff has to offer us, nor the expectations from both sides.”

After receiving approval from both the Fire/EMS Department and PSC agency heads, the program was implemented.

After scheduling their Sit-Along, personnel arrive at the large multi-million dollar, state-of-the-art facility in Bowie, Maryland.  During their visit that is expected to be up to 3 hours, the Fire/EMS officer will go to three areas within PSC.  Following a tour of the facility, the officer is provided a headset and sits down with a 911 call-taker to listen to incoming calls.  According to Ewing, “This is so they will have a better understanding of where the information they receive while out in the field comes from.  The hope is the officers will gain a greater sense of how challenging it is at times for PSC to get information from citizens.”

Battalion Chief Michael K. Linynsky, a Sit-Along participant, was impressed with the call-taker’s approach to obtaining information and forwarding it to the appropriate agency (Fire/EMS, Police, Sheriff, other jurisdiction or municipality) for dispatch.  He said, “The calls came in quite rapidly, which was surprising considering it was early afternoon.  The call-taker explained how the calls came in and how they were dispatched.  Prior to even finishing the call, the call-taker had actually sent the information over to dispatch, which was already dispatching units.  I was able to watch in real time units already responding on calls way before the call-taker finished questioning the caller.”
              
The next area of awareness is at the busiest channel, Talk Group 2, or any alternate talk group incident that happens to come in.  Here, the dispatcher handles the majority radio traffic that includes all EMS incidents and single response fire incidents.  “This should open their eyes to see how many tasks a dispatcher handles while working the radio,” said Ewing.   “When in the field on an incident, the Incident Command Officer has to keep track of 7 to 10 units on most incidents, while the dispatcher has to keep track of ALL the units on ALL incidents.”  Battalion Chief Linynsky, amazed at the manner in which Dispatcher Cherry handled herself, stated, “There is actually very little downtime on this channel, as everything from sprained ankles to automatic fire alarms are handled here.  The dispatcher was constantly working and actually needed a foot pedal to key up the radio, as she was constantly typing or using the phone for callbacks.”

The last stop on the three-hour tour is with the Shift Supervisor, who explains how calls are dispatched; how transfers are made; how the radio systems works; and, what resources are available to the officer while on an incident.  The supervisor will also talk about the “15 minute PAR check sheet.”  This check sheet is a tool provided to the officer to help him/her know what information is expected from them during a working incident.  Finally, a detailed account is given on the working of the CAD and how it can be used as a tool to help the officer in several different ways.

“The supervisors at PSC have specific things about which they always make sure to they prompt command,” said Linynsky following his sit-along with Shift Supervisor Chip Ewing.  “One of the most important things that people forget about is the PAR checks.  This is always done at fifteen minutes from when command is established, not fifteen minutes from when a command officer arrives.  The reason it is done at fifteen minutes is that is how fast a firefighter can deplete his air if he/she is working hard.”

Sit-Along participant Linynsky was fortunate enough to sit and listen to a building fire dispatch that consisted of 4 engines, 2 ladder trucks, a heavy duty rescue squad, an ambulance, and 2 battalion chiefs.  The call involved a 911 report of smoke in the basement of an apartment building.  “With the new status buttons on our radios,” he said, “I was amazed at how silent the radios have become.  The firefighter doesn't notice the silence as they are thinking about their game plan and the sirens are going.  Each assignment I listened to was over relatively quickly, as there was nothing found.”

Overall, the awareness program has been successful in achieving the goals as set forth.  Dave Beck, Assistant Operations Manager for Fire/EMS and Police Dispatch Centers, stated, “Chief James and EDIV Ewing have done a terrific job with this program.  The program allows the battalion chiefs to see the call from start to finish.  They see how, by the call-takers asking pertinent questions, the EMD and EFD protocols help them in the field.”  He further described the program, saying, “When participants sit with the dispatcher, they get a better understanding of why the dispatcher is asking certain questions.  Sitting with the dispatch supervisor enables them to see how units are selected through the CAD system for certain calls.  They also understand if staffing is not reported correctly, it may lead to not sending the closest units to the call.  Lastly, PSC goes over how to use the basic functions of CAD, so the battalion chief can use it as an investigation tool to look up calls for service by station, call types, units, etc.”  Operations Manger Beck concluded by saying, “At the end of the day, we are all here for same reason, which is to assist Prince George’s County citizens the best that we can. The battalion chief Sit-Along Program makes both agencies better off.”

PSC Shift Supervisor Ewing summarized the program saying, “So far, the majority of officers who have attended The Other Side of the Radio awareness program have come away with a better understanding of what PSC does and how it all works.  They have nothing but positive feedback for this program.”

“By simply sitting with PSC staff while they are doing their job—seeing what they go through—would help with understanding what the front side of our emergency response system goes through day in and day out, said Assistant Fire Chief James.  “I hope that after seeing and experiencing how and what the PSC staff/dispatchers go through, the disconnect between the two parties that mitigate some very serious incidents will be minimized, thereby enabling them to perform the task as a team.  I walked away with a new appreciation for the work our call-takers and dispatchers do.  Will I operate differently in the field after this program?  Yes!  Without a doubt, awareness is an amazing thing!” 

The Other Side of the Radio - PSC Awareness 101 program is open to all career and volunteer command staff at the rank of battalion chief and above.  To participate in the program, Fire/EMS personnel should contact Assistant Fire Chief Thomas James.



PSC Shift Supervisor Chip Ewing watches as Dispatcher Robert Mosely operates a 4th Battalion Box Alarm assignment with Battalion Chief Linynsky listening in.

Mosely and Linynsky wait for radio traffic after "box assignment" is dispatched.  Linynsky stated, "With new status buttons on our radios, I was amazed at how silent the radios have become."
Battalion Chief Linynsky listens in as 911 Call Taker Kristen Spolar handles an incoming call.

Linynsky is amazed watching veteran dispatcher Marci Cherry handle the busiest radio channel/Talk Group

Battalion Chief Linynsky and Dispatcher Cherry.  "Very little down time at this position," said Linynsky.



Battalion Chief Linynsky and Dispatcher Cherry.  "Very little down time at this position," said Linynsky.
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Live "Ice Rescue" Training on Thursday

January 8, 2014, 11:45 am
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Live "Ice Rescue" training will be conducted on Thursday, January 9, 2014, from 1 pm until 3 pm.  Career and volunteer members of the Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department will be hold a "Ice Rescue" class which includes actual time on ice and in the frigid water.  These members have completed their classroom training and must successfully pass the live training before becoming certified.

On ice and in water training will be held at Bladensburg Waterfront Park at 4601 Bladensburg Road between the hours of 1 pm and 3 pm.  Media is invited to attend.

Any questions call Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930.
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VFW Firefighter and Paramedic of the Year Recognized

January 8, 2014, 2:24 pm
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Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

A pair of Prince George’s County Firefighter/Medics were recently were bestowed with awards and distinctions by the Tri-County area Veterans of Foreign War (VFW).  Local VFW’s nominated John A. Bowman and Kacie E. Hayter for their a actions during a childbirth.  The Fire/EMS Department and Prince George’s Hospital Center had previously recognized the pair for Excellence in providing Emergency Medical Care for the same incident.  The VFW Tri-County area consists of Southern Prince George's, Calvert and Charles County.

Fire Chief Marc Bashoor was in attendance at the regional award ceremony held on Sunday, January 5th at thePax River VFW Post 2632.

On Saturday, February 9, 2013, Bowman and Hayter were crewmembers on board the Paramedic Unit from Fire/EMS Station 830, Landover Hills that was dispatched to a home on 58th Place in Cheverly, for a report of a female in labor.  During the patient assessment, the crew observed an umbilical cord presentation without any sign of birth.  The cord presented blue in color, indicating there was no blood getting to the baby from the mother.  If this child was going to survive, it was imperative that something be done quickly.  Bowman made a decision that Paramedic Hayter would use her hand to alleviate pressure on the umbilical cord.  The cord became pink and a pulse was felt indicating the baby was now receiving blood.  Bowman than contacted Prince George’s Hospital Center was of the severity of the situation and alerted them to prepare a delivery room. 

Immediately upon arriving at the hospital, the patient was assessed and without delay taken to Labor and Delivery.  A physician determined that Hayter must accompany the patient into the Operating Room, where an emergency Cesarean Section would be performed.  Her hand remained in place, keeping pressure off the umbilical cord until the baby was delivered.  After a week in the hospital, the healthy baby girl, delivered at 36 weeks gestation, was discharged into the care of her parents.   

After considering all nominees for the prestigious awards the Tri-County VFW named John A. Bowman as Firefighter of the Year and Kacie E. Hayter as the Paramedic of the Year for 2013.  Bowman and Hayter also were recognized as
 the Local and District Level VFW Fire Fighter and Paramedic of the Year.

Both Bowman and Hayter will now be considered by the VFW at the State and National levels for their respective categories.  They will be up against other nominees from throughout the State of Maryland and the USA.

 All photos courtesy of Fire Chief Marc Bashoor

Kacie Hayter and John Bowman await their award presentation.  Seated next to Kacie Hayter is her husband, Michael Hayter, also a Prince George's County Firefighter and their child.
Hayter accepting her award for VFW Paramedic of the Year

Bowman accepts the VFW Fire Fighter of the year Award for the Tri-County area.
Fire Fighter/Medic John Bowman, Fire Chief Bashoor and Fire Fighter Medic Hayter at the Awards Ceremony.





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Paul Wagner's, FOX 5 DC, Coverage of PGFD Ice Rescue Training

January 10, 2014, 8:46 am
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WUSA TV 9 News Coverage of PGFD Ice Rescue Training

January 10, 2014, 8:54 am
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Raw Helmet Cam Video by Kurt Brooks, WUSA TV 9 News

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A TV Reporter's Chilling Report on PGFD Training Exercise

January 10, 2014, 4:23 pm
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PGFD Captain and Technician Promotions

January 11, 2014, 8:31 am
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Prince George's County Fire/EMS Chief Marc S. Bashoor announced the promotions of 39 personnel yesterday.  In announcing the promotions Chief Bashoor stated, "With the recent promotional process completion and release of the new Captains and Technicians lists, I am pleased to announce a significant number of promotions.  Please join me in congratulating the following folks on their promotions effective Sunday January 12, 2014."

  • Captain Michael Glaubitz
  • Captain Michael Lambert
  • Captain Bryan Spies
  • Captain Ernest Lindqvist
  • Captain Philip Bird
  • Captain Jason Wiseman
  • Captain Brandon Goff
  • Captain Bruce Bridgett
  • Captain Melissa Smothers
  • Captain John Griffin
  • Captain Jesse Constantino
  • Captain Oluwafemi Balogen
  • Captain Jacqueline Riley
  • Captain Gregory Strickler
  • Captain James McClelland
  • Captain Robert Bilko
  • Captain Lance Hagood
  • Captain Binokhar Harris 
  • Captain Mathew Miller
  • Captain Akpenamawu Habib

  • Technician Charles Lisko
  • Technician Christopher Abbott
  • Technician Kristofer Demattia
  • Technician Brian Stevens
  • Technician Bobby Blevins
  • Technician Terry McAllister
  • Technician David Mckeag
  • Technician Patrick Feehley 
  • Technician Katherine Johnson
  • Technician Marques Powell
  • Technician Donald McDowell
  • Technician Aaron White
  • Technician Stephen Reeves
  • Technician Wesley Auld
  • Technician Richard Lawhorne 
  • Technician Justin Maynard
  • Technician Benjamin Woodill
  • Technician William Serra
  • Technician David Ramdial

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Laurel House Fire Sends 3 Occupants to Hospital

January 11, 2014, 12:27 pm
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Three residents of a Laurel home were hospitalized after a fire damaged their home this morning.  At about 10:15 am, Saturday, January 11, 2014, firefighters from the Laurel area arrived at a single family home in the 15600 block of Haynes Road and encountered fire showing from the first floor.

Firefighters knocked down the fire quickly and found three residents had been exposed to high heat and thick smoke while exiting the home and before the Fire/EMS Department arrival.  It appears that some of the exposure may have occurred in attempts to rescue their dog that, unfortunately, perished in the fire.

An adult female was transported to a Burn Unit as a precaution for her exposure to heat and and smoke.  Two adult males were transported to a local hospital for their exposure injuries.  All the injured are in good condition with non-life threatening injuries.

The cause of the fire appears to be accidental, however, fire investigators are still working on the exact cause of the fire.  A preliminary fire loss is estimated at $20,000.


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WARNING: Hoax Suspected in "Fire Inspection" Scheme

January 14, 2014, 8:39 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/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department has been made aware of a possible hoax to defraud residents of money.  The Office of the Fire Marshal has received several inquiries and a copy of a flyer that is being distributed seeking a $25 payment for a "fire inspection." The flyer carries a title of FIRE PREVENTION OFFICE and their address.  A copy of the hoax flyer being distributed is displayed below.

If you have received one of these flyers, do not pay any money and contact the Fire/EMS Department Office of the Fire Marshal at 301-583-1830.  If someone passing out these flyers confronts you, call 911 immediately and report the incident.  The Fire/EMS Department does charge fire inspection fees in certain circumstances, however, we would never solicit inspections or fees in this method.

All of our Fire Inspectors will display a badge and credentials identifying themselves as a member of the Fire/EMS Department.  If you have a question or concern about the ID of a Fire/EMS Department employee call 301-583-2200.  The Fire/EMS Department 24-hour Watch Office maintains an updated roster with all employees names and will be able to verify identify of anyone in question.  If you feel threatened at any time, call 911.

The Office of the Fire Marshal will be working with the County Police to identify the person(s) responsible for this hoax and attempts to defraud residents of Prince George's County.



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Early Images of New PGFD Ambulances

January 14, 2014, 10:37 am
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Images of one of  two new ambulances being built.  The new ambulances were purchased from DPC Emergency Equipment and will be assigned to Baden Fire/EMS Station 836 and St. Joseph's Fire/EMS Station 806.  These images were obtained by Spencer Stevenson during his final inspection at the manufacturer in Florida.

Delivery is expected within the 1st Quarter 2014.

Additional details to follow.




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Two Firefighters Injured at Accokeek House Fire - Gardner Road

January 15, 2014, 2:18 pm
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO


Two firefighters were injured and 3 occupants displaced after a fire damaged a home in the 16600 block of Gardner Road in Accokeek this afternoon.  Just before 12:30 pm, Wednesday, January 15, 2014, Prince George’s and Charles County firefighters responded to 911 reports of a house on fire.  An engine from the Accokeek Fire/EMS Station 824 arrived first reporting a large 2-story single family home with heavy fire conditions.  

This rural area does not have fire hydrants nearby so firefighters utilized the thousands of gallons of water brought to the scene on board engine companies and fire department water tankers to battle the fire.  It required about 40 minutes to knock down the bulk of the fire with complete extinguishment occurring 90 minutes after arrival.  There were 40 firefighter/medics and support personnel on the scene.

During the course of the fire fight 2 firefighters suffered burn injuries and were transported to a Burn Unit for treatment.  One sustained burns to his feet and the other to his upper body.  It is anticipated that both firefighters will be treated and released today.   No civilian injuries were reported.

The County Citizen Services Unit reported that 3 adult occupants of the home would be displaced.

The cause of the fire is under investigation and damage estimates are not yet available.  You can see from the images provided from the WUSA TV 9 website that damage to the large home is significant.



Additional images from WUSA TV 9



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Line of Duty Death Announcement - James "Doc" Brooks

January 16, 2014, 12:07 pm
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     Twitter: @PGFDPIO

"Doc" Brooks
It is with deepest regrets that the Prince George’s County Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department announces a Line of Duty Death (LODD).  James “Doc” Delbert Brooks, a 20-year volunteer member of the Department passed away on Wednesday, January 15, 2014, after suffering a medical emergency while on duty the previous week.  Doc Brooks, 62 years-old, was a resident of Camp Springs, Maryland.

On Monday, January 6, Brooks, a member of the Prince George’s Volunteer Marine Fire Rescue, was winterizing the boats and station in preparation of record low temperatures forecasted for the following day.  Shortly after midnight, while still at the Marina located in Fort Washington, he experienced difficulty breathing and called 911.  Firefighters and paramedics arrived to find Brooks in cardiac arrest and immediately began pre-hospital care.  He was transported to a nearby medical facility and subsequently relocated to Medstar at Washington Hospital Center in “critical” condition.

Doc Brooks was surrounded by his wife, family members, and colleagues throughout his time in the hospital.  Jan Demeritt, Deputy Chief of the Volunteer Marine Fire Rescue, also maintained a constant vigil and was at his bedside when he passed.  “On behalf of the Brooks family, I want to thank everyone for their continued support during this difficult time,” said Demeritt.

Prince George’s County Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor stated, “This is indeed a dark time for the Department, in particular, the Volunteer Marine Fire Rescue, as we mourn the passing of a friend and colleague.  Brooks was concerned about how the cold weather would affect the rescue boats and the barge that serves as their station.  He wanted to ensure their readiness, in the event they were called to duty.”

A memorial service with full fire department honors is currently being planned.  Arrangements will be provided as soon as they are available.


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Statement from County Executive Baker on Line of Duty Death of PGFD Volunteer James "Doc" Brooks

January 18, 2014, 7:45 am
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Press Release

For Immediate Release:
January 18, 2014

For Information Contact:
Scott L. Peterson
Deputy Manager of Communications/Press Secretary
Office of Prince George’s County Executive Rushern L. Baker, III
(240) 619-9400

Statement from County Executive Rushern L. Baker, III
Line of Duty Death Announcement of Prince George’s County Fire Department Marine Fire Rescue Volunteer - James "Doc" Brooks

Upper Marlboro, MD – Today, Prince George’s County Executive Rushern L. Baker, III, released a statement following the announcement from the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department of a Line of Duty Death (LODD). James “Doc” Delbert Brooks, a 20-year volunteer member of the Department, passed away on Wednesday, January 15, 2014, after suffering a medical emergency while on duty the previous week.  Doc Brooks, age 62, was a resident of Camp Springs, Maryland.

“The residents of Prince George’s County mourn the loss of Prince George’s County Fire/Emergency Medical Services Marine Fire Rescue Volunteer James “Doc” Brooks and send our thoughts and prayers to his family, friends, and fellow fire fighters.  

We rely on first responders like Doc Brooks.  As a volunteer, he selflessly sacrificed his time, energy, and passion to protect the people of this great County.  He served because he cared about his fellow man.   Doc Brooks is among the many public workers who put their lives on the line every day.  We may not know their names, but they are our guardian angels - always vigilant, and always there when we need them.  When we lose one of our guardian angels in the line of duty, it reminds us that we need to thank these heroes for all that they do and be supportive of their families during difficult times.” 

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PGFD Safety Reminders - Staying Warm and Healthy During Cold Weather

January 18, 2014, 8:57 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

It should not be a surprise to anyone living in Prince George's County and surrounding jurisdictions that in mid to late January we have forecast of cold temperatures in our forecast.  We would like to remind everyone that staying warm in your home without keeping "Safety First" is one of the leading causes of residential fires.  Cold weather also could be unhealthy if you venture outdoors unprepared.

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.  This reminder involves the safe use of space heaters, general heating safety tips, Hypothermia and Frostbite prevention and location of Warming Centers.


Stay Safe

The civilian, career and volunteer men and women of the Fire/EMS Department 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 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, never use ignitable liquids to start a fire and do not overload your appliance.
•    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.
  
Residents are encouraged to utilize Prince George’s County’s CountyClick 311 system to obtain information about public services.

Stay Healthy

With colder temperatures in the forecast for this week, Prince George’s County Fire/EMS and Health Department are joining in a common voice to remind our residents to avoid serious health problems that can occur due to prolonged exposure to cold weather. The two most common conditions are hypothermia and frostbite.

 “All residents must take precautionary actions as a primary defense against injuries and illness resulting from extreme cold weather conditions,” said Pamela Creekmur, Health Officer. “When exposed to cold weather, our bodies lose heat faster than it can produce it, resulting in bodily injury, illness, and even death.”

The Health Department advises all residents to check on your elderly relatives and neighbors to ensure they have adequate heat and protection from the cold.  Limit the amount of time your pet spends outside.  Indoor pets when outside in the freezing cold, can also contract hypothermia very quickly.

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.  

The County has already seen the death of one man from hypothermia and we don't want to see anyone else suffer without, at least, making an effort to provide some assistance.  If you know of a homeless person that could use an offer of assistance to protect themselves from hypothermia , consider contacting the Homeless Hotline at 888-731-0999.

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.
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Viewing and Funeral Arrangements for James "Doc" Brooks - LODD

January 19, 2014, 11:23 am
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Funeral arrangements for James "Doc" Brooks of the Volunteer Marine Fire Rescue are as follows:

VISITATION and VIEWING

Wednesday, January 22, 2014, 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Lee Funeral Home, 6633 Old Alexandria Ferry Rd, Clinton, MD 20735

6:30 pm - Masonic Memorial Service

7:00 pm - Fire Department Memorial Service

FUNERAL

Full Fire Department Line of Duty Death Honors

Thursday, January 23, 2014, 10:00 am

First Baptist Church of Upper Marlboro, 7415 SW Crain Highway

Interment is private to be held at a later date.

Repast visitation immediately following in the Church Hall.

Posted by:

Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson/Public Information Officer

Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department

mebrady@co.pg.md.us

240-508-7930
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Prevent Frozen Sprinkler Pipes Now - More Arctic Air on the Way!!!

January 20, 2014, 9:02 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930

mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO
The National Weather Service has forecast another Arctic blast of freezing temperatures this week.  A similar forecast earlier this month resulted in frozen and broke water pipes in homes and businesses throughout the region. The Fire/EMS Department responded to over 2000 calls for service over a 3 to 4 day period to assist property owners in shutting off utilities to avoid additional damage.  Today is the day to have exposed interior water pipes, including residential and commercial sprinkler systems, properly insulated to help avoid freezing.

If property managers and homeowners can do so safely, replace insulation that may have been shifted to cover exposed water pipes, primarily, in attics and garages.  If you can not do so safely you should contact one of the many fire protection company's or plumbers that can assist you.

Property managers and homeowners should also locate their water main valves and know how to turn the water off in the event of a broken water pipe.
  
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.  Since the residential sprinkler law went into effect there has not been a single fire fatality in single family homes protected by this system.

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 can safely inspect your sprinkler pipes in the attic and you can see exposed pipes; they need to be insulated immediately to prevent freezing.  An open attic hatch will allow heat to rise into the attic and could provide enough heat to keep pipes from freezing.

Plumbing pipes providing water to the inside are also prone to freezing during long periods of freezing temperatures.  Open cabinet doors that house water pipes and allow the homes heat inside.   Slightly open a faucet to allow a small trickle of water - flowing water is more difficult to freeze than standing water in pipes.  Remember to shut off and drain the water to all outside hose bibs. 

If a water 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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Knights of Columbus Recognizes Fire Fighter and Paramedic of the Year

January 20, 2014, 10:28 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     Twitter: @PGFDPIO
Two Prince George's County employees were recognized by the Knights of Columbus in Bowie for their actions on the scene of an aircraft crash on Route 50 earlier this year.  Fire Fighter/Medic Anthony L. Taylor was awarded the Knights of Columbus Career Fire Fighter of the Year and Paramedic Captain Roland D. Berg as the Career Paramedic of the Year.  The awards ceremony was held at the Knights of Columbus Hall on Columbine Way on Saturday, January 18, 2014.
On Monday, September 2, 2013,  Fire Fighter/Medic Taylor responded on board the advanced life support (ALS) unit from Northview Fire/EMS Station 816 for a reported plane crash at Freeway Airport in Bowie.  Taylor was the first paramedic to arrive on the scene and encountered three victims with obvious serious injuries.  A female victim, who was suffering from severe facial injuries, had been removed from the wreckage prior to the arrival of Fire/EMS units and was lying on the shoulder of the highway.  Two critically injured male victims were trapped inside the plane and would require extensive extrication.  Using his training and experience, he instructed the only basic life support transport unit on the scene to quickly load and transport the female patient to a nearby Trauma Center.  This enabled Taylor to then focus the remaining victims, whose injuries were life-threatening.  He provided ALS care to both patients while they were being extricated from the wreckage.  One patient sustained a severe head injury and was presenting a decreased level of consciousness.  The second patient complained of a possible broken back and could not move his legs.  
(L to R) Paramedic Captain Berg and
Fire Fighter/Medic Taylor (Bashoor pic)
Upon the arrival of the Northern EMS Duty Officer, Paramedic Captain Roland D. Berg, Taylor provided an update on the patient’s condition, including the female transport.  His concise information was beneficial in ensuring appropriate resources were requested for the care and transport of the remaining patients.  After giving the update, you continued to provide patient care until additional ALS resources arrived. 
Paramedic Captain Berg realized both patients would need specialized medical care and transport to Shock Trauma in Baltimore and he requested additional air medavac resources.  With additional ALS resources still a considerable distance away, Berg retrieved the ALS equipment from his vehicle.  Berg began treating the patient whose back was possibly broken, while Fire Fighter Taylor attended the patient with the severe head injury.  At the arrival of Glenn Dale Paramedic Unit 818, Captain Berg updated the Incident Commander on the patients’ status.  Berg contacted Shock Trauma, via the Emergency Medical Resource Center, and gave them vital information that assisted with preparing for the patients’ arrival.  When the 2 medavac helicopters, MSP Trooper 2 and US Park Eagle 1, arrived to transport, Berg directed and coordinated the quick and efficient transfer of care to the medavac crews. 
Fire Fighter/Medic Anthony L. Taylor was presented with the Knights of Columbus Firefighter of the Year for his quick thinking to transport the female patient by BLS which is credited with saving her life.  Immediately upon reaching the hospital, she was intubated and placed on a ventilator to protect her airway.  Had he waited for another ALS unit to arrive and transport, the outcome could have been tragic.  Taylor's decision also enabled him to concentrate on the two critically injured males and provide them the best possible chance for survival.  His performance on the scene of the aforementioned incident helped save three lives.  
Paramedic Captain Roland D. Berg was recognized as the Knights of Columbus Paramedic of the Year Award for his his quick and deliberate actions and expertise in mitigating the multi-casualty incident  and helped to save the victims’ lives.  
Prince George's County Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor was in attendance at the awards ceremony and stated, "I am constantly amazed at the level of professionalism and care that our firefighters and paramedics perform on a daily basis.  I also am extremely grateful to the Knights of Columbus for recognizing our members and for their service to the community."







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TRAFFIC ADVISORY for Thursday Morning - LODD Funeral Procession

January 22, 2014, 9:54 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Traffic Advisory for Thursday Morning, January 23, 2014.

The Prince George's County Fire/Emergency Medical Services Department will be conducting a Line of Duty Death (LODD) Funeral Service on Thursday morning.  These services are being held for James "Doc" Brooks, a 20-year volunteer member that suffered a medical episode while on duty.  For additional information about "Doc" please click here and here.

I have included a copy of the funeral procession route to assist you in reporting traffic conditions that may result from this procession.  This will not be a standard funeral procession.  This will start at the Lee Funeral Home in Clinton and drive by key locations (Fire/EMS Stations and Marina) before proceeding to the Church.  The procession will be moderate in length as only family, close friends and comrades will participate.  Internment will be private and held at a later date.

8:30 am  Funeral Caisson Engine with flag draped casket will depart Lee’s Funeral Home, 6633 Old Alexandria Ferry Road, Clinton, MD
Procession Route:

Coventry Road
Left on Allentown Rd.
Left on Allentown Rd.
Station drive by Company 32
Right on Old Forte Road
Left on Indian Head Highway
Right on Ft. Washington Road
Station drive by Company 47
Left on Warburton
Left on King Charles Terrace
Turn around at Marina
Right on Ft. Washington Road
Left on Indian Head Highway
Right on Old Forte Road
Left on Allentown Road
Right on Steed Road
Left on Woodyard Road
Station drive by Company 25
Right on South Osborne Road
Left on Crain Highway
Arrive at First Baptist Church of Upper Marlboro, 7415 Crain Highway.
NOTE: Procession route and all intersections will be controlled by Fire/EMS personnel and law enforcement.  Motorists should follow public safety officials direction and pause momentarily to allow the procession to proceed.

If you have any questions you may contact me by calling or texting me at 240-508-7930. 
I will be at the Church.  


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