Quantcast
Channel: Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department
Viewing all 1573 articles
Browse latest View live
↧

FLASH FLOOD WATCH for Saturday - PGFD Safety Advice

June 26, 2015, 3:45 pm
$
0
0

MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us       @PGFDPIO


The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Watch for most of the National Capital Region including Prince George's County. This Watch goes into effect at 2:00 am Saturday through late Saturday night.

This is the most recent NWS forecast:

* LOW PRESSURE WILL INTENSIFY AS IT DRIFTS NORTHEAST ACROSS
  OHIO...STALLING OVER LAKE ERIE THROUGH SUNDAY EVENING.
  MEANWHILE...A WARM FRONT WILL LIFT FROM SOUTHERN VIRGINIA TO
  PENNSYLVANIA THROUGH SATURDAY. ASSOCIATED HEAVY RAINS WILL
  DEVELOP LATE TONIGHT INTO SATURDAY MORNING ACROSS THE
  SHENANDOAH VALLEY AND SPREADING NORTHEAST ACROSS THE REST OF
  THE AREA SATURDAY MORNING. RAINS...HEAVY AT TIMES WITH
  EMBEDDED THUNDERSTORMS ARE EXPECTED SATURDAY INTO SATURDAY
  EVENING WITH ONE TO THREE INCHES OF RAIN LIKELY BY THE TIME A
  COLD FRONT CLEARS THE AREA SATURDAY NIGHT.

* DUE TO VERY WET ANTECEDENT CONDITIONS AND HEAVY RAINS EXPECTED
  ON SATURDAY...POTENTIAL EXISTS FOR FLASH FLOODING TO OCCUR ON
  SMALL STREAMS...CREEKS AND URBAN AREAS. SIGNIFICANT RISES ARE
  ALSO LIKELY ON MAIN STEM RIVERS SUCH AS THE POTOMAC AND
  SHENANDOAH RIVERS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A FLASH FLOOD WATCH MEANS THAT CONDITIONS MAY DEVELOP THAT LEAD
TO FLASH FLOODING. FLASH FLOODING IS A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION.

YOU SHOULD MONITOR LATER FORECASTS AND BE PREPARED TO TAKE ACTION
SHOULD FLASH FLOOD WARNINGS BE ISSUED.







Safety Advice 




Precautionary/preparedness actions: A Flash Flood Watch means that conditions may develop that lead to flash flooding. Flash flooding is a very dangerous situation. Be prepared to take action should flash flood warnings be issued.


Flash Flood Facts...




Flash floods occur within a few minutes or hours of excessive rainfall or a dam failure. Flooding is a longer-term event and may last a week or more.




Most flash flooding is caused by (1) slow-moving thunderstorms, (2) thunder-storms repeatedly moving over the same area or (3) heavy rains from hurricanes and tropical storms.




Flash floods can roll boulders, tear out trees, and destroy buildings and bridges.




Densely populated areas have a high risk for flash floods. The construction of buildings, highways, driveways, and parking lots increases runoff by reducing the amount of rain absorbed by the ground.




Water can erode the roadbed creating unsafe driving conditions.




Many flash floods occur at night when flooded roads are hard to see.




2 feet of water will float your car, truck or SUV!!! 6 inches of fast-moving floodwater can knock you off your feet.




Nearly half of all flash flood fatalities are auto related. If your car stalls, leave it and seek higher ground, if you can do so safely.




Underpasses can fill rapidly with water, while the adjacent roadway remains clear. Driving into a flooded underpass can quickly put you in 5-6 feet of water.




The Prince George's County Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department wants you to stay safe during this potentially dangerous weather conditions.  Help us by helping yourself and heed warnings and safety tips.






Flash Flood Safety Tips...




Never try to walk, swim, or drive through swift-moving floodwater. Remember, 2 feet of water will float your vehicle and 6 inches of fast moving floodwater can knock you off your feet.




If you come upon floodwaters, STOP, TURN AROUND AND GO ANOTHER WAY!!




Do not attempt to drive through a flooded road.




If your car stalls in high water, DON'T PANIC, leave your car and seek higher ground, if you can do so safely and call 911.




Stay informed about the storm and possible flooding by listening to your NOAA weather radio, commercial radio or television.


                       


                           
                       
                     


                   


                   
↧


                   
                                        

                                                                                                                                          
                

                  

                    
                    

                      Search
                                          

                  

                                    
                  
                

                     

                     

                   
                   
                   
                                    
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          
                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                                                     
                   

                     
                     
                   

                   


                     
                                        


                   
                   

                                          
Approved Fireworks Locations in Prince George's County

                     

                                              June 29, 2015, 11:00 am
                     


                     
                     

                     
                     
                                          
                     
                                          
                     
                   


                   
                   


                     
                     

                       
                       

                         
                              
                         

                          
                           $
                         

                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         
                               
                         

                         
                                
                         
                       

                     

    
                                                               
                     
                     

                       

                         All consumer purchased fireworks are illegal to purchase, posses, transport and use in Prince George's County.  This law has help to reduce the number of injuries and fires typically experienced during this festive time of year.


The following public and Municipal locations have obtained appropriate permits to conduct an approved fireworks display.  Some locations may charge an entrance fee, please call ahead for details.  Most fireworks displays start shortly after dusk (approximately 9:00 pm).

Fireworks Display for Friday, July 3, 2015

Lanham, MD Ball Field (behind church) - 7800 Good Luck Road                                

Fireworks Displays for Saturday, July 4, 2015

Upper Marlboro, MD - Spirit of Faith Christian Center  - 14001 Candy Hill Road 
   
District Heights, MD - E. Michael Roll Municipal Building - 2000 Marbury Drive

Morningside, MD - 6901 Ames Street                    

Bowie, MD - Prince George’s Stadium, 4101 NE Crain Hwy. Fireworks after the game. Call 301-805-6000 for more information. 

College Park MD - University of Maryland Parking Lot 1 Concert at 7 p.m. Fireworks at 9 p.m. Call 301-864-8877 for more information. 

Greenbelt MD - Buddy Attick Park 555 Crescent Road. Fireworks at Dusk. Call 301- 397-2200 for more information.

Six Flags America - Mitchellville, MD. The amusement park sponsors a spectacular fireworks display on July 4th. Enjoy a full day of family entertainment. 
Call for more information 301-249-1500

Laurel, MD - Granville Gude Park, Laurel Lake, Laurel, MD Parade at 11 a.m. 
Fireworks at dusk. Call 301-725-5300 ext. 44 for more information.

Fireworks Display for Sunday, July 5, 2015

Brandywine, MD - Spirit of Faith Christian Center  - 14107 Gibbons Church Road

On behalf of all the men and women of the Prince George's County Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department we wish each and everyone a festive, happy and safe Fourth of July!!!

Mark E. Brady
Chief Spokesperson/Public Information Officer
Twitter @PGFDPIO
mebrady@co.pg.md.us


                       


                           
                       
                     


                   


                   
↧


                   
                   
                                        

                       

                         
                
    

                       

                     

                     
↧

                   
                   
                                    
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          
                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                                                     
                   

                     
                     
                   

                   


                     
                                        


                   
                   

                                          
PGFD Safety First Day of the Month - Safety Advice for July 2015

                     

                                              July 1, 2015, 5:27 am
                     


                     
                     

                     
                     
                                          
                     
                                          
                     
                   


                   
                   


                     
                     

                       
                       

                         
                              
                         

                          
                           $
                         

                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         
                               
                         

                         
                                
                         
                       

                     

    
                                                               
                     
                     

                       

                         
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Today is July 1, 2015, the Safety First Day of the Month.  Having a working smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarm could be the difference in life or death - yours and your family.  Today is the day that the Prince George's County Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department has designated for everyone to test their smoke and CO alarms.  It's simple:

Push the TEST button on the front cover of your smoke and CO alarm.

An audible beeping noise SHOULD sound.  If it does, congratulations, your done until next month.

If it does not sound an audible alarm - replace the battery.  Push the TEST button again - still no alarm - remove the alarm and immediately replace with a new 10-year, tamper proof, with hush feature smoke or CO alarm or better yet a 10-year combination smoke/CO alarm.

If your alarms are at about 10 years old or you don't remember if you ever replaced the alarm, do it today!!!  Smoke and CO alarms work all day - every day and will wear down over their 10 year service life.
County Law requires a working smoke alarm in your home.  Over the next two years the law will continue to evolve to require a working 10-year smoke alarm on every level of your home, primarily outside of sleeping areas.

County Law currently requires a working CO detector on every level of your home, primarily, outside of sleeping areas.  This law includes all homes with a gas service (natural, propane, oil, etc), a fireplace or an attached garage.  This law also requires that all hotels, motels, dormitories and all apartments and condos have working CO alarms.

Have you ever noticed that it is sometimes a challenge to reach your alarms installed on your ceiling or high on the wall.  Perhaps you use a step-ladder or stand tall on your toes to reach the test button.  Think about your senior citizen neighbors and relatives that may have difficulty even reaching a light switch.  Test their alarms for them every month, change their batteries at least once-a-year and contact 311 for them if they need a new 10-year smoke alarm installed by firefighters, free of charge.
Don't wait for a firefighter to knock on your door.  If you need a working smoke alarm and can not afford to purchase one, call 311 and ask about the free smoke alarm program.

Remember that all consumer purchased (backyard) fireworks are illegal in Prince George's County.  Leave the fireworks to a professional and plan to attend one of the many displays located throughout Prince George's County.  See the full list by clicking here.  Pets do not ace well at firework displays, leave your pets at home.

The month of July is Summertime in Prince George's County.  A quick Safety First Day of the Month reminder of life-saving habits:

1.     Never leave children or pets in cars.  Heat stroke can occur within minutes and sickness or death will occur very quickly.

2.     During our hazy, hot and humid days - remember to drink plenty of water.  Its how our firefighters and medics stay hydrated and are able to work in hot temperatures.  HHH2 - "Hazy, Hot and Humid = Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate."

3.     Always practice good fire safety habits when discarding cigarettes but pay particular attention when days are labeled "Red Flag" days where fires can start easily and spread rapidly.

Grill Safety

It is anticipated that many backyard barbecue's will be in use on the July 4th weekend and throughout the summer months. The PGFD recommend that you exercise caution and keep safety in mind when setting up, using and cleaning your BBQ grill.   Did you know that cooking, most notably "unattended cooking" is the number one cause of fires and fire related injuries in Prince George's County, this includes both inside and outside cooking: WATCH WHAT YOU HEAT!!!

•NEVER use a grill indoors including garages, overhangs and canopies

•By Law - Grills must be at least 30 feet away from any multi-family apartment dwelling.

•When using a grill at your single family home – homeowners should use a 10-foot perimeter from anything combustible – including your house!!! Never place a grill up against your house, wood deck or fence.

•In Prince George’s County - all grills are illegal to use on balconies of apartments and condominium apartments

•Do not allow children and pets to play near a grill - set up a 10 foot safety zone around your grill.

•Only use approved ignition fluids – NEVER use gasoline to ignite a grill

•Keep a fire extinguisher, garden hose or bucket of sand nearby to douse a grill fire that gets out of control.

•Inspect your grill before you ignite to ensure everything is in working order. This inspection includes all connections on your gas grills are tight and not leaking.

Charcoal ashes and used briquettes should be disposed of in a metal container and allowed to cool down for up to 48 hours before disposal.  Keep ash container off of your wood deck and away from your house.

Swim Safely

It is anticipated that thousands of residents will be taking full advantage of swimming pools.  Keeping safety first will help to prevent such a festive occasion from becoming a tragedy.  You should know that 75% of drownings occur in backyard pools.

For parents:

•Always watch your children and never leave them unattended.  A lack of adult supervision is one of the leading contributing factors to children drowning.

•Do not rely on flotation devices to protect your children from drowning. You must supervise at all times.

•Have a phone nearby in the event you need to call 911.

•Have children swim in pairs - the "buddy system"

•If a child is missing - check the pool first.

•Teach your child how to swim. Visit www.pgparks.com/aquatics.htm for additional information.

•Learn CPR. Visit http://www.redcross.org/take-a-class or call the Fire/EMS Department CPR Information line at 301-864-LIVE (5483).

For home pool owners and managers:

•Install a fence around the perimeter of the pool.

•Use self closing latches and gates.

•Install a door alarm from the house to the pool area.

•Have life saving equipment nearby such as life rings or reaching poles   

CPR and AED Awareness Week


As previously mentioned in swimming pool safety, everyone should take the time how to learn how to perform CPR and use an AED.  June 1 through June 7 is CPR and AED Awareness Week and is an excellent opportunity to learn both.  You can call 301-864-LIVE (5483) and find locations that teach CPR/AED or click here for additional information.

                       


                           
                       
                     


                   


                   
↧


                   
                   
                   
                   
                                    
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          
                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                                                     
                   

                     
                     
                   

                   


                     
                                        


                   
                   

                                          
US Park Police Award Four PGFD Members

                     

                                              July 1, 2015, 12:47 pm
                     


                     
                     

                     
                     
                                          
                     
                                          
                     
                   


                   
                   


                     
                     

                       
                       

                         
                              
                         

                          
                           $
                         

                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         
                               
                         

                         
                                
                         
                       

                     

    
                                                               
                     
                     

                       

                         
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

On Monday, June 29, The United States Park Police held their Annual Award, Promotion and Graduation Ceremony at their Headquarters in Washington, DC.

The following crew members from Medic 846, Largo/Kettering, and Ambulance 827, Morningside VFD, received a lifesaving award from U.S. Park Police Chief Robert D. MacLean for an incident on Suitland Parkway where one man was in cardiac arrest and was revived prior to arriving at the hospital. Award recipients included: 

Firefighter / Paramedic Raphael Holt
Firefighter / Paramedic Marcus Roy
Volunteer Firefighter Daniel DiMarcello
Volunteer Firefighter Samuel Carnahan

Congratulations are in order for these members.  Your actions and award reflects favorably upon yourselves and on the Prince George's County Fire/Emergency Medical Services Department as a whole.




                       


                           
                       
                     


                   


                   
↧


                   
                   
                   
                   
                                    
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          
                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                                                     
                   

                     
                     
                   

                   


                     
                                        


                   
                   

                                          
Firefighter Hospitalized After Battling Bowie House Fire

                     

                                              July 2, 2015, 7:29 am
                     


                     
                     

                     
                     
                                          
                     
                                          
                     
                   


                   
                   


                     
                     

                       
                       

                         
                              
                         

                          
                           $
                         

                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         
                               
                         

                         
                                
                         
                       

                     

    
                                                               
                     
                     

                       

                         
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

A firefighter remains hospitalized after suffering a medical emergency while battling a house fire yesterday.  At around 7:00 pm, Wednesday, July 1, firefighters from the Bowie area were alerted to a house fire in the 16200 block of Pointer Ridge Drive.  Upon arrival firefighters found smoke showing and a fire in the kitchen.

Firefighters made a quick knockdown of the fire and confirmed the home occupant was safe outside.  There were four cats inside the house.  One of the pets was found deceased and 3 others were unaccounted for.

Firefighters determined that food cooking on the stove was the cause of the fire.  A estimated fire loss was not submitted.  There were no civilian injuries and one firefighter experienced a medical incident.

After the fire was out a 22-year-old Bowie Volunteer Firefighter was transported to a nearby hospital after complaining of an illness possibly related to fatigue and dehydration.  He was admitted overnight to the hospital for additional tests and treatment.  He is reported to be in Good Condition.

Cooking food, most notably, unattended food on the stove, is the leading cause of fires and fire related injuries in Prince George’s County and the entire Country.  Never leave food cooking on the stove or barbecue grill unattended.  “Watch what you Heat.”


The lone occupant of the house was displaced and assisted by the Red Cross – National Capitol Region with temporary shelter.  

  

                       


                           
                       
                     


                   


                   
↧


                   
                   
                   
                                        

                       

                         
                
    

                       

                     

                     
↧

                   
                                    
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          
                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                                                     
                   

                     
                     
                   

                   


                     
                                        


                   
                   

                                          
Firefighters Extinguish Two Structure Fires in Fort Washington

                     

                                              July 2, 2015, 8:17 am
                     


                     
                     

                     
                     
                                          
                     
                                          
                     
                   


                   
                   


                     
                     

                       
                       

                         
                              
                         

                          
                           $
                         

                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         
                               
                         

                         
                                
                         
                       

                     

    
                                                               
                     
                     

                       

                         
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Firefighters in the Fort Washington area stayed busy with battling two structure fires during their 24-hour shift that started on Wednesday, July 1.

The first incident occurred just after 11:30 am at a 2-story single-family home in the 800 block of Newmont Street.  A working smoke alarm detected smoke inside the house and emitted a warning which prompted the home occupants to evacuate their home.  Upon arrival firefighters found fire showing from a top floor bedroom window.  Firefighters confirmed all home occupants were safely outside and quickly extinguished the fire.  No one was injured, however, two adults and two children were displaced.  The Red Cross – National Capitol Region assisted the family with temporary shelter and assistance.  The cause of the fire appears to be accidental with a fire loss estimate of $20,000.  


The second incident occurred at around 1:15 am, Thursday, July 2.  Firefighters responded to the area of Rosecroft Raceway and located a vacant farmhouse fully involved with fire in the 2500 block of Brinkley Road.  A defensive exterior attack was initiated with the fire being declared out at around 2:45 am.  No injuries were reported.  Fire Investigators will continue to investigate the cause of the fire and placed an estimated fire loss at $100,000.

                       


                           
                       
                     


                   


                   
↧


                   
                   
                   
                   
                                    
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          
                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                                                     
                   

                     
                     
                   

                   


                     
                                        


                   
                   

                                          
Capitol Heights Female Injured by Fireworks - Updated Fireworks Display List and Amnesty Program

                     

                                              July 3, 2015, 7:57 am
                     


                     
                     

                     
                     
                                          
                     
                                          
                     
                   


                   
                   


                     
                     

                       
                       

                         
                              
                         

                          
                           $
                         

                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         
                               
                         

                         
                                
                         
                       

                     

    
                                                               
                     
                     

                       

                         
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

A Capitol Heights female sustained traumatic injuries to three fingers when a fireworks device exploded in her hand.  The adult female was transported to a nearby Trauma Center for treatment of her injuries.  The incident occurred around 9:30 pm on Thursday, July 2.

This injury is the second consumer-purchased fireworks related injury in the past seven years in Prince George’s County.  The number of injuries is low thanks to the strict laws prohibiting these types of fireworks in Prince George’s County.  All backyard, consumer purchased and homemade fireworks are illegal.  Firefighters and Medics encourage everyone to attend a public or municipal fireworks display.

Our fireworks law is a law we can live with.  It is intended to curb injuries and fires associated with fireworks.

Fireworks Display List within Prince Georges County Maryland

 (ALL LOCATIONS LISTED BELOW HAVE MARYLAND STATE APPROVED PERMITS FOR PUBLIC FIREWORKS DISPLAYS WITHIN PRINCE GEORGES COUNTY MARYLAND.  IN ADDITION, PERSONNEL FROM THE OFFICE OF THE FIRE MARSHAL/INSPECTIONS AND OR PREVENTION SECTION'S FOR PRINCE GEORGES COUNTY WILL INSPECT THE SIGHTS PRIOR TOO, DURING, AND AT THE CONCLUSION OF THE LISTED EVENTS. (EXCEPT FOR ONES MARKED IN RED WHICH WILL BE DONE BY STATE FIRE MARSHAL AND OR LOCAL MUNICIPALITY WHO HAVE THEIR OWN FIRE INSPECTORS)  QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS CAN BE ADDRESSED TO THE OFFICE OF THE FIRE MARSHAL FOR PRINCE GEORGES COUNTY VIA PGFD WATCH OFFICE AT 301-583-2200)

July 3, 2015-

1) Ball Field Behind Church
     7800 Good Luck Road
     Start Time of Show-9:00 pm
     Within the City Limits of Greenbelt, 

2) Six Flags Amusement Park
     13710 Central Ave, Bowie
     Start Time of Show-9:30 pm

July 4, 2015-

1) Prince Georges County Stadium
     4101 Crain Hwy, Bowie
     Game-time 1830 Hours
     Start time of show- At conclusion of game - Approximately 9:00 pm

2) Six Flags Amusement Park
     13710 Central Ave, Bowie
     Start time of show- 9:30 pm
   

3) Spirit of Faith Christian Center
     14001 Candy Hill Road, Upper Marlboro
     Start time of show-9:45 pm

4) Buddy Attack Park
     555 Crescent Road, Greenbelt 
     Start time of show-9:15 pm
     Within the City Limits of Greenbelt

5) E. Michael Roll Municipal Bldg
     2000 Marbury Drive, District Heights
     Start time of show-9:30 pm
     

6) Empty Lot Adjacent to Ames Street
     6901 Ames Street, Morningside
     Start time of show-9:30 pm

7) Granville Gude Park/Laurel Lakes
     8300 Mulberry Street, Laurel
     Start Time of show-9:15 pm
     Within City of Laurel 
     (Inspected by Laurel City Fire Inspector)

8) University of MD/City of College Park Fireworks
     Parking Lot #1 on UMD Campus
     Start Time of Show-9:00 pm
(Inspected by State Fire Marshal)
     


July 5, 2015

1) Spirit of Faith Christian Center
    14105 Gibbons Church Road, Brandywine
     Start time of show-9:30 pm

2) Six Flags Amusement Park
     13710 Central Ave, Bowie

     Start Time of Show-9:30 pm

The Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department is offering an Amnesty Program for residents to surrender their fireworks without any fear of prosecution.  You must follow the rules detailed below to be eligible for this program.



                       


                           
                       
                     


                   


                   
↧


                   
                   
                   
                   
                                    
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          
                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                                                     
                   

                     
                     
                   

                   


                     
                                        


                   
                   

                                          
Calverton Couple Escape House Fire Thanks to Working Smoke Alarms

                     

                                              July 3, 2015, 7:18 pm
                     


                     
                     

                     
                     
                                          
                     
                                          
                     
                   


                   
                   


                     
                     

                       
                       

                         
                              
                         

                          
                           $
                         

                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         
                               
                         

                         
                                
                         
                       

                     

    
                                                               
                     
                     

                       

                         
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

A fire of an undetermined cause caused significant damage to a Calverton home this afternoon with the occupants needing every second to escape uninjured.  Working smoke alarms provided them with just enough notice to escape.

Firefighters were alerted to a 911 call reporting a house fire in the 3600 block of Stonehall Drive in the Calverton just after 3:00 pm, Friday, July 3.  Firefighters from both Prince George’s and Montgomery County responded on the call and arrived to find a 2-story, 2089 square foot, split level, single family home with fire and smoke showing.

A husband and wife were at home when 2 smoke alarms, one on the 1st floor and one on the 2nd floor, emitted their warning signal that smoke was detected in their home.  A female that normally uses a walker or wheelchair was taking a nap and awakened by the smoke alarm.  Her husband went to investigate why the smoke alarms were sounding when a neighbor started to pound on the front door telling the couple their house was on fire.  The husband heeded the neighbors advice and  immediately went to assist his wife out of bed then to safety.

A fire had started on the lower level of the house and was spreading rapidly through the homes interior.  Firefighters were able to bring the fire under control after 15 minutes of arrival on the scene.  Remarkably, no one was injured.  Two working smoke alarms alerted the occupants and they used every second available afforded by the early alert to exit the smoke and heat filled house.

The homes occupants, 3 adults, were displaced.  They have made their own arrangements for housing.  The cause of the fire is under investigation and a preliminary fire loss is estimated at $150,000.

Working smoke alarms increase the chances of surviving a home fire by 50%.  A planned and practice exit from your home, identifying two ways out of every room, is crucial in the short period of time you have to escape.


Any County resident that needs a smoke alarm and can not afford to purchase one themselves can call 311 and ask about the free smoke alarm program.  A firefighter will come to your home and install a 10-year smoke alarm in your home free of charge.  County Law requires a working smoke alarm on every level of your home and in bedrooms.

This is a citizens video captured prior to the Fire Department arrival.


Conditions on arrival of the Fire Department.  Photo by Al Schwartz, Beltsville VFD



                       


                           
                       
                     


                   


                   
↧


                   
                                        

                                                                                                                                          
                

                  

                    
                    

                      Search
                                          

                  

                                    
                  
                

                     

                     

                   
                   
                   
                                    
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          
                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                                                     
                   

                     
                     
                   

                   


                     
                                        


                   
                   

                                          
Working CO Detector Saves Chillum Couple

                     

                                              July 3, 2015, 7:51 pm
                     


                     
                     

                     
                     
                                          
                     
                                          
                     
                   


                   
                   


                     
                     

                       
                       

                         
                              
                         

                          
                           $
                         

                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         
                               
                         

                         
                                
                         
                       

                     

    
                                                               
                     
                     

                       

                         
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

A carbon monoxide detector sounded an alarm when unhealthy levels of the toxic gas built up in a Chillum home.  An alarm company monitoring the homes alarms system notified Prince George’s County Public Safety Communications of an activated CO detector at a home in the 6100 block of Westland Drive.

Firefighters from the Chillum Fire/EMS Station were dispatched to investigate and arrived at the 2-story, split level, single family home at around 7:00 pm, Friday, July 3.  Firefighters received no response after knocking on the front door several times.  The officer-in-charge made the decision to force entry into the home to further investigate.

Once inside they found two occupants that appeared to be suffering from CO exposure and immediately called medics to the scene.  Firefighters used gas detection meters and discovered 100 parts per million (ppm) of CO in the house.  A normal CO level in a home could be anywhere between 0 and 30 ppm.  Anything above 30 ppm is considered unhealthy.

A defective stove was found to be the source of the CO, which was turned off by firefighters.

The two occupants were transported to a nearby hospital in good condition.  Had the CO not been detected the couple would have been exposed for a longer duration and suffered a more serious illness and possible death.  The warning of unhealthy CO levels by the working CO detector prevented further illness.

County law now requires a CO detector on every level of your home.  CO is an odorless and invisible gas that is a byproduct of combustion.  Exposure to CO will initially make you feel sick with prolonged exposure to unhealthy levels possibly killing you.


A working CO detector is the only device available to provide a warning of unhealthy levels of the deadly gas. 

                       


                           
                       
                     


                   


                   
↧


                   
                   
                   
                                        

                       

                         
                
    

                       

                     

                     
↧

                   
                                    
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          
                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                                                     
                   

                     
                     
                   

                   


                     
                                        


                   
                   

                                          
Suitland Apartment Fire Displaces 42 Residents 

                     

                                              July 7, 2015, 6:39 am
                     


                     
                     

                     
                     
                                          
                     
                                          
                     
                   


                   
                   


                     
                     

                       
                       

                         
                              
                         

                          
                           $
                         

                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         
                               
                         

                         
                                
                         
                       

                     

    
                                                               
                     
                     

                       

                         
Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

On Monday evening, July 6, firefighters battled an apartment fire in the 3600 block of Silver Park Drive in Suitland.  The fire of undetermined cause and origin resulted in the displacement of 42 residents from 12 apartments and caused an estimated fire loss of $100,000.  Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

Just before 8:30 pm, firefighters arrived to find a 3-story garden style apartment building with fire and smoke showing from a top floor unit.  The fire was starting to extend into the roof/attic area of the building before firefighters were able to gain control and extinguish the fire.


The County Citizens Services Unit, Red Cross and apartment complex management were working to provide shelter to the 30 adults and 12 children that suffered displacement.

                       


                           
                       
                     


                   


                   
↧


                   
                   
                   
                   
                                    
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          
                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                                                     
                   

                     
                     
                   

                   


                     
                                        


                   
                   

                                          
Firefighter Injured Battling Townhouse Fire

                     

                                              July 13, 2015, 7:11 am
                     


                     
                     

                     
                     
                                          
                     
                                          
                     
                   


                   
                   


                     
                     

                       
                       

                         
                              
                         

                          
                           $
                         

                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         
                               
                         

                         
                                
                         
                       

                     

    
                                                               
                     
                     

                       

                         
MEDIA CONTACT

For information about the fire contact the Howard County Department of Fire & Rescue Services.

For information on Fire Fighter/Medic Captain Donald Fletcher contact: 
Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930


Shortly after 7:00 PM, Sunday, July 12, firefighters and paramedics from the Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services (HCDFRS) were alerted by neighbors about a townhouse fire in the 9400 block of Riverbrink Court in Laurel, Maryland.  Several neighbors called 911 to report seeing smoke and flames coming from the basement at the rear of the structure.

Crews arrived to find heavy fire coming from the rear of a 2-story end-unit townhouse with a walk out basement.   More than 50 firefighters from HCDFRS and the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department (PGFD) were on hand to extinguish the blaze.  PGFD units included Laurel #810, Calverton #841, a Medic Unit from Laurel and several command officers.  It is common practice for neighboring jurisdictions to share mutual aid fire/EMS apparatus if they are closest to the incident location.

The fire was declared under control approximately 45 minutes later.  Interior firefighting operations were hampered because the extensive fire caused significant structural damage, and large portions of the first and second floors were deemed unsafe.

Prince George’s County Fire Captain Donald Fletcher was ascending a flight of interior stairs when they collapsed underneath him.  He initially saved himself falling into the collapse area of grabbing onto a superheated stair rail and holding on until other firefighters pulled him to safety.  Fletcher sustained burn injuries to both hands and was transported to the Burn Unit at MEDSTAR Washington Hospital Center.  He was treated and released last night and is currently resting at home.  While it is never good to sustain a burn injury on the fire ground we are fortunate to be only reporting a treat and release burn injury and nothing more serious.  Captain Fletcher’s initial reaction to grab a handrail while falling and other firefighters pulling him to safety is a testament to firefighters training and situational awareness.  Fletcher is a 10-year veteran of the Fire/EMS Department and is assigned to the Calverton Fire/EMS Station #841.  There have been no civilian injuries.

No one was home when the fire began.  Red Cross is providing assistance.  HCDFRS fire investigators are conducting an investigation to determine the origin and cause of the blaze.

The rear of the townhouse  Photo by HCDFRS

Fire showing from the front side of the townhouse.  Photo by R. Blakenship via HCDFS.




                       


                           
                       
                     


                   


                   
↧


                   
                   
                   
                   
                                    
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          
                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                                                     
                   

                     
                     
                   

                   


                     
                                        


                   
                   

                                          
PGFD Firefighters Extinguish Fire, Rescue Two Pets and Ensure Quick Veterinarian Treatment

                     

                                              July 13, 2015, 10:36 am
                     


                     
                     

                     
                     
                                          
                     
                                          
                     
                   


                   
                   


                     
                     

                       
                       

                         
                              
                         

                          
                           $
                         

                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         
                               
                         

                         
                                
                         
                       

                     

    
                                                               
                     
                     

                       

                         
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Prince George’s County Firefighters quickly extinguished a fire inside of a Landover Hills home and rescued two pets found inside.  At around 11:15 am, today, a neighbor called 911 and reported smoke was coming from the attic of a home in the 4900 block of 78th Avenue in Landover Hills.  

Firefighters from the Landover Hills Fire/EMS Station 830 were the first to arrive and encountered light smoke from the attic of a single family home.  A fire in the kitchen was found after forcing entry into the house.  The fire was quickly extinguished.  The house was charged with high heat and thick smoke with searches yielding no human occupants being located, however, a dog and a cat were removed from the house.  The cat quickly regained her senses once removed to fresh air and appeared fine.  The dog, “Blueberry” – an older Beagle mix, was suffering from burn injuries and smoke inhalation.  The cat was given to a neighbor for safe keeping and the dog was being treated by Firefighter/Medics on the scene, however, “Blueberry” was in need of immediate veterinarian care.  A smaller dog escaped when firefighters entered the home and is being searched for within the community.

After 15 minutes of providing oxygen by Firefighter/Medics to “Blueberry” he showed no signs of improvement and a decision was made that Firefighter/Medics would transport the dog to a nearby veterinarian hospital on Annapolis Road in Lanham.  Veterinarians immediately started to work with Blueberry, as it turns out, is a regular patient at that facility.

The fire caused an estimated $5,000 in fire damage.  Blueberry is expected to make a full recovery thanks to the quick thinking and fast actions of personnel getting him to the appropriate facility.  It's hard enough learning that your home sustained some fire damage, however, there is a huge sense of relief to learn that your family member pets are all OK.

The Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department has partnered with the Anne Arundel County SPCA to set up the Sparky Fire Fund.  When firefighters encounter an injured pet in a home fire that requires immediate vet care and the owner can not be found or does not have the resources to pay for vet care then the "Sparky Fire Fund" would assist in paying a portion of the bills.  Anyone interested in donating to the fund may do so by clicking here.  Be sure you designate the Sparky Fire Fund.  The fund was not needed in this case.

The following images of "Blueberry" being treated by Veterinarians were captured by Andrew Pantelis, IAFF Local 1619 President.  Pantelis and IAFF 1619 Treasurer John Wiseman assisted an ambulance crew in transporting the injured canine to the vets.





                       


                           
                       
                     


                   


                   
↧


                   
                   
                   
                   
                                    
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          
                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                                                     
                   

                     
                     
                   

                   


                     
                                        


                   
                   

                                          
PGFD Tactical Medics are part of a County Police Unit Citation for Service During Baltimore Riots

                     

                                              July 14, 2015, 2:04 pm
                     


                     
                     

                     
                     
                                          
                     
                                          
                     
                   


                   
                   


                     
                     

                       
                       

                         
                              
                         

                          
                           $
                         

                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         
                               
                         

                         
                                
                         
                       

                     

    
                                                               
                     
                     

                       

                         
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Lieutenant Michael Buffum and Acting Lieutenant Jake Gigliotti were recognized today, July 14, as part of a larger ceremony at Prince George’s County Police headquarters with a unit citation from the Prince George’s County Police Department for their response to the Baltimore riots.  

The Prince George’s County Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department embeds specially trained tactical medics (TEMS) who are assigned full time to the Police Emergency Services Team and operate in areas where traditional EMS cannot access due to safety concerns.  The tactical medic program operated continuously around the clock for ten days in support of the response to the Baltimore riots.  

Battalion Chief Marino who manages the TEMS program stated “I am extremely proud of the TEMS personnel and their response to an unstable and difficult situation.   Over the entire operational period tactical EMS personnel reached a number of injured victims ahead of traditional EMS assets and incorporated the latest in Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC) to facilitate treatment in a high threat environment.” TEMS personnel go through rigorous training in tactics and support hundreds of operations every year.    

County Police Chief Mark Magaw, Fire Fighter/Medic Lt. Michael Buffum and 
Deputy Fire Chief Ben Barksdale at award ceremony. (PGFD photo)

Police Chief Magaw, Acting Fire Fighter/Medic Lt. Jake Gigliotti and DFC Barksdale (PGFD photo_



                       


                           
                       
                     


                   


                   
↧


                   
                   
                   
                                        

                       

                         
                
    

                       

                     

                     
↧

                   
                                    
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          
                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                                                     
                   

                     
                     
                   

                   


                     
                                        


                   
                   

                                          
PGFD Battalion Chief to Receive American Legion Firefighter of the Year Award

                     

                                              July 15, 2015, 3:30 am
                     


                     
                     

                     
                     
                                          
                     
                                          
                     
                   


                   
                   


                     
                     

                       
                       

                         
                              
                         

                          
                           $
                         

                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         
                               
                         

                         
                                
                         
                       

                     

    
                                                               
                     
                     

                       

                         
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO
Acting Fire Fighter/Medic Battalion Chief
Ernest Shaun Lindqvist
On Thursday, July 16, 2015, Acting Fire Fighter/Medic Battalion Chief Ernest Shaun Lindqvist will receive the American Legion, Department of Maryland “Career Fire Fighter of the Year” award.  The ceremony will take place at the organization’s convention in Ocean City, Maryland.  In April of this year, he was selected as the “Career Fire Fighter of the Year” for both the American Legion’s Southern Maryland District Council and the Prince George’s County Council.  Deputy Fire Chief Corey A. Smedley will represent the Fire/EMS Department at the awards ceremony.

"There are many reasons why I am extremely proud of Ernie Lindqvist, including overall work ethic, academic accomplishments and for his selection as the American Legion Firefighter of the Year," said Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor.   "I congratulate him on his well-deserved award and look forward to calling him Doctor Lindqvist in the very near future."

Upon becoming a career member of the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department in November 2000, Battalion Chief Lindqvist was already trained as both a firefighter and paramedic.  During his tenure, he progressed through the ranks and served in many Fire/EMS Stations throughout the County.  He is currently assigned to the Department’s Training and Leadership Academy.  In this position he serves as the Deputy Director of the Academy, overseeing all aspects of fire, rescue, EMS, and professional development training, as well as the High School Cadet Program.  
Battalion Chief Lindqvist’s fascination with the fire service began at the age of eight, when he became a member of the Junior Firefighters in his hometown of St. Thomas in the United States Virgin Islands.  The Junior Firefighters is a youth mentoring program within the Virgin Islands Fire Service that provides guidance counseling and education in the areas of firefighting, fire prevention, fire safety, and leadership.  The program focused on community service and public safety and has been instrumental in the development of many of its members, for careers in public service.  
In January of 1996, Lindqvist attended a paramedic program at the Center for Emergency Medicine of Western Pennsylvania and graduated with a Pre-Hospital Emergency Medicine Certificate.  Immediately, at the conclusion of the program, he secured a paramedic position working under a 9-1-1 emergency service. He continued his professional development and became an instructor in various rescue and emergency medical services programs.  Shortly thereafter, he took on a leadership position as the EMS Training Director.  
In January 2000, Battalion Chief Lindqvist delved back into the career world of firefighting and cross-trained as a firefighter/paramedic in the Arlington County Fire Department in Northern Virginia.  He held the position for nearly a year before taking an opportunity for the same position in Prince George’s County, Maryland.
Acting Battalion Chief Lindqvist has many notable academic accomplishments.  He received a Bachelor of Science Degree with a major in Fire Science and minor in Emergency Management at the University of Maryland University College in 2010.  He furthered his education by receiving a Masters in Public Administration Degree with a Concentration in Disaster Management from American Public University in 2012.  Presently, he is completing studies to obtain his Doctorate of Philosophy in Public Policy & Administration with a focus on Public Safety and Emergency Management at Walden University.
Battalion Chief Lindqvist is a life-long student and is frequently taking courses in fire, rescue, emergency services, and public management.  He exhibits strong personal leadership, as evidenced in his continued professional development and ability and commitment to pass on his knowledge through teaching and mentoring those under his command.   


                       


                           
                       
                     


                   


                   
↧


                   
                   
                   
                   
                                    
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          
                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                                                     
                   

                     
                     
                   

                   


                     
                                        


                   
                   

                                          
MEDIA ADVISORY - New Brandywine Fire/EMS Station Ribbon Cutting

                     

                                              July 15, 2015, 9:06 am
                     


                     
                     

                     
                     
                                          
                     
                                          
                     
                   


                   
                   

                   
↧


                   
                                        

                                                                                                                                          
                

                  

                    
                    

                      Search
                                          

                  

                                    
                  
                

                     

                     

                   
                   
                   
                                    
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          
                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                                                     
                   

                     
                     
                   

                   


                     
                                        


                   
                   

                                          
Former Fire/EMS Station "22" Honored by New Tenants with eRecycling Program 

                     

                                              July 16, 2015, 7:44 am
                     


                     
                     

                     
                     
                                          
                     
                                          
                     
                   


                   
                   


                     
                     

                       
                       

                         
                              
                         

                          
                           $
                         

                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         
                               
                         

                         
                                
                         
                       

                     

    
                                                               
                     
                     

                       

                         
Fire/EMS Department Media Contact: Mark E. Brady, 240-508-7930
New Horizons Media Contact: Leslie I.D. Prewitt, 301-249-0206

The Prince George's County Fire/Emergency Medical Services Department is pleased to hear the rich tradition of the Tuxedo-Cheverly Fire/EMS Station 22 lives on and will continue to have a positive impact on the  community.   The original fire station at 5711 Tuxedo Road has one of the most storied tenures and traditions within the history of the Fire/EMS Department.
  
The apparatus and staffing from Fire/EMS Station 22 moved to a new facility, St. Joseph Fire/EMS Station 806 in Springdale, in August of 2010. The move left the former aging and in need of major repairs fire station on Tuxedo Road becoming surplus property.  The building eventually became the property of New Horizons whose motto is, "building opportunities for people with disabilities." The former Fire Station 22 was refurbished and is now a beautiful facility that strives to improve the life of others.

In a tribute to Fire Station 22, New Horizons will start a eRecycling program on the 22nd of every month, except when the 22nd falls on a Sunday.  "This event is for the collection of computer, printers, monitors and cables from businesses and individuals alike," said Leslie I.D. Prewitt, New Horizons Director of Development and Marketing.  "We sincerely appreciate the assistance and partnership between the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department and New Horizons Supported Services, Inc." 

For additional information on the Recycling program please refer to the flier below.

Former Rescue Squad 22 at the former Tuxedo-Cheverly Station 22.  (photo by J. D. Floyd II, Royal Blue Ltd. archives)

The original Tuxedo-Cheverly Station.  (photo courtesy of the late Ed Bosanko, Royal Blue Ltd. archives)

                       


                           
                       
                     


                   


                   
↧


                   
                   
                   
                   
                                    
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          
                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                                                     
                   

                     
                     
                   

                   


                     
                                        


                   
                   

                                          
Passing of Nicholas Hemingway - Condolences

                     

                                              July 18, 2015, 8:34 am
                     


                     
                     

                     
                     
                                          
                     
                                          
                     
                   


                   
                   


                     
                     

                       
                       

                         
                              
                         

                          
                           $
                         

                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         
                               
                         

                         
                                
                         
                       

                     

    
                                                               
                     
                     

                       

                         

The Prince George's County Fire/Emergency Medical Services Department is deeply saddened and mourning the death of a 23-year old member of the Bladensburg Volunteer Fire Department and a career member of the Baltimore City Fire Department. 

Nicholas Hemingway was serving as a paramedic with the Baltimore City Fire Department, a position he held since being hired in November 2014.  After completing his shift on Tuesday, July 14 and preparing to leave his work site, he experienced an unknown medical episode that put him into cardiac arrest. 

Despite the very best efforts of everyone who worked to revive him, Hemingway passed away at Mount Sinai Hospital in Baltimore on Friday, July 17.  Members of the Baltimore City and Bladensburg Volunteer Fire Departments stood a constant vigil at his bedside since Tuesday.

Bladensburg Volunteer Chief Randy S. Kuenzli posted this message about the passing of Nicholas Hemingway:

It is with deep regrets the Officers and Members of the Bladensburg Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad, Inc. announce the death of Firefighter Nick Hemingway.

Nick was hospitalized after a Cardiac Arrest late Tuesday afternoon while at work, as a Paramedic with the Baltimore City Fire Department. He had been feeling ill throughout the day. No further details are available at this time.
Please offer thoughts and Prayers to the Hemingway family, his girlfriend Natalie, the brothers and sisters of the Baltimore City Fire Department; Firefighters Local 734, Fire Officers Local 964, Prince George's County Firefighters Local 1619, Chillum-Adelphi Fire Department Station 34 and the many other friends that Nick had.
Nick was assigned to Medic 11 as an Active Paramedic, working out of the Liberty Heights Fire Station. Nick graduated the academy in recruit class 14-02. He held membership in Burtonsville - Montgomery County Station 15, Chillum-Adelphi - Prince George's County Station 34 and currently our family.
Arrangements will be posted as they become available.
On behalf of County Executive Rushern L. Baker III, Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor and all the career, civilian and volunteer members of the Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department, we offer our sincerest sympathy, thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of Nick Hemingway as well as to the members of the Baltimore City and Bladensburg Volunteer Fire Departments. 

Mark E. Brady
Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department
Chief Spokesperson/PIO
240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us
@PGFDPIO
                       


                           
                       
                     


                   


                   
↧


                   
                   
                   
                                        

                       

                         
                
    

                       

                     

                     
↧

                   
                                    
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          
                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                                                     
                   

                     
                     
                   

                   


                     
                                        


                   
                   

                                          
PGFD Firefighters Battle Two Fires Sunday Afternoon

                     

                                              July 19, 2015, 3:40 pm
                     


                     
                     

                     
                     
                                          
                     
                                          
                     
                   


                   
                   


                     
                     

                       
                       

                         
                              
                         

                          
                           $
                         

                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         
                               
                         

                         
                                
                         
                       

                     

    
                                                               
                     
                     

                       

                         
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Anyone that has spent anytime outside today knows how 100 to 110 degrees feels.   It is hot and uncomfortable and difficult to deal with for long periods of time.  How do you think running into a burning home where temperatures are anywhere from 800 to 1200 degrees wearing multiple layers of heavy personal protective gear??   That is life in the day of a firefighter and in Prince George’s County today firefighters battled two homes fires.  Both fires had accidental causes.
  
The first incident occurred just after 12 Noon in Upper Marlboro.  Several 911 calls were received from neighbors reporting a house was on fire in the 9800 block of Healy Court.  Firefighters arrived to find a split-level home with fire showing from the top floor and roof.  Firefighters searched the home and found no human occupants but did rescue one dog suffering from burns.   The fire started in the top-level kitchen and extended into the attic and eventually burned through the roof of the house.  

There were 41 firefighters on the scene that required about 30 minutes to completely extinguish the fire that caused an estimated $100,000 in fire loss.  A second dog was found deceased inside the house.  The County Citizen Services Unit will assist the displaced occupants.

Fire Investigators performed a cause and origin investigation and determined the fire started on the stove in the kitchen.  The homeowners arrived on the scene during the incident and told Investigators that their pet dogs had been known to jump on the front of the stove in search of food scraps and in doing so, turn on one of the burners.  Today, pizza boxes were on the stovetop and one of the burners was found in the “on” position.  Fire Investigators have labeled this fire as “accidental.” 

Due to todays high temperatures all firefighters were rotated a rehab area where they were provided hydration and allowed to cool down.  Medics would evaluate the firefighters vital signs and would release them to go back to work once within normal limits.  One firefighter was found to be suffering from dehydration and treated at an area hospital and released.

The second incident occurred in Bowie at around 2:40 pm.  An occupant of a 3-story townhouse in the 6300 block of Gwinnett Lane was alerted to a fire on the top floor by a working smoke alarm.  911 was called and firefighters arrived a short time later to find residential sprinklers had, for the most part, extinguished the fire.  Firefighters ensured the fire was completely out and ventilated the residual smoke.

Due to the relatively small nature of the fire thanks to containment by the sprinklers, firefighters were able to return to service very quickly, no one was injured, no displacement and fire loss was limited to $1,000.

The cause of the fire is accidental and attributed to a malfunction in an electrical outlet. 


Conditions on arrival on Healy court. (Image by Paul Hawkins)

Image from the front of Healy Court during initial operations.  (by Paul Hawkins)

Firefighter Bowen, District Heights Truck 826, is thanks by Healy Court homeowner for rescuing his pet dog.


                       


                           
                       
                     


                   


                   
↧


                   
                   
                   
                   
                                    
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          
                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                                                     
                   

                     
                     
                   

                   


                     
                                        


                   
                   

                                          
Funeral Arrangements - LODD of Baltimore City EMT-P and Bladensburg Volunteer Nicholas Hemingway

                     

                                              July 21, 2015, 5:53 am
                     


                     
                     

                     
                     
                                          
                     
                                          
                     
                   


                   
                   

                   
↧


                   
                   
                   
                   
                                    
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          
                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                                                     
                   

                     
                     
                   

                   


                     
                                        


                   
                   

                                          
New PGFD Civilian Hire!!!

                     

                                              July 21, 2015, 3:17 pm
                     


                     
                     

                     
                     
                                          
                     
                                          
                     
                   


                   
                   


                     
                     

                       
                       

                         
                              
                         

                          
                           $
                         

                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         

                            
                               
                           
                           0
                         


                         
                               
                         

                         
                                
                         
                       

                     

    
                                                               
                     
                     

                       

                         
Good Afternoon All:

Please join me in welcoming Heavy Equipment Mechanic III Justin Thorpe to the Fire/EMS Department.

Justin joined the Fire/EMS Department Apparatus Maintenance Division on July 13, after working with M & M Fleet Maintenance.

Welcome aboard Justin!

Marc Bashoor, Fire Chief
Prince George's County Fire/EMS
9201 Basil Ct. #452
Largo, MD 20774

                       


                           
                       
                     


                   


                   
↧


                   
                   
                   
                   
                 
               


            
            
                              



               
               





                                   
                     

                     
                        Viewing all 1573 articles
                     
                     

                                                                                                      

               

                
                        

                  
             
         
            
               
             
         
         
                              


               

                                                                     
                     
                        Browse latest
                     
                                                      
                     
                        View live
                     
                                                 


               

               

               


               
                          
                        
            
                                      
            

            

              

                
                
    

              

            

            



          


          
          
            


              
                            


                                
                                

                  

                    
                  

                

                
                  
                                


                                    
                  
                                    

                                                                                                                                        
                

                  

                    
                    

                      Search