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PGFD Hiring INSTRUCTOR III - A Temporary-Seasonal Position

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PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY GOVERNMENT
Office of Human Resources Management
1400 McCormick Drive, Suite 159 
Largo, MD 20774
(301) 883-6340
http://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/
INVITES APPLICATIONS FOR THE POSITION OF:
INSTRUCTOR III - 15-071-51-LV

An Equal Opportunity Employer
SALARY
$45,000.00 /Year 
OPENING DATE: 07/22/15
CLOSING DATE: 08/05/15 
THE POSITION
ONLY ON-LINE APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED.
Bi-Lingual applicants are encouraged to apply.


THIS IS A TEMPORARY-SEASONAL (1000 HOUR) POSITION


The Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department is currently seeking a highly qualified individual to fill a vacant,Temporary-Seaonal (1,000 Hour), Instructor III position , G-24, (EMT-B Instructor) in the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department’s Training and Leadership Academy.
This is a senior/lead level professional work responsible for providing key management level, administrative and technical support for managing the High School Fire Science Program in the Fire/EMS Department.  This position is responsible for teaching and curriculum development. 
EXAMPLES OF WORK
Plans, develops and implements programs;  provides management and administrative technical support to the Fire Chief in the creation of a variety of Fire/EMS programs related to the High School Fire Science Program; researches, reviews and prepares programs, plans and reports; develops strategies and makes recommendations to the Fire Chief on various topics/subjects; prepares, develops and evaluates proposals and assessments to guide in the production of topical reports and publications to keep the public informed; provides and conducts EMT-B and other courses of instruction; maintains MICRB status, meets Prince George’s County, Fire/EMS Department’s physical requirements and ensures compliance with Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department’s Training and Leadership Academy guidelines, including requirements for Professional Development for Instructors; responsible for the overall direction and management of projects; and work with internal and external parties to organize, run, and conclude major projects.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s Degree in education, business or public administration, or a closely related field, plus two (2) years of professional experience in training or educational instruction in a Fire Science Program; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:
  Applicant must:
  1. Successfully pass a background investigation.
  2. Possess a valid driver's license.
  3. Must have a Maryland Instructor Certification Review Board (MICRB) Level II Emergency Services Instructor by the completion of the first semester of school.
  4. Maintain a minimum of a State of Maryland EMT-B certification.
DURATION OF ELIGIBILITY: Candidates will be selected from a temporary register of eligibles which will become effective approximately four (4) weeks after the closing date. Once a selection has been made, the register will expire.

ELIGIBILITY TO WORK: Under the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, an employer is required to hire only U.S. citizens and lawfully authorized alien workers. Applicants who are selected for employment will be required to show and verify authorization to work in the United States.

CLOSING DATE: Applications must be submitted by 5:00 p.m.Eastern Standard Time (EST) on August 5, 2015.



Prince George's County Government is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer Committed to Diversity in the Workplace
APPLICATIONS MUST BE FILED ON-LINE AT:
http://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/
EXAM #15-071-51-LV
INSTRUCTOR III - 15-071-51-LV
LV


INSTRUCTOR III - 15-071-51-LV Supplemental Questionnaire


*1.What is your highest level of completed education?
Checkbox High School
Checkbox Associate's Degree
Checkbox Bachelor's Degree
Checkbox Master's Degree
Checkbox Doctorate
*2.Do you possess two (2) years of professional experience in training or educational instruction?
Checkbox Yes
Checkbox No
*3.
If you answered yes to the previous question, please indicate the dates of employment and how you obtained the experience.

*4.Which of the following certification(s) do you possess?
Checkbox EMT-B Instructor


Checkbox Fire Instructor


* Required Question


Large Number of Fire Fighter/Medic Lieutenant Promotions Announced

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Prince George's County Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor announced a large number of promotions today.  He personally contacted each and every person receiving a promotion to congratulate them.  Afterward speaking with the soon-to-be Fire Fighter/Medic Lieutenants he notified the rest of the Fire/EMS Department with this Email.

All:

It is with great pleasure that I announce the following Firefighter/Paramedic (or Paramedic) Lieutenant promotions.  There will be three successive pay period effective dates as indicated below.  

As we work through the current budget challenges, it is gratifying to see the commitment to keeping our current compliment of officers.  This is the largest block of any single rank promotions in recent memory, certainly the largest during the Baker Administration.

I had the distinct honor of meeting and/or speaking with each of these folks over the past few days.  As I spoke with each of them and again as I type this message, I have been reminded that great "mission" and "vision" statements are essentially irrelevant without great people to execute that great mission and vision.

Congratulations to everyone - keep up the great work!

Fire Fighter/Paramedic Lieutenants

Effective Sunday July 26, 2015

Brian Stevens
Jeffrey Mattingly
Sean Simmons
Michael Hayter
Curk Smart
Aaron White
James Brown
Nathan Davies
Tiffany Brooking
Sara Shaffer
John Dement
Frederick Stapenhurst
Erica Hasan
Luke Gannett
Cody Wargo
Mark Kwiatkowski

Effective Sunday August 9, 2015

Pam Graham (Paramedic Lieutenant)
Christopher Brooks
Donald McDowell
Antonio Cole
Justin Shea
Katy Stuart
Lagrant Chambers
Mathew Morris
Jennifer Lawhorne
Richard Lawhorne
James Blandford
Chad Smart
Edward Mack
Kristofer Demattia
Christopher Hastings
Katherine Johnson

Effective Sunday August 23, 2015

Marcus Johnson
Christopher Blackistone
Benjamin Woodill
Richard Donohue
John Godenick
Chinette Roots
Justin Maynard
Jamieson Scarlata
Robert Mutchler
Jake Gigliotti
Corey Wargo
Malachi Alford
Michael Nasti
Andrew Lynch
William Porter
Robert Leonard
Wesley Auld
Marc Bashoor, Fire Chief
Prince George's County Fire/EMS
9201 Basil Ct. #452
Largo, MD 20774



Fire Investigators Seek Info and Identity of Arson Suspect

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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO
At about 1:23 pm, Saturday. July 25, Firefighters arrived at the Family Dollar store at 9115 Central Avenue in Capitol Heights for a report of a fire inside the store.  Witnesses reported a suspect set fire to combustible materials in the store to cover up a theft.  The fire was contained by an activated commercial sprinkler in addition to an employee dispensing a fire extinguisher.  Fire loss is estimated at $2,500.  No injuries were reported.

District Heights House Fire Ruled ARSON - Walters Place

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

Prince George’s County Firefighters battled a fire in a District Heights house that appears to have been intentionally set.  On Sunday, July 26, just before 8 pm, firefighters responded to 911 calls reporting a fire inside of a vacant 2-story single family home at 6515 Walters Place.  Firefighters arrived to find fire showing from the second floor with extension into the attic.

Despite being reported as a vacant structure firefighters still completed a search of the interior.  The 40 firefighters and medics on the scene controlled the fire within 15 minutes of arrival.  No injuries were reported.

Fire Investigators from the County Office of the Fire Marshal conducted a cause and origin investigation and determined the fire was incendiary and started in a 2nd floor bedroom.  Fire loss is estimated at $10,000.

Investigators heard many reports from members of the community that people were in and out of the house since it became vacant.  Real Estate web sites list the property as “bank owned” and utilities had been shut off, including the water that supplies the residential sprinkler system. 

Residential sprinklers are designed to extinguish a fire in its incipient stages and allow extra time for occupants to escape.  It’s difficult to say what impact a working sprinkler system would have had on this incident but odds are the fire would have been suppressed and not grown in intensity.  The house also was not equipped with smoke alarms, as they all had been removed.

Fire Investigators are asking that anyone with information about this fire and the person(s) responsible to contact them at 301-77-ARSON  (301-772-7766) or Email at 77ARSON@co.pg.md.us.  Callers may remain anonymous.


Conditions on arrival. (image by Paul Hawkins)

(Image by Paul Hawkins)

Death Notification of Don "Patch" Aker, Jr., President of the Kentland VFD and Employee of Prince George's County Public Safety Communications Center

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It is always difficult to announce the passing of a member of the Prince George's County Fire/EMS Service family.  It is particularly challenging to me personally as Don "Patch" Aker, Jr. was a friend and colleague.  My personal condolences to the Aker family, Kentland Volunteer Fire Department, Public Safety Communications and to everyone that knew Patch.  Rest in Peace.

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

_________________________________________________________________________


All - please see below reference the passing of Don "Patch" Aker, Jr., President of the Kentland VFD and supervisor with the Prince George's County Public Safety Communications Center.

Don touched many of us over the years - in many cases, behind the scenes in ways most people may never fully understand.  Even as cancer impacted his livelihood, Patch continued to rally for a positive path forward for the entire Department.

Please keep the Aker family, members of the Kentland VFD, and his fellow employees at PSCC in your thoughts and prayers.

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

_______________________________________________________________________


Subject: Official Release/Notification of the passing of President/Firefighter Donald I. ("Patch") Aker, Jr.
        It is with the heaviest of hearts and the deepest of sympathies that the Kentland Volunteer Fire Department, Inc., Companies 33 and 46 announce the untimely passing of Corporation President/Firefighter Donald I. (Patch") Aker, Jr. For the past year and a half, President Aker valiantly battled esophageal cancer. He lost that battle this afternoon while receiving treatment at Johns Hopkins University Hospital - Bayview Medical Center. 

        "Patch" as he was known throughout the fire service joined the Kentland Volunteer Fire Department, Inc., Company 33, in September of 1998. He received his "Life Member" status in the same month of 2008. During his continuous, uninterrupted service at Company 33, he attained the rank of Lieutenant and served in the prestigious position of Corporation President since 2008. Prior to being a member of the Kentland Volunteer Fire Department, Inc., he was a member of the West Lanham Hills VFD, Company 28 and a member of the Prince George's County Fire Department's "High School Cadet" program. He was a life long resident of Prince George's County, Maryland, growing-up in New Carollton, attending Parkdale High School and currently resided in the City of Bowie.

        For nearly 20-years, he worked as a dedicated employee with the Prince George's County Public Safety Communications. Serving in capacities as an Emergency Call Taker, Police Department Dispatcher, Fire Department Dispatcher and Training Director.
       

As of the writing of this, arrangements are being planned and will be distributed to the public once they are available. The leadership of the department (KVFD) has established an "Incident Command" style of funeral management and will be coordinating all events, information exchange, etc. 

        We ask that everyone keep the family, friends, co-wokers and fellow firemen of President Aker in your thoughts and prayers. This is a deep loss for not only the Kentland Volunteer Fire Department, Inc., but the fire service as a whole.

Tony Kelleher
Chief 33
Kentland Volunteer Fire Department, Inc.
Companies 33 and 46





New Civilian Employees!!!

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Please join me in welcoming Personnel Analyst II Chloe Duncan and Community Developer III Nicole Jackson-Young to the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department staff.

Chloe joined the Administrative Services Command on June 15, 2015, after serving for 9 years with the Baltimore County Human Resources Office.  Chloe is a member of our Human Resource Recruitment staff, filling the position previously held by Amanda Jackson.

Nicole Jackson-Young joined the Public Safety Special Events Coordinating Group (PSSECG), under the direction of Deputy Fire Chief Smedley, on June 28, 2015, after having served in various agencies in the Prince George’s County Government – most recently in the Office of Community Relations.  Nicole is a member of the PSSECG staff, filling the position previously held by Michelle Bowles.

Welcome aboard Chloe and Nicole!

We are working to fill additional support staff – I appreciate everyone’s patience, understanding, and hard work as we navigate through the processes to promote and hire folks into vacant positions.

Marc S. Bashoor, Fire Chief
Prince George’s County Fire/EMS
9201 Basil Court, Suite 452
Largo, Maryland 20774

3rd Battalion Master Stream Training

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On Monday, July 27, B-Shift Battalion Chief 883 Grady Valencis observed Silver Hill Fire/EMS Station 829 and District Heights Fire/EMS Station 826 drilling on hydraulics and master stream devices.

Great work by both stations!!



 Silver Hill  829's crew training on master stream operations on Homer Avenue today. Lt. Pride, FT Robinson, FF Cargin, Mills, Kay, Crooks, Johnsen, Buckler.



Station 826 drilling as well. Lt. Cooke, FF Waters, Caldrone, Mika, Bowen, Ogilvie, Fisher, McDonough















Fox 5 Coverage of Missing Man Rescued by PGFD


WJLA Coverage of Missing Man Rescue

WUSA 9 Coverage of Missing Man Rescue

PGFD, Safe Kids World Wide, NHTSA & Others Raise Awareness of Kids Being Left in Hot Cars

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*MEDIA ADVISORY*

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, General Motors and Safe Kids Worldwide Raise Awareness about the Danger of Kids Being Left in Cars on National Heatstroke Prevention Day

31 children died last year as a result of heatstroke; 11 so far in 2015

WASHINGTON: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Administrator Mark Rosekind and Safe Kids’ President and CEO Kate Carr will hold a press conference to highlight the dangers of leaving children in hot cars. They will join other speakers to share the work being done to help prevent these needless tragedies, including NHTSA’s “Where’s Baby? Look before You Lock” campaign. There will be a live demonstration of an EMS response to a report of a child locked in a hot car. NHTSA will also unveil a new report identifying important features of electronic child reminder alert systems.

WHO:                  NHTSA Administrator Mark Rosekind
                                President and CEO of Safe Kids Worldwide Kate Carr
                                Meteorologist Jan Null
                                Vice President of Global Vehicle Safety, General Motors Jeff Boyer
                                Family advocate who lost a child due to heatstroke, Reggie McKinnon
                               
WHAT:                Press Conference on Heatstroke Prevention

WHEN:                Friday, July 31, 2015 at 9:15 a.m. ET

WHERE:              Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center
                                Woodrow Wilson Bus Loop, outside of the Woodrow Wilson Ballroom
        201 Waterfront St Oxon Hill, MD 20745

Visuals:                A live demonstration will simulate a 911 call from a bystander and subsequent EMT response to show the rescue effort that occurs when a child is left inside a hot car.
               
All attendees must RSVP to Tamara Grider to attend:  tgrider@safekids.org  or call 646-228-1469.   

Photographers and camera crews may arrive at 8:30 a.m. for set-up. Please indicate if you are bringing a satellite truck in the RSVP.


Brandywine Community Fire/EMS Station Ribbon Cutting Program

PGFD Receives SAFER Grant to Hire 24 Firefighters

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MIKULSKI, CARDIN, HOYER, EDWARDS ANNOUNCE MORE THAN $3.6 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDING TO HIRE 24 FIREFIGHTERS IN PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

WASHINGTONU.S. Senators Barbara A. Mikulski and Ben Cardin, together with U.S. Representatives Steny H. Hoyer and Donna F. Edwards (all D-Md.) today announced that the Prince George’s County Fire Department will receive $3,620,808 in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Staffing for Adequate Fire & Emergency Response (SAFER) program to hire 24 full time firefighter positions for two years including training and full benefits. As Vice Chairwoman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Mikulski fights each year to increase federal funding for the fire grants program. Senator Cardin is a member of the Finance Committee.

“I know how important this funding is to Maryland communities – often it’s the difference between life and death. First responders protect our homes and communities, and the federal government has a responsibility to protect them by providing them with the tools and staffing they need to do their jobs safer and smarter,” Senator Mikulski said. “Every day when our first responders report for duty, they don’t know what they will face. That’s why I fight every year for the equipment, training, and staffing our protectors and communities deserve.”

“Protecting our communities from harm is one of the most basic functions of government,” said Senator Cardin. “This federal investment will help ensure that the Prince George’s County Fire Department can recruit and retain the best applicants. First responders in Prince George’s county put their lives on the line daily and deserve a federal partner as dedicated to public safety as they are.”

"I am pleased that the Prince George’s County Fire Department will receive these funds that will create more jobs and keep residents and businesses safe.” said Congressman Steny H. Hoyer. “This grant will help the department hire more personnel at their stations and provide the necessary resources and training they need to protect our communities. As a co-chair of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, I will continue to work on behalf of these brave men and women firefighters and first responders who put their lives on the line every day to ensure our safety.”

“Adding 24 full-time firefighter positions is welcome news for the residents and all first responders in Prince George’s County,” Rep. Edwards said.  “Firefighters are often the first to arrive on scene, and we rely on their professionalism and training in our greatest moment of need.  These additional firefighters will make a measurable impact in protecting our communities.  I thank Sen. Mikulski for her leadership on this issue, and today’s announcement highlights the dedication of Team Maryland to ensure the federal government helps strengthen public safety in Prince George’s County.” 

The goal of any SAFER grant is to enhance the ability of grantees to attain and maintain 24-hour staffing. The objective of the program is to award grants directly to volunteer, combination and career fire departments to help the departments increase the number of frontline firefighters, and to rehire firefighters who were laid off due to the economy. The SAFER program provides approximately $340 million in competitive grants to fire departments and statewide or local volunteer firefighter support groups.

Since 2001, Maryland Fire Departments and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) units have received nearly $162 million in fire grant funding, of which $32 million of which has been awarded to fire and EMS departments in Prince George’s County.

________________________________________________________________________________

The Prince George's County Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department is extremely pleased to have received this SAFER Grant that will allow us to hire 24 Firefighters.  The Department will initiate a hiring process to create a list of eligible candidates with a potential hire date during the first quarter of calendar year 2016.  The 24 recruit firefighters hired through this SAFER Grant will then attend a 6-month Fire/EMS training academy.

Prince George's County Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor said, "I want to acknowledge U.S. Senators Barbara A. Mikulski and Ben Cardin, together with U.S. Representatives Steny H. Hoyer and Donna F. Edwards (all D-Md.) for their efforts in awarding this Grant.  Our Federal elected officials have always been strong supporters of the Fire and Emergency Medical Services and we appreciate everything they do for us."

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

MEDIA ADVISORY: “FIRE FIGHTER FOR A DAY – CAN YOU TAKE THE HEAT?”

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MEDIA ADVISORY: “Fire Fighter for a Day – Can You Take the Heat?”

On Tuesday, August 25, 2015, the Prince George’s County Professional Fire Fighters and Paramedics Association will be holding its 4th Annual Fire Ops 101 event.  This event will be held in conjunction with the International Association of Fire Fighters 2015 Health, Safety, and EMS Conference.

The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) is the primary sponsor and creator of the Fire Ops program. The IAFF, headquartered in Washington, DC, represents more than 300,000 full-time professional fire fighters and paramedics who protect 85 percent of the nation’s population. The IAFF is the primary advocate for providing fire fighters and paramedics with the tools that they need to perform their jobs.

Fire Ops 101 provides elected officials, community leaders, and the media with a hands-on opportunity to better understand the complexities of what fire fighters do on a daily basis.  This is a once-a-year opportunity will enable media to participate personally, participate and cover with your production crew or participate and share your experiences later.

The program will include suiting up in fire fighter protective clothing, donning self contained breathing apparatus and actually going inside a real fire to experience first hand the environment in which fire fighters work. Obviously, this will be a controlled situation, but will nevertheless provide an opportunity to see and feel what fire fighters deal with on a daily basis. It promises to be a very exciting and informative day.

We ask all interested parties to ensure that they are available to participate in the entire six-hour program. Although this may be a significant time commitment, we assure you that the experience will be memorable and rewarding. Please see the attached IAFF invitation letter for additional information about registering for the event.

For additional information about Fire Ops 101 event please contact IAFF Local 1619 President Andrew Pantelis at akpantelis@gmail.com or (301) 674-3448.

The following is a partial list of elected officials who have indicated that they will participate in Fire Ops 101 and are scheduled to attend:
  • Congressman Chris Van Hollen – United States Congress
  • Chairman Mel Franklin – Prince George’s County Council
  • Councilmember Karen Toles – Prince George’s County Council
  • Councilmember Craig Rice – Montgomery County Council
  • Councilmember Marc Elrich – Montgomery County Council
  • Councilman Brandon Scott – Baltimore City Council
  • Councilman Eric Costello – Baltimore City Council
Several additional elected officials have also verbally confirmed that they will attend and are in the process of registering for the event.
__________________________________________________________

Andrew K. Pantelis
President

Prince George's County Professional Firefighters & Paramedics Association
International Association of Fire Fighters, Local 1619
16701 Melford Boulevard, Suite 124
Bowie, Maryland 20715
Office: 301-805-5300
Fax: 301-262-6747

Local Fire Fighting Chef Competes on Food Networks "CUTTHROAT KITCHEN"

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


It seems every firehouse has at least one individual who really enjoys cooking for their shift partners.  Chris Hebert is that person.  He started his fire service career with the Hyattsville Volunteer Fire Department in Prince George’s County, Maryland.  Chris aspired to be a career firefighter and his dream would soon become reality with the District of Columbia Fire & EMS Department (DCFEMS).   As much as he loves being the shift chef, it can be bit challenging at times—especially when a bunch of very hungry people are ready to eat, and at just about the last few minutes before the food is done, an alert for service comes into the station.  Duty has called and off goes the stove, on goes the turnout gear, and out the door we go to potentially save a life, limb, or property.  Interestingly, it appears fire stations that have a good firefighting chef typically have a more cohesive crew.

Chris Hebert, a life member of the Hyattsville Volunteer Fire Department, has held various positions since joining in 1994, including driver, Sergeant, Lieutenant Captain, Board Member, and Treasurer.  Chris knew early on that he wanted to pursue firefighting as a profession and has spent a little more than the last fifteen years as a career firefighter in the DCFEMS. 

Although Chris remains somewhat active in an administrative capacity of the volunteer department, the demands of a full time job, growing family, and numerous hobbies prevent him from riding the apparatus.  One of Chris’ hobbies happens to be cooking, and being a firehouse chef at DCFEMS Engine 13 over the years has given him plenty practice in the kitchen.  This hobby-turned-passion also recently landed him a spot on “Cutthroat Kitchen,” a top-rated Food Network show.

Chris and wife Jillyn have been married for 14 years and have two children, Kayla and Kamryn, ages 11 and 8.  The family shares a home in Croom, which they hope to return to upon repairing the damage caused by a lightning strike earlier this year.  Aside from his love for cooking, he enjoys home brewing beer, bike riding, running, and recently started woodworking.  He was about to start on a dining room table project when his home was hit by lightning.  In his “spare” time, Chris completed both the Marine Corps Half & Full Marathons and some other small events.     

When asked about his home-based brewing, Chris stated, “I'm always in search of creating the best IPA ever...almost there!”

Chris will be competing on a Firefighter edition of Cutthroat Kitchen this coming August 16th, at 10:00 p.m.  I did my best to find out the results of the pre-taped show, but Chris remained loyal to his commitment that I would have to watch the episode to find out.  He described the show, saying, “Cutthroat Kitchen isn't a typical cooking competition.  In order to win, a player, in addition to being a good chef, must be able to outwit and, at times, sabotage their opponents.  Each episode features four people vying in three rounds to win up to $25,000 cash.  At the beginning, $100,000 is split evenly among the players to spend however they wish during the game.  The chefs purchase at auctions things that could help them—like buying exclusive use of salt, or hindering their opponents by prohibiting them from tasting a recipe in progress.  One chef is eliminated each round until there is a winner.  Although the competitors want to make purchases at auction to improve their chances of winning, they are cautious about overspending.  The ultimate prize is determined by the amount of money remaining in the winner's bank.  The show is hosted by Alton Brown, who also hosts Good Eats and many other Food Network shows.” 

Upon questioning Chris about his future plans and aspirations, he replied, “I would certainly like to compete on other Food Network shows.  I’d really like to test my abilities on the "Next Food Network Star” or “Chopped”.  If the stars align, hosting my own cooking show that would bring together both of my passions, firefighting and cooking, would be awesome.  A lot of GREAT food is being prepared and shared in firehouse kitchens around the country and, more importantly, even better stories.  I would love the ability to highlight these amazing cooks in a uniquely fun and tasty way.”    

For now, Chris Hebert will continue to fight fires and save lives in the District of Columbia, as well as work on developing and growing “First Arriving Network and Go Forward Media” along with his friend, business partner and fellow Hyattsville member Dave Iannone.  Oh yeah…and find that perfect IPA recipe. 

Firefighting Chef Chris Herbert, we wish you the best of luck on Cutthroat Kitchen.  We will be watching August 16th, at 10:00 pm (EST) on the Food Network.  air date is subject to change.

A viewing party will be held with Chris, his family, friends and co-workers.  Members of the media are invited to attend.  Please contact me if you would like to join us for the viewing party location.







PGFD Statement Concerning Laurel Regional Hospital Plan

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Media are reporting there is a plan to reduce services the current Laurel Regional Hospital provides to the community.

The Prince George’s County Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department has, to date, not been made aware of this plan or provided a written copy and therefore not aware of its contents. 

Once received the plan will be reviewed in its entirety.  The Fire/EMS Department will then determine what impact the plan will have on the EMS services we provide between the community and Laurel Regional Hospital.


The Fire/EMS Department will release a statement once our position has been determined, until then, we cannot comment on a plan we have not yet received.

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

Landover House Fire - East Forest Road

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

Just after 11:00 am, Friday, July 31, firefighters were alerted to a house fire in Landover.  Kentland Firefighters were the first to arrive at a 2-story duplex  in the 7200 block of East Forest Road and encountered fire showing from the first floor.

Crews mounted an interior attack and search of the structure finding no one inside.  The fire was knocked down within 15 minutes of arrival.  Three occupants were home when the fire started and escaped safely prior to the fire departments arrival.

The  accidential fire started in the kitchen and caused an estimated $50,000 in fire damage.  There were no civilian or firefighter injuries.  Three adult occupants are displaced and provided with assistance from the American Red Cross.

Photo of conditions on arrival courtesy of PGFD

Funeral Arrangements for Donald Irving (Patch) Aker, Jr.,

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Funeral arrangements for Donald Irving (Patch) Aker, Jr., President and Life Member of the Kentland Volunteer Fire Department and employee of Prince George's County Public Safety Communications are as follows:




Visitation
Sunday, August 2, 2015
3:00 - 5:00 PM and 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Robert E. Evans Funeral Home
16000 Annapolis Road
Bowie, MD  20715
(301) 464-8836

A Fire Department Memorial Service will be held at 7:00 PM.

Funeral Service
Monday, August 3, 2015
12:00 PM
Knights of Columbus Boswell Hall
6111 Columbian Way
Bowie, MD  20715

Repast to follow service at the same location.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Johns Hopkins Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center or to the Kentland Volunteer Fire Department.  Check memos should indicate the this gift is in memory of Donald I. Aker, Jr., and mailed to the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center, PO Box 17029, Baltimore, MD 21297-1029 (payable to Johns Hopkins University); or the Kentland Volunteer Fire Department, Attn:  Captain Oleg Pelekhaty, 7701 Landover Road, Landover, MD  20785, or via PayPal to Kvfdfoundation@gmail.com.







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

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

Today is August 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:

PGFD Press to Test

Press 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.

The month of August 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.  Heat Stroke Kills.  Leave your cell phone in back seat with your child.  Easy way to remember your child is back there and use of the handheld device while driving is against the law.  


I would like to share a short video from our friends at the Nashville Fire Department highlighting the dangers of the danger of heat inside cars.



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 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

Something fun to do.



Funeral Procession and Memorial Service for County Employee and Volunteer Firefighter This Morning

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The procession will depart Evans Funeral Home at about 10:00 am and include family, personnel and units from the Kentland Volunteer Fire Station.

Several intersections will be blocked by police and firefighters to allow the procession to pass through. The procession is scheduled to make 3 stops at locations that played in a role in the life of Patch.  A brief ceremony will occur at each stop.

Below is the route the procession will take starting at about 10:00 am:

From Rt. 450 and Racetrack Road, take Rt. 450 west to West Lanham Hills Volunteer Fire Department Station 828 and to Veterans Parkway - Rt.410

Left on Rt. 410 to Pennsy Drive

Right on Pennsy Drive to 75th Avenue

Left on 75th Avenue to Rt. 202 to the Kentland Volunteer Fire Department Station 833

Left on Rt. 202 to Rt. 704

North of Rt. 704 to Rt. 50

East on Rt. 50 to Melford Blvd. to a stop at the Public Safety Communications

Right on Melford Blvd. to Rt. 3

North of Rt. 3 to Columbian Way

Right on Columbian Way second entrance to the Knights of Columbus

Fire/EMS apparatus from around the County and neighboring jurisdictions will be staged along
the slow shoulder of Route 3 in the area of Columbian Way.

The procession is anticipated to take approximately one (1) hour and 40 minutes. It is a total of 25.2 miles. 

There will be three stops along the procession for brief ceremonies.

1.) West Lanham Hills VFD
2.) Kentland VFD

3.) Public Safety Communications

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