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Fire with Fatality - Tippett Road

December 5, 2015, 5:35 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Officials from the Prince George’s County Office of the Fire Marshal are investigating a fire involving a camping trailer with a civilian fatality.  At around 5:15 am, Saturday, December 5, firefighters were alerted to a fire in the 11300 block of Tippett Road in Clinton.  Fire/EMS units arrived to find a 20-foot camping trailer fully involved with fire.  Once the fire was extinguished an adult male was found inside the trailer and declared deceased.

As is always the case involving fires involving a fatality, the Prince George’s County Police Department will join Fire Investigators until a cause of the fire and cause of death have been determined.


The identity and cause of death will need to be confirmed by an autopsy.  Fire loss is estimated at $10,000 to the trailer and contents.  No additional information is available for release at this time. 

Image from scene by Paul Hawkins (PGFD Observer)

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Firefighter Escapes Injury after Mayday - Dade Street

December 5, 2015, 5:55 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

A firefighter escaped injury after falling through the floor of a burning house this morning.  Just before 5:00 am, Saturday, December 5, firefighters were alerted to a house fire in the 5700 block of Dade Street in Capitol Heights.  Fire/EMS units arrived to find a 1-story with basement single family home with fire showing.

Firefighters had just extinguished the bulk of the fire on the first floor and basement when a firefighter declared a “Mayday.”  A firefighter operating on the first level fell through the weakened floor to the basement.  The firefighter declared a Mayday and other firefighters already working in the basement quickly located him and removed him to the exterior.  Medics evaluated the firefighter and determined he was not injured.

The fire was soon completely extinguished.  Fortunately, there were no firefighter or civilian injuries.  Fire loss is estimated at $50,000 and the cause is under investigation.  The house was found to be a vacant structure.

Image from the scene on Dade Street by Kentland VFD.



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Helping a PGFD Fire Lieutenant and Family

December 6, 2015, 6:02 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

As most of you know Lt. Chris Hill was diagnosed with cancer. In December of 2014 Chris began to experience headaches and loss of coordination while at work. He was transported to Georgetown Hospital and Doctors found that Chris had a Glioblastoma Tumor in his brain for which they performed emergency surgery that night to remove the tumor. Over the next 11 months he underwent numerous Chemo and Radiation treatments.  After his last round of treatment, everything appeared to be in the clear and his Doctors informed him that he was in remission. The family was elated that this last 11 months of struggle was finally behind them and things were finally looking up. That sense of hope was shattered two weeks later when during a routine scan the Doctors found that Chris’s cancer had returned and was much more aggressive this time. This form of cancer has been directly linked to firefighting. I implore you to please take the time to research this disease. The median survival rate is 2 to 3 years. With Chris’s having already returned less than a year after his initial diagnoses that time frame is more than likely even less. Chris has served this department for the last 14 years, graduating from CRS 31. He is a husband and father to an 8 year old girl and 5 year old boy. He and his family are now facing the unimaginable truth that at most they will have 2 years left with him. I feel it is more important than ever to pull together as a union and do everything we can for Chris and his family at this time. I feel we have an obligation in times like this to assist one of our own and their family during their time of need. I am asking that anyone wearing or that has ever worn the uniform to step up and help out. We should come together now to help this family financially so they will not have to bear that additional burden every day. A page has been set up below for donations for which 100% of the proceeds will go directly to Chris and his family. I am donating 4 hours of overtime pay to Chris and his family and I would like to challenge the rest of the union members to do the same. I understand this might not be possible for everyone, so I encourage any other donation amount possible. This hits home as it could be any one of us throughout the course of our careers. Thank you for your time and generosity, please contact me if you need any additional information.

https://www.youcaring.com/chris-hill-479459


Thank you,
Russell Poe

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Overview of Upcoming Presentation by PGFD Chief Bashoor at NFFF Sprinkler Symposium

December 7, 2015, 5:58 am
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You can press the pause button to spend more time on a slide.

This is an overview of a presentation that Prince George's County Fire Chief Marc Bashoor will be making at the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Sprinkler Symposium the week of December 7th.

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Volunteer Fire/EMS Company provides kick-start to Wreaths Across America This Weekend

December 7, 2015, 6:17 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

This Saturday, December 12, a convoy of tractor-trailers will arrive at Arlington National Cemetery.  The trucks have been travelling all week to reach Arlington to join with hundreds of volunteers that place Christmas Wreaths at grave sites of our fallen military.  For the 10th year the Wreaths Across America (WAA)  convoy will start their day at the Branchville Volunteer Fire Company and Rescue Squad, Inc. in College Park, MD. 

This week of events is made possible by thousands of volunteers who organize local ceremonies, raise funds to sponsor wreaths, and participate in the events.  The cost of the programs is paid by individual wreaths sponsors, corporate donors and volunteer truckers. 

Have you ever thought about where dozens of tractor-trailers carrying thousands of wreaths stay the night before??  Where does this huge convoy start from??  Where do the hundreds of staff and drivers eat breakfast before making the final leg of their long journey??

A local volunteer fire department in Prince George’s County, Maryland plays a key role in assisting WAA reach their final destination at Arlington National Cemetery.   The Branchville Volunteer Fire Company and Rescue Squad and their Ladies Auxiliary in College Park, MD, put in a weeks worth of work into a very short period of time to honor the staff and volunteers that honor our fallen heroes.

The all-volunteer fire company, for the 10th consecutive year, will start to park dozens of Wreaths Across America tractor trailers and support vehicles on Friday, December 11.   The trucks are expected to arrive as early as 10:30 am on Friday.  The WAA convoy departure on Saturday morning is quite impressive and starts off with breakfast cooked by the Branchville Volunteers.

Ronald Leizear Sr., President of the Branchville Volunteer Company, stated, "The membership looks forward to this event every year and participate willingly with a smile on their face.  We understand the mission of remembrance and honor of our fallen at Arlington National Cemetery and we are doing our small part to help make that happen."

For the fifth year the Branchville membership including the Ladies Auxiliary will provide breakfast to the staff and drivers.  This year, we are planning on over 500 people for breakfast. Volunteers will start prepping the meal at midnight Friday into Saturday morning.  WAA staff start to arrive at around 4:00 am to enjoy breakfast.  The fire station banquet hall becomes a very active place until around 7:30 – 7:45 am when the trucks start their process of lining up for an escorted trip from Branchville Fire/EMS Station to Arlington.

This event provides a very unique opportunity for media to talk with the primary participants and organizers of Wreaths Across America in a calm and quiet setting.  Several boxes of wreaths will be opened and on display Friday as they are stacked for distribution on Saturday morning at Arlington.  The breakfast provided by the Branchville Volunteers is truly an amazing effort and really cannot be put into words, you have to see it to believe it.

It is expected that the 1st Lady of Maine, Anne LePage, will attend the Branchville Breakfast and join the convoy to Arlington.


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Consumer Warning - Telephone Solicitators may not be who you think

December 7, 2015, 11:37 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

The Holiday Season is always a good time to donate to worthy causes with most people willing to donate to their favorite charity.  Unfortunately, it is also the time of year that scammers will try to obtain those donations under fraudulent circumstances.  The Prince George’s County Fire/Emergency Medical Services Department has been made aware of a possible phone scam from an unknown individual or group representing themselves as members of the Fire/EMS services seeking donations.
 
The Department has received inquiries from the public asking if we are familiar with a group identifying themselves as the “National Firefighters and Paramedics” or the “Burn Foundation.”   The group asks for donations via credit card, checks or cash which the group is willing to come by your house or place of business to pick-up.

The group is using a variety of phone numbers and when called back, an out-of-service message is received.  They may be spoofing numbers to show up on your caller ID so you think they are legitimate.  Some of the exchanges used are 240-394-XXXX, 301-804-XXXX and 301-329-XXXX.  Several volunteer and paid members of our fire service have been contacted by this group.  Our members quickly recognized the scam, hung up and reported the call.

The problem with alerting consumers to this possible telephone scam is that there are legitimate charitable organizations that depend on telephone solicitation as a form of fundraising.  The Prince George’s County Professional Firefighters and Paramedics Association Local 1619 is one of those organizations. 

If in doubt as to the authenticity of the calling charity it is best to decline the opportunity to donate to telephone solicitors and donate directly to the charity of your choice.  One example is to stop by your local fire/EMS station and make a charitable donation to them directly.  A list of Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Stations can be found by clicking here.  Most of our volunteer entities do a mailing or door-to-door campaign for donations.  For example, the volunteer members at the Branchville Volunteer Fire Company and Rescue Squad, Inc. in North College Park are scheduled to go door-to-door this Saturday, December 12, seeking donations.

Charitable donations to the IAFF Local 1619 can be mailed directly to them at:

IAFF Local 1619
16701 Melford Boulevard Suite 124
Bowie, Maryland 20715

Any questions about their telephone campaign can be directed to 301-805-5300

The District of Columbia Fire Fighters Burn Foundation is a legitimate charitable organization and are not using any form of telephone solicitation.  To learn more about this valuable organization, click here.

Please be extremely discretionary and careful when donating to a supposed charity over the phone.


For additional tips on telephone and other scams please visit the Maryland Attorney Generals Page here and the Federal Trade Commission here.
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Fire Chief Honored with COG Kirby Award

December 9, 2015, 2:09 pm
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CONTACT:  Laura Ambrosio: lambrosio@mwcog.org, (202) 962-3278


Chuck Bean, Bill Euille, Marc Bashoor, Prince George's County Executive Rushern Baker, 
and Muriel Bowser

Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) honored Prince George’s County Fire Chief Marc Bashoor with the Ronald F. Kirby Award for Collaborative Leadership. As Chairman of the COG Fire Chiefs Committee, Bashoor worked closely with WMATA and COG staff following the January Metrorail smoke incident to improve emergency coordination and communication between Metro and first responders. 

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The Council of Governments is an independent, nonprofit association where area leaders address regional issues affecting the District of Columbia, suburban Maryland, and Northern Virginia.



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WJZ - Baltimore Report on PGFD Lucas2 CPR Device

December 9, 2015, 7:17 pm
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WUSA 9 Report on PGFD Firefighter Battle with Cancer

December 9, 2015, 7:22 pm
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Bladensburg Volunteers Awarded for 'Bestowing benevolence on one in an unfortunate circumstance"

December 10, 2015, 6:44 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Bladensburg Volunteers Badon, Jasiecki, Pruiksma with  Association President (red shirt) Charles Walker and Fire Chief Bashoor.
Prince George's County Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor presented Emergency Services Awards to three Bladensburg Firefighters for their benevolence and humanity.  The awards were presented during the monthly meeting of the Prince George's County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association held at the Bunker Hill Fire/EMS Station in Mount Rainier.  

Bladensburg Volunteer Fire Fighters Nick Pruiksma, Matthew Jasiecki and Yvonna Badon were presented the awards after Chief Bashoor spoke of their efforts.

Bashoor stated;  On Saturday, October 31, 2015, you and fellow crew members responded to the 5500 block of Landover Road for a 62-year-old male complaining of chest pain. You arrived to find a homeless man who reportedly had been transported several times to different area hospitals over a few days prior to this incident.  The previous emergency room visits concluded with him either being discharged hours later or leaving against medical advice.  At the crew’s request to take the man to the hospital for further evaluation, he became belligerent and demanded someone call the police.  The Northern EMS Duty Officer was notified of the situation and responded to the scene, where he encountered the elderly male attempting to remove his soiled and ripped pants.  After speaking with the agitated patient, the Duty Officer persuaded him to let the ambulance crew transport him to the hospital for further evaluation and treatment.  

 Upon reaching the hospital, you and your crew assisted with getting the patient undressed and bagging his soiled clothing and shoes.  The poor condition of his belongings moved you to go to a local Salvation Army Thrift Store to purchase him some much needed items.  The store’s manager learned of intended kindness and permitted the merchandise to be purchased at 50 percent off the ticketed price.  A female customer overheard the story and offered to pay for the entire purchase.  You and your crew members returned to the hospital and upon giving the homeless patient a bag filled with clothing and a pair of shoes, he expressed gratitude for the crew’s generous deed.   

Your willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty by bestowing such benevolence on one in an unfortunate circumstance is commendable and worthy of recognition.  The kindness you and your crew displayed stirred the compassion of the store manager and the female customer and demonstrated that there are still some pretty decent people in the world.  Therefore, it is my pleasure to present to you a Fire/EMS Department Emergency Services Award.  Your actions reflect well on you personally and professionally, the Bladensburg Volunteer Fire Department & Rescue Squad, Inc., and exemplifies the excellent caliber of service we strive to provide to the residents of Prince George’s County. 


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Volunteer Association Donate Nearly 70 Bikes to Toys for Tots

December 10, 2015, 9:35 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO


The collective membership of the Prince George's County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association and Ladies Auxiliary donated close to 70 new bicycles to the Toys for Tots program.  During the November meeting a challenge was made to each volunteer corporation to donate at least one bicycle to the program.  The challenge was a tremendous success.  

The bicycles were brought to the Association meeting held December 9 at the Bunker Hill Fire Station in Mount Rainier.  Nearly 70 bicycles in various sizes for different age groups were donated by the volunteers stations and ladies auxiliary.  Association President Chuck Walker stated, "I am overwhelmed at what we have accomplished.  I could not be more proud of the volunteer corporations and ladies auxiliary for the generous donations that will make the Holiday's a festive time for the children."

Branchville Volunteer Chief Ricky Leizear and President Ron Leizear Sr arrived with 12 bikes
for donation to the Toys for Tots







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PGFD Chief Message to His Personnel About "Safety, Violence and Leadership"

December 14, 2015, 7:08 pm
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Ladies and Gentlemen of the PGFD. I want to take a few moments with you to discuss some recent incidents that have challenged the publics trust in our capacity to provide professional service in our communities.

This past Saturday I sent a broadly distributed email which was also shared over the station printers. This message addressed my extreme disappointment with the actions of some of our personnel, ultimately resulting in a physical and verbal altercation between career and volunteer members on the scene of an active house fire.  

These actions and behavior are absolutely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.  I will not tolerate violence in the workplace in any way shape or form.

It is incumbent upon each of us to ensure we take all steps necessary to correct this kind of behavior and restore both the Departments and Publics trust in our abilities to maintain a professional level of service.

After reviewing the preliminary Violence in the Workplace investigative details, it is fairly clear there is a pattern of activity needing immediate attention. There are no excuses or counter claims that can justify any of what I have learned in the preliminary investigation of this matter.

The investigation continues, however I announced the following immediate actions in the email Saturday:
1.   First arriving unit officers will no longer have the option to PASS command.  In concert with the impending release of the revised General Order 6-1 "Passing Command" will no longer be acceptable.  First arriving unit officers will either establish "Command" (a fixed command post) OR establish "Tactical Command" (performing the 360 and a forward position with their crew).  All subsequent operations will be in support of "Command" or "Tactical Command".

2.   If "Tactical Command" has been established, the first arriving command officer is expected to "Assume Command".  Upon assuming "Command", the Incident Commander shall immediately obtain a "CAN" (Conditions, Actions, Needs) report from the "Tactical Command".



3.   All personnel are hereby directed to cease the practice of charging attack lines from a second or successive piece of apparatus until that units primary mission is achieved (ie: water supply to the first engine).  That second line will normallybe expected to be deployed from the first arriving engine.  The practice of routinely running a long line and charging it before water supply is established must stop!  In any case, that second line will support and backup the initial attack line OR will be deployed as directed by "Command" or "Tactical Command".  All successive operations will be in support of "Command" or "Tactical Command".

All chief officers and supervisors must ensure the personnel under their charge receive this information and understand it loud and clear. 
  • Any deviations from the directive above will result in the immediate operational removal of the personnel involved, pending further review by the Emergency Services Deputy Fire Chief
I will not tolerate any environment that results in verbal or physical altercations and/or violence in the workplace of any kind.  We cannot and will not tolerate competitions to "get to the fire first", which ultimately compromises the safety of everyone involved and the integrity of our operations.

Our mission to provide service to our communities in Prince George's County as safely and efficiently as possible will only be accomplished with a professional and cohesive team approach. Providing fire and emergency medical services is not a competition and is not a turf battle. Providing service IS our primary mission, which the public expects we will deliver professionally - not one time have I heard someone from the community say "send me your second best". They expect us, and the deserve for us to respond with our 'A' game and our 'A' team EVERY time.  This cannot and will not involve out personnel struggling over any actions on a scene.

Compliance is not optional – for the majority of our folks who do the right thing day in and day out, I thank you – our communities thank you.

I assure each and every one of you that as the investigations continues, that appropriate actions will be taken as warranted when all of the facts have been investigated.  This is not a volunteer or career issue - this is a safety, violence, and leadership issue which we must not allow to adversely impact out operations.  Our Department, our Personnel, and our community expect and deserve better.


Let's ensure we are providing the most timely and professional service possible, while ensuring Everyone Goes Home safely.
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Team Work Saves a Life - Man will be home to Celebrate the Holidays

December 17, 2015, 1:56 pm
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Teamwork of an unknown Good Samaritan, a County Police Officer and members of the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department resulted in a life saved on Saturday, December 12.  Just before 12:30 pm Firefighters and Medics from the Fort Washington area were alerted to a 911 report of a crash with injuries and CPR being performed.

It appears an adult male, Jorge Mondino of McLean, Virginia  suffered sudden cardiac arrest while driving on northbound Indian Head Highway (Route 2100 Near Palmer Road.  While the driver was unconscious, his vehicle appears to have rear-ended another before coming to a stop.  In total, 3 vehicles were involved with 2 adults and 1 child being taken by ambulance to area hospitals for evaluation and treatment of minor injuries.  One adult male was found unconscious and not breathing.

A Good Samaritan female was the first to stop and initiated cardio pulmonary resuscitation (CPR).  A County Police Officer, Dale Sollars, arrived on the scene quickly and went to assist with CPR.  Sollars has 12 years of previous experience as a Firefighter/Medic and knew exactly what to do until medics arrived.

The heavy-duty rescue squad from Fort Washington Fire/EMS Station 847 was the first fire department to arrive.  Firefighter/Medics Steve Zamary and Tom Joachim obtained the automatic external defibrillator (AED) and applied it to the victim.  The AED analyzed the patient’s heart rhythm and provided 1 shock in an attempt to “jump-start” his heart into a normal rhythm.  

The Paramedic Unit from Fort Washington 847, staffed by Firefighter/Medics Tim Vanderhoff and Latonya Hackley, arrived shortly after and used their Lifepak 15 monitor and defibrillator, a more sophisticated piece of cardiac equipment, to monitor the patients heart rhythm.  The medics provided another 2 shocks per protocol.  The patient responded with a spontaneous pulse and medics continuing to assist with the patients breathing.   

The ambulance crew from Fort Washington, staffed by Firefighters Mark Verdonock and Devin Watson, assisted medics in treating the cardiac patient and transporting him to a nearby hospital.  Medics stated their patient started to regain consciousness and talking just before delivery at the emergency department.


Because of the actions of a Good Samaritan  Police Officer Dale Sollars and the Firefighter/Medics from the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department, the 73-year-old McLean man will soon be released from the hospital and celebrate Christmas at home with his family.

On Thursday, December 17, the wife and daughter of Jorge Mondino met with Police Officer Sollars and Firefighter/Medic Latonya Hackley at Police Department Headquarters in Landover.  The family expressed their sincerest gratitude to everyone involved.   Firefighter/Medic Hackley, speaking on behalf of her crew, said everything fell into place with early notification to 911, bystander CPR, early defibrillation and transport to a hospital.

Mrs. Mondino said that having her husband at home on Christmas Day is the best gift she has ever received.

After the press conference, Assistant Fire Chief Brian Frankel presented a PGFD "Life-Saving"
 Challenge Coin to Police Officer Sollars for his efforts on this incident.




County Police Officer Dale Sollars and Fire Fighter/Medic LaTonya Hackley

L to R Daughter of Jorge Mondino, Wife of Mondino, Police Officer Sollars, Fire Fighter/Medic Hackley
and Police Major Garrett during press conference





PGFD Assistant Fire Chief Frankel present "Life-Saving" Coin to Police Officer Sollars





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Landover Hills Firefighter/Medics Delivered on a Christmas Wish

December 23, 2015, 4:45 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Prince George’s County Firefighter/Medics assigned to the Landover Hills Fire/EMS Station were surprised to find a hand-written note pinned to the stations information board a few weeks ago.  The anonymous note identified a family living nearby requesting a gift for the family’s daughter.

The Firefighter/Medics discussed the request and decided to do whatever they could to make this Christmas wish a reality.  Each and every person assigned to the station contributed his or her own money to purchase Christmas gifts for the 9-year-old girl.

The note had listed the mothers name and cell phone number.  The mom was contacted and personnel obtained several gift ideas for the girl.  There were enough funds donated to purchase a Nintendo DS Lite and games, a doll, jacket and some drawing items.  The items were dropped off at their home to be opened on Christmas Morning.


In this case Santa was not wearing red, Santa wore a blue work uniform and a Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department patch on the shoulder.

The hand-written note left at the Landover Hills Fire/EMS Station seeking assistance.

Firefighter/Medics representing all the personnel assigned to Landover Hills station paid a visit to the family recently and left a package to be opened on Christmas Day.

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Families Acquainted by Tragic Crash Meet Again at PGFD Hyattsville Fire/EMS Station

December 23, 2015, 5:11 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

To put this event into perspective we need to provide some background on how these families met at Childrens National Medical Center.  As previously reported:

“A horrific and tragic incident occurred on the evening of Sunday, November 8, 2015.  A crash on Chillum Road had initially claimed the lives of 4 people including 1 child.  14 others were transported to area hospitals some in critical condition.  This mass casualty incident was one of the worst the Department has experienced in recent memory considering the number of patients (18), fatalities (4) and the severity of injuries (8 in critical-life threatening).”  Since the crash another child succumbed to his injuries and an pregnant female lost her unborn child.

On December 21, volunteer and career members of the Hyattsville Volunteer Fire Department and the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department hosted a reunion between members of a family that were involved in the incident and a family they met while staying at Children’s National Medical Center. Carrie Jenkins was in the hospital with her son, Brayden, when they had the opportunity to meet one of the children that was involved in the Chillum Road crash. Little Dianna made such an impression on Mrs. Jenkins that when she returned to her home in Virginia she decided to enlist the help of her friends and family for donations. Mrs. Jenkins then contacted reporter Jeannette Reyes of WJLA News 7/News Channel 8.  Reyes worked with Dave Iannone, Hayttsville Volunteer President, and Fourth Battalion Commander Michael Glaubitz to arrange and coordinate a meeting between the two families.  


At the Hyattsville Fire/EMS Station 801 that reunion occurred on December 21. There were dozens of presents that The Jenkins Family had purchased from their collected donations.  Jenkins and her two sons, Luke and Carter, were able to share these gifts with Little Dianna, her brother Junior and their father, Fredy.  

The volunteer and career firefighters and paramedics from the Hyattsville Station were on hand to host the event along with Stations 834 Chillum –Adelphi, Station 844 Chillum, Station 855 Bunker Hill, Santa and Battalion Chief 884.  Some of the Firefighter/Medics attending the reunion were working the night of the tragic crash.



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PGFD Battled 3 Home Fire Tuesday Evening - No Injuries

December 23, 2015, 5:49 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Prince George’s County Firefighters battled three home fires on Tuesday evening.  Fortunately, no one was injured, however, each home suffered some damage.

The first fire occurred just before 4:30 pm in the 3900 block of Billings Place in Suitland.  Firefighters arrived at the 2-story single family home with fire coming from the windows on the side of the house.  Firefighters had the fire extinguished within 10 minutes of arrival.  The fire appears to have started in the kitchen on the first floor with some extension to the second floor.  The cause of the fire is undetermined.  Fire loss is estimated at $150,000.  Tragically, the family dog perished in the fire.

While firefighters were still committed to the fire on Billings Place another house fire was dispatched at around 5:50 pm in the 1100 block of Balboa Avenue in Capitol Heights.  Firefighters filling in at empty stations from the Billings Place fire were dispatched and among the first arriving units.  Firefighters quickly extinguished a fire that appears to have started in a utility closet.  The cause of this fire is undetermined with fire loss estimated at $10,000. 

The third house fire of the evening occurred at about 10:15 pm at an Oxon Hill home in the 7500 block of Abbington Drive.  Firefighters arrived to find a small fire in the living room of a house.  The fire of undetermined origin was quickly extinguished.  Fire loss is estimated at $5,000.



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Clinton Fire Fatality Update from December 5 - Tippett Road

December 23, 2015, 1:51 pm
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Fire Investigators from the Prince George’s County Office of the Fire Marshal have been investigating a fire and death that occurred at 11317 Tippett Road Clinton, MD since Saturday, December 5, 2015 at 5:05:00 AM.

Public Safety Communications received a 911 call from a resident at 11317 Tippett Road Clinton, Maryland. The resident reported that a trailer was on fire in her yard and someone was possibly trapped inside.

Firefighters and paramedics responded and arrived to report a fire fully involving a camping trailer fire. Fire suppression units extinguished the trailer fire and located a deceased person inside.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner – State of Maryland, concluded the cause of death was from the fire and smoke.

The deceased has been identified as Joel David Polhemus, DOB 6/8/1971, of Clinton.

The fire loss is estimated at $30,000. The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation however accidental causes are being considered. 

This is the third residential fire fatality occurring in Prince George’s County this calendar year.  The other two incidents are:

1.    Laurel female succumbed on 1-2-15 from burn injuries sustained on 1-1-2015. (smoking materials) 


2.    April 5, 2015, 3400 block of Edwards Street, Springdale.  Adult Male. (smoking materials)  
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BBQ Safety Tips for Christmas Day???

December 24, 2015, 12:23 pm
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Grill Safety


A typical Christmas Day fire/EMS safety tip would include cooking safety focusing on indoor cooking.  I have never included reminders on how to safely use your BBQ grill and how to dispose of used charcoal briquettes in December!!!  However, warmer than usual temperatures have prompted some to consider firing up the grill and cooking outside for the Eve and Christmas Day.  

PGFD recommends 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.

On behalf of the entire Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department we sit you Have a safe and Merry Christmas and Holiday Season!!!


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Celebrate the Holidays Safely - Candle Safety

December 24, 2015, 12:29 pm
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

The fire service has seen an increase in home fires with the popularity and increased use of candles.  Combine the everyday popularity with the increased use during the Holiday Season where candles play an important role in religious celebrations and the chances of a candle igniting a fire increases.   December is the peak time of year for home candle fires.  In December, across the country, 13% of home candle fires begin with decorations compared to 4% the rest of the year.

The Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department is providing safety tips from the United States Fire Administration to help eliminate preventable candle fires and keep Safety First to ensure everyone goes home.  On average there are 42 home candle fire reported every day.

Causes and Circumstances of Home Candle Fires

More than half of all candle fires start when something that could burn, such as furniture, mattresses or bedding, curtains, or decorations is too close to the candle.

In one-fifth (20%) of candle fires, the candles are unattended or abandoned.

Over one-third (36%) of home candle fires begin in the bedroom.

Falling asleep is a factor in 12% of home candle fires and 36% of the associated deaths.

December is the peak time of year for home candle fires.  In December 13% of home candle fires begin with decorations compared to 4% the rest of the year.

One-half of home candle fire deaths occur between Midnight and 6 am.

Young children and older adults have the highest death risk from candle fires.

The risk of fatal candle fires appears higher when candles are used for light.

Sources: NFIRS, NFPA

CANDLE SAFETY TIPS

Consider using battery-operated flameless candles, which can look, smell and fell like real candles.

If you do use candles, ensure they are in sturdy metal, glass or ceramic holders and placed where they cannot be easily knocked down.

Avoid using candles in bedrooms and sleeping areas.

Extinguish candles after use and before going to bed.

Keep candles at least 12 inches from anything that can burn.

Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.

Set a good example by using matches, lighters and fire carefully.

Children should never be allowed to play with matches, lighters or candles.

Never use a candle where medical oxygen is being used. The two can combine to create a large, unexpected fire.

Always use a flashlight – not a candle – for emergency lighting.

Never put candles on a Christmas tree.

When using in home worship, don't place lit candles in windows, where blinds and curtains can close over them, or pass handheld candles from one person to another. To lower the risk of fire, only only a few designated adults should use candles.

And NEVER leave burning candles unattended!

Remember!  Candle fires are PREVENTABLE!

In the event of a fire, remember time is the biggest enemy and every second counts!
Escape first, and then call for help. Develop a home fire escape plan and practice it frequently with your family.  Designate a meeting place outside. Make sure everyone in the family knows two ways to escape from every room.

Finally, as in every season, have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms installed on every level of your home, test them monthly and keep them clean and equipped with fresh batteries at all times. We strongly encourage the use of 10-year, tamper proof, with hush feature smoke and CO alarms.

Know when and how to call for help. Remember to practice your home escape plan.  
The Prince George's County Safety First Program will provide County residents with a working smoke alarm and install one for you, free of charge.  Simply call 311.
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Leave Backyard Fireworks Out of Your New Year Celebrations

December 28, 2015, 8:16 am
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Leave Backyard Fireworks Out of Your New Year Celebrations

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

The goal of the Fire/EMS Department is not to dampen the celebration of a New Year - our goal is to keep you safe from hazards that you may not think of.  The use of fireworks on New Years Eve into New Years Day is second only to the Fourth of July.   Citizens, residents and visitors should be aware that the use of all consumer fireworks in Prince George's County is illegal.  Firefighters and Paramedics recommend that you leave the pyrotechnics to the experts and leave consumer purchased fireworks out of your celebration planning.

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

The Law in Prince George’s County.

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

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

Remember, SAFETY FIRST, will ensure everyone goes home.

Keep in mind that other jurisdictions allow the use of certain consumer fireworks.  Do not be confused with our law in Prince George's County, regardless of where they are purchased legally, you can not transport or use retail fireworks - all fireworks are illegal in Prince George's County.  

If you purchased or possess fireworks and are in Prince George's County call 301-583-2200 to surrender your items.  A member of the County Office of the Fire Marshal will come to pick up your fireworks without fear of prosecution.

Some neighboring jurisdictions can legally sell fireworks.  Fireworks are being sold in some big box warehouse stores, among other places - they are illegal to transport and use in Prince George's County.

Some neighboring jurisdictions can legally sell fireworks.  Fireworks are being sold in big box warehouse stores, among other places - they are illegal to transport and use in Prince George's County.



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