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Graduation of Career Recruit School #51

February 9, 2016, 12:32 pm
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

On the evening of February 8, 2016, Career Recruit School (CRS) #51 of the Prince George's County Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department graduated from the Fire/EMS Training and Leadership Academy.  Having successfully completed and passing the required physical abilities and curriculum of  the academy the recruits are now ready to serve Prince George's County as Firefighter/Medics.  Forty-five recruits, their families, friends and co-workers joined the Departments leadership, special guests and speakers shared in the pomp and circumstance of graduation.

Prince George's County Executive Rushern Baker spoke to the graduating recruits about the "call to service,""a call to duty" and "to be there when you are called." Baker thanked the class for "the service your about to do and what you have already done." The County Executive also highlighted family members and what they have endured so far through this journey and what they are about to endure as a loved one of a firefighter/medic.

During his comments, Prince George's County Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor stated, "In the end, it is important to recognize that there will not ALWAYS be a book on the shelf, or a class to take, that will teach you what “the right thing" is. Teamwork and crew integrity are critical - however, there will not ALWAYS be a partner standing by your side to point you in the right direction. You have been given the basics in your time at the Academy - now it's your turn to make a difference, this is your moment in time. Welcome to our team."

The keynote speaker for the event was Deputy Fire Administrator for the United States Fire Administration.  Dr. Onieal provided some very thought provoking comments to the recruits.  One story involved a personal story where a college admissions clerk made a difference in Onieal's life and he never forgot it.  He told the graduating class that this is the type of effect that they will have on people when they call you for help on perhaps the worst day of their life.  Dr. Onieal's complete speech can be seen in the video below.


Career Recruit School #51
 Scott A. Adams
Theresa L. Alexander
Christopher S. Bell
Melissa M. Bell
Richard D. Bennett
Darryl A. Brown, Jr.
William H. Buecker
Alexander Caron-Schuler
Chad M. Daubert
Wedmark A. Desir
Patrick A. Doering
Victor A. Fonka
Paul A. Fukem
Brian C. Ginfrida
Wendy P. Gutierrez
Cyle J. Hanker
Christopher A. Harris
Andre Harrison, Jr.
Kevin P. Kady
Ivan L. Lawit
Tyler J. Limeberry
Sean M. Losgar
Caleb S. Martin
Justin W. Martin
Patrick K. Mason
Ryan H. McAllister
Matthew K. McSherry
Corey J. Merrills
Charles L. Merritt II
Gregory P. Meyer
Derrell L. Pitts
Tyler J. Rago
Kaulin A. Rose
Charles D. Savel
Jeffrey N. Schaeffer
Bradley A. Schroeder
Ryan A. Schultz
Allison C. Shattuck
Christopher L. Sim
Zachary A. Stahly
Jason T. Stifler
Olivia Tacconelli
Jamey J. Tolson
Jared W. Trossbach
Melvin L. Wright

FIRE SUPPRESSION SCHOLASTIC ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

The Fire Suppression Scholastic Achievement Award is presented to an individual in each Career Recruit School who achieved the highest academic average on the fire suppression written and practical examinations.

The recipient of the Fire Suppression Scholastic Achievement Award is:



FIREFIGHTER ZACHARY A. STAHLY


EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES SCHOLASTIC ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

The Emergency Medical Service Scholastic Achievement Award is presented to an individual in Career Recruit School who achieved the highest academic average on the Emergency Medical Service Scholastic written and practical examinations.

The recipient of the Emergency Medical Service Award is:


FIRE FIGHTER COREY J. MERRILLS


INSTRUCTOR'S AWARD

The Instructor’s Award is presented to an individual in each Career Recruit School who has shown the highest level of personal improvement, development, and dedication during the class.  In short, we identify the individual who has contributed significantly to the success of the class overall either by helping others or through self-improvement.  The individual earning this award can be one with no previous experience in emergency services and progresses to an outstanding level of proficiency; or an experienced person who dedicates him or herself to assisting other class members be successful throughout Career Recruit School.

The recipient of the Instructor’s Award is:


FIREFIGHTER MATTHEW K. McSHERRY


MEMORIAL AWARD

The Memorial Award is a very special recognition presented to an outstanding individual from each Career Recruit School who has displayed that rarest combination of professionalism, courage, and "espirit de corps."  Such traits serve to honor their fallen comrades, and uphold the highest traditions of the Prince George’s County Fire/Emergency Medical Services Department.


The recipient of the Memorial Award is:


FIREFIGHTER ALLISON C. SHATTUCK


FIRE CHIEF'S AWARD

The Fire Chief's Award is the highest recognition for Career Recruit Schools.  This award is bestowed on an individual in recognition of achievements that have made significant contributions to the graduating class.  Selection criteria emphasize leadership, professional development, integrity, performance, and personal growth.  This award is given to the individual who best exemplifies the conduct required of the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department.

The recipient of the Fire Chief’s Award is:


FIREFIGHTER CYLE J. HANKER

CRS #51 Class Video



Watch entire Graduation Ceremony here


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Stay Warm Safely Valentine!!!

February 10, 2016, 7:58 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

It just may be the most romantic Valentines plans yet.  Cuddled up with your valentine in front of a roaring fire. Much too cold to venture outdoors so its dinner, a few candles, a warm fire and a movie at home.  Sounds good but please Valentine Safely!!!

Some weather headlines describing the rest of this week and weekend say, "coldest weather of the season,""wind chills will be unbearable" and "dangerously cold temperature extend into next week." So everybody understands colder temperatures and wind will keep people indoors and trying to stay warm.  Stay Warm Safely.

Colder temperatures will most likely remain with us through the end of February and we know everyone would like to stay warm. The Prince George's County Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department (PGFD) wants everyone to stay warm safely.  Don't be blinded by the extreme cold and Valentines Day responsibilities and lose sight of good common sense fire safety habits.  

The Department is reminding everyone that home fires are more prevalent in cold weather than in any other time of the year. This is due in part to an increase in cooking and heating fires.  This reminder involves general heating safety tips.

Stay Safe

The civilian, volunteer and paid men and women of the Fire/EMS Department want to remind everyone that fire safety and prevention are especially important during times of cold temperatures.  

Temperatures drop and fires increase.  According to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) statistics space heaters account for about one third of the home heating fires yet more than 80 percent of the home heating fire deaths.  Cooking and heating are the top causes of fires during cold weather. 

 Fire safety and injury prevention must not be lost in an effort to stay warm. Stay warm and do so safely.   

The Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department recommends the following safety tips for space heaters. 





Space Heaters

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



·      Check to make sure it has a thermostat control mechanism, and will switch off automatically if the heater falls over or if placed too close to an object.

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


 

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


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

  

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




Kerosene space heater 

·      Never refuel indoors.  

·      Remove the kerosene heater outdoors, turn off and wait for it to cool down before refueling and only use the correct type of fuel.




General Heating Tips     

•    Furnaces, fireplaces and chimneys should be cleaned and checked each year by an appropriate professional prior to using.  Clear away any clutter from these heating devices, at least 3 feet away.

•    Only use seasoned wood in fireplaces, never use ignitable liquids to start a fire and do not overload your appliance.

•    The 3-foot rule also applies to furnaces and fireplaces.  No combustibles items within 3 feet of these heating appliances.

•    Dispose of fireplace ash into a metal container and store outdoors away from structures on a concrete surface.  Fireplace ash can ignite a fire days after they have been discarded.

Candles (after all it is Valentines Day)

  • 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.
  • 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!
Finally, ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms are working by pressing the test button on the front cover of the alarm.  Your alarms should be tested monthly on the first day of every month - Safety First Day of the Month.  If you do not hear an audible warning, replace your alarm with a new 10-year, tamper proof, with hush feature alarm.  Having a working smoke alarm on every level of your home, in hallways just outside of sleeping areas and in every bedroom in addition to a exit drill in the home plan and practiced dramatically increases your chances of surviving a burning home.  Remember to sleep with your bedroom door closed.

A working CO detector will protect you and your family from deadly "silent killer" fumes that may be building up in your home.  Remember to practice a home escape plan frequently with your family. 



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

Residents are encouraged to utilize Prince George’s County’s County 311 system to obtain information about public services and obtaining a smoke alarm installed in your home.
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Avoid Hypothermia and Frostbite During Colder Weather

February 11, 2016, 12:00 pm
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            MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

With colder temperatures and dangerously low wind chills being a part of our forecast, The Prince George's County Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department wants our residents to avoid serious health problems that can occur due to prolonged exposure to cold weather. The two most common conditions are hypothermia and frostbite.  Remember, by staying healthy will help the Fire/EMS Department by you not having to call 911 for an ambulance.

The Fire/EMS Department would like to share recommendations by our Health Department for you to stay healthy during cold weather.

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

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

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

In mild cases the symptoms include:

•    Uncontrollable shivering
•    Pale and cold skin

Other more serious signs include:

•    Confusion or sleepiness
•    Slurred speech
•    Shallow breathing
•    Weak pulse
•    Stiffness in the arms or legs
•    Or, poor control over body movements

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

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

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

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

Symptoms of frostbite include:

•    Gradual numbness;
•    Hardness and paleness of the affected area during exposure,
•    Pain and tingling or burning in affected area following warming; and
•    Possible change of skin color to purple

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

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

•    Cover your head.  You lose as much as 50 percent of your body heat through your head.
•    Wear several layers of lightweight, loose fitting clothing.  The air between the layers acts as insulation to keep you warmer.
•    Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect lungs from direct, extremely cold air.  Cover your ears and lower part of your face as well.
•    Wear mittens rather than fingered gloves.  The close contact of fingers helps to keep your hands warm.
•    Wear warm leg coverings and heavy socks or two pairs of lightweight socks.
•    Wear waterproof boots or sturdy shoes to keep your feet warm and dry.

Don't forget you pets need to stay warm as well.  Leaving pets outdoors in these cold conditions could lead to death.  Allow pets to remain indoors and stay warm along with you!!!
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VFW Post Select Their PGFD Firefighter/EMT's of the Year

February 17, 2016, 11:29 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Congratulations are in order for two members of our Fire/EMS Department.  Duane J. Hull, Chief of the Laurel Volunteer Fire Department and Acting Assistant Fire Chief Sayshan L. Conver-White have been selected by the Veterans of Foreign War (VFW) Post 7757, Kettering-Largo, as Firefighter/EMT’s of the Year.

Volunteer Chief Hull was selected for his rescue of another firefighter that had fallen through a burned out staircase while battling a townhouse fire in Howard County on July 12, 2015.  Chief Hull was able to pull the firefighter out of the burned out stairwell to safety by himself.  The firefighter sustained burn injuries to his hands and if it had not been for the quick and heroic actions of Chief Hull the firefighter surly would have sustained more serious injuries.

Assistant Fire Chief Conver-White was selected for her Safety Officer accomplishments including but not limited to Chairing the Washington Metropolitan Council of Governments Safety and Health Committee, Co-Chair of the Maryland Emergency Services Life Safety Task Force and being chosen as the National Safety officer of the Year in 2015.

In congratulatory letters from Mr. Peter L. Moore, VFW Awards Chairman, he writes, “You make your family, department and community very proud.”  Indeed they have.

“I could not be more proud of Laurel Volunteer Chief Hull and Assistant Chief Conver-White,” stated Prince George’s County Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor.  “They both demonstrate professionalism and what it takes to be an outstanding individual and member of the Fire/EMS Department.”


Volunteer Chief Hull and Assistant Chief Conver-White have been invited to attend the VFW Awards Ceremony on Saturday, March 5, 2016 at 11:00 am.  The award ceremony will be held at the Kettering Community Association, 11801 Chesterton Drive in upper Marlboro, MD.
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Hockey Game PGFD vs PGPD to Benefit Lt. Chris Hill

February 17, 2016, 11:37 am
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Retired PGFD Fire Lieutenant Dies in Vehicle Collision

February 19, 2016, 7:00 am
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Media Contact: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Retired PGFD Fire Lieutenant Patrick E. Shafer
Prince George's County Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor had the sad task this morning of informing the membership of the sudden passing of Retired Fire Lieutenant Patrick E. Shafer.  Shafer was involved in a motor vehicle collision early this morning that claimed his life.  The crash occurred in the Myersville area of Frederick County near where he resided with his wife and two sons.
Patrick Shafer was hired in March of 2003 and was a member of Career Recruit School 32.  He was promoted to Lieutenant in October 2010 and retired due to a disability in February of 2013.
Andrew Pantelis, President of Prince George's County IAFF Local 1619, said in a written statement, 
"Words cannot express the immense sadness that many of us are feeling because of this tragic event. Brother Shafer was returning home from work this morning when he was involved in a vehicle accident.
For those of you who knew "Pat" he was a genuine person who could find the positive in any situation. Brother Shafer was friend to many and my first preceptor. Patrick was a loving father and husband who spent his days striving to be a positive change in other's lives.
Patrick has left an indelible mark on the lives of those he touched and will deeply missed. Brother Shafer leaves behind his wife Amanda and two sons, Liam and Finn. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."
As funeral details become available they will be posted here.

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UPDATE with Video and Cause - 3-Alarm Commercial Building Fire - Depot Lane in Upper Marlboro

February 23, 2016, 2:30 pm
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

At around 11:15 am, Tuesday, February 23, Firefighter/Medics were alerted to a commercial building fire.  Fire/EMS units responded to the Fort Knox Self Storage facility at 15444 Depot Lane in Upper Marlboro and arrived to find smoke showing from the rear portion of the long 2-story building.  Upon further investigation firefighters found several self-storage lockers on fire on the first level extending up to the second level.  A 2nd Alarm was requested as firefighters fought a significant fire that now involved dozens of various sized storage lockers on both levels. 

Storage lockers were found to contain a multitude of items but primarily loaded with furniture, coxes of clothes, paper products, etc.  One locker had a car inside others with mechanical equipment, work tools and lawn mowers.  At least 2 small explosions were heard during the firefight that demonstrates the dangers of fighting fires in storage facilities; you never know what’s inside of them.  The explosions did not cause any further damage.  Some firefighters were evaluated on the scene for possible injuries; however, no one was transported due to injury.

Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor arrived on the scene shortly after the 2nd Alarm was sounded.  He requested a 3rd Alarm bringing additional firefighters to the scene to assist with overhaul and extinguishment.  There were about 40 fire/EMS units on the scene and 105 firefighters and medics.  It required about 2 hours to bring the fire under control.  The contents of several dozen storage lockers were destroyed with others sustaining water and smoke damage.

Crain Highway, Route 301, had the southbound lanes closed during the fire as hose lines were stretched across the road and numerous pieces of apparatus and support vehicles were parked along both shoulders.

As a matter of standard operating procedure all firefighters are processed through a wellness and rehab area after working on the fire ground.  Medics monitor firefighters vitals signs and once within normal limits firefighters are returned to duty.  Two firefighters demonstrated signs of hypertension and were transported to a hospital for additional evaluation.


Prince George’s County Fire Investigators have concluded their work and have classified this fire as “accidental.”  A candle fell behind a worktable in one of the lockers.  Attempts to extinguish the fire delayed notification to 911.  Fire loss is estimated at $400,000.

Numerous Fire/EMS Departments from across the region either assisted at the fire or filled in at empty Prince George's County Fire/EMS Stations.  Many thanks for their mutual aid assistance.

All images and video by Mark Brady, PGFD PIO

Raw Video



















































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Memorial Services for PGFD Fire Fighter/Medic Lieutenant Patrick Shafer (Retired)

February 24, 2016, 6:17 am
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Fire Fighter/Medic Lieutenant Patrick Shafer Memorial
        
Memorial services to celebrate the life of Patrick Shafer will be held on Thursday, February 25th at 1300. The service will be at Christ Reformed United Church of Christ at 12 South Church St, Middletown, MD followed by a reception at Middletown Volunteer Fire Department Activities Center at 1 Firemans Lane, Middletown, MD(Located off of Franklin St.). 

Parking will be at the church and a couple of other local lots. Street parking is also available. Childcare will be available at the church. Space in the church will likely be an issue so we ask that everyone be gracious in sharing the space (there will be an overflow room). The reception will be catered, with an open bar, music, and will be a time and place to celebrate Patrick's life.


The department will be sending apparatus as well as the honor guard. The IAFF 1664 Honor guard and Pipe and Drum Corps will also be in attendance. 

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Riverdale Heights House Fire Injures Firefighter and Displaces Family

February 24, 2016, 8:09 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

A malfunctioning electrical outlet caused a house fire that injured a firefighter and displaced the occupants.  At around 9:30 am, Tuesday, February 23, firefighters were alerted to a fire in a house in the 6600 block of Oliver Street in Riverdale Heights.  Fire/EMS units arrived to find a 2-story, Cape Cod style, single family home with fire showing from the top floor and roof. 

Firefighters conducted a search of the house interior and an interior attack on the fire.  All searches were negative and firefighters had the fire extinguished within 15 minutes of arrival.

One firefighter sustained a small burn injury during the firefight.  He was transported a Burn Unit where he was treated and released.

Fire Investigators found that a malfunctioning electrical outlet started the fire in an attic area converted to a bedroom.  A smoke alarm was in the house but determined to be non-working.  The cause of the fire is accidental and the estimated fire loss is $150,000.  No other injuries were reported.


Six adults and one child are displaced from this house.  The County Citizen Services Unit and the American Red Cross assisted the family with temporary arrangements.

















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Two District Heights house fires on Ramblewood Drive - not related

February 24, 2016, 8:07 pm
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

An unusual sequence of events this afternoon in District Heights.  Two house fires occurred within an hour of each other on the same street separated only by eight neighboring houses and with different causes.  Each fire damaged the home and displaced the occupants.  Fortunately, no injuries were reported in either incident.

The first incident occurred at around 4:00 pm in the 2300 block of Ramblewood Drive.  Firefighters arrived at the 2-story, Cape Cod style, single-family home with fire and smoke showing.  Firefighters confirmed all the occupants were out of the house and initiated an interior attack on the fire.  The fire was located in a bedroom on the first floor in the rear of the house.  The fire was quickly extinguished and declared out within 10 minutes of arrival.  The cause of this fire has been determined to be a malfunctioning extension cord and is accidental. Estimated fire loss is $50,000.  Four adults, 2 children and the family dog are displaced and assisted by the County Citizen Services Unit and American Red Cross with temporary shelter.

As firefighters were cleaning up from that fire a young teen-aged male came running up the street and told the first firefighter he could find that his house was on fire.  Firefighters quickly scrambled to negotiate apparatus and themselves to prepare for another fire.  At around 5:00 pm, just down the street from the first fire, in the 2100 block of Ramblewood Drive, heavy smoke was pouring out of the homes front door and upper floor.  Again, firefighters ensured all occupants were out of the house, advanced hose lines into the home and extinguished the fire.  One adult and three children are displaced from this house.  The County Citizen Services Unit and the Red Cross are assisting this family as well.  Fire loss is estimated at $35,000 and was caused by unattended cooking.

Overall, two jobs well done by firefighters for minimizing damage and done so without injury.  A quick transition from one incident to another with little to no time to organize who was first or last arriving.

2100 block of Ramblewood Drive - 2nd House Fire


2300 block of Ramblewood Drive. 

2300 block of Ramblewood Drive. 

2300 block of Ramblewood Drive. 

2300 block of Ramblewood Drive. 

2300 block of Ramblewood Drive. 

2300 block of Ramblewood Drive. 

2300 block of Ramblewood Drive. 

2300 block of Ramblewood Drive. 

2300 block of Ramblewood Drive. 

2300 block of Ramblewood Drive. 

2300 block of Ramblewood Drive. 

2300 block of Ramblewood Drive. 
2100 block of Ramblewood Drive - 2nd House Fire
2100 block of Ramblewood Drive - 2nd House Fire

2100 block of Ramblewood Drive - 2nd House Fire

2100 block of Ramblewood Drive - 2nd House Fire

2100 block of Ramblewood Drive - 2nd House Fire

2100 block of Ramblewood Drive - 2nd House Fire

2100 block of Ramblewood Drive - 2nd House Fire

2100 block of Ramblewood Drive - 2nd House Fire

2100 block of Ramblewood Drive - 2nd House Fire






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PGFD Adopt-A-Neighborhood Smoke Alarm Program Visits North College Park

February 27, 2016, 11:27 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Dozens of College Park homes are safer today after firefighters went door-to-door testing and smoke alarms and if needed, installed new 10-year smoke alarms and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors.  This community risk reduction event was made possible by the generous donation from Carrolton Enterprises through the Departments “Adopt-A-Neighborhood” program.  Carrolton owns and manages several shopping centers throughout Prince George’s County.  The company donated funds that enabled the Departments Community Advisory Council, a 501C-3 Corporation, to purchase a quantity of alarms.  Firefighters will visit communities near Carrollton Enterprises shopping centers and test smoke alarms and if a home is found without a working smoke alarm, a new 10-year smoke alarm purchased with donated funds from Carrollton Enterprises, will be installed by firefighters ensuring that family is protected.

Todays smoke alarm event occurred in the Hollywood community of North College Park.  About 100 homes near the Hollywood Shopping Center in the 9800 block of Rhode Island Avenue were selected to be checked.  Dozens of Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department personnel including volunteer, civilian and career members and County Fire Chief Marc Bashoor participated in the event. 

Firefighters from Branchville, Berwyn Heights and Calverton divided the targeted streets up and crews spent the morning going door-to-door testing existing alarms and replacing older and non-working alarms with new 10-year alarms.  If a home had natural gas appliances, a fireplace or an attached garage they were provided with a combination smoke and CO alarm.

Any business or group interested in joining our Adopt-A-Neighborhood program should contact our coordinator via Email at PGFDCAC@gmail.com.


Any resident that is in need of a working smoke and can not afford to purchase one themselves should call 311 and ask about our smoke alarm program.  If you purchased a smoke or CO alarm and need assistance in installing the alarm feel free to call 311 and ask for our assistance.


Branchville, Berwyn Heights, Calverton and civilian members of along with County Fire/EMS Department leadership and a representative of Carrollton Enterprises met this morning in the parking lot of Hollywood Shopping Center to kick-off our smoke alarm effort.
Branchville Volunteer Firefighters prepare to install new 10-year alarms

Working to install new smoke alarm on 
















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One Civilian Injured in 2-Alarm Commercial Building Fire - Armstrong Lane

February 28, 2016, 3:41 pm
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Firefighters battled a fire this morning that consumed a 1-story auto repair garage and injured an employee.  The fire was reported at around 7:20 am in the 8700 block of Armstrong Lane in Upper Marlboro.  Firefighters arrived at the business and reported fire and smoke showing.  A Second Alarm was sounded bringing additional firefighters and apparatus to the scene.  It required about 45 minutes to extinguish the fire.

Medics treated an employee of the garage for burn injuries to his hands and face.  The adult male was transported to a Burn Unit in “Good” condition suffering from 2nddegree burns.


The cause of the fire remains under investigation.  Fire loss is estimated at $150,000.

Photos are courtesy of the Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department




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Safety First Day of the Month - March 2016

March 1, 2016, 5:16 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

March 1, 2016, the start of the month that includes hints of Spring and a change in clocks to Daylight Saving Time.  It is also our Safety First Day of the Month.  We prefer that you test your smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms on the first day of every month.  "Press to Test" your smoke and CO alarms today to ensure you and your loved ones are protected from the devastation of fire and CO.  Every 1st day of every month is designated as the day to test your smoke and CO alarms to ensure they emit that life saving alert.  Simply press the test button on the front of the alarm.  

On Sunday, March 13 we will change our clocks to reflect Daylight Saving Time.  Spring Forward by changing your clocks up 1 hour.  This is also a time when we ask everyone that has a 9-volt or "AA" battery operated smoke and CO alarms to change the battery's in these alarms as well.  This task is not needed if you have 10-year alarms or hard-wired alarms with a 10-year battery back-up as those batteries never need to be changed.  Keep in mind that as of January 1, 2018 all battery powered alarms must be switched to the 10-year style alarms.  Both working smoke and CO alarms are required by law to be in all homes, apartments, condos and dorms in Prince George's County.

On the first day of every month, regardless of whatever day it is, simply press the test button on the cover of your smoke and CO alarms. 

When you "Press to Test"

If you hear the audible warning – you are good for another month.

No audible warning?? – provide a fresh battery in your alarms and re-test.

Audible warning??  Yes – you are good until next month!!!  No tones – remove the alarm and replace it with a new 10-year alarm.

While you’re tending to your alarms – remove any dust or other particles from your alarm by dusting or using a vacuum.  Remember these alarms could be the difference between life and death of you and your family.

Neighbors Helping Neighbors - Keep in mind that some of our neighbors may not physically be able to reach their alarms to test or change batteries.  If you have senior citizens family members or neighbors, please, perform this lifesaving function for them. They may not ask for help but they certainly could use some.

Anyone that can not afford to purchase their own 10-year smoke alarm may call 311 and make arrangements for a firefighter to visit your home and install these life saving items for you.

Remember that it is now a law for homes that have gas service, fireplace and/or an attached garage are required to have CO alarms installed on every level of your h.

The Fire/EMS Department strongly endorses the use of 10-year, tamper proof with hush feature smoke and CO alarms on every level of your home, outside of sleeping areas and in every bedroom.

Also, design a exit drill in your home and identify two ways out of every room in the event of a fire.  Designate a safe meeting place outside and practice you exit drill at least twice a year.

**  Hint **  Other monthly tasks such as changing filter furnaces, providing our pets with monthly medications, etc. can be done on the safety first day of the month as well.

Install CO alarms on every level of your home, primarily, just outside of sleeping areas.

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, primarily, just outside of sleeping areas and in every bedroom.  Sleep with your bedroom door closed.  

Plan and practice an exit drill in the home.  Identify 2 ways out of every room in your house and a safe meeting place outside.
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Clean Water Rescue Challenge - PGFD Collection Points for Donations for Flint Residents

March 1, 2016, 5:40 am
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PGFD MEDIA CONTACT: Mark Brady, 240-508-7930

Clean Water Rescue Challenge
MEDIA CONTACT:  Elisa Miller, 240-354-0285

Four Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Stations are serving as collection points in an effort to collect clean water for Flint, Michigan.

A volunteer group is collecting clean drinking water for the residents of Flint.  They are proposing a “Clean Water Rescue Challenge” and asking Prince George’s County residents to participate and donate as many cases of clean water that you can.

Clean water may be dropped off at the following Fire/EMS Stations where they will be stored until pick-up and delivery to Flint.  Please note that some of these stations may be out on calls or other tasks and may not be there to accept you donation.  You may leave your water near any door.  Donations will be collected until March 20, 2016.

Donations can be left on any day of the week from 9:00 am until 7:00 pm.

Branchville Volunteer Fire Company and Rescue Squad
4905 Branchville Road, College Park, MD

Chillum-Adelphi Volunteer Fire Department
7833 Riggs Road, Langley Park, MD

Kettering-Largo Fire/EMS Station
10400 Campus Way South, Upper Marlboro, MD

Glenn Dale Volunteer Fire Association
11900 Glenn Dale Boulevard, Glenn Dale, MD


For large water donations you may contact the event coordinator at 240-354-0285.
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Beltsville Bakery Warehouse 2-Alarm Fire

March 2, 2016, 6:02 pm
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark e. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Firefighters from the Beltsville area battled a warehouse fire today that escalated to 2 Alarms.  At around 2:30 pm a 911 call reported a fire on the 1st level of a large warehouse in the 11400 block of Old Baltimore Pike.  Firefighters from Prince George's County and Montgomery County arrived to find heavy smoke rolling out of the large overhead door and advanced hose lines into the structure.  As the first arriving crew searched for the seat of the fire they ensured all 7 employees had safely evacuated.

The warehouse was operating as Middle East Bakery and a fire was found involving an industrial sized baking oven.  As firefighters were battling the fire on the first level heavy thick smoke started to come from the second floor office area and roof.  A Second Alarm was sounded bringing additional firefighters and units to the scene.  First alarm crews extinguished the fire and ensured all extension to the upper areas of the warehouse were also extinguished.

There were no injuries to employees, civilian and firefighters.  The cause of the fire is accidental and fire loss is estimated at $50,000.



















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Kentland Volunteers Receive Emergency Services Awards

March 4, 2016, 1:42 pm
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Several members of Kentland Volunteer Fire Department were recognized today for their actions on two separate incidents.

Prince George’s County Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor, Deputy Fire Chief Jim McClelland, Assistant Fire Chief Alan Doubleday and Chuck Walker, President of the Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association were on hand  to help recognize the deserving members at a ceremony at the Kentland Fire Station in Landover.  Kentland Volunteer Chief Tony Kelleher and numerous members were in attendance in support of their fellow members.  The award recognized members for their ingenuity and bravery in rescuing a family of three from a burning apartment building.


 Deserving members were presented with Emergency Services Awards and an accompanying letter:

        In the early morning hours of Thursday, August 27, 2015, units from the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department responded for an apartment building fire in the 4400 block of 68thPlace in Landover Hills, with reports of people trapped.  Firefighters arrived on the scene to find a 3-story (front) and 4-story (rear) garden-style apartment building with fire showing from within the interior stairwell and extension to the roof. 

        The first arriving crew from Landover Hills Fire/EMS Station 830 advanced hose lines to extinguish the fire and perform an interior search for trapped occupants.  Additional firefighters, including members of the Kentland Volunteer Fire Department, Inc., arrived and took a position at the rear of the 4-story building.  They observed a family of three on a top floor balcony adjacent the apartment of origin.  The family’s only means of egress was through the stairwell, which was obstructed by fire and smoke.  The apparatus carrying ladders tall enough to reach the victims had not yet arrived, and the ones on the scene were inadequate to access the balcony at the rear of the building.  Firefighters were forced to use a combination of two ladders, a 28-footer to reach the third floor and a 14-foot roof ladder that was hung vertically from the fourth floor balcony.  They ascended the 14-foot ladder, “pompier” style to access the trapped occupants and ensure their rescue.  As one victim was being assisted down the ladders, firefighters provided their air masks to those awaiting rescue.  Each of the occupants was safely removed and placed in the care of EMS personnel for evaluation.

        Your performance, as well as the teamwork and ingenuity demonstrated on the scene of this incident, saved three lives and is commendable and worthy of recommendation.  Therefore, you are hereby awarded a Fire/EMS Department Emergency Services Award.  Your actions reflect well on you both personally and professionally, the Kentland Volunteer Fire Department, Inc., and exemplify the excellent caliber of service we strive to provide to the residents of Prince George’s County.

Member’s receiving Emergency Services Awards included:

Volunteer Deputy Chief Roger Steger
Volunteer Sergeant Mike Freeman  
Volunteer Fire Fighter John Fitzpatrick
Volunteer Fire Fighter Tim Jones
Volunteer Fire Fighter Will Patelis 
Volunteer Fire Fighter Chris Richards  
Volunteer Fire Fighter Cameron McKay
Volunteer Fire Fighter Kevin Stapleton
Volunteer Fire Fighter Geatano Leone 


Fire Chief Bashoor also presented Emergency Services Award to deserving personnel for their actions in rescuing a female from her burning townhouse.  In addition to a Certificate of Award an accompanying letter read:

       
      Just past midnight on Sunday, October 18, 2015, you were a member of the crews on board units from the Kentland Volunteer Fire Department, Inc., which were dispatched to the 10000 block of Campus Way South for a reported house fire with entrapment.  You arrived to find a 2-story townhouse with heavy fire showing from the second floor.  Engine 833 quickly advanced an attack line to the second floor and began knocking down the fire.  Hearing sounds that possibly could have been coming from a victim, Tower 833 began aggressively searching of a second floor bedroom.  The search was extremely difficult, due to the configuration of the bedroom and a large amount of personal belongings gathered there.  Nevertheless, the crews persevered and were able to locate the victim and remove her from the burning home.  Once outside, she was transferred into the care of awaiting EMS personnel and transported to the nearest hospital.   

        It was later learned that the patient’s nose hairs were singed and there was soot in her mouth.  Had it not been for the quick thinking and immediate response of you and your fellow crew members, the outcome of this emergency might have been far more tragic.  Your performance on the scene of this incident is directly responsible for saving the female victim’s life.  Therefore, it is my pleasure to present to you a Fire/EMS Department Emergency Services Award.  Your actions reflect well on you both personally and professionally, the Kentland Volunteer Fire Department, Inc., and exemplify the excellent caliber of service we strive to provide to the residents of Prince George’s County.

Member’s receiving Emergency Services Awards included:

Volunteer Lieutenant Andrew Evans
Volunteer Sergeant Michael Freeman
Volunteer Fire Fighter Layne Bynum
Volunteer Fire Fighter Richard Green
Volunteer Fire Fighter Kyle Halm
Volunteer Fire Fighter David Jones
Volunteer Fire Fighter Nicholas Martin
Volunteer Fire Fighter Anthony Rhode

Volunteer Fire Fighter Christopher Rutter











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Chain of Survival Key in Helping to Save a Life on MARC Train

March 4, 2016, 2:08 pm
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

An early morning train ride to work turned into a text book example of the “Chain of Survival.”  An in-bound MARC commuter train was approaching the Beltsville stop in the 7000 block of Murkirk Road around 8:00 am.  The conductor was notified that an adult male passenger had fallen to the floor apparently from a heart attack in one of the cars.  Fellow commuters rushed to the man’s aid and initiated cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) while others notified 911 and the conductor rushed to the train car with an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED).   The AED was applied and shocked the unconscious man that was in cardiac arrest.  

Firefighter/Medics from Beltsville Fire/EMS Station 831 and Calverton Fire/EMS Station 841 were the first units to arrive and continued CPR and prepared the man for transport.  A paramedic unit from Burtonsville, Montgomery County Station 715, was next to arrive and continued pre-hospital care while transporting to a medical facility.  By the time the medics reached the hospital the patient had regained spontaneous circulation.

The Montgomery County Medics had transmitted the patient’s ECG to the receiving facility during transport, allowing the medics and the hospital staff to see that a cardiac catherization would be required.  Within minutes of arrival at the hospital the patient, with a pulse, was on the way to a cath lab, which provided the patient the best possible chance for a positive outcome.

Most emergency medical services professionals know that the Chain of Survival is critical in saving victims of sudden cardiac arrest.  This chain includes immediate notification to 911, by-stander CPR, early defibrillation, advanced life support care and transportation to a medical facility capable of providing acute services is key to surviving sudden cardiac arrest.  This patient was afforded all of these key services.

Thank you to the citizens that made fast notification to 911,without hesitation went to help a stranger and perform CPR, for MARC trains for carrying an AED, for the rapid response and professional care provided by Prince George’s, Montgomery County Firefighters/Medics and hospital emergency department staff.  Finally, to the technology that allows hospitals to receive vital information from medics in the field allowing staff to make timely arrangements for intensive medical care.


Todays collective actions by all involved provided this man with the best opportunity to survive.
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Associate Medical Director Has a Save on First Day

March 7, 2016, 9:57 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

It is no secret that our current Medical Director has been preparing to end his many years of service with the Prince George’s County Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department.  After 24 years, Dr. Terry Jodrie will be leaving the department to pursue other interests after his current contract ends in April 2017.  Jodrie feels that one of his most important responsibilities is to prepare someone to take on some of his responsibilities over the next year and fill his role until a new permanent Director can be contracted.

The Fire/EMS Department's Medical Director Terry Jodrie attended the monthly Command Staff meeting on Friday, March 5 and invited Dr. Michael Millin to attend with him.  Millin will serve as the Departments Associate Medical Director until a permanent selection to replace Jodrie is made by the County.

After a morning long staff meeting, Dr. Millin rode along with Assistant Fire Chief Brian Frankel, Commander of Emergency Medical Services.  They stopped by the Capitol Heights Fire/EMS Station 805 to visit with the Firefighter/Medics when the station was alerted for a possible working code at a nearby dialysis center.  Dr. Millin immediately took the opportunity and rode with Engine 805’s crew to the scene of the incident.  Medics from the near-by Kettering/Largo Fire/EMS Station 846 were also dispatched to provide advanced life support.  

Upon arrival crews found a pulseless and non-breathing patient and began to work on the patient.  Dialysis center staff had witnessed the patient go into cardiac arrest and immediately provided CPR.  This first step in the “chain of survival” definitely led to the positive outcome for this patient.  Within moments of Engine 805’s arrival, an AED was applied and medical care under the direction of Dr. Millin was started. Soon after the arrival of Medic 846, important medications were administered and the patient had regained a pulse.  Dr. Millin, the crew from Engine 805, and Medic 846 continued advanced life support care on the way to the hospital.  Emergency Department staff advised that the patient had a good prognosis for survival.


So the new Associate Medical Director for the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department, Dr. Michael Millin, has had a very good first day.  Millin has some very big shoes to fill and he is off to a good start.

Additional information about Dr. Michael Millin.

Michael G. Millin, MD, MPH, FACEP
Associate Professor, Department of Emergency Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

Sub-boarded in Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Dr. Millin joined the faculty with the Department of Emergency Medicine at Johns Hopkins in 2004 after completing a two year EMS fellowship and his MPH in Health Management and Policy in Portland, Oregon.  Millin has been the medical director for the BWI Airport Fire and Rescue Department since 2008, and the Johns Hopkins Lifeline Critical Care Transport Programsince 2010.  In addition, he serves on the state EMS protocol committee with the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS), the State of Maryland Cardiac Arrest Steering Committee and he is the vice-chair/secretary of the EMS Physicians Committee of the Maryland Chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians.

Nationally, Dr. Millin is the vice-chair of the Resuscitation sub-council of the American Red Cross scientific advisory council.  He is also a past chair of the Standards and Clinical Practice Committee and the immediate past chair of the Wilderness EMS Committee with the National Association of EMS Physicians.  He also works as a disaster physician for the Federal Government as a medical officer with the New Jersey Disaster Medical Assistance Team (NJ -1 DMAT).
Academically Dr. Millin has published over thirty peer-reviewed articles in the fields of EMS, trauma care and disaster medicine.  He has authored numerous chapters in various EMS textbooks, and he has spearheaded the development of over ten national position statements regarding the development of EMS systems and the role of physician medical oversight in EMS.
Dr. Millin got his start in medicine working as a professional ski patroller in Utah.  He is a past national medical advisor for the National Ski Patrol and currently is the medical director for Maryland Search and Rescue (MSAR), a vetted search and rescue (SAR) team with the Maryland Search Teams Task Force and the Appalachian Search and Rescue Conference (ASRC).
In his free time, Dr. Millin enjoys being with his wife and kids and enjoying outdoor activities, especially skiing, hiking, mountain biking and canoeing.
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PGCTV Coverage of PGFD Women in the Fire Service

March 9, 2016, 5:50 am
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NBC 4 Coverage - Good Luck Road Fire - !3-Year-Old Remembers Public Education Plan

March 9, 2016, 5:54 am
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