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Scale Model Update - PGFD "Courage" Engine 805 - Limited Quantities Remain
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Conver-White Recognized as VFW State Level Firefighter/EMT of the Year
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
Congratulations are in order, again, for a Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department Acting Assistant Fire Chief for being recognized at the Maryland State level of the Veterans of Foreign War (VFW). Shayshan Conver-White was nominated by the VFW Post 7757, Kettering-Largo, as the State Firefighter/EMT of the Year. Confer-White was awarded last month as one of the local recipients for this honor.
Assistant Fire Chief Sayshan 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.
Conver-White has been recognized by several organizations for her work with the Department over the past year.
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| Assistant Fire Chief Conver-White holds her award received today. Wither is husband Steve and sons Colby and Trent. |
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Firefighters Recognized for Life-Saving Actions
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
Thirteen firefighters were recognized today and presented with Emergency Service Awards. Prince George's County Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor presented the awards at an informal ceremony at the Forestville Fire/EMS Station 823. There were two separate incidents each involving a rescue.
While making the presentation to each member Chief Bashoor stated, "Your performance on the scene of this incident possibly saved a life or prevented serious injury and is commendable and worthy of recognition. Therefore, you are hereby awarded a Fire/EMS Department Emergency Services Award. Your actions reflect well on you both personally and professionally and exemplify the excellent caliber of service we strive to provide to the residents of Prince George’s County."
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On January 5, 2016, Fire/EMS Department units responded to a reported house fire at 9400 Old Marlboro Pike. Upon arrival, firefighters were advised that someone might still be inside the home. Crews quickly began an aggressive search for a possible victim but none was found. Fire had extended into the attic space; and a crew was tasked with opening the roof in support of the interior operations.
During the roof operation, a firefighter fell through an opening and was exposed to high heat up to his shoulders. Command and the RIT witnessed the event and immediately deployed personnel to assist. Ritchie Volunteer Assistant Fire Chief William Cunningham supported the fallen firefighter until additional resources reached them. Captain Donald Fletcher, Fire Fighter/Medic Lieutenant Christopher Blackistone, and Fire Fighter William Philpott removed the firefighter from the opening and assisted him off the roof. He was placed in the care of EMS personnel, evaluated on the scene, and released to duty.
On the morning of Sunday, January 17, 2016, units from Silver Hill Fire/EMS Station 829 responded to 3105 Bellbrooke Court in Temple Hills for a house fire, reportedly with people inside. Firefighters arrived to find a basement fire with a trapped occupant and immediately advanced an attack line through the basement’s entrance at the rear of the home. Despite encountering high heat and zero visibility upon entering the residence, Fire Fighter/Medic Captain Bilko was able to quickly locate the victim. Fire Fighter Tippett held the attack line toward the fire, while Fire Fighter DeForest and Fire Fighter Singleton removed the victim from the burning home. Once outside, the pair assisted Fire Fighter Crooks and Fire Fighter Jenkins with administering initial treatment. Consequently, the patient was transferred to Acting Fire Fighter/Medic Captain Buffum, Fire Fighter/Medic Lieutenant Dowling, and Fire Fighter/Medic Rohrbaugh. The administration of aggressive EMS care allowed for quick transport to Medstar; and, thankfully, the patient is expected to recover fully.
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| The entire crew attending todays ceremony. |
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PGFD Pink T-Shirt Nets Donation to Doctors Community Hospital Foundation
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tamara Swinson, Specialist, Marketing and Communications
Doctors Community Hospital
8100 Good Luck Road
North Building, 4th Floor
Lanham, Maryland 20706
Office 240-965-4418 | Fax 240-965-8460
or
Mark E. Brady, PGFD Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
Since 2010, the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department has joined America in marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month by actively supporting awareness activities and fundraising efforts to fight breast cancer.
As part of our annual campaign, volunteer and career Firefighters, Paramedics and Administrative Personnel of the Department are permitted to replace their usual work attire throughout the month of October with shirts promoting awareness for all forms of cancer, especially Breast Cancer, which effects as many as one in eight women in America.
Each year, Fire/EMS Department personnel are invited to purchase commemorative shirts with all net proceeds donated to fund cancer charities. Proposed designs are created and submitted by members of the Department. Final selection is made by the Fire Chief on the basis of promoting awareness, as well as representing the commitment of the entire Department to extend the message of courage and hope to the communities we serve.
Sales this year were managed through an independent Prince George’s County-based silkscreen vendor, First Impressions, Incorporated, of Bowie Maryland. All net proceeds were donated by the vendor, through the Fire Chief’s Community Advisory Council, to serve cancer charities. The 2015 campaign raised a total of $6,100.00, and the Doctors Community Hospital Foundation was selected to receive the charitable donation, earmarked to assist the Breast Center at Doctors Community Hospital.
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Official presentation of the check took place on March 16, 2016. Those on hand to receive the check from Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor and Fire Chief’s Community Advisory Council Chair Cheryl Walker included, Paul Grenaldo, EVP and COO, Doctors Community Hospital, Charles Dukes, Chair of the Doctors Community Hospital Foundation (DCHF), Robyn Webb-Williams, Vice President, DCHF, Regina Hampton, MD, Medical Director, Doctors Community Breast Center and Terrie Trimmer, Director, Doctors Community Breast Center and DCHF Board Member, William Steen of Carrollton Enterprises.
Fire Chief Bashoor stated, “Our men and women proudly wear these shirts on behalf of all cancers, especially during the month of October, traditionally recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month."Bashoor continued, “We are pleased to do everything we can to raise visual awareness and provide much needed funding for the care and wellbeing of our citizens.”
Fire Chief’s Community Advisory Council President Cheryl Walker added, “Through our developing partnership with the Doctors Community Hospital Foundation and the Breast Center, we will help countless County residents receive valuable access to care and screening. Together, we encourage all citizens of our community, men and women alike, to follow the American Cancer Society’s recommendations for cancer screening and self-examination.”
Official presentation of the check took place on March 16, 2016. Those on hand to receive the check from Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor and Fire Chief’s Community Advisory Council Chair Cheryl Walker included, Paul Grenaldo, EVP and COO, Doctors Community Hospital, Charles Dukes, Chair of the Doctors Community Hospital Foundation (DCHF), Robyn Webb-Williams, Vice President, DCHF, Regina Hampton, MD, Medical Director, Doctors Community Breast Center and Terrie Trimmer, Director, Doctors Community Breast Center and DCHF Board Member, William Steen of Carrollton Enterprises.
Fire Chief Bashoor stated, “Our men and women proudly wear these shirts on behalf of all cancers, especially during the month of October, traditionally recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month."Bashoor continued, “We are pleased to do everything we can to raise visual awareness and provide much needed funding for the care and wellbeing of our citizens.”
Fire Chief’s Community Advisory Council President Cheryl Walker added, “Through our developing partnership with the Doctors Community Hospital Foundation and the Breast Center, we will help countless County residents receive valuable access to care and screening. Together, we encourage all citizens of our community, men and women alike, to follow the American Cancer Society’s recommendations for cancer screening and self-examination.”
In closing, Paul Grenaldo added, “We are extremely honored by this outpouring of support and generosity from the men and women of the Prince George’s County Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department. Through relationships with organizations that are similarly dedicated to serving our great community, we can collectively help people maintain or improve their health and quality of life.” Grenaldo continued, “We are grateful for all of the support that we’ve received for the Doctors Community Breast Center. From providing leading edge 3D mammography to having the first program with a dedicated breast surgeon in the county, we welcome the opportunity to continue our partnership with the Fire/EMS Department to increase access to life-saving breast cancer prevention, detection and treatment options.”
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Doctors Community Hospital
Doctors Community Hospital is a premier medical and surgical hospital located in Lanham, Maryland. With a mission of being dedicated to passionately caring for the health of patients and the community, the hospital has provided high-quality and comprehensive health care to residents of Prince George’s County and the region for more than 40 years.
A 163-licensed bed facility that has earned numerous quality awards, Doctors Community Hospital provides a wide range of programs and services: Bariatric and Weight Loss Center, Doctors Community Breast Center, Center for Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Medicine, Comprehensive Orthopedic Services, Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services, Doctors Regional Cancer Center, Emergency Department, Imaging Services, Infusion Center, Joslin Diabetes Center, Doctors Community Rehabilitation and Patient Care Center (transitional care), Metropolitan Medical Specialists, Sleep Center and Vascular Health Program.
To learn more about Doctors Community Hospital, visit DCHweb.org or call 301-DCH-4YOU (301-324-4968).
Doctors Community Breast Center
Doctors Community Breast Center is the first comprehensive program with a dedicated breast surgeon in Prince George’s County. Located at Doctors Community Hospital in Lanham, MD, this center provides high-quality evaluation, diagnostic and treatment services – all at one convenient location. With a focus on helping women receive life-saving mammogram screenings, regardless of their ability to pay, the center also provides free screening mammograms to county residents who are uninsured/underinsured or those who have high insurance deductibles.
To learn more about Doctors Community Breast Center or ways to support its community outreach initiatives, visit DCHweb.org/breast or call 301-DCH-4YOU (301-324-4968).
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PGFD Bomb Squad Constructs Easter Eggs for Visually Impaired Children
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
Whenever I think about the Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department Bomb Squad I envision our members with nerves of steel, skilled hands, quick thinkers, patience and focused vision to the task at hand. I see the large protective suits, robots and portable x-ray machines being used to render safe a suspicious package. Our Bomb Squad is all that and much more but above all they are compassionate humans that began their careers as firefighters.
At a recent PGFD Bomb Squad drill members used their skills to construct 48 "beeping" Easter eggs for visually impaired children. Bomb Techs used the opportunity as a drill in electronics with the outcome enabling visually impaired children the opportunity to hunt for Easter eggs. A typical egg hunt is a visual task but these eggs utilize a different sense. The eggs were constructed to allow for multi-time use and rough handling. The colorful plastic eggs and components were donated by the International Association of Bomb Technicians and Investigators.
The completed "beeping" eggs were donated to the "Vision Program," a part of Programs and Services for the Department of Special Education of Prince George's County Public Schools.
All images are provided with courtesy of the Prince Georges County Fire/EMS Department. Photo credit to Teresa Ann Crisman, PGFD.
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Officials Encourage Area Residents to Stay Vigilant and Report Suspicious Activity
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COG is an independent, nonprofit association where area leaders address regional issues affecting the District of Columbia, suburban Maryland and Northern Virginia. To view, follow, or like COG accounts on social media, visit: www.mwcog.org/news/socialmedia/ |
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Smoke Alarm Event in Temple Hills and Adopt-a-Neighborhood
Mark E, Brady, PGFD Chief Spokesperson
mebrady@co.pg.md.us
@PGFDPIO
Prince George's County Firefighter/Medics went door-to-door throughout a Temple Hills community this morning checking to ensure everyone had a working smoke alarm. Nearly 90 homes were targeted for the Adopt-a-Neighborhood event sponsored by the First Baptist Church of Glenarden. Sponsorship involved a monetary donation to the Community Advisory Council, a 501c3 organization, that used the donation to purchase smoke and carbon monoxide (co) alarms.
After a community is targeted for saturation Firefighter/Medics canvas the community offering to check smoke alarms. If a home is found without a working smoke alarm a new 10-year device will be installed at a no charge.
Firefighters are now using a mobile phone application that tracks homes visited and the smoke alarm status. The County-made GIS/GPS application allows supervisors to electronically view which homes have working smoke alarms and which homes need to be visited to have alarms checked. The Adopt-a-Neighborhood program uses this app to track smoke alarm status in homes we visit. The collector app is now used on all smoke alarm programs the Fire/EMS Department performs. A photo below shows the results of this mornings visit.
In addition to civilian, volunteer and career members of the Fire/EMS Department a Boy Scout vying to be an Eagle Scout joined firefighters to learn more about this community outreach effort.
Any business or other entity is encouraged to become involve in this effort and adopt a neighborhood.
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mebrady@co.pg.md.us
@PGFDPIO
Prince George's County Firefighter/Medics went door-to-door throughout a Temple Hills community this morning checking to ensure everyone had a working smoke alarm. Nearly 90 homes were targeted for the Adopt-a-Neighborhood event sponsored by the First Baptist Church of Glenarden. Sponsorship involved a monetary donation to the Community Advisory Council, a 501c3 organization, that used the donation to purchase smoke and carbon monoxide (co) alarms.
After a community is targeted for saturation Firefighter/Medics canvas the community offering to check smoke alarms. If a home is found without a working smoke alarm a new 10-year device will be installed at a no charge.
Firefighters are now using a mobile phone application that tracks homes visited and the smoke alarm status. The County-made GIS/GPS application allows supervisors to electronically view which homes have working smoke alarms and which homes need to be visited to have alarms checked. The Adopt-a-Neighborhood program uses this app to track smoke alarm status in homes we visit. The collector app is now used on all smoke alarm programs the Fire/EMS Department performs. A photo below shows the results of this mornings visit.
In addition to civilian, volunteer and career members of the Fire/EMS Department a Boy Scout vying to be an Eagle Scout joined firefighters to learn more about this community outreach effort.
Any business or other entity is encouraged to become involve in this effort and adopt a neighborhood.
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| Green indicates a new 10-year smoke alarm installed. Orange indicates the home was already protected by a working smoke alarm and blue indicate a visit to pending. |
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Fire/EMS Valor and Excellence in EMS Award Recipients and Luncheon Information
The 2015 Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department Valor and Excellence in EMS Award Recipients are as follows:
Fire Fighter Edward G. Aldaco
Fire Fighter/Medic Lieutenant Rodney L. Bolen
Major Thomas G. Breen (Retired)
Volunteer Fire Fighter Daniel Collins
Volunteer Fire Fighter William Davenport
Fire Fighter Christopher M. Deforest
Fire Fighter/Medic Lieutenant Donald A. Degraves
Volunteer Captain Spiro Dimakas
Volunteer Fire Fighter Andrew C. Evans
Volunteer Sergeant Micheal K. Freeman
Fire Fighter/Medic Joseph A. Gegor
Fire Fighter/Medic Latonya C. Hackley
Fire Fighter/Medic James A. Harris, Jr.
Fire Fighter/Medic Lieutenant Michael M. Hayter
Volunteer Fire Chief Duane C. Hull
Volunteer Fire Fighter Timothy M. Jones
Fire Fighter/Medic Lieutenant Robert C. Kight, Jr.
Volunteer Fire Fighter/EMT Amber L. Leizear
Fire Fighter/Medic Daniel R. McGown
Volunteer Fire Fighter Cameron S. McKay
Fire Fighter John A. Princiotta, Jr.
Fire Fighter/EMT Anne Rowe
Fire Fighter/Medic Lieutenant Christopher D. Smart, Jr.
Volunteer Fire Fighter Kevin W. Stapleton
Fire Fighter David R. Stream
Fire Fighter/Medic Timothy C. Vanderhoff
Fire Fighter/Medic Lieutenant Kenneth D. Ward, Jr. (Retired)
Fire Fighter Stephanie M. Washington
Volunteer Lieutenant David Yang
All RESERVATIONS and PAYMENT must be made in advance – NO EXCEPTIONS. Please RSVP by Thursday, April 21, 2016, at 301-883-5204.
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PGFD Seeking Sponsors for Upcoming Valor and Excellence in EMS Awards
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April 1 is the Safety First Day of the Month
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
April 1, 2016, the start of the month that includes hints of Spring with hopes of warmer weather on the way. 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.
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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Apartment Fire - 8500 Block of Greenbelt Road
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
Prince Georges County Firefighters battled a work intensive fire located within the interior walls of a Greenbelt 3-story apartment building this morning. Firefighters arrived at this fire incident in the 8500 block of Greenbelt Road just before 12 Noon and reported smoke showing. An interior attack was initiated with firefighters having to open up the walls and ceilings of apartments from the terrace level all the way to the top floor to extinguish the fire.
After nearly 45 minutes the fire was declared extinguished. Preliminarily, 17 residents will be displaced as a result of the damage; 11 adults and 6 children. There is a possibility of that number increasing. The County Citizen Services Unit and American Red Cross are assisting displaced residents. Fortunately, all occupants safely evacuated the building prior to the Fire Department’s arrival. No civilian or firefighter injuries have been reported.
The cause of this fire is currently under investigation. Investigators will be looking to see if a stove fire extinguished by firefighters about an hour earlier in the same apartment of origin had any involvement with this incident.
All images are provided courtesy of PGFD
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High Wind Warnings Proved to be Correct
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
Throughout Saturday the National Weather Service had issued High Wind Advisories and Warnings for the National Capital Region. Local media continually broadcast forecasts of very high winds and warned of the potential for damage from the winds. Wind gusts of up to 60 mph were forecast when a cold front rolled through the area. The storm was worthy of all the warnings at about 10:30 pm, Saturday, high wind gusts toppled trees, utility lines fell and subsequent automatic alarms were activated as well as small outside fires erupting from downed utility lines.
A normal 24-hour day averages about 450 incidents being handles by Prince George’s County Firefighters and Medics. With the 14 hours spanning from 10:00 pm Saturday until 12 Noon Sunday Public Safety Communications handled 352 calls for service, which is well above average. Most of the incidents were wind related.
While most incidents were handles without incident there were 3 incidents that were notable.
At around 10:45 pm, Saturday, April 2, Prince George’s County Firefighters and Medics were alerted to a tree and utility lines on top of a car in the 9600 block of 49th Ave in College Park. A large tree fell on the front of the vehicle at the base of the windshield causing significant damage and intrusion into the passenger compartment. Two people, an adult male passenger and adult female driver occupied the vehicle. The male patient sustained minor injuries and was able to get out of the vehicle; however the female patient was trapped in the driver’s seat. After about 15 minutes the female was extricated and treated by medics for serious injuries on the scene and prepared for transport to a Trauma Center. Both patients were transported to an area hospital/Trauma Center. The Incident Commander advised that there were numerous trees and wires down in the area of this incident.
Just before 3:00 am, Sunday, Firefighters responded to the 5200 block of 59th Avenue in Riverdale for a reported house fire. Fire/EMSunits arrived at a single family home with light smoke showing. Upon further investigation they determined a tree fell in the front yard pulling utility lines with it and falling against the house. The electrical panel in the basement appears to have suffered a power surge and subsequent fire. Fire was out upon the fire department arrival.
At about 3:30 am firefighters responded on a report of an outside fire. They arrived at the intersection of Woodedge Drive and High Bridge Road in Bowie and found brush and woods on fire. Upon further investigation they discovered a tree and utility lines had fallen across the road and ignited the fire. Firefighters were able to quickly extinguish the fire.
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Fire Chief Presents Special Achievement Awards
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
Two individuals were recognized with the Fire Chiefs Special Achievement Awards recently. Prince George’s County Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor made these presentations on April 7 during a ceremony held at the First Baptist Church of Glenarden. Before making the presentations Bashoor stated, “I am honored to have the opportunity to recognize two individuals for my Special Achievement Award. The two highest awards that a Fire Chief has the honor of presenting are Unit Citations and the Fire Chiefs Special Achievement Award.”
The Fire Chiefs Special Achievement Award recognizes an individual’s extraordinary performance or service which contributes significantly to the overall mission of the Fire/EMS Department.
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| Battalion Chief Christian Wargo |
“Our first recipient willingly accepted my challenge to coordinate a large scale, multi-jurisdictional training opportunity,” Bashoor said. “The Market Place Project took on a life of its own, with roof and roll-up door cutting, long-attack-line-advance drills, explosives entry training, partition wall perforating, rapid intervention training and many more opportunities. These were rare opportunities presented to the department, which required organizational commitment as well as strong and professional leadership to pull off effectively.”
This Battalion Chief enthusiastically accepted to take on this responsibility. This was not a mandatory assignment – he could have taken the easy road and passed, but he did not. With the help of many others, he coordinated the effort which brought personnel from around the region, including Fire/EMS and Police Departments, K-9, Investigative teams and bomb squads. Over 1,000 personnel were afforded the opportunity to train for extended periods, days, nights, and weekends during the four month project. Making the award presentation Bashoor said, “For his tireless efforts as the Market Place Coordinator, I am honored to present Battalion Chief Christian Wargo with the Fire Chiefs Special Achievement Award.
Chief Bashoor also selected a second recipient for his Special Achievement Award. In doing so, he stated, “It is unusual that I present a 2nd Fire Chiefs award within a given year. It is equally unusual that this award will be presented to a civilian employee who works for a different County government agency.”
After the tragic Christmas Eve and Christmas day fatal fires in 2014, the program now known as Adopt-a-Neighborhood was developed. The program compliments our long established smoke alarm programs, with a proactive door-to-door campaign aimed at ensuring all homes in the county have working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors where needed.
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| Senior GIS Analyst Teddy Hailegeberel |
One of the Departments historic problems with smoke alarm efforts has been tracking where alarms have been installed and more importantly, not installed. With advances in technology there had to be a new hi-tech effort to accomplish this. After a couple of meetings with the County Office of Information Technology and their talented staff the “right guy” was identified who had the talent and thankfully the time to help the Department leap to that hi-tech place. The ARCGIS application was developed and used with some refinements. This app is downloaded onto smart phones and updates performed on site by firefighters.
Although it may never be “complete” the program is now being used at many of our 45 stations with paid, volunteer and civilian members using the application as we go door to door. Existing GIS data is used to track our door to door campaigns, including real time recordings of installations, failures, and rejections – the real-time database provides an instantaneous capacity for follow-up that did not exist before to ensure neighborhoods are completely protected. The development of this program has revolutionized our record keeping efforts and significantly reduced the amount of time spent managing the program and measuring effectiveness.
The program is also directly responsible for convincing several businesses to contribute to the adopt-a-neighborhood program. After developing the program, OIT personnel have accompanied us on at least three of our weekend community events. The program, which may be the first of its kind in the nation, has garnered national attention. As a result of the application effort, the OIT staff has been requested to present at several GIS Conferences.
Fire Chief Bashoor presented his Special Achievement Award to the app developer by saying, “Without his efforts, the Adopt-a-Neighborhood program would be ‘just another program’ on the shelf. It is my honor to recognize Senior GIS Analyst Teddy Hailegeberel for his tireless efforts, including going door-to-door with us on several Saturdays, with the Fire Chiefs Special Achievement Award.”
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| Back row - Fire Chief Bashoor, Deputy fire Chief ben Barksdale, Deputy Fire Chief James McClelland Front Row - Patrick Callahan (County OIT) Teddy Hailegeberel, Battalion Chief Christian Wargo |
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MEDIA ADVISORY - Press Conference to Announce Life Saving Donation
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) knows the value of working 10-year smoke alarms. Not only do smoke alarms provide an early warning to home occupants of a fire, they also allow for a faster notification to the Fire Department. The sooner firefighters can arrive and extinguish a home fire the better the chances that no one will be injured or killed. While the NFFF honors our fallen firefighters they also do their very best to prevent Line of Duty Deaths.
Baltimore Gas & Electric annually donates thousands of dollars to local charities through their “Emergency Response and Safety Grants.” This year the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation was awarded a BG&E Grant to purchase smoke alarms to be distributed to Anne Arundel and Prince George’s County Fire Departments. The two departments have programs where firefighters will install these smoke alarms in homes free of charge.
The NFFF has established a special relationship with KIDDE, a leading manufacturer of smoke alarms, to allow for discounted pricing and donated alarms. The combination of a BG&E Grant and KIDDE’s generosity means that Anne Arundel and Prince George’s County will have additional 10-year smoke alarms to distribute, free of charge, to their residents, courtesy of the NFFF.
All of the organizations mentioned above will gather to announce the Grant amount and number of smoke alarms to be distributed.
WHAT: Press Conference Announcing Grant to be used for purchase of smoke alarms
WHEN: Tuesday, April 19, 2016 at 10:00 am
WHERE: Northview Fire/EMS Station, 14901 Health Center Drive, Bowie, MD
WHO:
Ronald J. Siarnicki, Executive Director, National Fallen Firefighters Foundation
Stephen J. Woerner, President and COO, Baltimore Gas and Electric
Marc S. Bashoor, Fire Chief, Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department
Allan Graves, Fire Chief, Anne Arundel County Fire Department
Neal Zipser, Community Affairs Manager, KIDDE
Plenty of photo ops and interviews available.
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PGFD Suffers a Line of Duty Death and Serious Injury
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
The Prince George’s County Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department is mourning the death of one of our own and praying for the best of a second member. Firefighter/Medic John E. Ulmschneider was shot and killed while on a call Friday evening. A Morningside Volunteer Firefighter, Kevin Swain, was shot multiple times and at last check was undergoing surgery.
At around 7:30 pm, Friday, April 15, fire/EMS units from Morningside Fire/EMS Station 827 and Paramedic Ambulance from Forestville Fire/EMS Station 823 with Ulmschneider on-board were alerted for a “check on the welfare” call whereas a family member could not contact another family member that resides in a home in the 5000 block of Sharon Road in Temple Hills.
After arriving on the scene and receiving no answer to knocks on the door and fearing for the occupants welfare a decision was made to force entry into the house to check on the occupant. As personnel initiated forcible entry several shots were fired from within the house striking Ulmschneider, Swain and a family member that called 911 initially. The home occupant/shooter quickly surrendered upon orders from the police.
Fire Fighter/Medic Ulmschneider, 37 years of age, was transported in extremely critical condition to Med Star Southern Maryland Hospital Center in Clinton suffering from a gunshot wound to the upper body. Despite the very best efforts of medics and hospital staff Ulmschneider succumbed to his injuries a short time after arriving at the hospital. John “Skillet” Ulmschneider lived in St. Mary’s County and was a 13-year member of the Fire/EMS Department. His normal duty assignment is at Landover Hills Fire/EMS Station 830. He leaves behind a wife and 2-year-old daughter.
Morningside Volunteer Fire Fighter Kevin Swain, 19 years of age, was flown from the scene by way of Maryland State Trooper 2 to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore. He was in surgery at last check and listed in Serious Condition. Swain is expected to survive his injuries.
A third person, an adult male civilian, sustained a gunshot wound to his shoulder and transported to a local hospital for treatment. He was in Fair condition,
The County Police Department continues to investigate the incident.
Prince George’s County Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor informed the Department of the Line of Duty Death and asked, “Please keep all of our folks and their families in your thoughts and prayers as we work through this difficult time.”
Andrew Pantelis, President of the Prince George’s County Firefighters and Paramedics Association Local 1619, said in a written statement to his members, “This is a day that we have all dreaded in our minds. We are keenly aware of the dangers of our profession but we all have hoped that God would continue to look over and protect us. Now that tragedy has stricken us, we must not fall apart but stand strong and band together to support Skillet's family and those who are closest to him.”
As additional details, including funeral arrangements, become available they will be posted.
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PGFD Department Photo of Fire Fighter/Medic Ulmschneider
Recruit photo of Firefighter/Medic John Ernest Ulmschneider
"Skillet"
PGFD ID #14803
Taken 13 years ago at his Recruit Graduation from the Fire/EMS Training Academy
Killed in the Line of Duty on April 15, 2016
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UPDATE on Condition of Morningside Volunteer Firefighter
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrtady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
The Morningside Volunteer Firefighter shot while on a call in Temple Hills on Friday night underwent surgery at the Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore. After a lengthy operation surgeons confirmed Kevin Swain was struck 4 times. Surgeons completed the operation early this morning. Swain is expected to survive his injuries.
Volunteer Firefighter Swain, 19 years of age, remains hospitalized in serious but stable condition. His family is with him as well as many members of the Morningside Volunteer Fire Department and the Baltimore City Fire Department that have provided support to our members since Swain arrived at Shock Trauma.
Two other Morningside Volunteers members sustained injuries immediately after the shootings while seeking cover. One firefighter sustained a knee injury and another sustained injury to her jaw. Both members were treated at a local hospital and released early this morning.
Prince George's County Executive Rushern L. Baker III and County Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor are expected to visit with Swain and his family early this afternoon at Shock Trauma.
Member of the media and public are asked to refrain from contacting the Morningside Volunteer Fire Department as they focus their attention to Kevin, their other injured members and coming to a realization of the incident that unfolded in front of them last night.
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UPDATE on Firefighter Recovering at Shock Trauma
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
Morningside Volunteer Firefighter Kevin Swain, 19 years of age, continues to show signs of improvement. While still hospitalized at the Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore he has been moved out of the Intensive Care Unit and into a private room.
Kevin sustained four gunshot wounds while answering a 911 call on Sharon Road in Temple Hills on Friday evening. Fire Fighter/Medic John "Skillet" Ulmschneider also was shot and did not survive his injuries.
Kevin has a constant vigil of co-workers at his bedside as well as family members and friends. Prince George's County Fire Chief Marc Bashoor spent some time with Kevin and his family this afternoon.
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| Image of Kevin Swain provided by the Morningside Volunteer Fire Department |
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Memorial Services for John "Skillet" Ulmschneider
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
The visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 19, 2016 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at:
St. John's Parish
43950 St. John's RoadHollywood, MD 20636
The funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 1:00 pm, also at St. John's Parish. A private family burial will follow the funeral mass.
A repast will be held to celebrate "Skillet's" life following the funeral mass at the:
Hollywood Fire Department
24801 Three Notch Rd.Hollywood, MD 20636
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Message for Out of Town Firefighters and Medics Planning on Attending Funeral Services
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
To any and all firefighters and medics travelling from out of town and planning to attend and participate at funeral services for Fire Fighter/Medic John “Skillet” Ulmschneider, please, do the following.
Please contact our Assistant Liaison Officer Fire Fighter/Medic Captain Donald Fletcher via Email at: DVFletcher@co.pg.md.us
Please include in your Email the following information: Department name, number of personnel and/or number and types of apparatus and a contact name and phone number.
Captain Fletcher will provide information on times and staging areas as well as additional helpful information. He will be available for additional questions you may have.
As a reminder:
The visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 19, 2016 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at:
St. John's Parish
43950 St. John's Road Hollywood, MD 20636
The Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 1:00 pm, also at St. John's Parish.
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