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Vote Every Day for Outstanding Volunteer Firefighter Kevin Swain
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MEMORIAL SERVICE - Honoring Maryland’s Fallen Heroes for 11 years
MEMORIAL SERVICE TO BE HELD JUNE 5, 2016
Honoring Maryland’s Fallen Heroes for 11 years
ANNAPOLIS, Md. – May 24, 2016 – The Maryland Fire-Rescue Services Memorial Foundation is honored to invite the state’s fire and rescue service personnel, the public and media to attend its 11th annual memorial service for the state’s fire and rescue personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice. This year, one fallen hero will be added to the Wall of Honor.
• Lt. John E. Ulmschneider, Prince George’s County Fire and EMS Department, Firefighter, Paramedic.
“We remember our fallen each year with heavy hearts,” said Chief Gene Worthington, president of the Foundation. “It is always a sad occasion when we have to add a name to the wall, but it is important that we honor our brothers and sisters who willingly gave of themselves to help others. This wall is a promise that we place their bravery, and their families, in our hearts forever.”
The service will be Sunday, June 5, 2016, at 2 p.m. at the Maryland Emergency Services Memorial Park, 101 Calvert St. in Annapolis. Nationally known fire service leader and Eastport Volunteer Fire Company President Al Kirchner will serve as the memorial’s keynote speaker. A full fire department honor guard will escort the sea of blue to the ceremony and a Maryland State Police flyover is scheduled.
The Maryland Fire-Rescue Memorial is a commemorative park that includes a sculpture and memorial wall listing the names of more than 400 Maryland heroes. Learn about the Fire-Rescue Services Memorial Foundation at www.mdfirerescuehero.orgor on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MDFIRERESCUEHERO.
We Will Never Forget Their Sacrifice.
Teresa Ann Crisman
Community Developer II
Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department – Office of the Fire Chief
Community Outreach and Legislative Affairs
Safe Kids Prince George’s County Lead Coordinator
301-583-1964 Office
240-508-3960 Cell
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The Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department High School Fire Science Program
The Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department High School Fire Science Program
By: Leonard S. Simmons, Paramedic Captain,
Training and Leadership Leadership Academy
Springdale, MD – It’s a cool, rainy and quiet morning at Charles Herbert Flowers High School in northern Prince George’s County. In the parking lot of the school building about fifteen students in firefighter helmets stand around an old fire engine, ignoring the rain while methodically folding dirty, wet and heavy fire hose.
It is a peculiar sight for teenagers to be out in the elements performing gritty, physical work. But for students in the High School Fire Science Program (HSFSP), this is not an unusual day. Whether it’s hot or cold, rain or shine, preparing high school students for operational readiness as a Fire and EMS professional is the objective of the program.
The fire science program is a two year program for juniors and seniors and part of Prince George’s County Public School’s Department of College & Career Readiness. The Program Director, Deputy Fire Chief Tiffany Green says, “It is geared toward mentoring students in the areas of Fire Science and for Health Care careers. It is designed to introduce them to our department and to careers that are oriented toward public safety. The idea is to help them develop a concept of public service while learning some of the Fire Service disciplines,” she said.
This year the fire science program been expanded to Gwynn Park High School in Brandywine, MD where 13 juniors are enrolled. School and Fire/EMS Department officials are hopeful the program will soon be open to all eligible high school students throughout the County. The program offers eight courses related to fire suppression and emergency medical services with the goal of having the students test for professional certifications in these subjects. Students who complete the program could potentially obtain college credits for the courses and graduate with nationally recognized certifications required for employment.
Several similar fire science programs exist throughout the state. In Prince George’s County the program has an “off and on” history dating as far back as 1968 while gaining momentum in the last five years under current County Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor.
In 1968, Steve Edwards was a member of the first known fire science class in Prince George’s County located at Suitland High School. His involvement led to a 25-year career which culminated in his ascension to the rank of Fire Chief. “The school system wanted people to transition from high school to a job. The program gave us job skills. It gave us the knowledge, skills and abilities to be a firefighter at a young age. At that age, college wasn’t on my mind. I was the first person to attend college in my family,” said Edwards.
Edwards, who retired from the Fire/EMS Department in 1993, is now the Director of the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute (MFRI), which supports fire science programs throughout the state. He recalls a very different program when he started. “There were just four kids. We didn’t have all of the classes and curriculums they have now…Firefighter I, II and EMT. We had ride-alongs for different things like inspections and actually worked at the fire stations for $2.50 per hour. We went to school in the morning and then drove to the training academy in the afternoons.”
During this time period there was no County fire department but a Department of Fire Protection that reported to five County Commissioners. In 1970 a charter was ratified to establish the current County Fire Department.
The program has been at Flowers High School since 2012. From its inception, 32 students have completed the program. Of these participants, 29 have obtained professional certifications in Firefighter I; 23 in Firefighter II; 31 in Hazmat Operations; and 18 in Emergency Medical Responder. The coursework is rigorous and orienting high school students to a college level curriculum has been a consistent challenge, particularly in the emergency medical courses. These courses are historically difficult even for professional firefighters who are trained in the career academy. Because of this, the staff is constantly reforming their educational strategies to optimize student performance.
“We work to adapt our adult learning environment to a high school student. The attention spans are different. You must have a lot of patience. You have to use different techniques to engage them. Students have an additional workload being in high school. We only see the kids about two or three hours a day so the concepts are not always fully developed. Then we have to deal with the regular ups and downs of teenagers,” said Green.
Even with the challenging academics, the students do not hesitate to express their enjoyment in being involved. Cadet Nicholas Mufua, a senior at Flowers, plans on applying for a job in the fire service and taking community college classes once he graduates.
“It gives you a great head start if you are interested in joining the fire department. If you are not interested in the fire department, it gives you a lot of life skills that will help you in the future. The instructors are really good. They put a lot of effort and time into helping you with the classwork. Sometimes it’s a little irritating because you have to do things that you really don’t understand. For example, I didn’t understand why we had to shave until I took Firefighter I and realized that you have to shave in order for your mask [breathing apparatus] to seal correctly,” explained Mufua.
Cadet Casim McCatty, a senior at Flowers has recognized a difference in her self-confidence, “At first when I started, I was a lot more quiet. The program developed my leadership skills. I am much better now in conversations. We have learned teamwork and how to depend on others.”
Cadet Mufua also adds that his participation has made him aware of the high standard of conduct that is required of those who provide public service. “The other students think it’s a cool program to be in, especially the freshman and sophomores. It seems like they look up to us as leaders and expect us to do the right thing in comparison to what other students might do. They seem to have higher expectations of us. They expect us to be more mature than everybody else,” Mufua explains.
While the benefits are obvious for the students, in the background there are administrative challenges in facilitating a fire science program. A key to success is effectively merging the differences in how a school system operates vs. a public safety agency. When two large public agencies attempt to collaborate on a project, it requires significant commitment and communication from partners on both sides. Green said this process has evolved over the last few years. “From the Fire Department’s perspective, it was making sure we conform to the rules and regulations of the schools. We had to learn things like working around the school’s schedule; giving the student’s bathroom breaks; and the process for discipline or removing students who are not fit for the program.”
“For the school system, it is understanding things like our instructional requirements: the hours needed to complete a Firefighter I course; how many practical evolutions are required; and understanding what exactly is a practical evolution,” said Green.
Flowers High School graduated its third fire science class on June 2. Fire Fighter/Medic Lieutenant Nathan Davies, the Program Coordinator at Flowers, has been working with the program for more than one year. Davies, along with Fire Fighter Joan Robinson-Godfrey and Fire Fighter/Medic Antoine Robinson has regularly given hours of extra personal time on weekends and afterschool to support the students. For Davies and his staff, leading the Cadets to their celebrated cap and gown moment is not among the typical duties of a firefighter. It requires complete, personalized dedication to the students.
“We have really become like a family. I enjoy the opportunity to give back and inspire young minds where I can. There is a lot of time involved in this program. Sometimes it is a bit frustrating but then it is nice to watch them grow and develop, and watch them take what they have learned here and apply it to their life and their career,” said Davies.
Miscellaneous Images of Gwynn Park and Charles Flowers High School
Fire Science Program
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Langley Park Apartment Fire Determined to be Arson
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
Just after 11:00 pm, Friday, June 3, firefighters were alerted to an apartment fire in Langley Park. At the same time, County Police were alerted to the same location for some type of disturbance. Firefighters staged nearby until police confirmed the scene was safe.
Firefighters from Prince George’s and Montgomery County arrived at an apartment building in the 8100 block of 15th Avenue with fire showing from a 1st floor apartment. A 2nd Alarm was sounded bringing additional personnel and resources to the scene.
Firefighters from the initial response quickly extinguished the fire, searched the building for any occupants and checked for extension to the top floor. All searches were negative and no injuries were reported.
Personnel from the Office of the Fire Marshal conducted a cause and origin investigation and determined the fire was incendiary. Fire Investigators worked jointly with the police and one suspect was held for questioning. Charges are pending.
The American Red Cross provided assistance to families displaced including 4 adults and 6 children.
Fire loss is estimated at $50,000.
Video was captured by Ron Leizear Jr of the Branchville Volunteer Fire Company in College Park, MD
These images provided courtesy of PGFD
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Photos and Video from Todays Maryland Fire-Rescue Memorial in Annapolis
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MIKULSKI, CARDIN ANNOUNCE MORE THAN $1.8 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDING TO PURCHASE LIFE-SAVING FIREFIGHTING EQUIPMENT IN PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 6, 2016
CONTACT:
Matt Jorgenson /Alanna Wellspeak 202-228-1122(Mikulski)
Marty Welch 202-224-4524/Tim Zink 410-962-4436 (Cardin)
MIKULSKI, CARDIN ANNOUNCE MORE THAN $1.8 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDING TO PURCHASE LIFE-SAVING FIREFIGHTING EQUIPMENT IN PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY
WASHINGTON –U.S.Senators Barbara A. Mikulski and Ben Cardin(both D-Md.) today announced that the Prince George’s County Fire Department has been awarded $1,327,456 in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program to purchase 700 sets of personal protective equipment, replacing gear that was no longer compliant. The Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute (MFRI), was awarded $500,000 to purchase updated equipment to protect its fire service instructors and students during training exercises, and to ensure MFRI students learn to use the most current technology to respond to emergencies.
As the Vice-Chairwoman of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Mikulski fights each year to increase federal funding for the fire grants program. Senator Cardin is a member of the Finance Committee.
“I know how important this funding is to Maryland communities – often it’s the difference between life and death. First responders protect our homes and communities, and the federal government has a responsibility to protect them by providing them with the tools they need to do their jobs safer and smarter,” Senator Mikulski said. “Every day when our first responders report for duty, they don’t know what they will face. That’s why I fight every year for the equipment, training and staffing our protectors and communities deserve.”
“We owe it to our first responders in Prince George’s County to make sure that they have the tools and training they need to protect our families and make it home to their own,” said Senator Cardin. “Maryland municipalities in every corner of our state need a strong federal partner to protect the men and women who protect our communities. I will continue to ensure that these lifesaving funds are made available to Maryland fire departments.”
“This Grant will be used to prevent firefighter injuries and help to save lives,” said Prince George’s County Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor. “We appreciate the efforts of our elected officials in securing this Grant.”
The Prince George’s County Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department has been awarded a Federal Grant that will be used to purchase firefighters personal protective equipment (PPE). The Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) for $1,327,546 will allow the Department to purchase 700 sets of PPE to reduce the risk of injury from personnel operating with obsolete gear that was no longer compliant.Each set of firefighters PPE is estimated to cost $2,085.67 for a complete set which includes helmet, hood, turnout coat/pants, boots and gloves.
MFRI will use this federal funding to replace old and outdated Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) with 70 newer and safer units. SCBA enable firefighters to breathe in smoke-filled buildings, and are critical to firefighter safety. MFRI will purchase 40 new sets of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) which will include firefighting coats, helmets, pants and boots. These PPE will protect instructors as they enter MFRI burn buildings to instruct students. MFRI will also purchase additional training equipment, gear and simulators. For more information, please contact MFRI Director Steve Edwards at 301-226-9960.
MFRI is the Statewide Training Academy for the Fire Service in Maryland, which is located in Prince George’s County. The Institute creates and delivers quality programs to enhance the ability of emergency services providers in Maryland to protect life, the environment and property.
The AFG Program of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is an important component of the larger, coordinated effort to strengthen the Nation’s overall level of preparedness and ability to respond to fire and related hazards. Since 2001, the AFG has provided approximately $6.1 billion in grants to first-responder organizations to obtain much-needed emergency response equipment, personal protective equipment, firefighting and emergency vehicles, and training. Over the course of 2016, the AFG will award $304.5 million to first-responder organizations that need support to improve their capability to respond to fires and emergencies of all types.
Since 2001, Maryland fire departments and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) units have received nearly $178 million in fire grant funding, of which more than $37 million has been awarded to fire departments in Prince George’s County. Since 2001, Maryland Fire Departments and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) units have received nearly $178 million in fire grant funding. This includes $24,934,729 in 2015.
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Landover Hills House Fire - Firefighter Assisted out of 2nd Floor Window
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
A firefighter was injured and a vacant Landover Hills house sustained significant damage after a fire this afternoon. At around 12:45 pm, Wednesday, June 8, firefighters from Landover Hills and other surrounding departments were alerted to smoke coming from a house in the 6700 block of Dorman Street. First arriving firefighters from Landover Hills fire/EMS Station 830 advised of a 2-story structure with smoke showing. Firefighters advanced hose lines into the structure and conducted a search for occupants. All searches proved negative. The fire appears to have started on the 2nd floor and advanced into the attic area before it was extinguished. Winds were gusting at about 21 mph during this incident which helped to advance the fire.
One firefighter from the Kentland Fire/EMS Station 833 required assistance of other firefighters in exiting out a 2nd floor window (see video below). He sustained minor burn injuries and suffering from exhaustion. The firefighter was treated by medics on the scene and transported to a Burn Unit for additional evaluation and treatment.
It required about 90 minutes to extinguish the fire. The house is vacant so no one is displaced. The cause of the fire is under investigation and fire loss estimates are still being tabulated. No additional injuries were reported.
All videos and images by Mark E. Brady, PGFD PIO
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| All personnel involved in operations are required to have vital signs checked after they have completed their tasks and before returning to service. |
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PGFD Accepts Delivery of UTV Ambulances
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
PGFD Accepts Delivery of UTV Ambulances
by Michael J. Marino, MS., NRP, IAAI-FIT, Special Operations Battalion Chief
Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department
Prince George’s County has taken delivery of six Urban Terrain Vehicle (UTV) ambulances to improve patient access to remote locations and improve patient movement for austere environments. The UTV ambulances will be made available to high risk venues where the potential for mass casualty events can be anticipated, as well as being deployed as needed to respond to mass casualty events. These vehicles have off road capability, increased scene lighting, powered wench, as well as a specifically designed patient transport area specific for rugged deployment and evacuation. They can be configured to transport a crew of four with gear to remote locations or can be configured to transport two to three providers and a patient. The wide range of versatility is one of the main reasons PGFD went with this design. Subject matter experts from the austere, Urban Search and Rescue (USAR), and wilderness medicine community helped design the carts for optimal effectiveness.
Trailering systems were also purchased with these vehicles (not delivered yet). The UTV were delivered last month with up-fitting of the patient area being completed in early June.
Four electric powered patient transport carts were also purchased to replace our fleet of electric carts at FedEx Field staffed by our special events unit (not delivered yet).
The six gas powered UTV’s will be housed in Central Prince George's County. The four electric carts will be housed at FedEx Field. Similar carts based upon these specifications will be delivered to other regional partners to promote interoperability and regional capability.
The funding source was UASI Grant -- 14-UASI-606-02
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PGFD Battle Three Fires Within 12 Hours
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
Prince George’s County Firefighters have battled 3 separate fires over a 12-hour period that caused nearly $500,000 in estimated combined fire loss.
On Saturday evening, just before 8:30 pm, firefighters from the Laurel area were alerted to an apartment building on fire in the 13900 block of Briarwood Lane. Fire/EMS units arrived at the 3-story garden style apartment building with fire showing from the top floor and roof. A 2ndAlarm was immediately requested. Initial arriving units searched the building for occupants and initiated extinguishment of the fire. As the fire grew in intensity all firefighters were removed from the interior and the majority of the fire was knocked down from the safety of exterior positions.
It required about 40 minutes to extinguish the fire. A firefighter from the Laurel Volunteer Fire Department fell from a ground ladder and was transported to a nearby hospital. The firefighter was experiencing pains in his chest area and was held overnight for observation. He is in Good condition. No civilian injuries were reported.
Fire Investigators determined the fire originated on a 3rdfloor balcony from improper disposal of smoking materials. The fire extended from the balcony and up into the roof of the building. Fire loss is estimated at $300,000. Nine apartments were declared uninhabitable and 22 occupants were displaced. The Red Cross provided assistance to the displaced residents.
While the Laurel fire was still being extinguished firefighters from the Clinton area were alerted to a commercial building fire in the 7600 block of Barbara Lane just after 9:00 pm. Fire/EMS units arrived to find a 1-story warehouse occupied by an automotive repair business with fire and heavy smoke billowing from the structure. A 2ndAlarm was sounded bringing additional resources to the scene. At one point all firefighters were evacuated as the structure became unstable. The fire was extinguished from the safety of exterior positions.
The structural integrity of the structure was compromised preventing fire investigators from conducting an interior review of the area of origin. According to an occupant the fire started accidentally while work was being done to a car inside the garage area. The cause of the fire will remain undetermined until additional investigation can be performed. Fire loss is estimated at $100,000.
One firefighter sustained an ankle injury while battling this fire. There were no civilian injuries reported.
Just after 8:30 am, Fathers Day, Sunday, June 19, firefighters from the Lanham area were alerted to a house fire in the 9300 block of Fontana Drive. Firefighters from the Landover Hills Fire/EMS Station were the first to arrive and encountered a 1-story garage converted to a living space with fire showing. The fire was quickly contained and all searches for occupants proved negative. The cause of this fire remains under investigation and a preliminary fire loss is estimated at $75,000. No injuries were reported at this incident.
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| Briarwood Drive on arrival. Photo by Laurel VFD |
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| Briarwood Drive by Laurel VFD |
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| Warehouse on Barbara Lane in Clinton. Photo by PGFD Batt Chief Steve Kling |
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WARNING - All Consumer Fireworks are Illegal in Prince George's County - Watch Video Demo
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
For citizens and residents of Prince George's County the purchase and use of backyard fireworks for the upcoming Fourth of July celebrations may be confusing. It is OK to purchase a Christmas Tree in another jurisdiction and bring home to the County. The same applies for roadside purchases of flowers, fruit, artwork, etc. As County residents travel around the region they will see roadside and parking lot booths set up promoting the sale and use of fireworks in neighboring jurisdictions. Stores sell fireworks also. You may ask whats up??
Prince George's County is one of three jurisdictions in Maryland that prohibit all consumer fireworks. This law is designed to protect you and those around you.
Consumer purchased backyard fireworks can cause injuries and damage from fires. Please enjoy your fireworks at one of the many public displays.
Facts & Figures from the National Fire Protection Association
Citizens, businesses and visitors should know that any consumer purchased fireworks are illegal in Prince George’s County. All fireworks from sparklers up to ground display are illegal - our law removes any doubt about what is permitted and what is not!!! All consumer fireworks are not permitted in Prince George's County.
Consumer purchased backyard fireworks can cause injuries and damage from fires. Please enjoy your fireworks at one of the many public displays.
Penalties for violation of this law carries up to $1,000 in fines and 6 months in jail. Enjoy Fourth of July safely and legally, attend a public or municipal display.
To demonstrate the power of a seemingly innocent fire cracker I encourage you to watch this video. A small firecracker is inserted into a melon. Imagine you are holding this same firecracker in your hand when it explodes!!!
Don't try this at home. These displays were conducted by members of the Fire/EMS Department Bomb Squad under strict safety guidelines!!!
Facts & Figures from the National Fire Protection Association
- In 2011, fireworks caused an estimated 17,8000 reported fires, including 1,200 total structure fires, 400 vehicle fires, and 16,300 outside and other fires. These fires resulted in an estimated eight reported civilian deaths, 40 civilian injuries and $32 million in direct property damage.
- In 2011, U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 9,600 people for fireworks related injuries; 61% of 2011 emergency room fireworks-related injuries were to the extremities and 34% were to the head.
- The risk of fireworks injury was highest for children ages 5-19, and adults 25-44 in an atypical year of a very comparable risk across much of the population
Over the past several years, during the July 4th week, there has not been any significant injury or property damage in Prince George's County from fireworks. Our fireworks law is a law we can live with!!! If you have purchased your own backyard fireworks and were not aware of the County Law, call 301-583-2200 and request a Fire Investigator to come by your residence to confiscate them. You will not be charged with a crime if you use this method of surrendering fireworks.
- On Independence Day, in a typical year, far more U.S. fires are reported than on any other day, and fireworks account for two out of five of those fires, more than any other cause of fires.
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Permitted Public Fireworks Displays
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 Department encourages everyone to attend one of the following public fireworks displays. All consumer purchased "backyard" style fireworks are illegal in the County. Please don't be confused with neighboring jurisdictions that are permitted to sell and use these type of fireworks within their respective jurisdictions.
The law in Prince George's County is a law we can live with. Its designed to keep you, your family, friends safe from injury and property free of the devastation of fire that are often associated with the use of seemingly innocent fireworks.
Permitted Public Fireworks Displays
City of Laurel - Can be viewed from Grandville Gude Park at 8300 Mulberry Street, Laurel MD 20707 at 9:15 pm on Saturday July 2nd with a July 3rd rain date.
Town of Morningside - Can be viewed from Benjamin Foulois School at 4601 Beauford Road, Suitland MD 20746 at dusk on July 4th with a July 5th rain date.
Town of District Heights - Can be viewed from the District Heights Municipal Center at 2000 Marbury Drive, District Heights MD 20747 on July 4th (no rain date set)
City of Greenbelt - Can be viewed from Buddy Attick Park at 555 Crescent Road, Greenbelt MD 20770 on July 4th with a July 5th rain date.
University of MD - Can be viewed from Lot 1 adjacent to Campus Drive off of Adelphi Road at dusk/9:00pm on July 4th with a July 5th rain date.
These events will require an admission ticket from the venue.
Six Flags - July 4th Fest - For additional information click here.
Bowie Baysox - Independence Day Celebration - For additional information click here.
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Press Conference - Smoke Alarm Donation - NFFF to AACO & PGFD
MEDIA CONTACT: Alan C. Doubleday, PGFD Assistant Fire Chief, 202-480-4776
ACDoubleday@co.pg.md.us @PGFDNEWS
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 residents of a fire in their home, 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 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: Thursday, June 30, 2016 at 11:00 am
WHERE: Northview Fire/EMS Station, 14901 Health Center Drive, Bowie, MD
WHO:
Ronald J. Siarnicki, Executive Director, National Fallen Firefighters Foundation
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 Earns a NACO Award for Adopt-A-Neighborhood Smoke Alarm Program
- The Prince George’s County Fire and EMS Department’s “Adopt-A-Neighborhood” program was recognized in the Criminal Justice and Public Safety category.
- The Prince George’s County’s Department of Social Services was recognized in the Human Services category for their “Community Resource Advocate” program which is a part of the County’s Transforming Neighborhoods Initiative, County Executive Baker’s signature community-based program.
- In the County Administration Management category, the “Story of DPIE,” the creation of the County’s new Department of Permitting, Inspections, and Enforcement was recognized.
- In the Community/Economic Development Category, NACo recognized “The Prince George's County Department of Environment and Corvias Solutions Public-Private Partnership” for the County’s stormwater retrofitting program.
- The Prince George’s County Department of Public Works and Transportation’s “Public Private Partnership for Wetlands Restoration” was recognized in the County Resiliency: Infrastructure, Energy and Sustainability category.
“When I took office over five and half years ago, I did not want an administration that was just going to follow best practices, I wanted to hire leaders who were going to engage the Prince George’s County government employees to create and execute our own best practices for others to follow,” said Prince George’s County Executive Rushern L. Baker, III. “By earning an unprecedented five awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo), the Prince George’s County government is turning heads amongst our peers from around the nation. I want to congratulate the employees and the departments for earning and achieving this recognition. I also want to let the citizens of Prince George’s County know that we are still not satisfied and we are going to keep innovating and working hard to become a more effective, efficient and exemplary government committed to serving our residents, visitors, and stakeholders.”NACo President Sallie Clark, commissioner, El Paso County, Colo., said, “County governments are leading the way in providing better, more innovative services to residents. The National Association of Counties applauds these Achievement Award-winning counties for outstanding efforts to strengthen communities across the country. ”Started in 1970, NACo’s annual Achievement Award Program is designed to recognize innovative county government programs. Each nominee is judged on its own merits and not against other applications received. Nationally, awards are given in 21 different categories that reflect the vast, comprehensive services counties provide. The categories include children and youth, criminal justice, county administration, environmental protection, information technology, health, civic engagement and many more. NACo will recognize award-winning counties at its 2016 Annual Conference and Exposition July 22–25 in Los Angeles County, Calif.DESCRIPTION OF PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY’S AWARD WINNING PROGRAMS:“Adopt-A-Neighborhood”The Adopt-A-Neighborhood (AAN) program is a proactive program, collaboratively funded and operated, through the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department. Participating churches and businesses fund smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and awareness literature that the Fire/EMS Department provides to residents in targeted areas around Prince George’s County. Currently, there are eight (8) businesses and churches that have donated nearly $30,000 to cover the costs of the program. Materials and/or funds are donated to the Fire Chief’s non-profit Community Advisory Council, who then provides smoke alarms, CO detectors, and literature to the Fire/EMS Department.The program was launched when the Firefighters/Paramedics Union and clergy leadership agreed to donate smoke alarms and CO detectors after two fatal house fires. This assisted the County’s Fire/EMS Department with canvassing those specific neighborhoods, with both entities agreeing to provide meeting space for those communities to come together for proactive fire prevention and public education meetings. With the added use of technology to pinpoint target areas, since its inception the program has enabled an internet-based community tracking mechanism that allows donors to follow program effectiveness. This is the first program of its kind in this region and possibly across the country.
For additional stories about our Adopt-A-Neighborhood program click here, here, here and here.
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Oxon Hill Dog Day Morning for Firefighters
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
It was a “dog day morning” for a crew of firefighters working in Oxon Hill today. Firefighters from the Oxon Hill Fire/EMS Station 821 on Livingston Road were alerted along with nearby EMS units to a person suffering chest pains in the parking lot near the Home Depot in the 6000 block of Oxon Hill Road.
Upon arrival Fire Lieutenant Michael Kerper, Fire Fighter/Medic Tim Brown and Fire Fighter Kyle Clagg made patient contact and started to assess the patient’s chief complaint. The patient was found in his vehicle and was accompanied by three dogs. The man informed firefighters that he had been drinking and was intoxicated. The crew offered to transport him to a nearby hospital, which he declined against medical advice.
Firefighters feared for the safety and well being of the man and his dogs if allowed to drive in his condition. Police were called to the scene and arrived quickly. Officers advised the man he was not to drive his vehicle and suggested he walk a short distance to his house. Rather than allow the man to walk home with his three dogs firefighters offered to drive the dog’s home on-board the fire engine. The dogs arrived home safely after enjoying the unique ride home.
The story, however, does not end there. While on the scene tending to the man and his dogs the crew noticed a dog unattended in a parked vehicle with all the windows closed. The dog appeared to be in some distress and the firefighters made a decision to intervene. As one crewmember retrieved a tool to smash a window another member of the crew checked all the doors of the vehicle and found one unlocked. The dog was removed and tended to by the firefighters until the owners return to the vehicle. Firefighters, in a very professional manner, advised this dog’s owner of the consequences of leaving the dog in a car with rising temperatures.
Job well done by the firefighters in ensuring the safety and well being of our residents including the four-legged furry ones.
Photos provided courtesy of PGFD
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Safe Kids Prince George’s Statement on Heatsroke Deaths in Cars
Press Release - Rapid Response
2016
Safe Kids Prince George’s Statement on Heatsroke Deaths in Cars
We join the communities and families of young children that suffer heatstroke deaths in mourning their loss. To gain perspective on such a tragic incident, we ask that concerned citizens read “Fatal Distraction: Forgetting a Child in the Back seat of a Car Is a Horrifying Mistake. Is It a Crime?” by Gene Weingarten, Washington Post Staff Writer.
Unfortunately, no one is immune to this kind of tragedy. Parents and caregivers can cut down the number of deaths and near misses by remembering to ACT.
· A: Avoid heatstroke-related injury and death by never leaving your child alone in a car, not even for a minute. And make sure to keep your car locked when you’re not in it so kids don’t get in on their own.
· C: Create reminders by putting something in the back of your car next to your child such as a briefcase, a purse or a cell phone that is needed at your final destination. This is especially important if you’re not following your normal routine.
· T: Take action. If you see a child alone in a car, call 911. Emergency personnel want you to call. They are trained to respond to these situations. One call could save a life.
Safe Kids Prince George’s is working to ensure that no child is alone in a car, not even for a minute. We’re participating in an education and awareness program that provides posters and tip sheets at childcare centers, doctor’s offices and hospitals and police and fire stations.
Since 1998, more than 660 children across the United States have died from heatstroke while unattended in cars. You can help us spread the word to your community to stop these preventable tragedies. Additional prevention information can be found at www.safekids.org/heatstroke, and statistics on child heatstroke deaths can be found at www.noheatstroke.org
About Safe Kids – Prince George’s
Safe Kids Prince George’s works to prevent unintentional childhood injury, the leading cause of death and disability to children. Safe Kids Prince George’s is a member of Safe Kids Worldwide, a global organization dedicated to preventing unintentional injury, the number one cause of death to children in the United States. Throughout the world, almost one million children die of injuries each year, and every one of these tragedies is preventable. Safe Kids Prince George’s is led by Fire/EMS Department. For additional information call Teresa Crisman, Safe Kids Coordinator, at 301-883-5250 or Email at TACrisman@co.pg.md.us.
About General Motors and Safe Kids Buckle Up
Beginning in 1997, General Motors and the GM Foundation have served as Safe Kids Worldwide’s exclusive funding source and helped build the Safe Kids Buckle Up program into a multifaceted national initiative, bringing motor vehicle safety messages to children and families through community and dealer partnerships. To date, more than 23 million people have been exposed to Safe Kids Worldwide events and community outreach efforts. Certified child passenger safety technicians working through Safe Kids coalitions have examined over 1.89 million child safety seats at more than 94,000 events, and the program has donated more than 667,000 seats to families in need.
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Season's First Heat Wave Safety Advice
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
The National Weather Service is forecasting high temperatures combined with high humidity over the next couple of days. Heat indexes are likely to meet or exceed 100 degrees. Because this is the first round of seasonal heat and bodies are not acclimated yet, heat exhaustion and heat stroke will be a bigger threat than they would be later in the summer. Everyone is reminded to take precautions to stay safe and healthy.
With high heat and humidity upon us in Prince George’s County the men and women of your Fire/EMS Department want you to stay informed and take precautions to stay safe and healthy. Temperatures in the nineties, combined with high humidity may create a dangerous situation for children, the elderly, and those who suffer from chronic heart or lung conditions.
Your best protection is to stay well hydrated. Sweat, or water, allows heat to evaporate from your skin’s surface. If you become dehydrated, it is more difficult for your body to maintain an acceptable temperature. The best thing to drink is water. Gatorade or other sports drinks are also good. Avoid drinks containing alcohol or caffeine. Limit heavy exertion when high levels of heat and humidity are present. High humidity levels make it more difficult for your body to dissipate heat.
HEAT RELATED ILLNESSES:
Any heat related illnesses will require a victim to be removed from the hot environment to an air-conditioned or cool/shaded area.
Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heatstroke that may develop due to a combination of several days with high temperatures and dehydration in an individual. Signs of heat exhaustion include extreme weakness, muscle cramps, nausea, or headache. Victims may also vomit or faint. Heat exhaustion is treated with plenty of liquids and rest in a cool, shaded area. If the persons condition does not show signs of improvement call 911.
Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heatstroke that may develop due to a combination of several days with high temperatures and dehydration in an individual. Signs of heat exhaustion include extreme weakness, muscle cramps, nausea, or headache. Victims may also vomit or faint. Heat exhaustion is treated with plenty of liquids and rest in a cool, shaded area. If the persons condition does not show signs of improvement call 911.
Heatstroke is a serious illness characterized by a body temperature greater than 105 degrees. Symptoms may include “dry” red skin, convulsions, disorientation, delirium and coma. Onset of heatstroke can be rapid: a person can go from feeling apparently well to a seriously ill condition within minutes. Your body has lost the ability to sweat and naturally “cool-off” – this is a true medical emergency. Treatment of heatstroke involves the rapid lowering of body temperature, using a cool bath, bags of ice or wet towels. Place ice bags in each armpit, groin and back of the neck. A heatstroke victim should be kept in a cool area; emergency medical care should be obtained by dialing 911.
Stay Informed - Stay Ready - Stay Safe
At Work
• Avoid the heat
• Reduce activity
• Drink plenty of water
Outdoors
• Wear light colored clothing
• Drink plenty of water
• Take frequent rest breaks in the air conditioning or shade
At Home
• Check on relatives and friends, especially the elderly
• Increase time spent in an air-conditioned environment
• Eat smaller meals, more often
• Take cool baths
• Make sure pets have access to water and shade
Remember to Stay Safe to ensure everyone goes home.
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PGFD is Hiring Firefighters
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Movie Production to Include Special Effects in Bowie Area
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDDPIO
The Prince George’s County Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department has been made aware of a movie production company that will be working in the Bowie area re-creating a plane crash. The production will involve a thick column of black smoke and pyrotechnics that will be able to be seen and heard by the public. The production is scheduled to last for 3-days.
The production company will be working in the area of Freeway Airport located at 3300 Church Road in Bowie. It is very likely that commuters on John Hanson Highway (Route 50) and other local roadways will be able to see the smoke and hear the pyrotechnics. Smoke and pyrotechnics will be able to be seen and heard in communities surrounding Freeway Airport.
Production is set to start on Wednesday, July 13 with an end date of Friday, July 15. Filming and special effects will occur between the hours of 10:00 am and 6:00 pm.
As a precaution and to ensure all permits issued by the Fire/EMS Department are followed officials from the Department’s Office of the Fire Marshal as well as a fully staffed piece of fire apparatus will be on location throughout the production. We have alerted all of our public safety partners including the Maryland State Police, Prince George’s County Police, Bowie Police and the County Public Safety Communication, which handles 911 calls of these events.
Due to the hazards involved during this 3-day production members of the general public will not be allowed inside the secured area.
Citizens, residents and visitors in the Bowie area may see smoke and hear explosions. If you feel that a true emergency is occurring not related to this production you are advised to call 911. We anticipate numerous 911 calls will be made with the best intentions. Public safety members will work through the calls and dispatch units as appropriate.
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MEDIA ADVISORY/PHOTO OP: Stealing Water is a Crime
MEDIA ADVISORY/PHOTO OP: Stealing Water is a Crime
See the Various Ways Water is Stolen from WSSC and Hear from Montgomery and Prince George’s County Fire Chiefs about the Public Safety Consequences
| News Release
OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Laurel – July 11, 2016: WSSC is cracking down on water theft. Last year approximately 145 million gallons of water were stolen from fire hydrants to fill up swimming pools, for landscaping purposes, mobile car washes or use at construction sites and neighborhood carnivals.
Wednesday, July 13 from 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., WSSC, in partnership with the Montgomery and Prince George’s County fire chiefs, will hold a special event for the media to:
- Raise awareness about water theft
- Detail the various types of theft
- Explain the fines associated with stealing water
- Highlight the public safety consequences
WSSC maintains nearly 42,000 fire hydrants in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties. Stealing water from hydrants is not only illegal but also often leads to hydrant tampering, causing public safety concerns.
WHAT: WSSC Water Theft Prevention Briefing/Photo Op
WHO: Chief Harvey Baker, WSSC Police
Fire Chief Scott Goldstein, Montgomery County Fire & Rescue
Chief Spokesperson Pete Piringer, Montgomery County Fire & Rescue
Assistant Fire Chief Darren Ware, Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department
Chief Spokesperson, Mark Brady, Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department
WHEN: Wednesday, July 13, 2016, 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., Rain or Shine
WHERE: The Bentley Park Community, Bentley Park Dr. and Pargate Dr., Laurel (off Old Gunpowder Rd.)
VISUALS: Demonstration of illegal fire hydrant connection to steal water, photos of various illegal connections and fire hydrant meter used for the legal purchase of water from a hydrant.
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PGFD Personnel Presented Emergency Service Awards
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
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| AFC Darren Ware, Fire Chief Bashoor and Lt. Col. Wells (retired) |
On the afternoon of Friday, April 22, 2016, Retired Lieutenant Colonel Tyrone Wells and Assistant Fire Chief Darren Ware were in the area of Crain Highway (Route 301) and Brandywine Road when they observed a car on fire. Upon stopping to provide assistance, Assistant Chief Ware ran to the vehicle and discovered the female driver still inside. He attempted but could not to open the door, and the woman was unable to respond to his instructions to unlock the door. At that time, Tyrone Wells, assisted by an unidentified citizen, used a heavy hand tool to break the rear window on the driver side and the passenger side front window.
During the initial extrication attempt, the driver, who appeared to be suffering from a medical condition, had pushed on the accelerator. This caused her vehicle to move forward and further down an embankment, preventing access from the driver side. Chief Ware and the citizen pulled the woman through the passenger side window and carried her up the embankment and away from the burning vehicle. Fortunately, she did not incur any injuries from the accident but was transported to the hospital for suffering from an unknown medical emergency.
Greenbelt Volunteer EMS Sergeant Ashley Kozlowski received her Emergency Services Award for stopping and providing EMS assistance to the female pulled from the vehicle. She was presented her award by Deputy Fire Chief Jim McClellan along with Greenbelt Volunteer Chief Tommy Ray and Association President Chuck Walker at the Prince George's County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association meeting in Laurel on Wednesday, July 13.
While presenting the Emergency Services Awards, Fire Chief Marc Bashoor/Deputy Fire Chief McClelland stated, "Your performance on the scene of this incident saved the victim’s life 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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| Chief Deputy Ben Barksdale, Fire Chief Bashoor, Captain Jonathan Bender and Deputy Fire Chief Dennis Wood. The crew from St. Joes Fire/EMS Station 806 were recognized for their efforts on an incident on the Beltway. While working on the extrication and packaging of a crash victim the crew had to quickly transition to a secondary crash that critically injured a trapped civilian driver. |
Fire Fighter/ Medic Captain Jonathan Bender accepted the Emergency Services Awards on behalf of the rest of the crew which included Fire Fighter Brian Brady, Fire Fighter Andrew Breen, Fire Fighter Alexandria Myers, Fire Fighter Patrick Maloney, and Fire Fighter Bryan Wilson.
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