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WSSC - Stealing Water is a Crime

July 13, 2016, 8:30 am
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WSSC Kicks Off Water Theft Prevention Program
 People Caught Stealing Water Face Fines

Contact:
Lyn Riggins
lyn.riggins@wsscwater.com
301.206.8100

Laurel – July 13, 2016: Water is stolen on a regular basis from WSSC. While it’s difficult to nail down the exact amount, WSSC estimates that 145 million gallons of water were stolen in just the past year.

To put that in perspective, WSSC produces at least 155 million gallons of water each day to serve our 1.8 million customers. The price tag on the stolen water? Between $500,000 and $1 million per year, depending on the tier in our billing structure.

Today WSSC, in partnership with the Montgomery and Prince George’s County fire chiefs held a media briefing in the Bentley Park Community of Laurel to kick off a Water Theft Prevention Program.

All too often, hoses are illegally hooked up to fire hydrants to fill up swimming pools, for landscaping purposes, mobile car washes or use at construction sites and neighborhood carnivals.



“Stealing water is a crime,” said WSSC Police Chief Harvey Baker. “Our police force is committed to raising awareness about water theft and enforcing the law.”
WSSC maintains nearly 42,000 fire hydrants in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties. WSSC fire hydrants have a grey body with a green top. Hoses illegally connected to hydrants allow people to steal water. By doing so, the hydrants are often improperly operated, which can affect public safety.

“When there’s a fire, it’s critical that we have access to fire hydrants in good working order,” said Chief Scott Goldstein, Montgomery County Fire & Rescue. “We are in constant communication with WSSC about the status of hydrants.”




“If people tamper with fire hydrants and they don’t work when we need them, that can be a matter of life and death,” said Chief Marc Bashoor, Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department. “WSSC works closely with firefighters to ensure we know the proper way to operate hydrants.”

Opening or closing a fire hydrant too quickly can cause nearby water mains to rupture. That impacts the pressure and the water available to fight fires.

Customers who suspect someone is illegally obtaining water from a WSSC fire hydrant should report it to the WSSC Police at 301-206-8888.

Potable water can be legally purchased from a WSSC fire hydrant by using a fire hydrant meter. WSSC leases meters to individuals and businesses on a limited basis. The meter allows for the purchase of water without paying the sewer charges. For more information, please visit wsscwater.com/hydrantuse.

Water tanker trunks that fill up from fire hydrants on a regular basis have meters installed on the trucks and often display a WSSC permit sticker on the side of the truck.

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About WSSC: Established in 1918, today the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission is among the largest water and wastewater utilities in the nation, with a network of nearly 5,600 miles of freshwater pipeline and more than 5,400 miles of sewer pipeline. Serving 1.8 million residents in Prince George’s and Montgomery counties, WSSC drinking water has always met or exceeded federal standards.
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Statement from PGFD Fire Chief Concerning Todays Indictment

July 14, 2016, 1:26 pm
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Earlier today Prince George’s County States Attorney Angela Alsobrooks publicly announced that a Grand Jury has indicted the homeowner that shot three people, one fatally, on April 15, 2016. 

Prince George’s County Fire Fighter/Medic John “Skillet” Ulmschneider was killed and Morningside Volunteer Fire Fighter Kevin Swain sustained multiple gunshot wounds and is still recovering.  The third person shot was the homeowner’s brother that sustained a gunshot wound to his shoulder.

Prince George's County Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor, currently out of town, was briefed by Alsobrooks by phone before the public announcement and provided this statement:

“I support the States Attorney and the process by which it is determined if an individual has broken a law or not.  While there are no charges stemming from the death of Fire Fighter/Medic Ulmschneider and the wounding of Volunteer Fire Fighter Swain there are now charges placed against the individual that fired the gun.  I would like to thank the County Police Department and the States Attorney for their due diligence, time and effort in bringing us to this point.  My thoughts and prayers remain with the Ulmschneider family and the entire Fire/EMS Department as they process this news today as well as to Kevin Swain and his family as he continues his recovery.”

The Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department will continue to provide full cooperation and whatever assistance is needed while this case is adjudicated.


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Finally - PGFD Fire Fighter Presented with Bronze Medal

July 15, 2016, 7:26 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Fire Fighter DeForest proudly wears his Bronze Medal after presentation by
Deputy Fire Chief Wood and Battalion Chief Valencis

Fire Fighter Chris DeForest
Fire Fighter Chris DeForest was presented with his Bronze Medal for EMS Excellence this week.  Scheduling conflicts prevented him from attending the Valor Awards Luncheon in April as well as a second event held at a Bowie Baysox game, however, we finally caught up to him at work.

Currently stationed at the Silver Hill Fire/EMS Station 829 DeForest was presented his Bronze Medal from Deputy Fire Chief Dennis Wood and Battalion Chief Grady Valencis.  Congratulations Chris on an honor well deserved!!!

Here is the scenario that Fire Fighter Deforest was recognized for:

Friday, May 1, 2015, just before 6:00 P.M., firefighters, paramedics and police officers were dispatched to the 6200 block of Central Avenue in Seat Pleasant for a critically injured child. At the time of the incident, 7-year-old Dah’Mari Jenkins and another 8-year-old family member were in the care of their grandmother.  A Good Samaritan call was made to 911, after the caller noticed some commotion in the back of seat of a nearby car.  The 911 call-taker obtained location information and immediately dispatched first responders, while remaining on the line and providing pre-arrival instructions to help control the bleeding.  Two Seat Pleasant police officers were the first to arrive on the scene and initiated care to the victim.  An engine and ambulance carrying firefighters and paramedics from Capitol Heights Fire/EMS Station 805 arrived just seconds later.   

Dah'Mari had sustained an accidental lacerating wound to his right leg from the sharpest of sharp instrument, a surgeon’s scalpel.  It is believed the scalpel, discovered by the children playing in the backseat, had been left in the car after it was stolen earlier in the year.  The wound severed the Dah’Mari’s femoral artery, generating an almost total “bleed-out”.  Fire/EMS Department responders performed a rapid assessment that showed the unconscious patient with agonal breathing as having nearly total blood loss and suffering hemorrhagic shock.   

Dah'Mari was immediately treated, loaded and transported to Children’s National Medical Center (CNMC) in Washington, DC.  Seat Pleasant police officers facilitated transport of family members and escorted the ambulance to the hospital, thereby saving several valuable minutes.  Everyone knew time was of the essence to get the child to a hospital.  

During transport, Fire Fighter/Medic Stream utilized both of his hands to apply direct pressure to the area of the wound and a developing hematoma beneath the skin and just above the laceration area.  The paramedic unit from Chapel Oaks Fire/EMS Station 838 rendezvoused with the Capitol Heights ambulance on Addison Road, with Fire Fighter/Medic Aldaco jumping on-board.   Aldaco was successful in obtaining 2 IV’s to provide fluid into the patient.  Fire Fighter/Medic Lieutenant Kight administered oxygen and made two attempts to intubate but was not able to complete the procedure, as the patient resisted the device.

The Emergency Department staff at CNMC was alerted to the incoming trauma patient and standing-by for his arrival.  They immediately started to stabilize the child with blood transfusions, intubation and a quick trip to the Operating Room for the femoral repair.  It is nothing short of a miracle that Dah’Mari not only survived but was able to be discharged two days later.  On the following Thursday, he celebrated his 8th birthday with those who just six days prior worked feverishly to save his life.
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Media Coverage of States Attorney Announcement of Indictment in Death of Fire Fighter/Medic Lieutenant Ulmschneider

July 15, 2016, 8:02 am
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Prince George County Fire Chief to Lay Wreath at Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

July 17, 2016, 8:35 am
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Media Advisory

The U.S. Army Military District of Washington 
Guardians of the Nation’s Capital
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 16-46                
DATE:  July 14, 2016
Prince George County Fire Chief to Lay Wreath at Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

WHO & WHAT:      Mr. Marc Bashoor, fire chief, Prince George County will lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in honor of the interagency partnership                  between Prince George County Fire Department, Joint Force Headquarters-National Capital Region, and the U.S. Army Military District of Washington.  

Maj. Gen. Bradley A. Becker, commanding general, Joint Force Headquarters-National Capital Region and the U.S. Army Military District of  Washington, will host the wreath-laying.

WHEN:           Monday, July 18, 9:15 a.m.

WHERE:  Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia

REGISTRATION:  Media interested in covering this event must register by Friday, July 15, 2 p.m.  

To be placed on the credentialed list, send an email to                         usarmy.mcnair.mdw.mbx.mediadesk-omb@mail.mil with the following information: your full name, media organization, assignment, contact phone number, and email address.

EDITOR’S NOTE:
 Media interested in covering the wreath-laying live are permitted to bring mobile broadcasting equipment capable of live feeds. Please provide this information when registering. 

The U.S. Army Military District of Washington Public Affairs Office will contact media outlets with their credential status no later than 5 p.m., Friday, July 15. 
  
The wreath-laying ceremony is just one example of the strong partnership between the Joint Force Headquarters-National Capital Region, the U.S. Army Military District of Washington  and the Prince George County Fire Department that further emphasizes the importance of establishing relationships and resiliency between the military and interagency partners.

For additional details, send an email to the U.S. Army Military District of Washington Public Affairs Office at usarmy.mcnair.mdw.mbx.mediadesk-omb@mail.mil or call 202-685-4645.

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County Kickball Championship Game This Thursday!!!

July 18, 2016, 10:08 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

The championship stage is set.  
The lone Fire/EMS Department team left standing 
"Big Dawg Down 26" 
is slated against 
Department of Family Services Train 
in the Prince George's County Wellness Kickball Championship.

The game will take place this Thursday, July 21, at 6:30 pm at the FOP Lodge Field on Route 202 in Upper Marlboro.  
Plenty of fun to be had at these family-friendly events.

Help cheer on the "Big Dawg Down 26" kickball team to victory!!! 






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College Park Home Fire - Occupants Narrowly Escape

July 18, 2016, 11:21 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Occupants of a College Park home are fortunate to have escaped their burning home early this morning.  Just before 2:00 am, Monday, July 18, 2016, a fire of undetermined nature occurred in a home in the 7500 block of Edmonston Road.  The home occupants, an adult and a child, were not provided an early warning from a smoke alarm and had to rush out through the heat and smoke.  The adult was treated for smoke inhalation on the scene but refused transport to a hospital.  The American Red Cross of the National Capital Region assisted the displaced residents.

Firefighters from the Berwyn Heights Fire/EMS Station were the first to arrive and advised of smoke showing from the front.  A fire was quickly found and extinguished in the front  living area of the home.  The cause of the fire is under investigation.  Fire loss is estimated at $20,000.

Having a working smoke alarm can be the difference between surviving or dying in a home fire.  Having a working smoke alarm increases your chances of survival by 50%.  Combine a working smoke alarm with a planned and practiced home escape increases your chances even more.

It’s a law we can live.  County Law currently calls for a smoke alarm on every level of your home, primarily just outside of sleeping areas.  If you have a fireplace, natural gas service and/or an attached garage, you must also have a working carbon monoxide (CO) alarm as well.  The law will also soon take effect that will require all alarms to be a 10-year, tamper proof, alarm available at all home improvement stores.   

The Fire/EMS Department recommends that you sleep with your door closed and a working smoke alarm installed in each bedroom.

The Prince George’s County Fire/Emergency Medical Services Department has a smoke alarm program that allows homeowners that cannot afford to purchase their own to call and request a smoke alarm to be installed in their home by a firefighter, free of charge.  Simply call 311 and ask about our free smoke alarm program.

Damage from the fire and heat can be seen around the front door and windows of this home on Edmonston Road.
(photo by Billy McNeel)




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School of Leadership and Excellence Named in Honor of M.H. Jim Estepp

July 20, 2016, 5:41 am
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MEDIA ONLY CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

The longest serving Prince George's County Fire Chief, MH Jim Estepp, was presented the Fire/EMS Department's Meritorious Service Award at an event at the Colony South Hotel in Clinton.

The award is in recognition of Chief Estepps lifetime dedication to public service, including his 14 years as Fire Chief, 8 years as an elected County Councilman, and his continuing service to the Business Roundtable, Andrews Alliance, and many other organizations. 

Additionally, Chief Marc Bashoor, the 2nd longest serving Prince George's County Fire Chief announced that the Fire/EMS Department's new Leadership and Development Program was being renamed the M.H. Jim Estepp School of Leadership and Excellence.

Developed two years ago as a leadership development program, modeling military principles of responsibility, accountability, & decisiveness, the program sent 30 career and volunteer members, along with 2 members chosen from Pennsylvania on an 18 month adventure, including a visit to the Antietam Battlefield. Students studied successes and failures of leadership and have studied many of the theories and principals of leadership. Graduates will ultimately become better more well rounded fire and EMS commanders.

Chief Bashoor said, "designating our Leadership and Development Program the 'M.H. Jim Estepp School of Leadership and Excellence is a fitting reflection of the excellence Chief Estepp brought to our Department and to every one of his endeavors for Prince George's County."
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District Heights Apartment Fire Injures Firefighter - Displaces 10 Residents

July 21, 2016, 5:37 pm
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MEDIA ONLY CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

One firefighter was injured and 10 residents will be displaced as a result of a District Heights apartment fire today.  At around 1:30 pm, Thursday, July 21, Prince George’s County Firefighters were alerted to an apartment fire at 1942 Rochelle Avenue.

Firefighters arrived to find a garden style apartment building with fire showing from a first floor apartment.  Firefighters searched the building for occupants and quickly extinguished the fire.  All searches were negative.

Fire Investigators determined the cause of the fire to be accidental.   Maintenance personnel performing work on pipes inside the apartment ignited the fire.  Fire loss is estimated at $150,000.

Three apartments were damaged and residents displaced.  The American Red Cross provided ten residents, 4 adults and 6 children, temporary assistance.

One firefighter sustained a minor burn injury and was treated and released at the Burn Unit at Medstar Washington Hospital Center


Conditions on arrival.  Image from DCFDRescue3 Twitter Page.

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Passing of Fire Fighter/Medic Lieutenant Chris Hill

July 21, 2016, 5:40 pm
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It is with profound sadness that I announce the passing of Firefighter/Paramedic Lieutenant Chris Hill. 

Chris's passing is a deep loss for us all. The insidious cancer that he lived with for the last 18 months shows no remorse and leaves little solace for any of us.

I had the honor of promoting Chris to Lieutenant on August 12, 2012, and my wife and I have carried the honor and duty as we have helped Chris and his family through this time of turmoil.

Staff and union officials are with the Hill family currently, and will be returning to the county soon. I want to thank the West Manheim and Penn Township Pennsylvania Fire Departments for standing guard over Chris and his family until we could arrive. 

Please continue to keep Chris's wife Jenn and his children Amy and Evan along with the entire Hill family in your thoughts and prayers.

As additional information is available it will be communicated through email and through the union.  Coordination for the Department will be through the Special Events Unit

Marc Bashoor, Fire Chief
Prince George's County Fire/EMS
9201 Basil Ct. #452
Largo, MD 20774
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Dangerous Heat Conditions This Weekend!!!

July 22, 2016, 4:00 am
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MEDIA CONTACT ONLY: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

The Prince George’s County Fire/Emergency Medical Services Department is concerned about this weekend’s weather forecast.  In particular high heat and humidity will make conditions dangerous.  The National Weather Service has stated, “HEAT INDICES AROUND 105 DEGREES ARE LIKELY IN THE AFTERNOONS OF SATURDAY THROUGH MONDAY...ESPECIALLY EAST OF THE BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS.”

We are highly recommending that if you don’t absolutely have to be outdoors to stay indoors in an air conditioned environment.  Check on elderly relatives and neighbors on a regular basis to make sure thy are staying cool.  If you find yourself or others where air conditioning is not available consider visiting a cooling center, a shopping mall, a movie theatre or any place of public assembly that has air conditioning.

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 nearing or above 100, combined with high humidity will create a dangerous situation for children, the elderly, and those who suffer from chronic heart or lung conditions.  Dangers also are extended to anyone that are outdoors for extended periods of time and those involved in physical or strenuous activity.

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

Monitor weather forecast throughout weekend on TV, radio and Internet.
Stay Ready with your emergency kit  - www.ready.gov
Stay Safe and Stay Indoors

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
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Arrangements for Fire Fighter/Medic Lieutenant Christopher Hill

July 22, 2016, 1:22 pm
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The arrangements for Lieutenant Christopher Hill are as follows:

Tuesday, July 26, 2016
Viewing – 2 pm – 4 pm and 7 pm – 9 pm
Borgwardt Funeral Home
4400 Powdermill Road
Beltsville, Maryland

Wednesday, July 27, 2016
Funeral Service – 11 am
Riverdale Baptist Church
1177 Largo Road
Upper Marlboro, Maryland

Repast 
FOP Lodge #89
2905 Old Largo Road
Upper Marlboro, Maryland


Protocol Details

Mourning Bands

Mourning bands may be worn horizontally across badges for 30 days until August 21, 2016.  

PGFD Emblem Mourning Stripe

All Department vehicles bearing the emblem of the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department shall be marked with a temporary black mourning stripe.  This black stripe should be 3/4 inches in width, diagonally from top left corner to bottom right corner of emblem.

Attire

For the viewing, all on-duty station personnel must wear their County issued work uniform (short-sleeve button down blue shirt and blue pants).  For the funeral, all personnel must wear a Class A uniform. Due to limited availability, white gloves will not be worn.  Personnel unable to obtain a full Class A uniform must wear appropriate business attire (collared shirt, slacks (no jeans), and dress shoes (no sneakers).  Dresses are appropriate for females. 

Coordination of all apparatus has been previously arranged through the Special Events Unit and coordination of  on-duty personnel for visitation has been arranged through the Emergency Services Command.  All other requests and questions should be relayed through the proper chain-of-command.
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Arrangements for Fire Fighter/Medic Lieutenant Christopher Hill

July 22, 2016, 1:22 pm
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The arrangements for Lieutenant Christopher Hill are as follows:

Tuesday, July 26, 2016
Viewing – 2 pm – 4 pm and 7 pm – 9 pm
Borgwardt Funeral Home
4400 Powdermill Road
Beltsville, Maryland

Wednesday, July 27, 2016
Funeral Service – 11 am
Riverdale Baptist Church
1177 Largo Road
Upper Marlboro, Maryland

Repast 
FOP Lodge #89
2905 Old Largo Road
Upper Marlboro, Maryland


Protocol Details

Mourning Bands

Mourning bands may be worn horizontally across badges for 30 days until August 21, 2016.  

PGFD Emblem Mourning Stripe

All Department vehicles bearing the emblem of the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department shall be marked with a temporary black mourning stripe.  This black stripe should be 3/4 inches in width, diagonally from top left corner to bottom right corner of emblem.

Attire

For the viewing, all on-duty station personnel must wear their County issued work uniform (short-sleeve button down blue shirt and blue pants).  For the funeral, all personnel must wear a Class A uniform. Due to limited availability, white gloves will not be worn.  Personnel unable to obtain a full Class A uniform must wear appropriate business attire (collared shirt, slacks (no jeans), and dress shoes (no sneakers).  Dresses are appropriate for females. 

Coordination of all apparatus has been previously arranged through the Special Events Unit and coordination of  on-duty personnel for visitation has been arranged through the Emergency Services Command.  All other requests and questions should be relayed through the proper chain-of-command.
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Do you know how to survive a burning house???

July 24, 2016, 12:06 pm
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MEDIA ONLY CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

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Two Funeral Services Wednesday 1.5 Miles Apart with Anticipated High Attendance

July 25, 2016, 5:13 am
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MEDIA ONLY CONTACT: Mark E. Brady Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

UPPER MARLBORO, Md. – Line of Duty Death Funeral services for Prince George’s County Fire Fighter/Medic Lieutenant Christopher Hill will be on Wednesday, July 27 in Upper Marlboro, Md.

The funeral, with full honors, will take place at Riverdale Baptist Church located at 1177 Largo Road.

Funeral service will begin at 11:00 am.  Interment is private.

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UPPER MARLBORO, Md. -- Funeral arrangements for Redskins superfan Chief Zee will be held on Wednesday, July 27th in Upper Marlboro, Md. 

The funeral and viewing will take place at First Baptist Church of Glenarden located on 600 Watkins Park Drive. 

The viewing will be from 9 a.m. to 11 s.m. followed by the funeral service from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

Both the funeral and viewing will be open to the public. The church holds 10,000 people. 


The two churches are 1.5 miles apart.
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ATTENTION ALL UNIFORMED PERSONNEL ATTENDING LINE OF DUTY FUNERAL SERVICES FOR FIRE FIGHTER/MEDIC LIEUTENANT CHRISTOPHER E. HILL

July 25, 2016, 8:13 am
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ATTENTION ALL UNIFORMED PERSONNEL ATTENDING LINE OF DUTY FUNERAL SERVICES FOR FIRE FIGHTER/MEDIC LIEUTENANT CHRISTOPHER E. HILL 
ON WEDNESDAY, JULY 27:

All personnel are to park their vehicles
 in front of Riverdale Baptist School, 
1133 Largo Road in Upper Marlboro.  
Please arrive no later than 9:45 a.m.


There will be an on-site briefing and formation 
in front of Riverdale Baptist Church, 
1177 Largo Road, at 10:15 a.m.
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Funeral Services for Fire Fighter/Medic Lieutenant Christopher E. Hill

July 25, 2016, 9:07 am
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MEDIA CONTACT ONLY: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Christopher E. Hill
After a heroic battle with cancer, Christopher Eugene Hill, 46, died at his Hanover, PA home with his loving wife, Jennifer, by his side. He is survived by his two devoted children, Amy Grace, 9, and Evan Christopher, 5. He also leaves behind his Mother, Judith Hill, and all of his brothers and sisters of the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department and IAFF Local 1619.

Chris dedicated his life to the service of the community and his country. He served in the United States Army in the 3D Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard). Following his service in the Army, Chris continued his service to the community with the Naval District Washington Fire Department along with volunteering his time at the Baden Volunteer Fire Department.

In 2002, he joined recruit class #31 of the Prince George's County Career Fire/EMS. With hard work and dedication, he rose through the ranks and finished his career as a Lieutenant at Station 823 in Forestville.

Chris cherished his wife and his children. With numerous back yard soccer games, RV adventures and family movie nights, the Hill’s enjoyed their time together. Even after Chris’ unfortunate diagnosis, He felt being close to family was most important for Jen and the kids. He then began the process of moving from Maryland to Pennsylvania. Chris enjoyed a short few months in their new home before passing away.

Prince George’s County Fire Fighter/Medic Lieutenant Christopher E. Hill will receive full military honors and a line of duty death funeral service.  His form of cancer is considered occupational and service related.

Viewing will be Tuesday, July 26, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 at the Borgwardt Funeral Home located at 4400 Powder Mill Road in Beltsville.

Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, July 27, at 11:00 am at the Riverdale Baptist Church, 1177 Largo Road in Upper Marlboro. 

After church services, a brief and limited vehicle procession will take Chris by his last duty station at the Forestville Fire/EMS Station 823.  The procession will then proceed to the FOP Lodge located at 2905 Old Largo Road in Upper Marlboro where military honors will be administered.


There will be no interment held Wednesday. 
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Other Jurisdictions Cover Prince George's County Fire/EMS Today

July 27, 2016, 6:15 am
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MEDIA ONLY CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Do not be surprised to see Fire/EMS units responding from other jurisdictions today in Prince George's County.  In addition to volunteer staffing many neighboring jurisdictions and from the National Capital Region are filling in at Prince George's County Fire/EMS Stations allowing on duty personnel the opportunity to attend Funeral Services for Fire Fighter/Medic Lieutenant Chris Hill.

In no particular order, the following jurisdictions are assisting us today:

Fredrick County
Anne Arundel County
Baltimore City
Baltimore County
Andrews Air Force Base
Montgomery County
District of Columbia Fire and EMS Department
City of Alexandria
Calvert County
Fairfax County
Arlington County
Howard County
City of Annapolis
Charles County
Naval District Washington
Baltimore Washington Airport
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority

Chris will receive a Fire Department Line of Duty Death Funeral Service in addition to full military honors administered by the Old Guard of which Chris was a former member of.  These ceremonies will take place at the FOP Lodge on Route 202 in Upper Marlboro sometime around 1:00 pm.

The Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department is deeply appreciative of the tremendous amount of support and assistance we have received.  We are forever grateful.



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Safety First Day of the Month - August

August 1, 2016, 5:00 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Today is August 1, 2016, the Safety First Day of the Month.  Having a working smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarm could be the difference in life or death - yours and your family.  Today is the day that the Prince George's County Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department has designated for everyone to test their smoke and CO alarms.  It's simple:

Push the TEST button on the front cover of your smoke and CO alarm.

An audible beeping noise SHOULD sound.  If it does, congratulations, your done until next month.

If it does not sound an audible alarm - replace the battery.  Push the TEST button again - still no alarm - remove the alarm and immediately replace with a new 10-year, tamper proof, with hush feature smoke or CO alarm or better yet a 10-year combination smoke/CO alarm.

If your alarms are at about 10 years old or you don't remember if you ever replaced the alarm, do it today!!!  Smoke and CO alarms work all day - every day and will wear down over their 10 year service life.
County Law requires a working smoke alarm in your home.  Over the next two years the law will continue to evolve to require a working 10-year smoke alarm on every level of your home, primarily outside of sleeping areas.

County Law currently requires a working CO detector on every level of your home, primarily, outside of sleeping areas.  This law includes all homes with a gas service (natural, propane, oil, etc), a fireplace or an attached garage.  This law also requires that all hotels, motels, dormitories and all apartments and condos have working CO alarms.

Have you ever noticed that it is sometimes a challenge to reach your alarms installed on your ceiling or high on the wall.  Perhaps you use a step-ladder or stand tall on your toes to reach the test button.  Think about your senior citizen neighbors and relatives that may have difficulty even reaching a light switch.  Test their alarms for them every month, change their batteries at least once-a-year and contact 311 for them if they need a new 10-year smoke alarm installed by firefighters, free of charge.

Don't wait for a firefighter to knock on your door.  If you need a working smoke alarm and can not afford to purchase one, call 311 and ask about the free smoke alarm program.

Hot Weather

The month of August ushers us into summer and warmer temperatures.  A quick reminder of life-saving actions:

1.     Never leave children or pets in cars.  Heat stroke can occur within minutes and sickness or death will occur very quickly.

2.     During our hazy, hot and humid days - remember to drink plenty of water.  Its how our firefighters and medics stay hydrated and are able to work in hot temperatures.  HHH2 - "Hazy, Hot and Humid = Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate."

3.     Always practice good fire safety habits when discarding cigarettes but pay particular attention when days are labeled "Red Flag" days where fires can start easily and spread rapidly.

Grill Safety

It is anticipated that many backyard barbecue's will be in use throughout the summer months. The PGFD recommend that you exercise caution and keep safety in mind when setting up, using and cleaning your BBQ grill.   Did you know that cooking, most notably "unattended cooking" is the number one cause of fires and fire related injuries in Prince George's County, this includes both inside and outside cooking: WATCH WHAT YOU HEAT!!!

•NEVER use a grill indoors including garages, overhangs and canopies

•By Law - Grills must be at least 30 feet away from any multi-family apartment dwelling.

•When using a grill at your single family home – homeowners should use a 10-foot perimeter from anything combustible – including your house!!! Never place a grill up against your house, wood deck or fence.

•In Prince George’s County - all grills are illegal to use on balconies of apartments and condominium apartments

•Do not allow children and pets to play near a grill - set up a 10 foot safety zone around your grill.

•Only use approved ignition fluids – NEVER use gasoline to ignite a grill

•Keep a fire extinguisher, garden hose or bucket of sand nearby to douse a grill fire that gets out of control.

•Inspect your grill before you ignite to ensure everything is in working order. This inspection includes all connections on your gas grills are tight and not leaking.

Charcoal ashes and used briquettes should be disposed of in a metal container and allowed to cool down for up to 48 hours before disposal.  Keep ash container off of your wood deck and away from your house.

Swim Safely

It is anticipated that thousands of residents will be taking full advantage of swimming pools.  Keeping safety first will help to prevent such a festive occasion from becoming a tragedy.  You should know that 75% of drownings occur in backyard pools.

For parents:

•Always watch your children and never leave them unattended.  A lack of adult supervision is one of the leading contributing factors to children drowning.

•Do not rely on flotation devices to protect your children from drowning. You must supervise at all times.

•Have a phone nearby in the event you need to call 911.

•Have children swim in pairs - the "buddy system"

•If a child is missing - check the pool first.

•Teach your child how to swim. Visit www.pgparks.com/aquatics.htm for additional information.

•Learn CPR. Visit http://www.redcross.org/take-a-class or call the Fire/EMS Department CPR Information line at 301-864-LIVE (5483).

For home pool owners and managers:

•Install a fence around the perimeter of the pool.

•Use self closing latches and gates.

•Install a door alarm from the house to the pool area.

•Have life saving equipment nearby such as life rings or reaching poles   

CPR and AED 

As previously mentioned in swimming pool safety, everyone should take the time how to learn how to perform CPR and use an AED.   You can call 301-864-LIVE (5483) and find locations that teach CPR/AED or click here for additional information.

Back to School Safely

Last but certainly not least is that we will heading back to school at the end of the month.  Always exercise caution and keep an eye out for walkers and those on bicycles and remember to stop when a school bus has red flashers on.
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Bowie House Fire with Fatality

August 1, 2016, 6:51 am
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Media Contact: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
Mebrady@co.pg.md.us.    @PGFDPIO

Just after 7:00 pm on Sunday, July 31, Firefighters were alerted to a house fire in the 12000 block of Lofting Court in Bowie.  

Fire/EMS units arrived at a 2-story single family home with fire showing from an attached garage with extension into the second floor.  When firefighters made entry into the burning home they encountered hoarding conditions throughout the structure hampering their ability to maneuver about to conduct searches and extinguish the fire.

At one point, as the fire grew in intensity, all firefighters were evacuated from the structure out of concern for their safety.  Firefighters searched the house as best as they could twice without finding the occupant that was unaccounted for.  Additional fire/EMS units were summoned to the scene to assist with extinguishment and excessive overhaul operations.

After a firefight lasting 75 minutes the fire was declared out.  One firefighter sustained a laceration to his hand and was treated and released at an area hospital.  Fire loss is estimated at $200,000.

As personnel from the Fire/EMS Departments Office of the Fire Marshal initiated a cause and origin investigation a deceased person was located.  As is standard operating procedure the County Police were called to the scene.  A joint investigation with the County Office of the Fire Marshal and the County Police Homicide is now on going. 

An autopsy will be required to identify the deceased and determine the cause of death.  At this point the incident remains under investigation.

Firefighter/Medics will return to the Bowie community today to visit homes and check for working smoke alarms and offer advice on an escape plan.  If you need a working smoke alarm installed in your home please call 311 and ask about the Fire/EMS Departments smoke alarm program.
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