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Civilian Fire Fatality and the Dangers of Needing a Key to Exit

October 6, 2018, 8:05 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
MEBrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

A Fort Washington resident removed by firefighters from her burning home has died.  At around 8:20 pm, Thursday, October 4th, firefighters arrived at a 1-story single family home at 9000 Old Palmer Road with smoke showing. 

Firefighters located an unconscious female just inside the front door and removed her to awaiting medics outside.  Medics assessed her condition as having no pulse and not breathing and immediately started attempts to save her life.  Medics were able to regain a pulse, however, the patient remained in critical condition at a nearby hospital.  Tragically, despite the very best efforts of firefighters, medics and hospital staff the patient died on Friday, October 5th.  The victim, also listed as the homeowner, has been identified as Eka Usoro, DOB 3/23/1953.

The fire was located and extinguished.  The cause of the fire remains under investigation.  Fire loss is estimated at $75,000.  Firefighters initially believed the occupant was alerted by a working smoke alarm, however, fire investigators determined there were no working smoking alarms in the house.

Furthermore, Prince George’s County Fire Chief Benjamin M. Barksdale expressed his concern and frustration about the use of double cylinder deadbolts that require a key to unlock from both sides of the door.  The victim from Old Palmer Road was found by the front door with a key to the deadbolt in her hands.  “No one should ever have to use a key to get out of their house,” said Barksdale.  “This is the third fire this year resulting in 4 deaths of home occupants where these double cylinder deadbolts were present and possibly hampered their egress.”  In all 3 incidents (highlighted in red on list below) the victims were found either at or near the front or rear doors with double cylinder deadbolts.  The Crelin Place and Old Palmer Road incidents; the victims had keys to the deadbolt lock in their hands.

The Old Palmer Road incident is the 11thresidential fire fatality this year with an accidental or undetermined cause.:

#1 - February 11 – 6000 block of North Hilmar Circle in District Heights.
No working smoke alarms in home.  Deceased: 84 years-of-age.

#2 and #3 - March 8 – 500 block of Round Tree Drive in Fort Washington.
No working smoke alarms in home.  Deceased: 75 and 80 years-of-age.

#4 - March 11 – 4200 block of Monroe Street in Colmar Manor.
No working smoke alarms in house.  Deceased: 70 years-of-age.

#5 and #6 - March 22 – 3400 block of Eastern Avenue in Mount Rainier.
1 working smoke alarm in basement.  Fire and occupants on upper floors.
Deceased: 83 and 87 years-of-age.

#7 - April 10 – 4600 Brookfield Drive in Suitland.
Working smoke alarm was present.  Deceased: 50 year-of-age.

#8 - May 12 – 10400 block of Howard Court in Beltsville.
No working smoke alarms in house.  Deceased: 35 years-of-age.

#9 - May 24 – La Quinta Hotel – Hampton Park Blvd in Capital Heights
Hotel Room with alarm/sprinkler     Deceased 36 year-old-male

#10 - September 8 – 4307 Crelin Place in Lanham
No working smoke alarm      Deceased female

#11– October 4 – 9000 Old Palmer Road in Fort Washington
No working smoke alarms in house.  Deceased 65-year-old female.

The Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department does not support the use of double cylinder deadbolts and strongly recommend that residents replace the deadbolts with ones that can be operated without a key.



We also remind all homeowners, citizens, residents and businesses, by law, you are required to install 10-year smoke alarms.  A 10-year smoke alarm is required on every levels of your home, primarily just outside of sleeping areas.  All of your alarms should be tested at least once-a-month.  We recommend using the Safety 1st Day of Every Month to perform this task.  

The Fire/EMS Department strongly recommends installing 10-year smoke alarms in every bedroom and to sleep with your bedroom door closed. An escape plan to exit your home should be planned and practiced.  Your plan should include 2 ways out of every room in your house.

Of our 11 fire related fatalities this year 7 of the 11 had no working smoke alarms.  2 fatalities of the 11 had 1 working smoke alarm located in the basement which had no early warning of the fire located on upper floors which is where the deceased were located.

Prince Georges County law also requires the installation of carbon monoxide (CO) detectors on every level of your home if you have a gas service for appliances, a fireplace and/or an attached garage.

Prince George’s County homeowners that need a 10-year smoke alarm and can not afford to purchase one themselves can call 311 and ask about our smoke alarm program.  A firefighter will come to your house and install a 10-year smoke alarm for you at no charge.

An updated Maryland smoke alarm law went into effect on October 1, 2018 requiring that all commercial establishments selling smoke alarms only offer the 10-year model.  The goal is to eliminate all 9-volt battery smoke alarms for sale and use in the home.  A non-working smoke alarm was found inside the home on Old Palmer Road with a dead battery.



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MEDIA NOTES - PGFD Line of Duty Death Funeral Service on Saturday

October 12, 2018, 5:26 pm
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MEDIA CONTACT Mark E. Brady, Chief PIO, 240-508-7930
MEBrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

The Prince George's County Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department continues to mourn and remember Firefighter Jesse Wade McCullough.  Firefighter McCullough passed away on October 9, 2018, after his heroic battle against occupational cancer.  Firefighter McCullough will be honored with a line-of-duty funeral, to be held on Saturday, October 13, 2018 (details below): 

Visitation:
Saturday, October 13th, 0900 at: 
First Baptist Church of Glenarden
600 Watkins Park Dr. 
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774

Services:
Funeral service will follow the viewing at 1100

Repast:
Saturday, October 13th, 1400 at: 
Greenbelt Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad, Inc.
PGFD Station 835
125 Crescent Rd.
Greenbelt, MD 20770 

MEDIA NOTES

·      Prince George’s County Firefighter/Medics, honor guards, pipes and drums as well as public safety personnel from other agencies and departments will report for line up at 7:30 am at First Baptist Church of Glenarden.  

·      The funeral procession is scheduled to arrive at the First Baptist Church of Glenarden at 8:30 am.  Everyone must display the utmost respect at all times while on the church property.

·      Church policy does not permit media cameras or recording devices inside the building.

·      At this point no family will be available for interviews.

·      Services will be available via live streaming at:

http://www.fbcglive.com/
http://www.ustream.tv/fbcglenarden

·      Media should notify Mark Brady, PGFD Chief PIO, by phone call or text at 240-508-7930 if you plan to cover this event.

Many on duty Prince George’s County Firefighters will be attending funeral services thanks to other area jurisdictions departments filling in our stations and responding on calls.  These jurisdictions include:

District of Columbia Fire/EMS Department
Montgomery County Department of Fire and Rescue Services
Alexandria City Fire Department
Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department
BWI Airport Fire Department
Charles County Fire and EMS Department
Providence VFD (Baltimore County)
Frederick County Division of Fire and Rescue Services
Anne Arundel County Fire Department
Calvert County Fire Rescue EMS Department
Annapolis City Fire Department
Queens Anne’s County Department of Emergency Services

Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services
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History of PGFD Pink Engine "Courage"

October 14, 2018, 8:58 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief PIO, 240-508-7930
MEBrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

After a successful campaign promoting “Breast Cancer Awareness” with a pink wrapped fire engine the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department expanded the campaign to include two new “painted” units.  County Executive Rushern Baker and the Prince George's County Council approved funding for the manufacture of two brand new pink-painted response units.  There is no difference in cost to paint a unit pink vs. red or any other traditional color.  One pink fire engine and one pink transport ambulance have been placed into full time service around the County.

With the advent of these new units in October of 2014, the Department conducted a social media 'naming' campaign to provide identity for the units. The 2014 Pierce engine was named "Courage", while the 2014 Freightliner/Horton paramedic transport unit was named "Hope." In addition to being painted pink and white, "Courage" sports a lavender reflective safety-stripe.  Together the pink and lavender design represents cancer-awareness across the disease spectrum.

Over the past 4 years these pink units have been showcased at events across the region, including; the United States Congressional Women's Softball tournament, The Redskins “think Pink” NFL game, the Naval District Washington 5k run, the NBC4 Health and Fitness Expo, Annapolis St Baldricks fundraisers, and various other events and conferences.  The units are always favorites and are routinely recognized as emotional boosters for cancer survivors and those now suffering from the disease.

The next phase of the "pink-team campaign" was allowing employees and volunteers to wear pink uniform shirts during the month of October (breast cancer awareness month), members voluntarily purchase their own shirts and sport them during emergency responses during October, further spreading the cancer awareness message across all 45 community-based fire/EMS stations.


Fire Chief Benjamin M. Barksdale said, "We have had 2 members succumb to occupational cancer over the past 2 years.  Cancer awareness and prevention are important to our members and are now part of our everyday life in the Fire/EMS service.  The message and mission of cancer awareness and research are especially poignant and personal for myself and the Department this year.”  
Fans attending game will be welcomed by Tanya Snyder, and hundreds of Alpha members distributing THINK-PINK!® ribbons and breast cancer awareness educational materials. Look for PGFD Pink Engine at with   Image taken pre-game on October 14, 2018 pre-game at FedExField

"Courage" with PGFD Firefighter/Medics and the Redskins Cheerleaders pre-game October 14, 2018 at FedExField



PGFD File Image from 2014


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Halloween Safety

October 22, 2018, 9:14 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Public Information Officer, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

The fun and excitement surrounding Halloween can suddenly turn to sorrow and misfortune through one careless act. The incidence of fire, accident, and injury often increases during holidays and festive events. Each year, firefighters and paramedics witness incidents on Halloween that could have been prevented had simple safety rules been followed. Among the high-risk activities on Halloween; door-to-door trick-or-treating is one of greatest concerns to Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department personnel. Between 4:00 PM and 10:00 PM on Halloween, there is a significant increase in falls, burn-related injuries, and pedestrian injuries. Children are four and a half times more likely to be hit by a car on Halloween than on any other night during the year. Falls are the leading cause of unintentional injuries on Halloween. Additionally, many parties and festivities are planned over the Halloween weekend which could result in an increase in adult alcohol consumption with inherent dangers. 

Often, there are safe alternatives to trick-or-treating that can be fun and also risk-free. Local houses of worship and schools may plan Halloween parties, or families may get together and conduct games and activities instead of allowing young children to engage in trick-or-treating in neighborhoods or along busy streets. Prince George’s County Fire Chief Benjamin M. Barksdale urges adults to take a more pro-active role in activities on Halloween. Additionally, he reminds adults to be vigilant and exercise due caution when traveling to avoid automobile related crashes. Barksdale stated, “Remember safety should be a priority and lets work together to ensure everyone goes home.”





For those who plan to venture out trick-or-treating, the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department would like to offer the following safety tips so that all might enjoy a happy and safe Halloween:

• Costumes should be made of flame resistant light-colored fabric or have reflective qualities. They should be short enough so as not to interfere with walking or become entangled in bicycle chains. Use facial makeup rather than masks so children can see easily. 

• Children should carry flashlights and not use candles or torches. Before leaving the home, children should discuss the proposed route, time of return, and companions. An adult should always accompany younger children. It is advisable to visit the homes of persons you know or local familiar neighborhoods, stopping at well-lit houses only. As a general rule, children should avoid entering homes or apartments and always travel with a companion. 

• Children should avoid busy streets, always use sidewalks, and follow all traffic rules and regulations. Motorists should avoid all unnecessary travel on Halloween evening, and when driving they should drive slowly and be alert to small children crossing streets. Many accidents occur when motorists are backing vehicles out of driveways, unaware of the presence of small children. 

• Halloween treats should be saved until children return home where adults can examine all items closely. Treats that are unwrapped, or show signs of having been opened, should not be eaten. Fruit should be sliced into small pieces and checked for foreign objects. Keep small pieces of candy away from infants and very small children, as they can easily become lodged in the throat and cause choking. 

• Persons receiving trick-or-treaters should keep a light on and pick up obstacles that could cause a child to trip and become injured. Jack-o-lanterns should be kept clear of doorsteps and landings. Consider the possibility of using flashlights instead of candles to light Jack-o-lanterns. Keep dogs and other pets away from doors so children will not become frightened.

A recent trend in celebrating Halloween has been to celebrate as groups at parties or community events in addition to more adult Halloween parties being held. This trend has resulted in fewer door-to-door trick-or-treaters, however, creates additional vehicles on the street. With Halloween falling on Wednesday, October 31, there are numerous additional Halloween parties planned for both adults and children over the October 26, 27 and 28th weekend. 

When festive occasions are celebrated involving adults, the consumption of alcohol goes up. The Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department offers these everyday reminders and safety tips to party-goers:

• Never drink and drive. 

• Always wear your seat belt and ensure everyone in your vehicle is buckled up as well. 

• If you are wearing a costume – vehicle occupants, including the driver, should not wear a mask or head dressing as this may block the view of the driver. 

• Be aware that there are still many trick or treaters walking and crossing streets – slow your speed and use extreme care while driving. 

• Use battery powered illumination instead of candles at your Halloween celebration, including inside of your carved pumpkin.
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Redskins Offer Discounted Tickets for First Responders

October 22, 2018, 9:56 am
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PGFD and ASPCA Halloween Safety Tips for our Pets

October 23, 2018, 5:00 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Public Information Officer, 240-508-7930

MEBrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS 

for Pets


Halloween can be the spookiest night of the year, but keeping your pets safe doesn’t have to be tricky. The ASPCA recommends taking these simple, common sense precautions to keep your pet happy and healthy.

Stash the Treats

The candy bowl is for trick-or-treaters, not Baylee or Fluffy. Several popular Halloween treats are toxic to pets. Chocolate in all forms—especially dark or baking chocolate—can be very dangerous for cats and dogs, and sugar-free candies containing the artificial sweetener xylitol can cause serious problems in pets. If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, please call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately.

Watch the Decorations and Keep Wires Out of Reach

While a carved jack-o-lantern certainly is festive, pets can easily knock over a lit pumpkin and start a fire. Curious kittens are especially at risk of getting burned or singed by candle flame. Popular Halloween plants such as pumpkins and decorative corn are considered relatively nontoxic, but can produce stomach discomfort in pets who nibble on them.

Be Careful with Costumes

For some pets, wearing a costume may cause undue stress. The ASPCA recommends that you don’t put your dog or cat in a costume unless you know he or she loves it. If you do dress up your pet for Halloween, make sure the costume does not limit his or her movement, sight or ability to breathe, bark or meow. Check the costume carefully for small, dangling or easily chewed-off pieces that could present a choking hazard. Ill-fitting outfits can get twisted on external objects or your pet, leading to injury.
Be sure to have your pet try on the costume before the big night. If he or she seems distressed or shows abnormal behavior, consider letting your pet wear his or her “birthday suit” or don a festive bandanna instead.

Keep Pets Calm and Easily Identifiable

Halloween brings a flurry of activity with visitors arriving at the door, and too many strangers can often be scary and stressful for pets. All but the most social dogs and cats should be kept in a separate room away from the front door during peak trick-or-treating hours. While opening the door for guests, be sure that your dog or cat doesn’t dart outside. And always make sure your pet it wearing proper identification—if for any reason he or she does escape, a collar with ID tags and/or a microchip can be a lifesaver for a lost pet.
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Upper Marlboro Female Arrested for Setting Fire to Mothers Home

October 29, 2018, 1:08 pm
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Public Information Officer, 240-508-7930
MEBrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

A 25-year-old female has been arrested and charged with Arson and other related crimes for setting her mother’s home on fire. 

Prince George’s County Firefighters responded to a fire just before 1:00 am, Monday, October 29, 2018 at a mobile home park in Upper Marlboro.  Public Safety Communications (PSC) had initially received a 911 call for a female damaging her mother’s property and a subsequent 911 call reported a fire at the same location.   Both the County Police and Fire/EMS Department responded to 9115 Marlboro Pike, trailer home lot #62, in Upper Marlboro and arrived to find fire showing from the mobile home.

The fire was extinguished without incident.  Fire loss was estimated at $80,000 to the structure and contents.

Personnel from the Fire/EMS Department Office of the Fire Marshal were alerted to the call and Investigators determined the fire to be incendiary in nature.

Through the course of the investigation it was determined that the home occupant’s adult daughter set the mobile home on fire. Amanda Hooker, 25-year-old female of Upper Marlboro was arrested and transported to the Department of Corrections in Upper Marlboro.

Amanda Hooker has been charged with the following crimes:

Arson- First Degree
Arson- 2nd Degree
Malicious Burning 1st Degree
Malicious Burning 2nd Degree

Amanda Hooker, 25-year-old female of Upper Marlboro was arrested
after allegedly setting her mother mobile home on fire.


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PGFD Fire Officer Placed on Leave After Arrest

November 3, 2018, 8:27 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Public Information Officer, 240-508-7930
MEBrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Prince George’s County Firefighter/Medic Lieutenant Sean Christopher Roth has been placed on administrative leave after being arrested for Arson.  The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania provided details to the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department that Roth was arrested and charged with 3 felony crimes related to an arson that occurred on August 29, 2018.  Roth was jailed at the York County, Pennsylvania, Prison and held on a $25,000 bond on November 2, 2018.  He is charged with:

Arson-Intent to Collect Insurance
False/Fraud/Incomp Insurance Claim
Risking Catastrophe 

Roth, 39 years-of-age of Red Lion Pennsylvania, is a 19+-year member of the Department and was assigned to the Facilities and Resource Planning Office.  He will remain on administrative leave (leave with pay) status until further notice.

No additional information is available about the actual incident.

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TRAINING OP - Stress First Aid for Firefighters and Emergency Services Personnel

November 5, 2018, 9:20 am
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TRAINING ANNOUNCEMENT
Stress First Aid
for Firefighters and Emergency Services Personnel
Train the Trainer
Wednesday, November 28 – Thursday, November 29, 2018

Howard County Maryland Department of Fire & Rescue Services

WHAT: Stress First Aid (SFA) is a set of supportive actions designed to help emergency responders take care of themselves and assist each other in reducing the negative impacts of stress. SFA was designed specifically to support firefighters, EMS, and rescue personnel. This method of assisting a co-worker undergoing stress is practical, flexible, and can be tailored to the specific need of the individual. Instructed by Patricia Watson, PhD, CAPT Frank Leto, FDNY and Chief John Oates, East Hartford Fire Department.

OBJECTIVES: This training will provide participants with an opportunity to learn about the SFA model, and to be able to deliver the 15 minute, 90 minute or four hour versions of stress first aid trainings. Following this presentation, participants will be able to:

• Have a better understanding of the needs of individuals affected by stress in fire and EMS jobs
• Better manage stress
• Engage in more helpful peer support
• Be better able to create peer support and behavioral health programs
• Deliver 15 minute, 90 minute, or 4 hour versions of the SFA trainings

WHEN: Wednesday, November 28 – Thursday, November 29, 8:00am – 4:30pm

WHERE: Howard County Maryland Department of Fire & Rescue Services Training Center 2200 Scott Wheeler Drive, Marriottsville, Maryland 21104 PREREQUISITE: Students must currently possess NFPA Instructor I or equivalent.

HOW TO APPLY & REGISTER: Go to www.firstrespondercenter.org/events or www.cvent.com/d/cbqpnh
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About the First Responder Center for Excellence
The First Responder Center for Excellence for Reducing Occupational Illness, Injuries and Deaths, Inc., a National Fallen Firefighters Foundation affiliate, was created in 2016. Our mission is to promote quality educational awareness and research to reduce physical and psychological health and wellness issues for first responders. For more information visit firstrespondercenter.org or contact Kelly Casillo, Programs Specialist at kcasillo@frcmail.org or 443-302-2917.
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34th Annual Public Safety Holiday Food Basket program is underway.

November 9, 2018, 6:40 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Public Information Officer, 240-508-7930
MEBrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

The Prince George’s County Public Safety Assistance Program’s (PSAP) 34thAnnual Christmas Food Basket program is underway.   

MEDIA ADVISORY "Save the Date" - Public Relations/Media event in advance so that you can put it on your calendar to attend.  

The Prince George's County Public Safety Assistance Program's 34th Annual Christmas Food Basket
Breakfast and PR/Media event.

It will be held on Monday, December 17, 2018 at Fire Station #806.  Station #806 is located at
2901 St. Joseph Drive, Springdale, MD 20774.

The day will start with a "Hearty Fireman's Breakfast" at 7:30 AM.  This is the BEST BREAKFAST in town!!

At 9 AM the PR/Media Event, with County Officials and the Directors of the County Public Safety Agencies
attending, will be held.  


We appreciate your continued support of the Christmas food basket program.
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All PGFD Fire/EMS Stations are Toys for Tots Collection Points

November 9, 2018, 2:25 pm
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All Prince George's County Fire/EMS Stations, Headquarters and worksites have been designated as Toys for Tots Collection Points.  

You are encouraged to drop off new and unwrapped toys for children of all ages.  

Donated toys will be distributed to local children during the Holiday Season.


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Thanksgiving Day Fire Safety and Injury Prevention Tips #ThanksgivingSafe

November 19, 2018, 7:31 am
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Thanksgiving Week Safety Advice from PGFD

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

The Prince George’s County Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department offers the following safety tips, to help ensure all citizens, residents and visitors will enjoy a safe and festive Thanksgiving holiday. Unfortunately, fire safety and injury prevention guidelines are often overlooked during the holidays. Prince George's County Fire Chief Benjamin M. Barksdale stated, "Everyone needs to keep Safety First and by doing so our citizens, visitors and businesses can avoid tragedy and disruption of their holiday festivities."


The Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) United States Fire Administration (USFA) issued a special report examining the characteristics of Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings. The report, Thanksgiving Day Fires in Residential Buildings, was developed by USFA's National Fire Data Center.

The report is based on 2011 to 2013 data from the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS).  For each year, an estimated 2,100 residential building fires were reported to fire departments in the U.S. on Thanksgiving Day and caused an estimated 10 deaths, 50 injuries and $28 million in property loss.  The leading cause of Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings is, by far, cooking. Additionally, smoke alarms were not present in 20 percent of Thanksgiving Day fires that occurred in occupied residential buildings.

If your Thanksgiving plans include a Turkey Fryer, this is another whole story by itself, click here for Turkey Fryer Safety Tips from 2015.


These safety tips work for every day of the year, however, home fires increase dramatically, twice as many, on Thanksgiving Day.  While these safety and cooking tips may not make Thanksgiving dinner taste any better--they will help to avoid potential disaster;

•    Overnight guests should be instructed on your exit drill from the home and designated meeting place for your family.  Sleep with bedroom doors closed (see video below).

•    Have a fire extinguisher available not more than 10 feet from the stove, on the exit side of the room.

•    A standard Class ABC multi-purpose dry chemical extinguisher is recommended. Know how to use your fire extinguisher.

•    Start holiday cooking with a clean stove and oven.

•    Keep the kitchen off limits to young children and adults who are not helping with food preparations. This will lessen the possibility of kitchen mishaps.

•    When cooking, do not wear clothing with loose sleeves or dangling jewelry. Clothing can catch on fire and jewelry can become entangled with pot handles, causing spills and burns.

•    Cook on the back burners when possible, and turn pot handles inward so they don’t extend over the edge of the stove.

•    Never leave cooking unattended. If you must leave the kitchen while cooking, turn off the stove or have someone else watch what is being cooked. Unattended cooking is the number one cause of home fires and fire-related injuries in Prince George’s County.  According to the USFA; cooking is the leading cause of all Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings at 69 percent. Nearly all of these cooking fires (97 percent) are small, confined fires with limited damage.

•    If you use a deep fryer, please, exercise extreme caution and follow manufacturer instructions.  The report from the USFA found that these cooking devices accounted for about 1% of Thanksgiving Day fires.

•    Keep Thanksgiving decorations and kitchen clutter away from sources of direct heat.

•    Candles are often part of holiday decorations. The Fire/EMS Department strongly encourages the use of battery powered candles and discourages the use of candles with an open flame.  If you use candles; they should never be left burning when you are away from home, or after going to bed. Candles should be placed where children will not be tempted to play with them, and where guests will not accidentally brush against them. The candleholder should be completely non-combustible and difficult to knock over. The candle should not have combustible decorations around it.


•    If smoking is allowed inside, provide guests with large, deep ashtrays and check them frequently. After guests leave check inside, under upholstery, and in trash cans for cigarette butts that may be smoldering.

•    10-year smoke alarms are now required on every level of your home, in hallways just outside of sleeping areas.  The Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department strongly encourages a 10-year smoke alarm be installed in every bedroom and to sleep with your bedroom door closed.   Watch Fire Chief Barksdale provide this important explanation.


  • Test smoke alarms on the Safety First Day of every month.

Working 10-year smoke alarms are required in all residences in Prince George's County.  Working carbon monoxide detectors are also required on every level of your home if you use a fuel for cooking and/or heat, have a fireplace and/or an attached garage.

If you can not afford to purchase a 10-year smoke alarm you should call 311.  A firefighter will install a working smoke alarm in your home; free of charge.

The men and women; volunteer, civilian and paid, of the Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department wish everyone a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving!!!
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"Close Before You Doze" - Life Saving Advice from Fire Chief Barksdale

November 19, 2018, 7:36 am
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Space Heater Safety - Stay Warm Safely

November 19, 2018, 1:09 pm
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COUNTY EXECUTIVE-ELECT ALSOBROOKS ANNOUNCES CHIEF DEPUTY APPOINTMENT IN FIRE/EMS DEPARTMENT

November 30, 2018, 5:19 pm
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Mark E. Brady, Chief Public Information Officer, 240-508-7930
MEBrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

Prince George’s County Executive–Elect Angela Alsobrooks announced the appointment of Tiffany D. Green as Chief Deputy of the Fire/EMS Department. This appointment, announced on November 29th, elevates Green from Deputy Fire Chief to Chief Deputy which is the second highest position within the Department.  While the Fire/EMS Department has had females serving as Deputy Fire Chief's before, Green is now the highest ranking female fire official in the history of the Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department.


Chief Deputy Tiffany D. Green

Tiffany D. Green began her career as a firefighter with the Prince George’s County Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department in March of 1999 after serving as a volunteer for the Oxon Hill Volunteer Fire Department.  As a 24-year fire services veteran, Tiffany holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Public Safety and Biology and a master’s degree in Emergency and Disaster Management.  Prior to the appointment, she was serving in the capacity of Deputy Fire Chief overseeing the Administrative Services Command. Under her command, she was responsible for Human Resources, Fiscal Affairs, Information Management, Risk Management and the Office of Service Excellence, Accreditation & Research. Her previous assignment was Director of the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Training and Leadership Academy, where her primary responsibilities were training and professional development for over 900 sworn personnel and 1,200 volunteer members of the department.  She also managed the High School Fire Science (Cadet) Program, which is a program for high school students who are interested in working in the Fire Services profession.

Through her tenure with the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department, Tiffany has served in the following capacities prior to her role as a Command Staff member: Firefighter, Paramedic, Station Commander, Executive Assistant to the Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for Public Safety, Chief of Staff for the Director of Homeland Security, Special Events Coordinator and Stadium Commander for Fed Ex field.

To her success, Tiffany strongly credits hard work, preparation, and commitment. She is sought after in the areas of project management, community partnerships, andpolicy development.  Tiffany resides in Prince George’s County with her husband Alfred and daughter Talore.


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Space Heater Blamed for District Heights House Fire

December 5, 2018, 6:50 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief PIO, 240-508-7930
MEBrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

A District Heights family experienced first hand the dangers of a space heater early this morning.  At around 2:30 am, Wednesday, December 5, 2018, a fire was reported in the basement of a single-family house in the 7400 block of Leona Street.  Firefighters arrived to find a working fire in the basement and quickly extinguished the flames.

Fortunately, no one was injured in this incident but 3 adults and a dog are displaced from their home after an estimated $30,000 in damages.  An occupant told investigators that a space heater was left on during the time everyone slept.  The space heater appears to have ignited nearby combustibles.  No mention if there were any smoke alarms in the house.

The American Red Cross and the County Office of Emergency Management assisted the displaced occupants.

The men and women, career, civilian and volunteer, of the Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department recommend the following safety tips for space heaters.

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

Turn off space heaters before going to sleep at night.  

Check to make sure it has a thermostat control mechanism, and will switch off automatically if the heater falls over. 

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

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

Always unplug your electric space heater when not in use.  Never leave a space heater on and unattended.

Finally, having a working 10-year smoke alarm dramatically increases your chances of surviving a fire. Remember to practice a home escape plan frequently with your family. 

Prince George’s County homeowners can inquire about our free smoke alarm program by calling 311. A firefighter will install a working smoke alarm in your home; free of charge.

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

Please take a moment and review this video from Prince George's County Fire Chief Benjamin M. Barksdale about safety tips when using space heaters.






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Man Critically Burned in Fort Washington

December 5, 2018, 2:09 pm
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief PIO, 240-508-7930
MEBrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

An adult male sustained critical burn injuries at a Fort Washington auto parts store this afternoon.  Just before 3:00 pm firefighters and medics from the Allentown Road Fire/EMS Station 832 were alerted to respond to an auto parts store in the 9100 block of Allentown Road.  Upon arrival they found a man with critical burn injuries about the majority of his body and a fire that had already been extinguished that involved a vehicle gas tank.

Medics initiated treatment and summoned the Maryland State Police Trooper 2 to fly the critically injured man to a Burn Unit. 


The Fire/EMS Department’s Office of the Fire Marshal is investigating the cause of the fire.  At this point the cause is under investigation and the man is in critical condition.

No additional information is currently available. 
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PGFD Assistant Fire Chief Receives Professional Designation

December 7, 2018, 1:34 pm
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief PIO, 240-508-7930
MEBrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

The Prince George’s County Fire/Emergency Medical Services Department is pleased to announce that The Commission on Professional Credentialing (CPC) met Tuesday, October 2, 2018, to officially confer on Assistant Fire Chief Gary L. Krichbaum the designation of “Chief Fire Officer” (CFO).

 “I congratulate Assistant Chief Krichbaum on attaining the designation of Chief Fire Officer,” said Fire Chief Benjamin Barksdale.  “He joins an exclusive group of men and women who have demonstrated their dedication to the fire service and commitment to continued growth.”

Assistant Chief Krichbaum is one of about 1,300 CFO’s worldwide.  The CPC awards this designation only after an individual successfully meets all the organization’s stringent criteria.  The process includes an assessment of the applicant’s education, experience, professional development, technical competencies, contributions to the profession, association membership, and community involvement.  In addition, all applicants are required to identify a future professional development plan.  

The CFO designation program uses a comprehensive peer review model to evaluate candidates seeking the credential.  The CPC, an entity of the Center of Public Safety Excellence, Inc., administers the CFO designation program.  The CPC comprises individuals from academia, federal and local government, and the fire and emergency medical services professions. 

Krichbaum has over 24 years of service with the Department and currently serves as Commander of the Fire/EMS Training and Leadership Academy.



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Exhaust Fan Ignites Fire in Laurel Home - PGFD Safety Tips

December 8, 2018, 11:11 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief PIO, 240-508-7930
MEBrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

A Laurel, Maryland, home suffered significant fire damage and the family has been displaced after a fire started accidentally in a bathroom exhaust fan.  Just after 5:00 pm, Friday, December 7, 2018, firefighters responded to a report of a fire in a 2nd floor bathroom at a townhouse in the 7600 block of Woodbine Drive.  An investigation revealed that the fire originated in the ventilation fan located in the ceiling of the bathroom.  The fire spread into the attic area generating an estimated $50,000 in fire loss.  Fortunately there were no injuries.
Exhaust fans are found in most residences and many commercial properties to help prevent steamed up mirrors, damp walls, and fogged windows along with removing odors. However, they can also present a potential fire hazard if not cleaned and maintained on a regular basis. Fans, over time build up lint which can cause the motor to overheat and ignite the lint, plastic fan blades and the nearby combustible wood structure. The speed at which the lint builds up is a function of the amount of use and the amount of particulate in the air in which it operates.
These fans are not designed to last forever and many are original installs.  Older exhaust fans are not thermally protected. Thermal protection causes the motor to shut off should they seize and overheat. This safety feature has been available since the late 1970’s, but was not widely used until the early 1990’s. If you have a bathroom exhaust fan in your home, clean it twice a year.  If it starts to make noises or smells odd, it’s time to replace it.
The following photos demonstrate exhaust fans that need cleaning to prevent overheating and possible unintentional fire in your home.
Bathroom Exhaust Pic
Bathroom Exhaust Pic 2

  FILE PHOTOS


ACTION STEPS YOU CAN TAKE TO PREVENT THIS:

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·      Inspect and clean all bathroom exhaust fans as necessary and per the manufacturer’s recommendations, be sure to place on a regular cleaning schedule.

·      When cleaning, remove the fan cover to clean and remove lint from around the motor, paying careful attention to all air-flow areas.

·      Wash the fan cover in warm soapy water to remove all lint. If there is any mold growing, add bleach to the cleaning mixture. Make sure the cover is completely dry before putting it back up.

·      If some fans are not easily accessible for regular cleaning, or appear to have evidence of heat damage, or do not turn freely, they should be replaced with thermally protected units.

·      Please remember that bathroom fans should only be used for brief periods of time, such as during a shower. Many people run them excessively or even forget that they are on. Consider installing a timer switch instead of a manual switch to limit the unnecessary use of the fan. Turn off all fans as soon as they have done the job.

·      Consider replacing older models with new exhaust fans with thermal protection.

·      Turn exhaust fans off at night and before you leave the house.

Install 10-year smoke alarms and, if needed, a carbon monoxide detector on every level of your home (Maryland Law) and consider installing smoke alarms in every bedroom and sleep with your bedroom door closed.

  • Many thanks from pgfdpio to countryside fire district, fire protection association case forensics John Hall, Soraya Mclaughlin on positively Naperville, mini mops and the Rancho Cucamonga fire district as contributors to this information.
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Arrest Made in College Park Arson

December 14, 2018, 8:30 am
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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief PIO, 240-508-7930
MEBrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO


A man was arrested for setting fire to a College Park commercial strip center early this morning.  Just before 2:00 am, Friday, December 14th, firefighters arrived at the scene of a 1-story commercial structure that several businesses occupy in the 10000 block of Rhode Island Avenue.  Units arrived to find fire showing from a middle of the row business.  The well-advanced fire extended to attached businesses on both sides before being extinguished.

The building of origin is a mental health facility going by the name of “On Our Own”.

The fire was quickly extinguished and no injuries were reported.  Personnel form the Fire/EMS Department Office of the Fire Marshal determined the fire was incendiary in nature.  Fire loss was estimated at $250,000.

Shortly after firefighters arrived on the scene a suspect was identified and taken into custody by law enforcement officials.
The suspect, Paul Franklin Willis 3rd (DOB 01/24/1981) of no fixed address, has been  charged with starting the fire at 10007 Rhode Island Avenue.   Charges include:

Arson- Second Degree (Felony)
Malicious Burning- First Degree (Felony)
Malicious Burning- Second Degree (Misdemeanor)
Reckless Endangerment (Misdemeanor)
Additional charges are pending.

Paul Franklin Willis 3rd (DOB 01/24/1981) of no fixed address has been charged with Arson


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