Frederick County (MD) Division of Fire and Rescue Services

Spring into Fire Safety - April Edition

2014-03-31T14:54:00.000-04:00

Spring into Fire Safety – April Edition

Clothes Dryer Maintenance

The Frederick County Division of Fire and Rescue Services suggests that residents take a few extra steps to remain fire safe this spring. According to the United States Fire Administration, nearly 3,000 clothes dryer fires occur each year. Estimates from those fires indicate, 5 people are killed, 100 are injured and property loss results in $35 million dollars. Failure to clean the clothes dryer is the leading cause of these types of home fires. To prevent this from happening in your home, a few steps should be taken:

The lint filter must remain in place and properly fit the dryer. Lint is a highly combustible material that can accumulate both in the dryer and in the dryer vent.

Prior to and immediately following a load of laundry, the lint filter must be cleaned. Accumulated lint leads to reduced airflow and can pose a potential fire hazard.

Vent system piping should be inspected to ensure it is not crushed or damaged. A compromised vent will not exhaust properly to the outside.

Vent system openings should be inspected for possible airflow restrictions (vegetation, animals) or damage. Blockage in dryer exhaust vents can occur from the nests of small birds or other animals.

Wall dampers should remain in place to keep environmental elements out. Increased moisture buildup from snow and rain entering the opening can cause lint accumulations at the exhaust opening.

Replace coiled-wire foil or plastic venting with rigid, non-ribbed metal duct to limit airflow restriction and buildup of lint in piping. Flexible ductwork is more susceptible to exhaust path blockage from hose compression and lint buildup.

Know what you are drying: Don’t dry items that may be flammable, glass fiber materials, items containing foam, rubber or plastic. Multiple washings should be completed to minimize any volatile chemical contamination.

Don’t overload the dryer or leave it running when away from home.

In addition to these simple steps, residents should ensure that they have working smoke alarms both inside and outside of all sleeping areas. Deadly gases and smoke can spread throughout a home quickly, it is important that residents receive warning at the earliest time possible. For additional information about smoke alarms, visit our website at: https://frederickcountymd.gov/index.aspx?NID=2321.

Frederick County Preparing for Winter Weather

2013-12-06T16:31:00.000-05:00

Winter Storm Watch

**WINTER STORM WATCH IN EFFECT FROM SUNDAY MORNING THROUGH MONDAY MORNING**

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN BALTIMORE MD/WASHINGTON HAS ISSUED A WINTER STORM WATCH...WHICH IS IN EFFECT FROM SUNDAY MORNING THROUGH MONDAY MORNING.

* PRECIPITATION TYPE...SNOW AND SLEET WILL CHANGE OVER TO FREEZING RAIN SUNDAY AFTERNOON. FREEZING RAIN IS EXPECTED TO LAST UNTIL LATE SUNDAY NIGHT OR MONDAY MORNING BEFORE CHANGING TO RAIN.

* ACCUMULATIONS...1 TO 2 INCHES OF SNOW AND SLEET AND A QUARTER INCH OR MORE OF ICE ACCUMULATION IS POSSIBLE.

* TIMING...SNOW AND SLEET ARE EXPECTED TO BEGIN SUNDAY MORNING. A CHANGEOVER TO FREEZING RAIN IS EXPECTED MIDDAY SUNDAY AND WILL CONTINUE INTO THE NIGHT BEFORE CHANGING OVER TO RAIN LATE SUNDAY NIGHT OR MONDAY MORNING.

* TEMPERATURES...AROUND 30 DEGREES.

* WINDS...LIGHT NORTHERLY WINDS.

* IMPACTS...HAZARDOUS TRAVEL CONDITIONS ARE PROBABLE DUE TO SLICK ROADS AND ICY CONDITIONS SUNDAY AND POSSIBLY INTO MONDAY. INCREASED POWER OUTAGES ARE POSSIBLE.

A WINTER STORM WATCH MEANS THERE IS A POTENTIAL FOR SIGNIFICANT SNOW...SLEET...AND ICE ACCUMULATIONS THAT MAY IMPACT TRAVEL. CONTINUE TO MONITOR THE LATEST FORECASTS

Some helpful safety tips from the Frederick County Division of Fire and Rescue Services:

When possible, avoid travel during snow and ice events. If you must drive during these types of weather incidences adhere to the suggestions below:

Decrease your speed and leave yourself plenty of room to stop. You should allow at least three times more space than usual between you and the car in front of you.
Brake gently to avoid skidding. If your wheels start to lock up, ease off the brake.
Turn on your lights to increase your visibility to other motorists.
Keep your lights and windshield clean.
Use low gears to keep traction, especially on hills.
Don't use cruise control or overdrive on icy roads.
Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses and infrequently traveled roads, which will freeze first. Even at temperatures above freezing, if the conditions are wet, you might encounter ice in shady areas or on exposed roadways like bridges.
Don't pass snow plows and sanding trucks. The drivers have limited visibility, and you're likely to find the road in front of them worse than the road behind.
Don't assume your vehicle can handle all conditions. Even four-wheel and front-wheel drive vehicles can encounter trouble on winter roads.

If your rear wheels skid...

Take your foot off the accelerator.
Steer in the direction you want the front wheels to go. If your rear wheels are sliding left, steer left. If they're sliding right, steer right.
If your rear wheels start sliding the other way as you recover, ease the steering wheel toward that side. You might have to steer left and right a few times to get your vehicle completely under control.
If you have standard brakes, pump them gently.
If you have anti-lock brakes (ABS), do not pump the brakes. Apply steady pressure to the brakes. You will feel the brakes pulse — this is normal.

If you encounter an emergency incident..

Slow down and move over.
Pay attention to the activity in your driving lane and any directions that are given by traffic control personnel (fire police, law enforcement and/or highway workers).

Have an safe and enjoyable weekend. Happy Holidays from Frederick County DFRS.

Fire Marshal’s Office Issues Total Ban on Outdoor Burning

2013-11-13T09:47:00.002-05:00

(Frederick County, MD, November 13, 2013) – The Frederick County Fire Marshal’s Office has issued a total ban on outdoor burning effective immediately until 6:00 p.m. today. All outdoor burning, including recreational fires, is prohibited.

The National Weather Service issued a special weather statement earlier this morning for Frederick County that stated conditions consisting of gusty winds, low relative humidity and low fuel moisture will enhance the threat for the spread of wildfires.

For further information contact Captain Steve Leatherman at 301-600-2073 or via e-mail at sleatherman@FrederickCountyMD.gov.

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DFRS Budget Clarification

2013-11-07T12:58:00.000-05:00

Please read the e-mail and open letter, to all Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Personnel, below from Blaine R. Young, President, Board of County Commissioners, Frederick County, Maryland

From: Young, Blaine
Sent: Thursday, November 07, 2013 10:06 AM
To:
Subject: DFRS Budget Clarification

Good morning,

Thank you for your service to the citizens of Frederick County.

I have attached a letter related to DFRS spending. Please share it with anyone who does not have access to email. Please circulate the letter and post it in all stations.

As always, you can reach me by calling my office at 301-600-2336 or my cell at 301-748-3218.

I have included the letter below my signature for your convenience.

Thank you,

Blaine

November 7, 2013

To all Volunteer Fire and Rescue Personnel:

I wanted to contact you not only as the President of the Board of County Commissioners (Board) but also as the Commissioner Liaison to the Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association to dispel an inaccurate rumor that has been circulating.

It has come to my attention that some individuals have been spreading a rumor that the new fire chief has a “blank check” to spend and operate as she pleases and that she has been expanding the budget for personnel in the Division of Fire and Rescue Services (DFRS). This is NOT TRUE!

As a bit of background information, since Chief Pouget’s tenure began with DFRS, the upper management structure of the division has changed and the number of positions has been reduced. Under the previous division director, there were three bureau chiefs and a director of Volunteer Fire & Rescue Services. This consisted of four executive level management positions. Under the current fire chief, there are now two deputy chiefs. We now have two executive level management positions, a 50% reduction in management. The Director of Volunteer Fire & Rescue Services position was eliminated, and one bureau chief position remains unfilled and will not be backfilled at that level; the level of the backfill depends on the results of the Classification and Compensation Study under way by Fields Consulting.

It should be noted that two short-term contractual individuals have been retained to prepare long term plans for the division. One individual will be correcting major flaws in the procurement process and the other individual will be putting together a one year, a five year, a ten year and a twenty year plan for DFRS. This type of long term planning has never been done in the division.

Previously, total senior management in the division comprised 14 individuals; 3 bureau chiefs, 1 director of Volunteer Fire & Rescue Services, 9 battalion chiefs, and 1 captain. Under Chief Pouget we now have 12 individuals performing these tasks. This now includes; 2 deputy chiefs, 9 battalion chiefs, and 1 captain. The salary/position savings to the division and to the taxpayers totals $394,021.

This is a smaller, leaner and yet more effective organization.

Additionally, this Board finally has taken the responsibility to task a true director or fire chief to take action, be a pro-active manager, and expect results and accountability. In order to allow the fire chief the flexibility to manage her agency we have instituted a new budgeting mechanism. This is a form of zero based budgeting.

The fire chief will not receive additional budget funds, and will have to go through the same budgetary review and appeals process of every other government agency in Frederick County. However, she will have the ability to start every budget category in the division at zero dollars, not to look at past budgets, but to build in funding on what she believes are the priorities to provide the most effective and efficient public safety agency possible!

This budget starts at a total funding level of the previous fiscal year. There will be no budget increases built in to the division’s budget. If there is a need for additional funding, the fire chief will have to go through the normal budgetary process and appeals.

If the Board is going to demand accountability and results, we must properly allow that agency to be run in a way that meets that requirement.

I hope that I have addressed this rumor and any concerns that anyone might have. The volunteers are the backbone of our great fire and rescue services agency and we would not be able to provide the outstanding and quality public safety services to our citizens without your involvement. The Board and I are appreciative each and every day for your dedication and commitment to Frederick County.

Sincerely,

Blaine R. Young

P.S. Please make this letter and email available to those who have concerns about DFRS spending. Thank you!

15 Horses Rescued As Fire Destroys Three Buildings

2013-11-04T13:48:00.000-05:00

(Braddock Heights, MD, November 04, 2013) – Frederick County Fire and Rescue units were dispatched at 12:17 a.m. to 6102 Holter Road for the report of a barn fire. The first arriving unit reported multiple structures well involved with fire; it was later determined the structures were a two-story garage-shed, large barn and loafing shed.

The Incident Commander, Assistant Chief John Patton Jr., Braddock Heights Volunteer Fire Company, quickly requested a rapid intervention dispatch as well as additional water tankers because there was no public water system in the immediate area. A water supply shuttle was established to provide adequate water to protect exposures.

The three buildings of origin are a complete loss and continue to burn this afternoon. But, four other buildings (large barn, loafing shed, and two other structures), which were exposed to the fire, were saved suffering only minor damage.

Chief Patton commented, “I want to thank everybody for a job well done!”

25 chickens perished in the blaze but 15 horses were rescued unharmed. The homeowner was evaluated at the scene but refused treatment and transport; no other injuries were reported and no one was displaced.

Investigators were requested to the scene and the fire remains under investigation. Initial damage estimates place the total loss at $1,000,000.

For further information contact Community Services Liaison Doug Brown at 301-600-1905 or via e-mail at dbrown@FrederickCountyMD.gov.

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Best Pink T-Shirt Design Contest

2013-11-02T08:53:00.001-04:00

GOOD MORNING FREDERICK COUNTY! You’ve been there, bought the t-shirt, and supported a great cause! Now it’s time to have a little fun and get that t-shirt you’re wearing some national recognition. VOTE NOW AT http://www.iaff.org/Events/Pink2013/contest.asp!!

FRIDAY IS JUST NOT THE SAME UNLESS YOU HAVE SOMETHING TO DO ON THE WEEKEND!

2013-11-01T11:39:00.004-04:00

YOU’VE ONLY GOT A FEW HOURS UNTIL THE FIRST EVENT STARTS!!

· Friday 11/1: Big Money Bingo; Urbana VFD, Urbana, MD. from 4:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. 301-606-3008

· Saturday 11/2: Yard Sale; Lewistown VFD, 11101 Hessong Bridge Rd., from 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. 240-674-4688

· Sunday 11/3: Shoot Match; Graceham VFD, 14026 Graceham Rd., Thurmont, MD from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 301-271-2416

Young Man’s Concern for His Mother Prompts Members of the Brunswick Volunteer Fire Company to Take Action

2013-10-31T11:06:00.000-04:00

(Brunswick, Md, October 31, 2013) – Thaddeus Gabel approached Robert Hadley, of the Brunswick Volunteer Fire Company (BVFC), with a question during Brunswick Railroad Days earlier this month. Robert and other BVFC members were on site to educate the public on fire safety during this annual community event.

Thaddeus asked “If I was in the shower, how would my Mom know the smoke alarm was going off?” Thaddeus explained that his Mother, Jenniffer Gunderson, has been deaf since birth and is unable to hear the smoke alarm they have in their home when it activates. For the eight year old third grader, who attends Brunswick Elementary School, this is a natural concern as he regularly handles the American Sign Language interpretation duties for his Mom.

After returning to the fire station, Hadley and fellow BVFC member Nate Gesse contacted the Division of Fire & Rescue Services (www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/smokealarms) to see what could be done to answer Thaddeus’s question. Ultimately, this lead the BVFC members to the Maryland State Fireman’s Association, Fire & Injury Prevention and Life Safety Committee (www.msfa.org/content/prevention/) which provided two SafeAwake Intermittent Bed Shaker smoke alarm aids (safeawake.com) at no charge for BVFC to install; each aid has a retail value of $299.95 according to SafeAwake.

Recently, BVFC members Hadley, Geese, and Brandon Knight installed and tested both aids for Thaddeus and his Mother in their Brunswick home. Jennifer stated “I am very thankful for what everyone did to make this happen.”

Chief Denise Pouget of the Division of Fire & Rescue Services commented on this effort by saying, “I applaud Thaddeus for approaching the members of the BVFC with his question and them for going above and beyond to assure that he had a response that was satisfactory to him and his Mother. I am truly glad that we were able to help them.”

For further information, contact Community Services Liaison Doug Brown at 301-600-1905 or via e-mail at dbrown@FrederickCountyMD.gov.

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Daylight Saving Time Ends Sunday - Fall Back Safely

2013-10-30T12:34:00.000-04:00

(Frederick, Md, October 30, 2013) – As Daylight Saving Time ends this Sunday, November 3, at 2:00 a.m., Frederick County’s preparedness, public health and safety partners encourage citizens to fall back safely by changing clocks and completing a few other semi-annual tasks that will improve safety in a home or business.

· Check the age and replace the batteries in smoke alarms (www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/smokealarms) and carbon monoxide alarms (www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/carbonmonoxidealarms). Remember, Maryland requires both hard-wired and battery-operated smoke alarms to be replaced every 10 years. If a smoke alarm has not been replaced since 2003, it’s time!

· Prepare or refresh the emergency supply kit, www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/emergencysupplykit.

· Winter is coming! Make a winter car emergency kit, www.ready.gov/kit-storage-locations, now and put it in a vehicle.

· Check home and outbuilding storage areas for hazardous materials. Discard properly any which are outdated, no longer used or in poor condition. Move any which are within reach of children or pets.

· Check and properly discard expired medications, www.frederickcountymd.gov/prescriptiondrugtakebackeffort.

· Sign up for emergency alerts, www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/ALERTS.

For further information, contact Community Services Liaison Doug Brown at 301-600-1905 or via e-mail at dbrown@FrederickCountyMD.gov.

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FIRE/RESCUE AROUND FREDERICK THE COUNTY THIS WEEKEND!

2013-10-25T16:13:00.000-04:00

WE’LL SEE YOU THERE!!

Saturday 10/26: Vigilant Hose Company, 25 W. Main Street, Emmitsburg, MD, Annual Fire Prevention Open House, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Saturday 10/26: Brunswick Volunteer Fire Company, 1500 Volunteer Drive, Brunswick, MD, Zombie Halloween Concert & Costume Party For Those 18 & Older (3 Bands/Cash Prizes) $10.00 8:00 p.m.
Sunday 10/27: Fall Basket, Pottery & Money Bingo, Woodsboro Volunteer Fire Company, Activities Complex, 10307 Coppermine Road, Woodsboro, MD, from 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Sunday 10/27: CAR SAFETY SEAT CHECKPOINT, Myersville Fire Company, 301 Main Street, Myersville, MD, from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

This Week at the Frederick County Public Safety Training Facility (FCPSTF)

2013-10-25T13:28:00.001-04:00

We told you on Monday that it was National School Bus Safety Week. So, Lieutenant (LT) Mullendore, from the FCPSTF, took the opportunity to review rescue techniques with LT Shaw and the crew from United Fire Company FS 3.

It’s our obligation to be prepared but we hope we never have to use our training on such an incident!

WE LOVE YOU FREDERICK COUNTY!

2013-10-23T16:33:00.000-04:00

Just one more reason we love to be in the community… Lieutenant Lenne Stolberg and the crew from Junior Fire Company FS 2/B showed off the fire engine to fifty pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students at Calvary Weekday School; this little guy is Jack, Lt. Stolberg’s son. Photograph Courtesy JFC FS 2/B.

National School Bus Safety Week

2013-10-21T08:05:00.001-04:00

National School Bus Safety Week is October 21-25th.

“Stand Back From the Yellow and Black!”

It is important for the Bus Driver to educate students on standing back from the Danger Zone until the bus is:

· Completely stopped

· Red Eight Way Lights activated

· Direction from the driver to board the bus when safe

Remember the Danger Zone is 10-12 feet around the school bus.

Fire and Rescue Weekend Events!!

2013-10-18T13:33:00.000-04:00

COME ON OUT AND JOIN US!

· Saturday 10/19: Carroll Manor FC Annual Fire Prevention / Safety Day in conjunction with St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Fair, carnival grounds in Adamstown, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

· Saturday 10/19: Woodsboro Days, Woodsboro VFC, 2 S 3^rd Street, Woodsboro, MD, from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

· Saturday 10/19: Myersville VFC Open House (extinguisher, extrication demonstrations & refreshments), 301 Main St., Myersville, MD, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

· Sunday 10/20: New Market Volunteer Fire Company and Oakdale High Safe and Sane hold Breakfast, 76 West Main Street, New Market, MD, from 7:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

· Sunday 10/20: Urbana VF&R Fire Prevention Open House, 3602 Urbana Pike, Frederick, MD, from 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Fire and Shooting Investigation Update

2013-10-17T09:14:00.001-04:00

The Frederick County Sheriff’s Office has been notified that John R. Libeau, age 61, of Middletown, MD, died yesterday (10/16/2013) during the evening hours at R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center.

On 10/16/2013, the Frederick County Fire Investigation Task Force initiated an investigation into a shooting and house fire at a residence in the 8800 block of Pete Wiles Road in Middletown. Arriving units found Mr. Libeau lying on the ground outside his residence with a gunshot wound to the head and his residence engulfed in flames. He was flown to R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma for treatment.

Through investigation it was learned that Mr. Libeau had recently been going through a divorce, which was finalized on 10/15/2013. They also found gasoline cans inside the residence and additional evidence to indicate that Mr. Libeau set the fire.

The Fire Investigation Task Force has classified the case as a suicide and the investigation is continuing. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Cpl. Dave Dewees at 301-600-3677.

Sgt. Jennifer Bailey

Agency Spokesperson

Frederick County Sheriff's Office

Main: 301-600-1046

Office: 301-600-2534

Cell: 240-674-7681

Fax: 301-600-1011

jbailey@frederickcountymd.gov

Frederick County Sheriff’s Office, MD on Facebook

www.twitter.com/FredCoSheriff

Wegmans and Marshalls Evacuated After Odor Sickens Employees

2013-10-17T07:31:00.000-04:00

(Frederick, Md, October 16, 2013) – Fire and Rescue was contacted by Wegmans management shortly after 7 p.m. this evening to investigate an odor of unknown origin in their store on Wormans Mill Road. The Lieutenant on the first arriving unit reported a bleach-like odor in the store and discovered that two employees were suffering flu like symptoms from said odor; the hazardous materials response was requested. Fire and Rescue and Frederick Police Department personnel evacuated approximately one hundred twenty customers and employees from Wegmans and the immediately adjoining store, Marshalls.

Hazardous materials teams monitored both businesses but were unable to locate the source of the odor. Additionally, air monitoring was conducted and no abnormal readings were noted. Customers and employees were allowed to return approximately one and one-half hours after being evacuated.

The employees reporting symptoms recovered after being removed to fresh air and refused further treatment or transport.

Chief Denise Pouget of the Division of Fire & Rescue Services said, “I applaud the management of both businesses for taking a proactive approach on behalf of their customers and employees and working hand in hand with us to bring this to a successful and quick resolution.”

For further information contact Community Services Liaison Doug Brown at 301-600-1905 or via e-mail at dbrown@FrederickCountyMD.gov.

FIRE AND SHOOTING INVESTIGATION

2013-10-16T08:40:00.000-04:00

The Frederick County Fire Investigation Task Force is currently on the scene of a house fire and shooting in Middletown, MD. This morning at approximately 5:08 a.m. the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office and Frederick County Fire and Rescue Services responded to a residence in the 8800 block of Pete Wiles Road for a shooting and house fire. Upon arrival, an adult male with a gunshot wound was found outside the residence and the two story brick home was engulfed in flames.

Frederick County Fire and Rescue Services are currently on the scene working to extinguish the fire. The Frederick County Fire Marshal’s Office is also on the scene.

The victim was transported by Maryland State Police Aviation (Trooper 3) to R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore for treatment.

The Frederick County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Unit and Frederick County Bureau of Investigation are on the scene investigating.

Sgt. Jennifer Bailey

Agency Spokesperson

Frederick County Sheriff's Office

Main: 301-600-1046

Office: 301-600-2534

Cell: 240-674-7681

Fax: 301-600-1011

jbailey@frederickcountymd.gov

Frederick County Sheriff’s Office, MD on Facebook

www.twitter.com/FredCoSheriff

Frederick County Increases Education and Information Efforts to Improve Understanding of the Fire and Rescue Service

2013-10-09T13:46:00.000-04:00

(Frederick, Md, October 9, 2013) – Today, Frederick County Fire and Rescue launched a new initiative intended to improve its customers’ understanding of the fire and rescue service and assure that all requests for information receive a timely response.

When visiting the fire and rescue website, www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/DFRS, customers will find a way to more easily contact fire service personnel on a wide variety of issues.

Chief Denise Pouget of the Division of Fire & Rescue Services commented on this effort by saying, “As this is fire prevention week, there is no better time to increase our public outreach. Since July, our community services liaison has improved the community’s awareness of the fire and rescue service through increased distribution of news releases and use of social media -- this is just one more tool in our toolbox.”

Citizens who have general fire and rescue questions, would like to arrange for a speaker at their organization, or require general fire/rescue information will find this an easy way to contact the division. Smoke alarms or child seat safety information can be obtained using the contact information below.

Smoke Alarm: 301-600-7275 (Smoke Alarms Save Lives) or e-mail smokealarm@FrederickCountyMD.gov.

Child Safety Information: 301-600-7328 (SEAT).

Visit the Division of Fire and Rescue Services on facebook: Frederick County (MD) Fire & Rescue; twitter: @FCDFRS, and blogspot: fcdfrs.blogspot.com.

For further information contact Community Services Liaison Doug Brown at 301-600-1905 or via e-mail at dbrown@FrederickCountyMD.gov.

A Message From National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Executive Director Chief Ronald Jon Siarnicki.

2013-10-08T09:22:00.001-04:00

From: Ronald J. Siarnicki [mailto:rsiarnicki@firehero.org]

Sent: Monday, October 07, 2013 9:11 PM
To:
Subject: Our Finest Moment.

Good Evening,

When the Federal Government shut down last week forcing us to scramble to make Memorial Weekend 2013 happen, Chief John McGrath told me that despite such a major obstacle, “this would be our finest moment”. It was an extremely accurate prediction.

As we all know there is only one measure for the success of Memorial Weekend. That comes from how it’s viewed by the survivors we host. The comments that have come in so far, including some you can view for yourself on the NFFF Facebook page, clearly show that this was another extremely moving and memorable weekend. We may have anguished over a lot of difficult decisions and worked much longer than normal hours to deal with some very unusual challenges, but the survivors, as it should be, never saw us sweat. They saw, as survivors have every year, a poignant and loving tribute to their firefighter.

All of this is really a tribute to you. Our survivors and the public will never know how hard you worked under difficult and challenging conditions. But I know, the rest of the Foundation leadership knows and we hope you know that this was our finest moment. It’s something we all should be proud of.

We know we did not do this alone. The assistance received from fire and EMS departments in the region and from our command team were extraordinary. There were so many resources committed to us that I’m afraid if I start listing them, I will leave someone out. You all know who you are and your commitment to the Foundation and the survivors at a time of need will not be forgotten.

Our immediate neighbors, to include: Frederick County, Howard County, the Town of Emmitsburg, the Daughters of Charity, Mount St. Mary’s University, Vigilant Hose Company and the Emmitsburg Volunteer Ambulance Company opened their hearts and buildings to us so that we could provide the services and programs we promised.

Our corporate partners, as always, helped fund the weekend activities and provide personnel to work the various activities we offer to our survivor families.

Probably the most extraordinary moment of a most extraordinary weekend was the one that was most in doubt. This was when the survivors were taken Saturday evening through the gates of the closed NETC campus to visit the Memorial. That would not have happened without our good friends Chief Ernie Mitchell, United States Fire Administrator, W. Craig Fugate, Administrator of FEMA, and The Honorable Steny Hoyer of Maryland’s 5^th District. Along with a core team of individuals who work within the FEMA and USFA systems that helped make sure the families had a most beneficial visit to the memorial grounds.

Through the many long nights and days, our staff, contractors, returning survivors and Memorial Weekend volunteers accepted all of the changes in stride. You thought strategically and executed plans creatively. You used your brains and brawn to get the job done efficiently and professionally. But probably most importantly you maintained the sense of humor, compassion and perspective so needed to make all of this work

I am confident that, because of you, the survivors left Emmitsburg on Sunday with the assurance that they – and their firefighters – will never be forgotten. They remain Forever in Our Hearts

Thanks and Be Safe.

RJS

Fire Damages Two Apartments

2013-10-07T10:07:00.005-04:00

(Frederick, MD, October 05, 2013) – Frederick County Fire and Rescue units were dispatched at 6:50 p.m. to 2 Water Street in Frederick City for the report of a multi-family house fire with people trapped. The first arriving unit reported a two story building with smoke coming from the first and second floors.

The Incident Commander quickly requested a rapid intervention dispatch while crews initiated an immediate, aggressive interior search for trapped occupants while simultaneously attacking the fire.

It took 38 personnel approximately twenty minutes to bring the fire under control. No one was found inside the structure, which contained two apartments, and no injuries were reported. The American Red Cross is assisting those displaced by the fire.

Fire Marshals were requested to the scene to determine the origin and cause of the fire; the fire remains under investigation. Initial damage estimates place the total loss at $25,000.00.

For further information contact Community Services Liaison Doug Brown at 301-600-1905 or via e-mail at dbrown@frederickcountymd.gov.

Fire Destroys Barn

2013-10-04T12:46:00.000-04:00

(Smithsburg, MD, October 04, 2013) – Frederick County Fire and Rescue units were dispatched at 11:18 p.m. last night to 12827 Loy Wolfe Road in Smithsburg for the report of a barn fire. The first arriving unit reported a barn, approximately 30’ X 40’, fully engulfed by fire with the roof collapsed.

The Incident Commander quickly requested additional water tankers, because there was no public water system in the immediate area, and established a water supply shuttle to provide adequate water to extinguish the fire.

The bulk of the fire was out at 12:03 a.m. and firefighters continued to extinguish hot spots, monitor conditions and conduct overhaul. No injuries were reported.

Investigators were requested to the scene and the fire remains under investigation. Initial damage estimates place the total loss at $50,000.00.

For further information contact Community Services Liaison Doug Brown at 301-600-1905 or via e-mail at dbrown@frederickcountymd.gov.

Fire and Rescue Weekend Events!

2013-10-04T12:12:00.001-04:00

· Saturday 10/5: United Fire Company will be at Sears at the FSK Mall from 1:30-3:30 p.m. for a safety event. Contact Jolene Miller at 301-788-2260 for additional information.

· Saturday & Sunday 10/5&6: Home Depot, 51 N McCain Drive, Safety Weekend from 9:00 a.m. – 2 p.m. daily.

· Saturday & Sunday 10/5&6: Kmart, 1003 W Patrick ST, Safety Weekend from 10:00 a.m. – 4 p.m. daily.

Zumba® For Breast Cancer Awareness

2013-10-02T17:37:00.000-04:00

Frederick County Fire Companies Sound the Sirens in Honor of the Fallen Firefighters

2013-10-02T16:38:00.000-04:00

(Frederick, MD, October 2, 2013) – On Sunday, October 6, at 12:00 p.m., the Division of Fire and Rescue Services and fire companies throughout Frederick County may sound the sirens in honor of fallen firefighters. DFRS and local fire companies are alerting the public to this so as not to create any undue hardship or worry from the siren activation.

Long before there were telephones and radios in use in America, fire departments utilized the telegraph to receive fire alarms from those once familiar red fire alarm boxes that stood on practically every street corner of our Nation's cities.

When a firefighter fell in the line of duty, the Fire Alarm Office, the forerunner of today's computerized Fire Communications Centers, would "tap out" a special signal, "Five-Five-Five" (5-5-5), over the telegraph fire alarm circuits which went to all station houses. Done for the purpose of notification, and as a sign of honor and respect, such symbolism has been a long-honored fire service tradition which still continues in some cities today.

For further information contact Community Services Liaison Doug Brown at 301-600-1905 or via e-mail at dbrown@frederickcountymd.gov.

Despite government shutdown memorial honoring fallen firefighters will still be held

2013-10-01T12:51:00.000-04:00

Alternate sites will be used if national memorial remains closed

Recruits from Anne Arundel County Fire Department help NFFF move Memorial Weekend Command Post to Elizabeth Ann Seton Daughters of Charity located next to the National Emergency Training Center campus.

NFFF will provide regular updates throughout the week via the news media, our website, www.firehero.org, and our Facebook page. Note: the phone number and address for the foundation remain the same. Anyone needing to contact NFFF should call 301-447-1365 and mail will be received at P.O. Drawer 498, Emmitsburg, MD 21727.

Because of the Federal government shutdown, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) is readying backup locations for this weekend's ceremonies to honor 81 firefighters who died in the line of duty. The closing of the National Emergency Training Center (NETC) in Emmitsburg, Maryland, the home of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial, will not stop the nation from honoring its heroes. In case the memorial remains off-limits through next weekend, nearby facilities will be used for the events. "If you have plans to attend these ceremonies, do not change them," said Dennis Compton, chairman of the NFFF Board of Directors. "We will be honoring these firefighters and their families this weekend in Emmitsburg as we have done for 32 years." Through the generosity of our good neighbors, the Elizabeth Ann Seton Daughters of Charity and Mount St. Mary's University, the Candlelight Vigil on Saturday, October 5 and the Memorial Service on Sunday, October 6 will go on as planned. The Daughters of Charity have also provided space for the Memorial Weekend Command Post. "If it is at all possible, our hope is to still have the ceremonies on the grounds of the Memorial," explained Compton. "If the campus remains closed as the week progresses, we will move the Candlelight and Memorial Services to our backup locations. This is a fluid situation and we have plans in place for different scenarios." "Our priority is to make sure the survivors receive the support, resources and respect they need and deserve. Therefore, the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend will occur, regardless of what happens on Capitol Hill," said Chief Ronald Siarnicki, executive director of the NFFF. "We felt it was better to prepare in advance for the potential shutdown than to wait for a decision from Congress." Thanks to donations of staffing and facilities from the Emmitsburg Volunteer Ambulance Company, the Town of Emmitsburg, Anne Arundel County Fire Department, Frederick County Division of Fire and Rescue Services and Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services, the NFFF has moved its headquarters to the Emmitsburg Ambulance Building for the week. "All those who are helping understand that Memorial Weekend is an important step in a survivor's journey. While our physical location may have to change, the foundation's mission remains the same - helping the loved ones of the fallen along their path towards healing," said Siarnicki.