Frederick County Preparing for Winter Weather

	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

(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

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

(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

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!

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

(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

(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!

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)

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!

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

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!!

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

          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

(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

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

(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.

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

(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

(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!

·         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

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

(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

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.

Nine Graduate from Paramedic Course

(Frederick, MD, September 30, 2013) – The Frederick County Public Safety Training Facility (FCPSTF) was the site for the Division of Fire and Rescue Services (DFRS) Paramedic Class 2013 graduation Friday evening September 27. Paramedic Class 2013 consisted of one volunteer and eight career students all of whom will provide advanced life support to the citizens of Frederick County. Each student received over one-thousand-five-hundred hours of lecture, simulation and clinical training during the ten month course that was taught by DFRS personnel at the FCPSTF. Special acknowledgement went to class Valedictorian Firefighter / Paramedic Steven Snyder who had a course average of over ninety-three percent. The keynote speaker, Jeffrey Fillmore MD, Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems, Region II Medical Director, told the graduates to “love your patients and never stop learning.” Chief Denise Pouget said, “I am so proud of your accomplishment! What an awesome achievement!” For further information contact Community Services Liaison Doug Brown at 301-600-1905 or via e-mail at dbrown@frederickcountymd.gov.

Frederick County’s Latest Class of Paramedics Set to Graduate This Evening!

The Division of Fire & Rescue Services Frederick County, Maryland requests the honor of your presence at the Graduation Exercises for Paramedic Class 2013 on Friday, September 27, 2013 at Seven O’Clock in the Evening at 5370 Public Safety Place, Frederick, MD Room 130

Frederick County Fire and Rescue Services Reminds Residents to “Prevent Kitchen Fires”

(Frederick, MD, September 26, 2013) – The Frederick Board of County Commissioners and Frederick County Fire and Rescue Services held a joint public information briefing today to announce their plans to join forces with the nonprofit National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to remind local residents to “Prevent Kitchen Fires” during Fire Prevention Week from October 6 through 12. During this year’s fire safety campaign, emergency medical services (EMS), fire and rescue companies throughout Frederick County will be spreading the word about the dangers of kitchen fires, most of which result from unattended cooking, and teaching local residents how to prevent kitchen fires from starting in the first place. According to the latest NFPA research, cooking is the leading cause of home fires. Two of every five home fires begin in the kitchen, more than any other place in the home. Cooking fires are also the leading cause of home fire-related injuries. “Often when we’re called to a fire that started in the kitchen, the residents tell us that they only left the kitchen for a few minutes,” said Chief Denise Pouget of the Frederick County Division of Fire & Rescue Services. “Sadly, that’s all it takes for a dangerous fire to start. We hope that Fire Prevention Week will help us reach folks in the community before they’ve suffered a damaging lesson.” Among the safety tips that EMS, fire, rescue and safety advocates will be emphasizing: • Stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling, broiling or boiling food. • If one must leave the room, even for a short period of time, turn off the stove. • When simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly and stay in the home and use a timer as a reminder. • Have young children? Use the stove’s back burners whenever possible. Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the stove. • When cooking, wear clothing with tight-fitting sleeves. • Keep potholders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper and plastic bags, towels and anything else that can burn, away from a stovetop. • Clean up food and grease from burners and stovetops. Fire Prevention Week is actively supported by fire departments across the country. Fire Prevention Week is the longest running public health and safety observance on record. For further information or assistance in scheduling a fire prevention event, contact the Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association, Fire and Life Safety Committee Chairperson Sherry Soper at 301-514-0019 or via e-mail at prevention1@yahoo.com or Community Services Liaison Doug Brown at 301-600-1905 or via e-mail at dbrown@frederickcountymd.gov.

Utility Worker Trapped in Water-filled Trench

(New Market, MD, September 24, 2013) – Frederick County Fire/Rescue and Sheriff’s Office personnel responded to Eaglehead Drive between North Shore Way and Whistling Swan Way in Lake Linganore for a trench rescue at 3:09 p.m. First arriving fire and rescue units located one adult male trapped in a trench with rapidly running water, from a twelve inch water main, up to his neck and rising. Initial rescue efforts focused on maintaining the victim’s airway and working to shut down the water main. With the water turned off, rescuers were able to determine that he was conscious, alert and trapped in mud and construction debris up to his waist. Technical Rescue Teams from Frederick, Montgomery, and Howard counties began work on an extrication effort that would last three hours. The patient was successfully extricated at 6:15 p.m. and flown by Maryland State Police Aviation to the University of Maryland Medical Center Shock Trauma. Chief Denise Pouget of the Frederick County Division of Fire & Rescue Services told responders in the on-scene critique (hot wash) immediately following the incident, “I am extremely proud of the response today that led to a successful outcome with the victim rescued. I want to thank all of the responding agencies from Frederick, Montgomery, and Howard counties. This was a job well done!” A total of 65 personnel responded to the scene on 38 units. Maryland Occupational Safety and Health remained on the scene investigating. For further information contact Community Services Liaison Doug Brown at 301-600-1905 or via e-mail at dbrown@frederickcountymd.gov.