Cool Safety Tips

Looks like the heat is on – again! I hope that everyone is able to stay cool, and safe, today!

With the thought of cool and safety in mind, I thought I would combine the two and provide all of you some cool safety tips. These are not all related to heat – though one is.

I hope you can take a moment and click on the below links so that you can be made aware of some safety recalls of products you might be using:

1. Fisher-Price Recalls to Repair Little People Builders' Load 'n Go Wagons due to Laceration Hazard

2. Strollers Recalled by phil&teds USA Due to Risk of Injury from Brake Failure

3. Honeywell Recalls Electric Baseboard and Fan Heater Thermostats Due to Burn Hazard

Of course what anticipated 100 degree, up to 105 degree plus heat index, day would not be complete with out some tips to stay COOL in this hot weather? The below also goes over the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke:

Cool Tips for Hot Weather

As always – BE SAFE! Hope everyone has a great Friday and even better weekend!

Stay Safe,
Bill

Significant Fire & EMS Incidents From July 18 through July 24

Battalion 1 Incidents

• Motor Vehicle Crash Colesville Road @ Silgo Creek PKWY – Fire units found 2 vehicles w/ 3 trauma patients (1 trapped & 1 pinned). 1 MCPD officer 2 civilian patients transported to local hospitals.

• House Fire in the 3 block of Hickory Ave – Fire units arrived to find smoke showing from the roof. Fire started on the rear below the deck and spread to the attic then entered the structure. $400K damage to structure and $200K to contents

Battalion 2 Incidents

• River Rescue at Purple Horse Beach. Units retrieved a 16 year old female w/ a minor ankle injury. Patient, and mother, refused further treatment.

Battalion 3 Incidents

• House Fire in the 13000 block of Mustang Hill La - Fire started on exterior of rear of home possibly due to improperly discarded smoking materials that ignited decking & siding. Fire extended into attic was through the roof on arrival of fire units. Exterior & interior coordinated attack extinguished fire. $200K damage to structure and $100K to contents.

• Building Fire in the 11100 block of Rockville Pike – Fire units arrived and found fire on the 1st floor. A 2nd Alarm was called for. Three business involved and impacted. 1 Fire Fighter transported to local hospital for heat issues.

Battalion 4 Incidents

• House Fire in the 4000 block of Glenridge St- Fire units arrived and found a fire in the basement. Fire fighters were able to contain fire to one room. No injuries with loss of $10K in structure and $5K for the contents.

• House Fire in the 12100 block of Veirs Mill Rd. – Fire units arrived on scene with smoke showing. Fire fighters found fire out and reported it to be food left on the stove with no extension but heavy smoke.

• Apartment Fire in the 5500 block of Burnside Dr. – Fire units arrived on scene and found a fire on balcony of one apartment. The fire was contained to the balcony. Damage estimated at $300 to structure and $500 to contents. Cause determined to be discarded smoking material.

Battalion 5 Incidents

• Hazardous Materials Incident in the1 block of Observation Court - Hazmat call for unknown chemical ("white powder") found on several vehicles in the parking lot of an apartment complex. Haz Mat crew determined the substance was table salt. Referred to MCPD for vandalism investigation.

• Trauma Injury from a fall in the 6500 block of Olney-Laytonsville Road - Counselor/lifeguard fell from lifeguard stand onto pool deck & into pool. C-spine stabilized by staff in the pool prior to fire units arrival. Patient treated & transported to local hospital as a Priority 2/Category C trauma.

Recruiting Section Update

Montgomery County (MD) Fire and Rescue Service was unsuccessful in obtaining a Fiscal Year (FY) 2010 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant. As a result, no additional recruit classes will be hired other than those from IRC #3431 (previously trained) which closed on July 8, 2011.

Please continue to check our website (www.mcfrs.org/recruiting) and the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service Recruitment facebook page for updates.

MCFRS Fire Fighter Gearing Up For World Police and Fire Games

By: Bryan Stottlemyer
Firefighter/Paramedic

It’s that time of year again when our cycling team Capital Region Fire and Police Cycling, comprised of local public safety personnel, sets its sites on our annual target events. This year we are headed for the World Police and Fire Games which, for the first time, will be held in New York City. The dates of the games are August 26 – September 5, and will coincide with a ten year 9/11 tribute at the site of the World Trade Center.

Courtesy of crfpc.com

To date, the games currently have over 18,000 competitors registered from countries around the world in 86 different events. It is the largest global summer sports competition superseded only by the Summer Olympics.

This year’s team includes personnel from Montgomery County Fire/Rescue, Alexandria Fire Dept., Alexandria Police Dept., Metropolitan Police Dept. (DC), Fredericksburg Sheriff’s Dept., and Hayward Fire Dept.

This year, similar to last year, our team has been training hard for the upcoming games. Last year, at the Can-Am Police and Fire Games, we earned a total of 12 medals throughout the cycling disciplines. This year, the team has already had a handful of top-ten finishes throughout the Mid-Atlantic region, and we’re using the remainder of our time before the games to further prepare for the steep competition that the World Games promises to bring. Our venues will include Central Park, Grant’s Tomb, Long Island, and more.

We are excited to have the opportunity to represent our team, our departments, and our country in this large event.

For those interested in learning more, and how you might help our effort, please visit www.crfpc.com for further details.

MCFRS, Mitsubishi Motors, Kids Safety First and Safe Kids Team Up to Conduct Car Safety Seat Check

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for children 3 to 14 years old. Each day in the U.S. an average of 4 children are killed in traffic crashes, 529 are injured and National data show that 73% of all child seats are misused.

With the busy summer travel season underway, Fire Chief Richard Bowers will be on hand to kick off the event and to accept a generous grant of $2000.00 from Mitsubishi Motors that will be used to purchase seats and host events in Montgomery County. At Saturday’s event, child passenger safety technicians from Montgomery County Fire Rescue and other volunteers will be available to inspect and install car seats and provide parents and caregivers with one-on-one instruction on how to properly use their child’s infant, toddler or booster seat. Scheduled appointments are preferred, but drop in appointments will be accommodated as well. Montgomery County has completed over 117,000 car seat inspections since March 2000 and has trained over 1,300 car seat technicians.

WHEN: July 23: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

WHERE: King Mitsubishi
16160 Frederick Road
Gaithersburg, MD 20877

For information on scheduling an appointment, please call 301-742-1850. The last car seat inspection will start at 1:30 p.m.

Remember Your Pets During The Excessive Heat Warning

A good reminder from our public safety partners at MCPD!

"The National Weather Service is forecasting excessive heat for the next three days, with ambient temperatures reaching 100 degrees. The resulting heat index will be 105 to 115 degrees with little cloud cover. The National Weather Service advises people to stay out of the sun, check on elderly relatives and neighbors, and be careful to keep pets in the shade and give them plenty of fresh water.

Montgomery County Police want to remind residents to be especially careful with all pets during this time of increased heat. Animals that are outdoors must have access to shade, shelter, and plenty of fresh water. Never leave children, the elderly, dogs and other pets inside a parked vehicle even with the windows open. With temperatures outside registering 100 or more degrees, the temperature inside a vehicle can quickly climb to a much higher temperature within minutes

The Director of the Montgomery County Police Animal Services Division, Captain Michael Wahl, is enforcing Executive Regulation 10-10AM, Anti-Cruelty Conditions for Dogs, Section 2-D, which states, “A person must not tether a dog under circumstances that endanger its health, safety, or well-being, including: unattended tethering of a dog during a weather emergency.” The penalty for this violation is a fine of $500. This law was enacted by the Montgomery County Council in June of 2002. This regulation will be enforced as long as and/or whenever the Weather Service issues an Excessive Heat Warning.

Heat Related Issues for Fire Fighters and How They Cope

By: Fire Fighter Matthew Miles
      Station 24 B-Shift

A frequently asked question that fire fighters get asked in the summer months is how hot is it inside your gear?

Courtesy of Central PA Bravest

The answer: Imagine what you would wear for an afternoon of sledding on a blustery January day. Now imagine wearing the same layers of warm clothing outside with temperatures as hot as they are this week. Then imagine how hot you would get while jogging down your favorite trail for 45 minutes in the same clothes.

A simple automatic fire alarm (false alarm) in your office building can turn a firefighter’s uniform shirt that was dry one minute to the point that it can literally be rung out with sweat the next. Now imagine how much water fire fighters can lose inside a burning building with 100 pounds of gear on.

Fire fighters MUST hydrate while on and off duty to keep their water and electrolyte levels in normal ranges. Below are a few tips firefighters follow during the summer months.

• Start the day with a full tank of water

• Hydrate yourself regularly through the day. Fire fighters can sweat off 2 quarts of water per hour especially in hot and humid weather. So, you must drink at least 4 up to 8 ounces of water every 15 minutes.

Courtesy of Central PA Bravest

• Do not be afraid that you are drinking too much. Once you realize you’re dehydrated, it’s too late and you’re most likely done for the day and putting yourself at huge risk.

• After major incidents, you need to consume a sports drink (Gatorade) to replenish your electrolytes (sodium, potassium and magnesium) which help retain fluid in the body and balance out these minerals that are vital to the normal bodily function.

• We lose electrolytes when we sweat. Dizziness, muscle cramps, extreme exhaustion and irregular heartbeat are symptoms of electrolyte loss in the body.

• According to nutrition experts, many athletes and firefighters lose endurance due to low levels of electrolytes.

• Another simple way to help keep hydrated and replenish vitamins and minerals is to lay out a fresh cut watermelon and place it over ice. Not many people can pass up a fresh, cold slice of watermelon!

Significant Fire & EMS Incidents From July 11 through July 17

Battalion 1 Incidents

• House Fire in the 10600 block of Greenacres Drive - Fire units arrived to find smoke showing from home. Investigation revealed a defective dryer with lint that caught fire in the hose with smoke in the house.

• Building Fire in the 800 block of Roeder Rd - Report of smoke on the 9th floor. Fire units found element in A/C unit burned up & extinguished prior to FD arrival with no extension. No reported injuries, dollar loss or displacements.

Battalion 2 Incidents

• House Fire in the 5 block of West Lenox St – Report of House Filling Up w/ Smoke. Fire units arrived w/nothing showing on the outside but found a slight haze inside. Units determined an overheated light fixture. .

Battalion 3 Incidents

• House Fire in the 12027 block of Whippoorwill Lane – Fire units arrived to find a large house with a fire in the attic. Second alarm called to assist. No dollar loss or cause reported at this time.

• Motor Vehicle Crash in the 23500 block of Mt Ephriam Road – Fire units arrived to find one person ejected from a car that was on fire with electrical wires down. Occupant was DOA and scene turned over to MC PD.

• Stranded Boat at Whites Ferry - Stranded Boat North of Ferry on rocks - Boat714 assisted boat off of rocks.

Battalion 4 Incidents

• Motor Vehicle Crash Norbeck Rd near Hannahs Way – Fire units arrived to find an adult male w/trauma injuries. Patient was being transported to a local hospital when he became violent. MCPD on-scene to assist.

Battalion 5 Incidents

• Hazardous Materials Incident in the 23000 block of Turtle Rock Terrace – Fire units arrived and found an outside gas leak. 2" broken outside gas service. Scene secured until arrival of gas company.

• Hazardous Materials Incident RT121 @ I270 – Fire units arrived and found an 8" broken gas line leaking. I270 shut down for several hours, Clarksburg jail without gas.

• Motor Vehicle Crash Muncaster Mill Rd near Avery Rd – Fire units found an adult female patient with trauma injuries. Transported to a local hospital.

• Town House Fire in the 10200 block of Ridgeline Dr. – Fire units arrived and found a 2-story Town House w/smoke on the 2nd floor. Fire Fighters found a defective HVAC unit that caught sub-flooring on fire. Damage of $6K to the structure w/1 adult & 3 children displaced.

• Pedestrian Struck by a Train at W. Diamond Ave under Rt 355 – Fire units found one person who was DOA and turned over scene to MCPD.

From Hot to Hotter! Prepare and be Aware!

While it was fairly hot yesterday and now today, weather forecasters are now indicating Wednesday through Saturday will be even hotter!

As one of our County residents recently pointed out on Facebook (thank you Mr. Lopes), our seniors are especially susceptible to the heat. Please make sure to check on any senior friends or family members during this heat wave. Since many are on fixed incomes, broken air conditioners may stay broke and are not working when they need them the most. Or, the fear of the electric bill may also provoke some to just keep it off and attempt other, less effective ways to stay cool.

So PLEASE make sure to check up on your senior friends, neighbors and family members!

Please take a moment to click on both links below and review the various tips. Also make sure you forward on to friends and family! Prepare and be aware!

Cool Tips for Hot Weather

Hot Cars and Kids are a Deadly Combination

Be safe!

Bill

Clothes Dryer Fire Safety Tips

While most home appliances are used without incident, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that 15,500 fires associated with clothes dryers occur annually, causing an average of 10 deaths, 310 injuries and more than $84.4 million in property damage. A lack of maintenance, buildup of lint, placing inappropriate items in the dryer and inadequate venting are frequently cited as contributing factors.

Did You Know?

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates that 15,500 clothes dryer fires occur annually, causing an average of 10 deaths, 310 injuries and more than $84.4 million in property damage.

Eighty-percent of American homes have clothes dryers.

A full load of wet clothes placed in a dryer contains about one half gallon of water. As the clothes dry, lint forms and builds up, reducing airflow in the dryer's vent, potentially causing the dryer to work improperly or overheat.

Clothes Dryer DOs:

DO clean the lint screen/filter before or after drying EACH load of clothes.

DO clean the dryer vent and exhaust duct periodically.

DO have a certified service technician clean and inspect the dryer and venting system regularly.

DO replace plastic or vinyl exhaust hoses with rigid or flexible metal venting, which provides maximum airflow.

DO keep the area around the dryer clean and free from clutter.

Always use the appropriate electrical outlet for dryers and all major appliances.

Clothes Dryer DON'Ts:

DON'T place clothing or fabric stained with a flammable substance, such as alcohol, cooking oils, gasoline, spot removers or motor oil, in the dryer. Flammable substances give off vapors that could ignite or explode. Instead, dry the materials outdoors.

DON'T leave a dryer operating if you are not home.

DON'T forget to read the manufacturer warnings in the user manual and on the inside of the dryer door

DON'T dry any item containing foam, rubber or plastic, such as bathroom and non-slip rugs and athletic shoes.

DON'T dry any item that contains glass fiber materials, such as a blouse or sweater with glass buttons or decorations.

DON'T overload the dryer with wet clothes.

Can we find you in an EMERGENCY?

In an emergency, police, fire and rescue workers depend on house numbers to find YOU as quickly as possible. Finding your home - especially at night - can be challenging if address numbers are unreadable, hidden, unlighted or have missing numbers and may delay emergency responders from getting to you as quickly as possible.

Are your house numbers visible from the street? Are they set on a background of contrasting color? If your house is hidden from the street, are your numbers attached to a visible fence, mailbox or gate? Is your mobile home identified with your house number? If you live on a corner, does your house number face the street named in your address?

If you've answered "no" to any of these questions, please follow the guidelines below to make sure your house number is easy to read:

1. Numbers must be visible from the street. Existing residential home numbering can be 3 1/2 inches high, however new residential homes must be at least 5 inches high and if you replace existing numbers they must be at least 5 inches high.
2. Numbers should be placed on a contrasting background, with a reflective coating on the numbers for easy visibility at night.
3. Repair or replace aging address number placards, especially on mailboxes that are a distance from the front of the residence.
4. Prune any bushes, tree limbs or other growth that has covered your house numbers.
5. Numbers should be placed on or beside the front door. If your door is not easily seen from the street, put the numbers on a post, fence or tree at the driveway entrance so they can be clearly seen from the street. In addition to numbers on the front door of your house, if you have a rural-style mailbox, reflective and contrasting numbers should be placed on both sides of the box so they can be seen by an emergency vehicle approaching from either direction.

Montgomery County Code on Addresses

1. The owner of any structure presently existing or constructed in the future must display Arabic numbers designating the address assigned to the structure by the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, or by the municipality in which the structure is located. Numbers must be at least five (5) inches high for single-family detached and attached residences and at least six (6) inches high for commercial, industrial or multifamily structures. However, if the numbers designating the address of a single-family residence on April 5, 1988, were at least three (3) inches high, those numbers comply with the size requirement of this section as long as they remain in place. Address displays must be posted on a contrasting background displayed in a conspicuous place that is unobstructed and clearly readable from the street named in the official address of the structure. Where a structure has more than one (1) address or where more than one (1) structure shares a common entry or driveway, numbers must designate the addresses in sequence.
2. An agency of the county must not require a permit for a sign containing only the address of a residence if the sign is smaller than a maximum size set by the county executive by regulation.

Significant Fire & EMS Incidents From July 4 through July 10

Battalion 1 Incidents

• House Fire in the 500 block of E Indian Spring Drive - Report of smoke coming from the house. Fire Units arrived to find smoke showing on the front side of house and heavy fire from the one side of a single story ranch style home with a basement. Second Alarm requested and dispatched. Fire extinguished with interior attack. Second alarm placed in service without being utilized. 1 FD injury, no civilian injuries, 1 civilian occupant displaced and refused Red Cross. Cause undetermined with $350K loss to structure and $150K loss of contents.

Battalion 2 Incidents

• House Fire in the 4100 block of Edgevale Ct. Fire Units arrived to find smoke showing from one side of the house with a working bedroom fire and all occupants out. Contained and extinguished quickly. Two occupants displaced. $250K loss to structure and $50K to contents.

• Hazardous Materials Incident in the 20 block of W. Irving Street - Hazmat call for Nitric Acid Spill inside a single family home. Fire Units found very small spill which was cleaned up by Haz Mat Unit.

Battalion 3 Incidents

• Drowning at Wisteria & Sky Blue Drive - Units responded to a reported drowning at Gunners Lake. Units AOS to find working code and transported to a local hospital.

• Hazardous Materials Incident in the 12400 block of Parklawn Dr., (NIH Fed facility) for unknown powder spill on first floor. Powder was residue from steam autoclave disinfectant machine due to incomplete combustion. Tested powder, no hazard at all. No loss or injuries.

• Injury in the 16600 block of W Willard Rd @ Poolesville GC - one run over by golf cart. Patient transported Priority 2 with significant injuries to a local hospital.

• Gas Leak in the 5700 block of Stillwell Rd - Significant Inside gas leak. Evacuations of near by homes required until situation mitigated.

• Disabled Boat @ Whites Ferry – Service Call for Tow of disabled boat. Significant water & aerial assets utilized. Were able to tow boat to Rileys Lock

Battalion 4 Incidents

• House Fire in the 14000 block of Punch Street - Fire Units found a propane grill that had been on fire on a deck with a wood frame roof overhead. Fire had been extinguished by garden hose prior to arrival. $1K loss to contents and $4K to the structure.

• House Fire in the 13000 block of Beacon Hallow Lane - Dispatched for a house filling with smoke. Fire Units arrived on scene with nothing showing, and quickly determine cause to be overheated garbage disposal.

Battalion 5 Incidents

• Motor Vehicle Crash in the 13600 block of Parkland Dr - Fire Units found a small SUV that went off road into a 1 story house, trapping occupants of the car. Low-tech rescue from car confirmed 2 occupants 1 with minor injuries and 1 arrested by MCPD. 3 occupants of the house, 1 transported to an area hospital for evaluation.

• Injury in the 6500 block of Olney-Laytonsville Rd – Fire Units found a 7 year old female who fell onto a board w/nails sticking out of it, impaling it into her head. She was flown to local hospital via Trooper 3. Mobile Crisis Team requested for campers/counselors.

Hot Cars and Kids are a Deadly Combination

This is a car accident that CAN be avoided

This time of year, temperatures in cars soar quickly and even with a window cracked, the temperature in a car can beome life-threatening within minutes. As temperatures rise, so does the risk of children being forgotten in vehicles, still strapped in their carseats, and dying from excessive heat exposure. The body temperature of children rises 3 – 5 times faster than adults and, as a result, children are much more vulnerable to heat stroke. Across the country, July is typically the deadliest month for child fatalities in hot cars and Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service officials are reminding busy parents that it is NEVER okay to leave a child unattended in a car for any length of time or at any time of year. Busy parents have a lot on their minds and are urged to review the following safety tips to avert a heat-related tragedy as temperatures across the Washington Metropolitan area continue to soar:

• NEVER leave infants, children, pets or the elderly unattended in a parked car where temperatures can surge quickly and become life-threatening within minutes, even with the windows cracked.

• To avoid forgetting your child, always put your cell phone, PDA, gym bag, purse or briefcase, and anything else you'll need that day, on the floor of the backseat. When you retrieve it at the end of the ride, you'll see your child.

• Set the alarm on your cell phone/smartphone as a reminder to you to drop your child off at day care.

• Take your children inside the home, and then unload groceries, dry cleaning and other items.

• Never assume someone else -- a spouse, an older child -- has taken a young child out of their carseat upon arrival at your destination.

• Keep vehicles locked at all times, always set your parking brake and keep keys and/or remote openers out of reach of children.

• Hot interior surfaces of a car can burn a child’s skin. Before you put your child in a car that has been parked in a warm/sunny spot, check the temperature of the carseat or upholstery first.

• Don’t let kids play in vehicles and if a child is missing, check vehicles and trunks FIRST as well as any swimming areas.

• Keep a teddy bear or other stuffed animal in the car seat when it's empty. When you put your child in the seat, move the animal to the front passenger seat to remind you that your baby's on board.

• Establish a plan with your child's babysitter or daycare provider to always phone you promptly if your child isn't dropped off as scheduled.

• Establish a routine of always checking the back seat everytime you exit the car to ensure no one is left behind. Don’t overlook sleeping infants.

• If you see a child alone in a vehicle, get involved. Call 911 immediately.

• Consider using drive-thru or curbside services (restaurants, banks, pharmacies, dry cleaners, etc.) when available.

Cool Tips for Hot Weather

Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service personnel are reminding residents to stay cool and stay hydrated as the forecast calls for record heat and unusually high temperatures in the metropolitan area. Staying hydrated is essential all year long but is particularly important when temperatures soar. During hot weather and extreme heat, keep informed by listening to local weather and news channels and take a minute to review the tips below:

1. Pre-hydrate, hydrate and re-hydrate.  During hot weather you will need to increase your fluid intake, regardless of your activity level. Drink plenty of fluids in advance, during and after activities and don’t wait until you're thirsty to hydrate.
   
2. Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect some of the sun’s energy. Limit your direct exposure to the sun and wear a hat for extra protection.
   
3. Monitor those at high risk.
   Extreme heat can be hazardous to your health and although anyone can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others. Those most at risk for heat-related illnesses include children, older adults, those that work or exercise outside and those with pre-existing medical conditions. Elderly or disabled residents in Montgomery County in need of a free fan can call 311 for information.
   
4. Children and cars - use common sense.
   Never, ever leave infants, children, pets or the elderly in a parked car where temperatures can become life-threatening in minutes, even with the windows rolled down. Additionally, hot interior surfaces of a car can burn a child’s skin. Before you put your child in a car that has been parked in a warm/sunny spot, check the temperature of the carseat or upholstery first.
   
5. Avoid strenuous activity.Take regular breaks when exercising or engaged in physical activity on warm days. If you recognize that you, or someone else, is showing signs of a heat-related illness, stop the activity immediately, find a cool place to rest, hydrate and seek medical attention if necessary.
   
   Remember, heat stroke is a MEDICAL EMERGENCY that can be fatal if not treated promptly. The American Red Cross advises that warning signs can vary among individuals but common signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke may include:
   
   Heat Exhaustion:
   -  Heavy sweating
   -  Muscle cramps
   -  Pulse rate: fast and weak
   -  Breathing: fast and shallow
   -  Nausea or vomiting
   -  Fatigue
   -  Weakness
   -  Headache and/or dizziness
   
   Heat Stroke:
   - An extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees)
   - The absence of sweating
   - Rapid pulse
   - Difficulty breathing
   - Throbbing headache
   - Strange behavior and/or hallucinations
   - Confusion, agitation and disorientation
   - Unconscious                            
   
6. Be a good neighbor.Isolated, elderly adults are at a much higher risk of health-related issues. Be a good neighbor and take a minute to check in with your neighbors.
   
7. Remember your pets. Hot weather can affect the well-being of pets making them susceptible to overheating which can lead to very dangerous heat stroke. Always provide a source of water and a cool, ventilated  place for your pet. Leaving your pet inside a parked car, even for a few minutes, can be fatal. The inside of a car can reach 120 degrees in a matter of minutes.
   
8. Stay indoors, if possible.   Stay indoors and, if possible, in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, consider going to the shopping mall, community center or public library. Even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you return to the heat.

Going to the Pool or Beach Today? Keep These Water Safety Tips in Mind.

Keep these Water Safety Tips in Mind

As the weather heats up, chances are you will be headed to the beach or pool to cool off this summer. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just learning how to swim, many water-related accidents can be avoided by knowing what to do and how to stay safe. Drowning is the second leading killer of children ages 14 and under and the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service urges residents to review these important tips to increase safety around the water:  

• Learn to swim and never swim alone. One of the best things you can do to stay safe around the water is to learn to swim and to always swim with a buddy. Even experienced swimmers can become tired or get muscle cramps which might make it difficult to get out of the water safely.  
• Learn life-saving skills. Know how to prevent, recognize and respond to emergencies. Valuable lifesaving seconds are lost by having to wait for Emergency Medical Services to respond and administer CPR. Learning CPR and other life-saving skills and rescue techniques can save lives.   
• Seconds count when it comes to water emergencies. Keep a phone (cell or cordless) by the pool or nearby when engaged in recreational water activities so that you can call 9-1-1 in an emergency.
• Don’t rely on swimming lessons, life preservers or other equipment to make a child “water safe.” Remember - swimming lessons are no substitute for supervision of children. Formal swimming lessons can help protect young swimmers around the water however constant adult supervision is critical. 
• Never leave children unsupervised around water (bathtubs, pools, ornamental backyard ponds, etc.). Small children don't think of water as a danger and, by nature, are very curious.   
• Diving dangers. Diving injuries can cause permanent spinal damage, injuries and even death. Protect yourself by diving only in areas that are known to be safe, such as the deep end of a supervised pool. Always check the water’s depth and remember that jumping in feet first can be very risky if you haven’t checked the water for rocks or other hidden hazards.
• Pay attention to local weather conditions and forecasts. Stop swimming at the first indication of bad weather.
• Know Your Limits. Watch for the “dangerous too’s” . . . too tired, too cold, too far from safety, too much sun, too much strenuous activity.
• Maintain constant supervision of children. Know where your children are at all times. Never leave a child unattended in the water or pool area. Don't be distracted by phone calls, chores or conversations. If you leave the pool area, take the child with you.
• Don’t rely on substitutes. The use of floatation devices, water wings and inflatable toys can not replace parental supervision. Such flotation devices could suddenly shift position, lose air, or slip out from underneath, leaving the child in a dangerous situation.
• Water and alcohol don’t mix. Each year, up to half of all adult drownings are linked to alcohol use.

Storms on the Way! Flooding Possible - Are You Ready? Tips and List of Roads That Flood.

Turn Around - Don’t Drown!  Many Roads in Montgomery County Susceptible to Flooding so Consider Alternate Routes Beforehand!

County residents are urged to be alert to changing weather conditions and should be prepared for possible flash flooding later today through early tomorrow as a storm system is expected to bring heavy rains.

When it rains heavily, there may be flash floods, flood warnings and flood watches issued. Flash floods more often occur in mountain streams, hilly areas or low-lying areas. But they do happen in urban and suburban areas like Montgomery County, as well. Flash floods can occur even though it's not raining where you are. It may be raining hard farther upstream and raining so hard that the water can not be absorbed into the ground.

Safety Tips:

If a flash flood warning is issued, act immediately. Don't wait for high water to dictate your course of action.

Know your location when you are driving. If you needed rescue, would you be able to direct emergency crews to your location? Distracted driving can lead to a situation where you are stranded and unable to direct emergency crews to you. Be alert!

Never drive through a flooded road or bridge. Turn Around - Don’t Drown and try an alternate route! In many cases, it takes far less than a foot of water to incapacitate a vehicle. It may stall, leaving you stranded, and depending on the level of water, you may not be able to open a vehicle door. Do not underestimate the power of moving water.

Watch for flooding at bridges and dips in the road. Never drive where water is over bridges or roads. Turn around - Don’t Drown! The bridges or the road could suddenly be washed out. If you're driving at night be especially careful. Often visibility is limited due to wind and rain.

Often what you can't see below the surface of the water is far more dangerous than the high levels of that water. Remember that rocks, tree limbs and other debris can be caught in moving water and can be dangerous if you are forced to walk, wade or swim through flood waters.

If you have to walk or wade through flood water, use a stick to poke the ground in front of you with each step. It can help you determine water levels, the bottom surface and the safest possible way to get to higher ground.

Remember that flash floods can come without warning, and sometimes without weather. Be alert and heed all warnings and recommendations from officials. From FEMA's website, some further information about driving through flooded roadways:

Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possible stalling.

A foot of water will float many vehicles.

Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUV's) and pick-ups

TURN AROUND - DON’T DROWN and try an alternate route!

ROADS IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY SUBJECT TO PERIODIC FLOODING:

DOWN-COUNTY AREAS

MD 29 (Columbia Pike) at Paint Branch - N. of White Oak

MD 185 (Conn. Ave) at Rock Creek - S. of Kensington

MD 190 (River Road) at Cabin John Creek - Potomac

MD 193 (Univ. Blvd) at Sligo Creek - Wheaton

MD 586 (Viers Mill Rd) at Rock Creek - S. of Twinbrook Pkwy.

Beach Drive in Rock Creek Park - Kensington-Chevy Chase

Sligo Creek Pkwy - Silver Spring-Takoma Park

UP-COUNTY AREAS

MD 97 (Georgia Ave) at Reddy Branch - N. of Brookeville

MD 124 (Woodfield Rd) at Goshen Branch and at Gr. Seneca Creek - N. of Brink Rd.

MD 117 (Clopper Rd) at Gr. Seneca Creek - W. of Gaithersburg

MD 117 (Clopper Rd) at Little Seneca Creek - E. of Boyds

MD 355 (Frederick Rd) at Little Seneca Creek - W. of Brink

MD 121 (Clarksburg Rd) near Little Seneca Lake - N. of Boyds

MD 118 (Germantown Rd) at Great Seneca Creek - S. of Germantown

River Rd and Berryville Rd at Seneca Creek - Seneca

Blunt Road at Great Seneca Creek - S. of Brink Rd.

Davis Mill Rd at Great Seneca Creek - N. of Gaithersburg

Brighton Dam Rd at Hawlings River - NE of Brookeville

Goldmine Rd at Hawlings River - E of Olney

Zion Rd at Hawlings River - E. of Laytonsville

Hoyles Mill Rd at ford of Little Seneca Creek - Germantown, west of soccer complex

Loghouse Rd at Magruder Branch - S. of Damascus

Elton Farm Rd at Haights Branch - N. of Sunshine

Howard Chapel Rd at Haights Branch - N. of Sunshine

White’s Ferry Road and River Road - White’s Ferry

More at: Street Flooding Hazards

Significant Fire & EMS Incidents From June 27 through July 3

Battalion 1 Incidents

• House Fire in a Detached 2 story structure used as a garage and 2nd floor game room/office. Fire Units arrived to find heavy fire on 1st and 2nd floors. 2nd alarm called for but not used. No reported injuries, no displacements, $150K damage to structure and $100Kto contents.

• Motor Vehicle Crash at Spencerville/Peach Orchard Rd’s – Fire units arrived to find a single-vehicle w/ one person trapped. One patient transported Priority 2 to Shock Trauma.

Battalion 2 Incidents

• Injury on the Billy Goat Trail @ the Potomac River. injured 34 yr old female who was removed by Strike Team 30.

• Garage Fire in the 7900 block of Paloma Ct - report of fire in the attached garage of a single family dwelling. Fire units arrived to find a fire in a trash can in the garage with no extension into the structure.

Battalion 3 Incidents

• Odor in the building in the 5500 block of Security Lane – Fire units responded for an investigation for an "odor of exhaust" in an 11 story (4 levels parking/7 levels business office) high rise office building. Found significant levels of Carbon Monoxide. Quickly located construction activity going on at the P-3 level with multiple gas powered equipment in operation - evacuated 75-100 occupants.

• Chemical Exposure in the 5 block of Mannakee St - Adult female transported to the burn unit via ambulance due to an exposure to a base chemical in a science lab. No damage to building and no operational changes to the classroom.

• Building Fire in the 15100 block of Southlawn Lane - Fire Units arrive to find heavy smoke from the front of a two story warehouse. Fire quickly controlled in coffee roasting machine and extensive smoke prolonged ventilation efforts. No injuries to civilian or Fire personnel. Estimates $25K damage to structure and $100K to contents and lost stock. Likely cause - machine failure.

• Motor Vehicle Crash at Great Seneca Hwy/ Muddy Branch Rd – Fire units on scene with car over the embankment about 75 feet of the road. One patient trapped with serious injuries and one patient with less serious injuries out of the vehicle. Trooper 3 was utilized and both persons were transported.

• Drowning – 18000 block of Cottage Garden Dr. – Fire units arrived to find a 22 month old in bath tub.

• House Fire in the 17100 block of Hughes Rd - Fire units arrived and found a fire above garage & electrical wiring for dryer. $3K in damage and fire confined to area of origin. Lightning strike was the cause.

• Injured Person on the Tow path between Edwards Ferry & Whites Ferry. Bicyclist struck by tree during storm. Fire units found the person DOA.

Battalion 4 Incidents

• Townhouse Fire in the 1600 block of Hugo Circle- Fire units arrived on scene and found smoke showing from the roof of end unit townhouse. Fire on the deck with extension to both floors and attic space from vinyl siding. Second Alarm dispatched and only a couple of the units used. Held fire to townhouse of origin. No injuries. $200K damage to structure and $100K for contents. Two adults displaced.

• House Fire in the 1900 block of Poplar View Ln- Fire units on scene with kitchen fire that was confined by the home fire sprinkler system. No injuries and only $4K in damage.

Battalion 5 Incidents

• Garage Fire in the 23000 block of Davis Mill Rd. Fire units found fire on exterior of garage w/ extension. No Injuries. Loss: $3K structure and $2K contents.

• House Fire in the 25000 block of Woodfield Rd. Fire units found significant fire in the house on three levels plus extension into attic. Two minor Fire Fighter injuries. Loss: $300K to the structure and $100K to the contents.

• House Fire in the 400 block of Fellowship Circle - Residential Duplex in Asbury Village w/fire in the kitchen of unit under construction. Units found small fire in the walls from a plumbers torch. No injuries/displacements. $1K loss.

• Building Fire in the 19200 block of Montgomery Village Avenue - Report of pillar on fire to the front of the occupied restaurant. Fire units found a wooden column on fire, which was quickly extinguished. Cause was improperly discarded smoking materials. $25K loss to structure and no injuries.

• Building Fire in the 700 block of N. Frederick Avenue - Report of fire on the roof. Fire units found roofers had started a small fire on the roof of a 3-story office building. Fire quickly extinguished & extensive overhaul with no injuries/displacements.

The Key To Disaster Survival? Friends And Neighbors

Thanks to one of our Facebook friends, I was made aware of a very interesting article that appeared on the NPR web site. It relates to community preparedness and what might help to assist you and your loved ones to survive a large scale disaster. Understand that if a county wide disaster hits MCFRS, despite our best efforts will be stretched thin and will be unable to be every where to help in the aftermath of a large scale, county wide disaster.

Go here to learn more: The Key To Disaster Survival? Friends And Neighbors

Of course, you should always make sure you have an Emergency Preparedness Kit on hand to ensure you have your own water, food, and other important supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least three days.

It also does not hurt to have a Family Emergency Plan in place as well. Your family may not be together when disaster strikes so you will need a plan to contact each another and figure out how you will get back together with your loved ones.

One of the keys to surviving any disaster is being PREPARED! Take a moment to review all of the above links and make sure you and your loved ones are ready!

Best Regards,

Bill Delaney
Program Manager - Community Safety Education & Social Media
Office of the Fire Chief
Montgomery County Fire & Rescue

Last week to apply for MCFRS Firefighter/EMT Recruit!

The online application for MCFRS Firefighter/EMT (recruit) will close on July 8. If you have the required certifications, and wish to apply, please complete your online application immediately and follow all instructions for sending in your transcripts and certifications. Please note that once the position closes, you will no longer be able to view the position announcement online. After July 8 please check www.mcfrs.org/recruiting for important updates.

Questions About Fireworks

Questions you may have about fireworks.

Q: What fireworks are legal?

A: In Montgomery County, all fireworks are illegal to possess or discharge including gold label sparklers.

Snap-and-pop noise makers, snakes, and party poppers are the only exception to this law.

Q: Can I receive fireworks at my home through the mail?

A: No. Use of the mail for the transportation of fireworks for use in the State of Maryland is illegal.

Q: Can I have a private fireworks display at my residence with proper permits?

A: No. You can’t have a private display; however, you can have a public display with proper permits and insurance.

Q: Can I receive fireworks at my residence delivered by public carrier?

A: No. It doesn't matter where the fireworks are purchased or how they are brought into Maryland. Fireworks are still illegal.

Leave Fireworks To The Professionals

Protect The Ones You Love