What You Need to Know About Fireworks And List of Public Celebrations

The Fourth of July is right around the corner and Montgomery County Fire Chief Steve Lohr is reminding residents that ALL fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County and that the County will be continuing its ‘zero tolerance’ policy regarding illegal fireworks.

  

In an effort to stress the seriousness posed by the use of dangerous and illegal fireworks, Fire Officials across the region launched a comprehensive effort several years ago to inform and educate the public about illegal fireworks. “The law in Montgomery County is clear and the safest, and smartest, way to enjoy fireworks is at one of the many public displays in the area,” said Fire Chief Lohr.

Here’s what you should know:

The Law:

It is illegal for any person to manufacture, possess, store, offer for sale, sell, discharge, use, burn or explode any fireworks in Montgomery County, Maryland, except that an authorized display may be conducted by a licensed pyrotechnic professional with a permit. Penalties for violations of the law include a fine up to $1,000 and/or six months in jail. All fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County, Prince George’s County and the City of Baltimore. Montgomery County Fire Safety Code: Section 22-70: Fireworks.

What fireworks are legal?

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.

Can I receive fireworks at my home through the mail?

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

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

 No. You can not have a private display; however, you can apply to have a public display with proper permits and insurance.

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

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

Where do I report violations involving fireworks?

Residents should call 301-279-8000. Do NOT call 911 unless you have a life-threatening emergency and need immediate help. Non-emergency 911 calls can delay getting assistance to people with actual emergencies.

Where can I go in Montgomery County to see the fireworks?

The Fire Chief and safety experts agree that the best way to celebrate is to enjoy one of the many free, public fireworks displays in the area on July 4th.  Public fireworks displays, conducted by trained professionals, are the smartest and safest way to view fireworks because they are established under controlled settings and safety regulations and monitored by public safety organizations. Area July 4^th displays include: 

Gaithersburg,

Montgomery County Fairgrounds, 16 Chestnut Street, Gaithersburg, Maryland.(301) 258-6350. Gates open at 5 p.m. Walk-in at Chestnut or Dalamar Streets; the Perry Parkway entrance will be closed. Entertainment begins at 5:30 p.m. Fireworks launch at dusk.

Rockville,

Montgomery College, Rockville Campus, 51 Mannakee Street, Rockville, Maryland.  Additional parking will be available at Rockville Town Center. Live entertainment begins at 7 p.m. Fireworks at 9:30 p.m.

Boyds/Germantown,

Germantown Soccerplex, 18041 Central Park Circle, Boyds, Maryland.(240) 777-6820. Family concert at 7 p.m. and fireworks begin at 9:15 p.m.

Poolesville

Poolesville Polo Grounds, 14660 Hughes Rd., Poolesville, Maryland. Live music begins at 6 p.m., Fireworks at 9 p.m. Parking is $5 per vehicle. (301) 972-8888.

Kensington/Wheaton,

Albert Einstein High School, 11135 Newport Road, Kensington, Maryland. Entertainment begins at 7:30 p.m. and fireworks show will begin approximately at 9:15 p.m.  Since there will be no on-site parking at the school or at adjacent properties, except for handicapped parking, free shuttle bus service will pick up passengers beginning at 6:15 p.m. at Westfield Wheaton and the Wheaton Metro Station.

Takoma Park,

Takoma Park Middle School, 7611 Piney Branch Road, Takoma Park, Maryland. (301) 270-6876. Parade at 10 a.m. at the intersection of Carroll and Ethan Allen Avenues.  Fireworks at 9:30 p.m.  Lastly, while fireworks displays can be exciting they can be extremely stressful and frightening for your pets. Leave your pets at home, be sure they are wearing proper identification so they can be reunited with owners should they get lost or run away and never leave pets in a locked car since vehicles can heat up to dangerous levels in just minutes

Truck Company Back to Basics (Video)

Montgomery County Fire Rescue Service just finished an intense three month training program in "Truck Company" Back to Basics. Almost 1000 members went through the hands-on training to refresh and enhance their skills. Video courtesy of Captain Jason Blake

Captain Rounds Out 34 Year Career Today With Three Sons

By: Master Firefighter Tim Burns

If you happen to see E702 (Takoma Park) today, don’t be alarmed at its resemblance to a sport-family truckster, as it will be staffed by three generations of a proud firefighting family. 

Captain Mike Grierson rounds out a 34 year career with Montgomery County Fire and Rescue by staffing Engine 702 with his three sons (Michael 30C, Ricky 2C, and Chuckie- soon to be 22c) who all work for the department. Accompanying them will be their Grandfather, MFF Bernie Collins (MCFRS, ret.)

Mike was hired on December 31, 1978 at Station 1 and was promoted to Technician by the Silver Spring Fire Department shortly before firefighters became employees of county government in 1988. His position was then reclassified to the rank of Master Firefighter and he worked in a number of stations in that capacity, including Stations 19 and 16. Additionally during this time frame, Captain Grierson took on responsibilities in the scheduling office, ensuring proper staffing of career personnel throughout the county.

In the late 1980s he was promoted to Sergeant and moved to the Fire Code Enforcement Office. During that time Mike became a paramedic through Montgomery County and was eventually promoted to Captain, a promotion that earned him a transfer to Station 7 in Chevy Chase. 

Since Station 7 was the center of the Hazardous Materials team at the time, Mike added that skill to his considerable repertoire. When the department expanded the HazMat team to Fire Station 28 in Gaithersburg in 2001, Mike was chosen to assist in that endeavor and moved up-county for a few years.

Most Recently, Mike has been serving the department as the Safety Officer on C-Shift. 

As we do with all of our retirees, the MCFRS wishes Captain Grierson success and happiness in retirement and we thank him for his legacy of excellence that is evident in the three sons who now take his place in our department. 

3 Alarm Fire in the 19300 block of Club House Rd.

3 Alarm Fire in the 19300 block of Club House Rd., a set on Flickr.

Three-Alarm Apartment Fire Causes Extensive Damage

Firefighters rescue several residents and pets trapped by the fire

Montgomery County, MD - - - Montgomery County Fire and Rescue units were dispatched at 7:19 p.m. Tuesday evening for the report of an apartment fire in the 19300 block of Club House Road in Gaithersburg. First arriving units encountered heavy fire conditions throughout the building with fire extended through the roof. Command quickly requested additional resources including a second and third alarm. Crews performed an aggressive interior attack and firefighters performed multiple rescues of people trapped by the fire on second and third floor balconies. The rescues also included several pet rescues from top floors of the complex.

The bulk of the fire was out shortly after 8:00 p.m. and firefighters worked late into the night to extinguish hot spots, monitor conditions and conduct overhaul.

Investigators were requested to the scene and have ruled the fire accidental. The fire remains under investigation. Initial damage estimates were $750,000 ($500,000 to the structure/$250,000 to contents). The fire caused extensive damage to 12 units and Red Cross was assisting over 40 residents displaced by the fire.

Two firefighters and three civilians were transported to area hospitals with non-life threatening injuries and were expected to be released last night. Over 100 firefighters were on the scene at the height of firefighting operations.

Firefighters will be returning to the neighborhood throughout the week as part of the Fire Chief’s “Safety in Our Neighborhood” outreach program offering free smoke alarms, replacement batteries and safety information to residents.

Happy Trails After 36 Years

By: Master Firefighter Tim Burns

Today, a fixture of the 1st Battalion completes a long and distinguished career. After 36 years, Captain Donny Deibler will retire effective July 1 and this is his last shift. 

Pictured here center, Captain Deibler was hired on May 22, 1977 at Fire Station 1. To give some perspective to that date; Jimmy Carter was beginning his term as president, the Apple II computer was first being released for sale, and the first Star Wars movie was new in theaters.

Captain Deibler was promoted to “technician” in 1980 and moved to Fire Station 16 in 1981. Captain Deibler spent the majority of his career at station 16 as a technician; a position that was later renamed “master firefighter.” In 2000 he was promoted to Lieutenant and moved to station 12. After 23 years he did a short stint outside of the 1st Battalion at Fire Station 17 in Laytonsville when he was promoted to Captain in 2005. Fortunately, his love of the 1st Battalion was too great and he returned to us after only 3 years, taking the Station Commander position at Fire Station 19 in 2011.

During his entire career Captain Deibler has been an exceptional employee, mentor, leader and friend. The 1st Batallion will truly miss his contributions to the organization but we wish him success and happiness in retirement.

MCFRS Significant Incident Map

For incidents Sunday, June 9 through Saturday, June 22.

View MCFRS Significant Incident Map in a larger map

Outdoor Grilling Safety

The onset of warm weather signals the beginning of Barbecue Season! Fire Chief Steve Lohr of the Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service wants you and your loved ones to enjoy this season SAFELY! Below are some tips from the National Fire Protection Association that he hopes will help:

• Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use.
• Position the grill well away from siding, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep children and pets far away from grills: declare a three-foot "safe zone" around the grill.
• With charcoal grills, only use charcoal starter fluids designed for barbecue grills and do not add fluid after coals have been lit. NEVER use gasoline!
• With gas grills, be sure that the hose connection is tight and check hoses carefully for leaks. Applying soapy water to the hoses will easily and safely reveal any leaks.
• All propane cylinders manufactured after April 2002 must have overfill protection devices (OPD). OPDs shut off the flow off propane before capacity is reached. OPDS are easily identified by their triangle-shaped hand wheel.
• Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and have the grill. repaired by a professional, if necessary.
• Remember to keep your grill clean! Periodically remove grease or fat buildup in trays below grill so it cannot be ignited by a hot grill.
• Wear short, close fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking. Loose clothing can dangle onto grill and catch fire.
• REMEMBER! Propane and charcoal BBQ grills must only be used outdoors. If used indoors, or in any enclosed spaces, such as tents, they pose both a fire hazard and the risk of exposing occupants to toxic gases and potential asphyxiation.

Grilling Safety

According to the Barbeque Industry Association, three out of four households in the United States own a barbeque grill. From making a quick dinner to barbequing a feast for family and friends, when lighting a charcoal or gas grill, it's important to remember that a savory barbeque is a safe barbeque.

• According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), gas and charcoal grills cause an annual average of 1,500 structure fires and 4,200 outdoor fires in or on residential properties, resulting in a combined direct property loss of $29.8 million.

Make Fire Safety a Priority

Protection can be relatively simple and inexpensive. To help prevent fire fatalities and injuries at your home this summer:

• Only use your barbeque grill outside. Grills are not designed to be used in a trailer, tent, garage, or house. Carbon monoxide can build-up and poison you.
• Set-up a grill in an open area away from buildings, overhead combustible surfaces, dry leaves or brush. Be sure to avoid high traffic areas and always barbeque in a well-ventilated area. Be aware of wind blown sparks.
• Always read the owners manual before using the grill.
• Never use a grill indoors. Use the grill at least 10 20 feet away from your house or any building. Do not use the grill in a garage, breezeway, carport, porch, or under a surface that can catch fire.
• Keep a multipurpose fire extinguisher within easy reach.
• When purchasing a fire extinguisher, choose the largest size that can be handled comfortably.
• Wear clothing that does not have hanging sleeves or apron strings, and use flame retardant mitts when adjusting hot vents.
• Never leave a grill unattended once it is lit.
• Use long-handled utensils to avoid burns and splatters.
• Never attempt to move a hot grill.
• If using a charcoal grill, gasoline should never be used in place of charcoal lighter fluid. And never reapply charcoal lighter fluid after the fire has started; the flames can ignite the vapors, and travel up to the can causing an explosion.

Consumers should use caution when storing LP gas containers. Always keep containers upright. Never store a spare gas container under or near the grill or indoors. Never store or use flammable liquids, like gasoline, near the grill.

To avoid accidents while transporting LP gas containers, consumers should transport the container in a secure, upright position. Never keep a filled container in a hot car or car trunk. Heat will cause the gas pressure to increase, which may open the relief valve and allow gas to escape.

Consumers should use extreme caution and always follow manufacturer's instructions when connecting or disconnecting LP gas containers.

Grills manufactured after October 1, 1995, are required to have three additional safety features to eliminate leak hazards: a device to limit the flow of gas in the event of hose rupture; a mechanism to shut-off the grill; and a feature to prevent the flow of gas if the connection between the tank and the grill is not leak proof. Consumers should consider purchasing grills that have these safety features. Sources: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and NFPA

Splash into Summer SAFELY!

As the weather heats up, chances are you will be headed to the beach or the pool. Drowning is the second leading killer of children ages 14 and under and the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service urges you to follow these important tips to ensure safety around the water:

Never leave children unattended around any body of water (bathtubs, pools, ornamental backyard ponds, etc.).

Small children don't think of water as a danger and, by nature, are very curious. Being left alone in or around water without supervision can be fatal. Do not leave water or any other solutions unattended in buckets or other containers - a child can drown in as little as two inches of water.

Learn to swim. But remember - even good swimmers can drown.

Swimming lessons are no substitute for supervision of children and never swim alone.

Learn CPR.

Valuable lifesaving seconds are lost by having to wait for Emergency Medical Services to respond and administer CPR. Four to six minutes without oxygen can cause irreversible brain damage or death.

Pay attention to local weather conditions and forecasts.

Stop swimming at the first indication of bad weather.

Watch out for the "dangerous too's"

...too tired, too cold, too far from safety, too much sun, too much strenuous activity.

Always have a phone

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.

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 and inflatable toys cannot replace parental supervision. Such devices could suddenly shift position, lose air, or slip out from underneath, leaving the child in a dangerous situation.

MCFRS Significant Incident Map

Significant incidents MCFRS responded too Sunday, May 26 through Saturday, June 8. 

View MCFRS Significant Incident Map in a larger

No Twitter? No Problem! You Can Still Get MCFRS Updates!

Do not have a Twitter account but want to receive Montgomery County Fire and Rescue’s tweets via text? No problem.

A Twitter feature called Fast Follow make it possible for those with a cell phone and a text messaging plan to receive tweet’s on their phone.  Understand that Text messaging rates apply.

Here is how you do it:

Text “follow @mcfrs” to 40404.  You will get a text message back indicating you are now following @MCFRS.  The text will also provide guidance on how to stop the text messages if you no longer wish to receive them.

If you follow, you can expect to receive all of the latest news, updates, and safety tips from Montgomery County Fire and Rescue.

Reminder: There Is a Flash Flood Watch In Effect

While we are in between storms, I just wanted to remind everyone that there is also a Flash Flood Watch in effect until this evening.  With all of the talk about lightning and wind – and that is important – I want to make sure all of you are aware of ALL the potential issues that could occur today.

Photo from a previous incident

Below, please find links to two recent blog posts that you will find useful.  Unfortunately, we here at MCFRS had several calls for water rescues on roadways earlier in the week.  PLEASE remember to “Turn Around and Do Not Drown!”  Too many seem to be ignoring this very simple preventive step.  You are putting not only yourself at risk but also the lives of our Firefighters who must now try and rescue you!

TURN AROUND - DON’T DROWN and Try an Alternate Route! List of Roads That Flood.

Google Map Showing Locations of Water Rescues During January 2013 Flooding

Make sure you are able to keep informed today of the potentially evolving weather forecast!  Be aware and prepared! 

As always: Stay Safe!

Bill D

Storm Tips and Social Media Update

Montgomery County fire officials are providing the following tips and are asking residents to plan ahead, be ready and be safe:  

Stay informed by monitoring TV news, radio, the National Weather Service and the internet as storm information is updated throughout the day that may affect you and your family.

Sign up for Alert Montgomery to receive text alerts and emergency information as Montgomery County Fire and Rescue social media platforms will be operating at various points throughout the storm however will not

be a 24-hour source of timely EMERGENCY information.

For this weather event on Twitter, use the hashtag #mocostorm

The primary social media platforms used will be:

• Fire & Rescue Blog
• Follow Fire & Rescue on Twitter
• Like Fire & Rescue on Facebook

Safety Tips

• Ensure your cell phones, laptops, tablets and other important devices are fully charged BEFORE the storm.
• Make sure you secure, or bring inside, any loose items that could become dangerous projectiles in high winds.
• Stay prepared by getting your emergency preparedness kit out and having a ready supply of essential items (food, water, batteries, flashlights, battery-operated radio, blankets, etc.).
• It’s a great time to make sure the batteries in your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarm are fresh. Test all smoke alarms to ensure they are working.
• If possible, stay off the roads and heed the advice of local officials. These are serious conditions that are often underestimated and can make driving, and even walking, very hazardous.  Occupants of cars and trucks also are vulnerable to being hit by falling trees and utility poles. Further, high profile vehicles such as semi-trailer trucks, buses, and sport utility vehicles may be blown over. 
• Stay Inside and away from windows.  Go to a basement if you have one.
• Listen to the authorities. Remain indoors until an official "all clear" is issued.
• Use extreme caution when cleaning up storm damage on your property.  Downed or damaged power lines can send electrical currents through tree branches and metal fences, so survey the area carefully.  Use extreme caution around downed or damaged power lines. Do not remove fallen tree limbs or other debris from power lines, never drive over down lines and treat all wires – even those that are hanging or down – as if they are “live” (energized) and call 911 to report them.
• For downed trees on public property, Montgomery County residents should call -311 between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays (or 240-777-0311 from outside the county or from a cell phone), or file a report at http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/311. If live wires are involved, the tree is blocking a roadway, the tree is on a structure or if anyone is trapped under a fallen tree, call 911.
• Do NOT use candles for lighting. Using candles during a power outage poses an extreme risk of fire. Use flashlights or battery-powered lighting options and make sure you have a battery-operated radio to keep up-to-date.
• If you are using a generator, make sure it is in a well-ventilated area to reduce the risk of breathing harmful fumes. Never place a generator under an open window and follow all manufacturer instructions.
• Reach out to your neighbors who may need help, especially those that are elderly, disabled or infirmed.
• Know your limits. Many storm-related deaths and injuries involve existing health problems exacerbated by the physical demands of cleanup activities.
• Drive with caution. Avoid areas subject to flooding, including low spots, canals and streams. Do not attempt to drive on a flooded road, which could lead to becoming stranded or trapped because the depth of the water and the condition of the road is not always obvious.
• Treat all intersections where traffic lights are out as a four way stop.
• Please only call 911 for emergencies. Crews will be in high demand throughout the storm. If you do not have a life-threatening emergency, call 311 for assistance. 

Portions of Six Roads in Montgomery County Remain Closed This Morning

From Alert Montgomery this morning:

Portions of six roads in Montgomery County remain closed this morning. Closures include:

- Berryville Road at the creek.  
- Hispley Mill Road, 24100 to 24898 block.
- Izaak Walton Way, 20500 to 20574 block.

Photo from 2011

- Kingstead Road, at the creek.  
- Loghouse Road between Newbury Road and Founders Road.  
- West Old Baltimore Road at the creek.  
 
If you approach a flooded roadway, do not attempt to drive through it. Turn around and find an alternate route. Report flooded roadways by calling 311 or 240-777-0311 during normal business hours (Monday through Friday 7AM – 7PM) or by visiting http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/311 at any time. Remember, if a life threatening situation exists, call 911 immediately.

Current Road Closures & Tips

Some information all of you might find useful in lieu of the weather forecast for today and the rest of the week.  There is a Flash Flood watch for the County through at least this evening as well as a tornado watch until 10 PM. 

Directly below is a list of roads currently closed due to high water include:

- Kingsley Road between Burnt Hill Road and Stringtown Road;
- West Old Baltimore Road at the creek;
- Kingstead Road between Kings Valley Road and Burnt Hill Road;
- Berryville Road at the creek;
- Riffleford Road at the creek; and
- Log House Road between Newbury Road and Founders Road.

Report flooded roadways by calling 311 in Montgomery County (or 240-777-0311) during normal business hours (Monday through Friday 7AM – 7PM).  You can also go to  http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/311 as well.

Some recent blog posts you might find helpful:

TURN AROUND - DON’T DROWN and Try an Alternate Route! List of Roads That Flood.

Google Map Showing Locations of Water Rescues During January 2013 Flooding

Be safe, be watchful and be prepared!

Google Map Showing Locations of Water Rescues During January 2013 Flooding

By: Bill Delaney

With the potential for heavy rains and flooding today, I thought back to a Google Map I created this past January highlighting incidents MCFRS responded too during flash flooding that occurred the evening of the 30^th through 9 AM on the 31^st.  Most of these calls for help were from motorists who attempted to drive through the water on the road and did not make it through.

These locations traditionally flood and our Fire and Rescue personnel have made many rescues at these, and many other, locations throughout the County as people ignore our repeated warnings and attempt to drive through the water.  I am posting the map, and a link to a post I made late yesterday, in the hope that people pay attention and avoid these areas if flooding does become an issue.  Also take a moment to plan an alternate route if some of these areas are ones you normally travel each day.

TURN AROUND - DON’T DROWN and Try an Alternate Route! List of Roads That Flood.

View Water Rescues in a larger map

TURN AROUND - DON’T DROWN and Try an Alternate Route! List of Roads That Flood.

Many Roads in Montgomery County Susceptible to Flooding so Consider Alternate Routes Beforehand!

There is a FLASH FLOOD Watch in effect for the County today until tomorrow (June 7) evening!  County residents are urged to be alert to changing weather conditions and should be prepared for possible flash flooding over the next twenty four hours as a storm system will move into the area and could bring heavy rains. 

  

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: http://www.scribd.com/doc/50454109/Street-Flooding-Hazards

Serious Motor Vehicle Collisions

By: Battalion Chief Mark Davis

On Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday of last week, companies in the lower end of the 1st Battalion responded to serious motor vehicle collisions all resulting in serious injury to multiple occupants. At least two of the collisions appeared to have involved high speed. People need to SLOW down. Companies 12, 16, and BC701 operated at the wreck shown in the below photo which occurred across the street from Co 12 on Friday, May31. 

When you look at this photo (right) , you have wonder, "How did this happen?" Well- the FD wonders the same thing - however, they have to go into action and bring the emergency under control. When cars are on top of each other such as at this wreck, the scene is unsafe until those cars can be stabilized to prevent any movement or shifting. An unstable car is a danger to both the trapped occupant and the emergency responder. 





Mechanical struts - shown in the lower right - are used to stabilize objects. In this case, the strut is one of several in use to stabilze the car that is resting on top of the other car. Master Firefighter Sean Hall (16-C) - shown in photo (left) - shared the photos.








With all patients removed, the FD carefully removes the stabilization devices that they used and releases the scene to the police. Wreckers will eventually seperate the cars and tow them away.

MCFRS Significant Incident Map Sunday, May 5 – Saturday, May 25

Almost caught up!  I will be posting the remaining dates shortly to get us back on track.

Thanks again for your understanding!

Stay Safe!  Bill D

View MCFRS Significant Incident Map in a larger map

Close Supervision Key to Safety Around Water

Drowning is the leading cause of injury-related death among children ages 1 to 4
and it’s the third leading cause of death among children

As summer arrives and pools are opening, Montgomery County Fire and Rescue officials are urging residents to take proper precautions around the water and to diligently supervise children when they are around any water sources. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just learning how to swim, many water-related injuries can be avoided by knowing what to do and how to stay safe. The Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service and the Department of Recreation are joining forces to promote the importance of water safety throughout the summer. Residents are urged to review these water safety tips to increase safety

around the water: 

• Be attentive.  Research from the National Safe Kid Campaign shows that nearly 9 out of 10 children between the ages of 1 and 14 who drowned were under supervision when they died. How is this possible? Distractions – cell phones, ipads, reading materials, chores and socializing needs to be resisted when you are on “lifeguard duty” watching your child. Be engaged and committed to watching them constantly. The study defined supervision as being in someone’s care, not necessarily in direct line of sight.
  
  
• 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. Make sure they know how to tread water, float on their backs and get to the edge of the pool and hang on. Even the most experienced swimmers can become tired or get muscle cramps which might make it difficult to get out of the water safely.    
  
  
• Teaching your child how to swim does not mean that your child is “drown-proof.” If you have a pool or are visiting a pool, protect your children by supervising them at all times and being prepared in case of an emergency. Consider designating a adult “water watcher” when children are participating in water activities. 

• 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.
  
  
• Learn life-saving skills. Know how to prevent, recognize and respond to emergencies. In the time it might take paramedics to arrive, your CPR skills could make a difference in saving someone’s life. 

• Avoid relying on inflatable swimming aids such as “floaties” and “noodles” to keep your child safe. These toys are not designed to keep your child safe, can deflate or shift quickly and should never be used as a substitute for supervision. Use only Coast Guard approved flotation devices that your swimmer properly. 

• Lifeguards are an important safety feature but are NOT intended to replace the close supervision of parents or caregivers. Remember, lifeguards are not babysitters.
  
  
• Maintain constant supervision of children around water (bathtubs, pools, ornamental backyard ponds, etc.). 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. Remember: swim lessons are no substitute for the supervision of children. Formal swimming lessons can help protect young swimmers around the water however constant adult supervision is critical.  

• Diving dangers. Diving injuries can cause permanent spinal damage, injuries and even death. Protect yourself by diving only in designated areas that are known to be safe, such as the deep end, of a supervised pool. 

• 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. 

• Water and alcohol don’t mix. Each year, up to half of all adult drownings are linked to alcohol use.