Thanksgiving Comes in 1st Place . . . For Cooking Fires!

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Thanksgiving is almost here and Montgomery County Fire Chief Corey Smedley is urging residents to enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday and to keep safety at the top of the "to-do” list this holiday season.

Fact: More cooking fires occur on Thanksgiving than on any other day of the year. You've heard of distracted driving but have you heard of distracted cooking? Countless distractions can happen when cooking - - especially during the holidays.

Cooking Safety Tips:

• Be alert! Stay in the kitchen when using the stovetop and use a timer. If you must leave the kitchen, even for a minute, turn off the stove.
  
• Keep anything that can catch fire at least 3 feet from the stove, toaster oven, or other heat source. This includes pot holders, food packaging, dish towels, paper/plastic bags, etc.
  
• Do not pour water on a grease fire. Pouring water on a grease fire can cause the fire to spread. In the event of a range-top fire, turn off the burner, put on an oven mitt, and smother the flames by carefully sliding a lid or cookie sheet onto the pan. Leave the lid in place until the pot or pan has cooled.
  
• Clean cooking surfaces regularly to prevent grease buildup which can ignite.
  
• Always wear short, tight-fitting sleeves when cooking to prevent clothing from coming in contact with a burner and catching fire.
  
• Do not hold children while cooking or carrying hot foods or drinks. Keep children at a safe distance from hot surfaces, liquids, and other kitchen hazards.
  
• Plug microwaves and other kitchen appliances directly into an outlet. Never use an extension cord for a cooking appliance as it can overload the circuit and cause a fire.
  
• Double-check the kitchen before you go to bed or leave the house. Make sure all other appliances are turned off and that any candles or smoking materials are safely extinguished.
  
• Smoke alarms save lives. Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home, test alarms monthly, and change batteries annually or as recommended by the manufacturer if your alarm features long-life batteries.

Turkey fryers are becoming an increasingly popular choice to cook the Thanksgiving turkey and can be extremely dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. If your plans include using a turkey fryer, fire department officials urge residents to follow all manufacturer directions closely and to review the following safety tips: 

Turkey Fryer Safety Tips:

• Never leave a fryer unattended.
  
• By design, turkey fryers are prone to tipping over. Fryers should always be used on a non-combustible, flat surface to reduce accidental tipping.
  
• Fryers should always be used outdoors at least 10 feet from buildings and any flammable materials. Never use a fryer on a wooden deck, under a patio cover, in a garage, porch, or other enclosed space.
  
• Do not overfill the fryer. The oil may spill out of the unit when the turkey is placed into the cooking pot. Oil may hit the burner/flames resulting in a potential fire hazard that could engulf the entire unit.
  
• Oil and water do not mix! Make sure the turkey is completely thawed before it is placed in a fryer. Partially frozen turkeys can cause a spillover effect which may result in a fire. 
  
• Some units do not have thermostat controls and, if not carefully watched, have the potential to overheat the oil to the point of combustion.
  
• Use well-insulated potholders or oven mitts when touching the pot or lid handle. The sides of the cooking pot, lid, and pot handles get dangerously hot and can result in severe burns. If available, use safety goggles to protect your eyes from any oil splatter.
  
• Keep children and pets away from fryers. The oil can remain dangerously hot even hours after use.

Following these simple fire safety tips can reduce injuries dramatically.  For more information about our fire safety programs or to request a free home safety or smoke alarm check, call 311 during business hours or visit our website at www.mcfrs.org/mcsafe 

November: Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month

This November, during Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month, Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS) is reminding residents to take a few simple steps that can save lives. Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless gas that can be deadly — but it’s also completely preventable with the right precautions and properly installed CO alarms.

Since July 1, 2019, Montgomery County law has required most single-family, two-family, and townhouse dwellings with a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace, or attached garage to have carbon monoxide alarms installed outside sleeping areas and on every level of the home. These alarms are designed to alert you before CO reaches dangerous levels, providing an early warning and vital protection for your household.

As the colder months approach and heating systems, fireplaces, and fuel-burning appliances see more use, now is the perfect time to test your CO alarms, replace old units, and review safety tips to keep your family safe from this silent threat.

Why is this important?
Carbon Monoxide is often called the "silent killer" because it is odorless, tasteless and invisible making this toxic gas one of the most overlooked, and potentially deadly, dangers in homes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that more than 400 people die and 50,000 people are admitted to emergency rooms as the result of CO poisoning each year. Carbon Monoxide Alarms are designed to keep you and your family safe.

Does this new law apply to me?
Homes built before 2008 that are powered by electricity and do not have a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace or attached garage are not required to install Carbon Monoxide Alarms.

Types of Carbon Monoxide Alarms
There are a wide variety of Carbon Monoxide Alarms on the market and include battery-powered, plug-in and hard-wired Carbon Monoxide Alarms and meet the requirements of the new law.

Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
For years Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Alarms were separate units. Recently, alarms have been manufactured that have the technology to detect both smoke and carbon monoxide. These "combination alarms" need to match the power source for the home's smoke alarms.

Power Source Requirements
For properties built before 2008, the power source for your Carbon Monoxide Alarmscan be battery operated, hard-wired with a battery back-up or plug-in with a battery back-up. If you’re installing combination smoke/CO alarms, the power supply must comply with the same Code requirements that apply to your home’s smoke alarms.

Proper Installation Locations
For homes built after January 1, 2008, CO alarms should be installed according to the building codes in place at the time of construction or renovation. Always follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions for best results.

At what height should Carbon Monoxide Alarms be installed?
Unlike smoke which rises to the ceiling, CO mixes with air. Carbon Monoxide Alarms may be installed at any height. However, if a combination smoke/CO alarm is used it must be installed on or near the ceiling, per manufacturer’s instructions, to ensure that it can detect smoke effectively.

What are the symptoms of Carbon Monoxide poisoning?
The most common symptoms of CO poisoning are headache, dizziness, weakness, shortness of breath, upset stomach, chest pain and confusion. CO symptoms are often described as “flu-like.” Know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can help you respond quickly in the event of an emergency.

What do the different beeps mean?
A Carbon Monoxide Alarm has different beep patterns to communicate whether there is an emergency or simply a service or maintenance issue. It is important to know the difference between the different beep patterns. Be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions.

What if my Carbon Monoxide Alarm sounds?
Immediately have everyone in the home get outdoors to fresh air and call 911 from outside the building. Because Carbon Monoxide Alarms can detect low levels of carbon monoxide, your alarm may activate before anyone feels ill. Signs of CO poisoning don't always happen right away. CO poisoning can happen gradually over a period of days or even weeks, depending on the levels of CO in your home. Re-enter your home only after it has been deemed safe by emergency responders.

When should Carbon Monoxide Alarms be replaced?
Replace Carbon Monoxide Alarms when the manufacturer’s replacement date is reached, when the alarm fails to respond to an operability test, or the end-of-life signal is active.

Where can I get Carbon Monoxide Alarms?
Carbon Monoxide Alarms are available for purchase at many stores and on-line. Only purchase alarms that are approved by UL (Underwriters Laboratories) in order to ensure that your alarms meet their strict testing and safety requirements.

Fall Back...Into Safety! Chief Smedley's Top Eight Tips

It's that time of year again when we "Fall Back" and change clocks (unless your clocks do it automatically)! Here are Fire Chief Smedley's Top Eight Tips when it comes to smoke alarms and fire safety this weekend!

1. It is indisputable that smoke alarms save lives. Smoke alarms are the best and least expensive way to provide an early warning system to alert you and your family to a potential fire emergency. Smoke alarms are designed to detect a fire in its early stages and alert people so they have time to safely escape.

2. Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home.

3. For the best protection, smoke alarms should be interconnected. What does that mean? When one sounds they all sound alerting you to an emergency early on and giving you critical time to escape. New construction requirements have included hard- wired smoke alarms with battery back-ups since the 1980's.

4. Nothing lasts forever - including smoke alarms. Smoke alarms become less reliable with time, primarily due to aging of their electronic components making them more susceptible to nuisance false alarms. Replace entire smoke alarm units every 10 years or sooner if they don't respond properly when tested. Why? The sensor wears out and may not activate in an emergency putting your family at risk. Always read the manufacturer’s recommendations as some models recommend replacement every 5-7 years.

5. Never (ever) paint over a smoke alarm. It will affect the operation of the smoke alarm, potentially disabling it.

6. Test your alarms once a month by pressing the test button.

7. Clean your smoke alarm once a month when you test it. Smoke alarms get clogged with dust build-up which may affect performance.

8. If your alarm “chirps” it may be time to change the back-up battery in your hard-wired alarm. Since 2018, Maryland law has required all battery-only smoke alarms (typically found in homes permitted before 7/1975) to have a sealed,10-year long-life battery in the unit so any "chirping" in these units is likely signaling that you need to replace the smoke alarm with a new one.

Today's home safety and security technology over the years to include smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Many families rely on household devices connected to the internet or smartphones to enhance safety and security. New technology can even notify you when the alarm is activated or if the battery is low. Take time this weekend to ensure your family has a fire safety plan. Practice it with a Home Fire Drill to ensure everyone knows what to do in an emergency. It's that time of year again when we "Fall Back" and change clocks (unless your clocks do it automatically)!

Need help? Have questions? We're here to help! A quick call to 311 will get you connected. Ask for the MCFRS Community Risk Reduction Team and let's make safe happen. 

Charge Smart, Stay Safe: Montgomery County Launches Fire Prevention Month with Focus on Lithium-Ion Batteries

On Tuesday, the Montgomery County Executive and the County Council formally proclaimed October as Fire Prevention Month, placing a critical spotlight on a fast-growing fire risk in our homes and neighborhoods: lithium-ion batteries. This year’s national theme, “Charge Into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home,” was front and center, reminding residents of the importance of safe charging, storage, and disposal of rechargeable batteries found in everything from smartphones and laptops to e-bikes and power tools.

The proclamation ceremony, held at the County Council building, brought together Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS) leadership, County Executive Marc Elrich, Chief Administrative Officer Dr. Earl Stoddard, Councilmembers, and key partners from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and Department of Permitting Services (DPS) — underscoring the county’s unified approach to prevention and public safety.

County Executive Marc Elrich emphasized the dual importance of safety and sustainability:

“Lithium-ion batteries are powering the devices we rely on every day, but they must be handled responsibly. Fire Prevention Month is not just about awareness — it's about action. By charging smart, recycling properly, and using certified products, we can protect our families and our environment.”

In recognition of their innovative curbside recycling program that includes household electronics and batteries, the Department of Environmental Protec
tion (DEP) participated in this year’s event, highlighting the strong partnership between public safety and environmental sustainability. The program not only supports Montgomery County’s environmental goals but also helps mitigate fire risks associated with improper disposal — a growing concern as battery-related incidents rise nationally and locally.

Also in attendance were representatives from Montgomery County’s Department of Permitting Services and Fire Code Compliance — whose expert work, though often behind the scenes, plays a critical role in ensuring that every building, system, and space in our county meets the highest standards of safety and compliance.

Fire Chief Corey Smedley underscored the department’s proactive mission:

“Fire Prevention Month is more than a tradition — it’s a call to action,” said Fire Chief Corey Smedley. “Together with our community, partner agencies, and dedicated volunteers, Montgomery County is charging into fire safety with innovation, education, and purpose.”

For resources and more information visit: www.mcfrs.org/mcsafe

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Fire Station 2025 Open House Schedule

 Get FIRED UP for Community Safety

This October, Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service stations are opening their doors to the public for a series of fun, educational, and family-friendly open house events! From live demonstrations to fire truck tours, these events are a great opportunity to meet your local firefighters, learn about fire safety, and see what it takes to protect our communities. Check out the full lineup below and plan your visit!

October is Fire Prevention Month: Charge into Fire Safety

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Fire Chief Corey Smedley and the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS) is proud to join the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in recognizing Fire Prevention Month throughout October.

This year’s national theme is “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home” and puts a spotlight on the growing number of lithium-ion batteries powering our daily lives. From smartphones and laptops to e-bikes, toys, and power tools, these batteries are convenient but can pose serious fire hazards if not used, charged, or disposed of properly.

Chief Smedley reminds residents:

“Lithium-ion batteries are everywhere and while they make our lives easier, they come with risks if not handled with care. Our MCFRS team is committed to educating the public and helping families stay safe. Fire prevention starts at home and it starts with education and awareness.” 

Lithium-Ion Battery Safety: 3 Key Steps

1. BUY only listed products

• Purchase products with lithium-ion batteries that carry a stamp from a nationally recognized testing lab such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL), which ensures that they meet safety standards.

2. CHARGE safely

• Use only the charging cords and charger provided by the manufacturer.
• Always charge on a hard, flat, nonflammable surface — not on beds or couches.
• Never leave devices charging unattended or overnight.
• Unplug once fully charged.

3. DISPOSE of batteries properly

• Never toss lithium-ion batteries in household trash or curbside recycling bins.
• Recycle at a certified battery collection location. Learn more about Montgomery County's expanded curbside recycling program for electronics and household batteries.

Fire Safety Starts at Home

While lithium battery safety is this year’s focus, the fundamentals of home fire prevention remain just as critical:

1. Create a fire escape plan that fits your household’s needs and abilities.
2. Establish a designated meeting place outside your home.
3. Call 911 after you safely escape.
4. Practice your plan with a home fire drill.

“We also urge residents to ‘Look Up’ and check that smoke alarms are installed in every bedroom, on every level of the home, and that they are working properly,” says Chief Smedley. “And remember, ALL smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years.”

Smoke Alarms Need a Check Up?

Have questions? Need assistance? We’re here to help! MCFRS offers free in-home or virtual fire safety visits for homeowners in Montgomery County. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 311 or visit us at www.mcfrs.org/mcsafe to request an appointment.

You're Invited! October 29th Public Safety Trunk or Treat Event

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The Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service Community Risk Reduction (CRR) Team is excited to invite the community to our Public Safety Trunk or Treat event at the Montgomery County Public Safety Headquarters!

This family-friendly event will bring together public safety agencies and community partners to celebrate Fire Prevention Month with candy, costumes, safety information, and fun for all ages.

Event Details

• Date: Wednesday, October 29, 2025
• Time: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Location: In the upper parking lot of Montgomery County Public Safety Headquarters,  100 Edison Park Drive, Gaithersburg MD 20878. Look for signage to direct you to the event and parking. Kindly drive with care — there will be increased pedestrian activity near the event.

What to Expect

·         Decorated vehicles and trunks

·         Tables and activities from community partners

·         Candy and giveaways

·         Music and entertainment in a festive atmosphere

·         Fire and life safety tips for families

 Important: The event will take place rain or shine. In the event of severe weather that would make it unsafe for participants or families, we will post updates or cancellations on this page and on department social media channels.
              We encourage you to check before heading out.


    

Swift Water, Swift Action: Rescue on Bradley Boulevard

Severe weather had been forecast for the region, and MCFRS was ready. With multiple severe weather contingency plans in place, resources strategically positioned and crews on alert for the flash flooding and dangerous conditions forecast to develop throughout the day. The storm arrived just before rush hour — fast, intense, and unforgiving — transforming familiar roads into fast-moving rivers.

Units from Fire Station 33 were dispatched to the intersection of Bradley Boulevard and Mercy Hollow Lane. Upon arrival, Engine 733 located what appeared to be a single vehicle, partially submerged but stable, pressed against a guardrail. Then, across roughly 200 feet of floodwater, officers from Montgomery County Police alerted our crews to something far more urgent: a second vehicle, almost completely submerged, with only its roof visible above the rushing water.

If you look closely at the first photo, you can spot the silhouette of that second car — and standing on top of it, an 8-year-old child, exposed to the storm. Inside the vehicle, a woman and a two-year-old remained trapped.

What followed was a powerful example of training, coordination, courage, and decisive action. Swift Water Rescue teams, arriving quickly on scene, executed a high-risk operation with precision — ultimately rescuing six civilians from the rising floodwaters.

This was no routine response. It was a high-stakes incident unfolding under rapidly changing conditions, and it was met with professionalism, urgency, and seamless teamwork. This rescue was also a testament to the power of interagency collaboration. MCFRS’s close coordination with the Montgomery County Police made all the difference when seconds mattered most.

Fire Station 33 Captain James Leinhauser reflected:

“This wasn’t a one-off act of bravery — it was the direct result of relentless training, teamwork, and a deep commitment to service. The men and women of the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service deliver high-quality emergency response hundreds of times every single day, in conditions both routine and extreme. We are committed to providing the highest quality service, each and every time we go out the door. I’m incredibly proud of everyone involved in today’s rescue.”

  

Statement: Fire Chief Corey Smedley

Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS) has been notified that Christopher Dudley, a volunteer Emergency Medical Technician assigned to the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad, was arrested by Fairfax County Police and charged with multiple counts of aggravated sexual battery and indecent liberties with minors. 

MCFRS takes these allegations seriously. We are fully cooperating with Fairfax County authorities and will conduct an internal investigation into this matter.

 

We are working collaboratively with the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad (BCCRS). While the investigation is ongoing, Mr. Dudley has been placed on involuntary administrative leave, and he is suspended from all MCFRS and BCCRS facilities, activities, and systems.

 

This remains an active investigation being led by Fairfax County Police. We encourage anyone with information to contact Fairfax County directly. 

 

MCFRS will provide updates as appropriate, and we remain focused on supporting the community and upholding public trust.

 

Chief Corey Smedley

Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service

 

MEDIA ADVISORY: MCFRS Launches Inaugural "Girls Wired for Fire" Week (July 28 - August 1)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
July 25, 2025

 Montgomery County, MD – Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS) is proud to announce its inaugural “Girls Wired for Fire” week, taking place July 28 – August 1, 2025. This innovative program is part of MCFRS’s ongoing commitment to enhancing diversity, recruitment, and retention within the fire service. 

With women making up just 4% of firefighters nationwide, MCFRS continues to lead the way by exceeding that national average and pushing for even greater representation.“Girls Wired for Fire” is a proactive initiative designed to inspire the next generation of women to pursue careers and volunteer opportunities in the fire and rescue service. 

Throughout the weeklong event, participants will engage in hands-on activities and leadership exercises alongside career and volunteer female firefighters. The program is intended to introduce young women to the fire service, foster confidence, and demonstrate that they too can serve as firefighters, EMTs, officers, and community leaders. 

This immersive experience will provide participants with role models, mentorship, and a strong sense of teamwork and camaraderie. The ultimate goal is to encourage lasting involvement in the fire service – from volunteering in their communities to pursuing full-time careers, and one day, returning to lead future programs like this one. 

Media Coverage Invitation:

We welcome and encourage media outlets to attend and cover this exciting event. Filming, interviews, and photo opportunities will be available on-site at the Public Service Training Academy.

 The most suitable dates and times for coverage are: 

• Tuesday, July 29 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Thursday, July 31 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   

Event Contact:
Battalion Chief Ashley Robinson
Phone: 240-388-6690
Email: Ashley.Robinson@montgomerycountymd.gov

 

Clarification: July 17 Water Discharge Incident Near Community Baseball Field – “Volunteer Fire Fighters are NOT Involved”

UPDATE: July 22, 2025

Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS) would like to provide an important clarification regarding the July 17, 2025, incident involving water discharge near one of our fire stations and an adjacent community baseball field.

On July 18, 2025, MCFRS issued an official statement acknowledging the incident and noted that it remains under active investigation. MCFRS also offered a sincere apology to the players, teams, the Cal Ripken League, and all fans and families impacted by this disruption.

The individuals allegedly involved in this incident are not volunteer members of the Silver Spring Fire Department or any of the 19 Local Volunteer Fire and Rescue Departments in Montgomery County. Rather, the personnel in question are career employees of MCFRS.

We reiterate this clarification to ensure that our dedicated volunteer members are not unfairly associated with this incident. Additionally, MCFRS apologizes to the Maryland National Capital Park Police for the damage done to the field and the work that must be done to ensure the field is playable for the community. Thank you for your understanding and continued support.

_________________________________________________________________________

Friday, July 18, 2025

Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service Statement

Regarding Water Discharge Incident Near Fire Station and Local Ballfield

Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS) is aware of an incident involving a water discharge near one of our fire stations and a nearby community baseball field on Thursday evening, July 17, 2025, which unfortunately led to the cancellation of a scheduled game.

We want to express our sincere apologies to the players, teams, Cal Ripken League, and all fans and families impacted by this disruption. We understand how important this venue is to the community and especially to the young athletes who look forward to these events.

At this time, we are actively gathering all relevant information and coordinating with the Maryland-National Capital Park Police to understand exactly what occurred. While the fire station and ballfield have long shared this space as neighbors, we recognize that incidents like this can have a real impact — and we take that seriously.

Our top priority remains public safety, and we are committed to maintaining open and transparent communication as we work through the facts. We deeply value our relationship with the community and are taking steps to ensure this matter is thoroughly reviewed and that future disruptions are prevented.

Again, we extend our heartfelt apologies and appreciate your patience and understanding as we move forward together.

Statement from Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service Regarding Online Comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 21, 2025

Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS) is aware of an inappropriate comment made by an MCFRS employee on a social media post made by the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD). The content of the comment is concerning and does not reflect the values or commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion upheld by MCFRS.

An internal investigation has been initiated to review the matter thoroughly. The employee is in a non-operational status pending the outcome of the investigation.

MCFRS takes allegations of this nature seriously. We remain committed to maintaining the trust of the community we serve and upholding the highest standards of professional conduct among all members of our department.

No further details will be released at this time due to the ongoing investigation.
 

Media Contact:
Assistant Chief Daniel Ogren
Public Information Officer
Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service
Phone: 240–777-2441
Email Address: daniel.ogren@montgomerycountymd.gov

Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service Statement

Regarding Water Discharge Incident Near Fire Station and Local Ballfield

Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS) is aware of an incident involving a water discharge near one of our fire stations and a nearby community baseball field on Thursday evening, July 17, 2025, which unfortunately led to the cancellation of a scheduled game.

We want to express our sincere apologies to the players, teams, Cal Ripken League, and all fans and families impacted by this disruption. We understand how important this venue is to the community and especially to the young athletes who look forward to these events.

At this time, we are actively gathering all relevant information and coordinating with the Maryland-National Capital Park Police to understand exactly what occurred. While the fire station and ballfield have long shared this space as neighbors, we recognize that incidents like this can have a real impact — and we take that seriously.

Our top priority remains public safety, and we are committed to maintaining open and transparent communication as we work through the facts. We deeply value our relationship with the community and are taking steps to ensure this matter is thoroughly reviewed and that future disruptions are prevented.

Again, we extend our heartfelt apologies and appreciate your patience and understanding as we move forward together.

Do What’s Right — Don’t Ignite. ALL Fireworks Are Illegal in Montgomery County

For Spanish Click HERE

As summer celebrations, graduations, and Independence Day approaches, MCFRS Fire Chief Corey Smedley and the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS) want to remind residents and visitors that ALL fireworks are illegal year-round in Montgomery County — and with good reason. Fireworks can cause devastating injuries, start fires, and damage property. Not to mention the trauma to animals and pets. Let’s keep our community safe and celebrations injury-free this Summer and the upcoming Fourth of July holiday.

Fireworks: Know the Law

Under Montgomery County Fire Safety Code Section 22-70, it is illegal for any person to:

• Manufacture
• Possess
• Store
• Sell
• Offer for sale
• Use, discharge, burn, or explode any fireworks

This includes sparklers and all consumer-grade fireworks, regardless of labeling. Violators may face up to $1,000 in fines and/or six months in jail.

What's Legal?

Almost nothing. The only exceptions:

• Snap-and-pop noise makers
• Snakes
• Party poppers

Everything else is illegal, including gold-label sparklers, firecrackers, roman candles, and bottle rockets.

Common Questions Answered

❌ Can I order fireworks online and have them shipped to my home?
No. Shipping fireworks for personal use in Maryland is illegal — regardless of how they’re transported.

❌ Can I have a private fireworks display with a permit?
No. Only licensed professionals may conduct public displays with proper permits and insurance. Call 311 for details about organizing a permitted public event.

❌ Can I receive fireworks via a public delivery service?
No. It doesn’t matter where or how fireworks are purchased — they are still illegal in Montgomery County.

Reporting Fireworks Violations

Help us keep your neighborhood safe:

• To report fireworks violations, call the non-emergency number: 301-279-8000
• Do NOT call 911 unless it is a life-threatening emergency

Want fireworks? Leave it to the Pros.

Enjoy the Fourth of July safely by attending public fireworks displays conducted by trained professionals. These events follow strict safety regulations and are monitored by fire and rescue personnel to ensure a safe experience for all.

DROWNING: It Can Happen in an Instant

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Five Words That Save Lives: All Eyes On The Pool!

As summer begins, MCFRS Fire Chief Corey Smedley and the dedicated men and women of the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service are reminding everyone of one of the most important rules around water: constant, undistracted adult supervision saves lives.

Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or new to the water, tragedies can happen in seconds — and many are preventable. Did you know that drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4? It’s a heartbreaking statistic that underscores the urgency of our 2025 Summer of Safety kickoff message: Stay alert. Stay present. Save lives.

Supervision Is Key

According to research from the National Safe Kids Campaign, 9 out of 10 children who drowned were under supervision at the time. How is this possible? Distractions like phones, tablets, reading, or socializing often pull attention away — and in water emergencies, every second counts.

If you are supervising a child, think of yourself as their lifeguard:

• Stay off your phone.

• Avoid multitasking.

• Keep children within arm’s reach — especially young or inexperienced swimmers.

• Designate a responsible “Water Watcher” whose only job is to supervise swimmers.

Know the Risks. Take Action.

• Learn to swim — and ensure your child can float, tread water, and reach the pool edge.

• Never swim alone. Always use the buddy system, no matter your experience.

• Avoid inflatable toys as floatation aids — they are not safety devices. Only use properly fitted, Coast Guard-approved life jackets.

• Lifeguards are not babysitters. Their presence adds a layer of protection but does not replace hands-on supervision.

• Install physical barriers around pools and remove toys when not in use to avoid tempting unsupervised play.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

• Have a phone nearby for emergency use — but not for distractions.

• Learn CPR and rescue techniques. Your skills can be the difference between life and death while waiting for first responders.

• Never leave children unattended near pools, bathtubs, or even decorative ponds.

• If you leave the area, take your child with you. Always.

Avoid These Common Hazards:

• Diving Injuries: Only dive in designated deep areas with confirmed safe depths. Serious spinal injuries can happen in shallow water.

• Bad Weather: Get out of the water immediately at the first sign of lightning or storms.

• Overexertion: Know the signs of fatigue. The “dangerous too’s” — too tired, too cold, too far from safety, too much sun — can quickly lead to trouble.

• Alcohol and Swimming Don’t Mix: Nearly half of all adult drownings involve alcohol. Stay sober around water.

Water can be fun — and dangerous. Protect what matters most by making safety your top priority this summer.

Stay alert. Be ready. And remember: All Eyes On The Pool.

MEDIA ADVISORY  

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

 January 22, 2025  

 

Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service
Mourns the Loss of
Lieutenant Christopher Higgins 

 

Montgomery County, MD — It is with profound sadness that the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS) announces the line-of-duty death of Lieutenant Christopher Higgins, 46, a dedicated 23-year veteran of the department. Master Firefighter Higgins was posthumously promoted to Lieutenant.  

 

On January 11, 2025, at approximately 5:00 p.m., Master Firefighter Higgins responded with his unit from Burtonsville Fire Station 15 to a mutual aid call for a house fire on Bradford Lane in Laurel, Prince Georges’ County, Maryland. While performing firefighting operations, he experienced a medical emergency and collapsed. Immediate life-saving measures were initiated on the scene, and he was transported to White Oak Medical Center in Silver Spring, where he was pronounced deceased.   

 

Lieutenant Higgins began his fire service career as a volunteer with the Earleigh Heights Volunteer Fire Company in Severna Park, Anne Arundel County, Maryland, before joining MCFRS. He is survived by his wife and two young children.  

 

 Fire Department (Public) Memorial Service 

• Date: Thursday, January 23, 2025 

• Time: 1pm to 3pm 

(Local State, County elected officials and others are expected to make remarks) 

• Location: Lighthouse Church,  

6691 Baymeadow Dr, #200, Glen Burnie, MD 

(*Media welcome) 

 

Funeral (Private) and Fire Service Burial (Public) 

• Date: Friday, January 24, 2025 

• Time: Private Funeral 11am; Public Burial 1pm  

• Location: Public Fire Service Burial 

Glen Haven Memorial Park, 7231 Ritchie Hwy,  

Glen Burnie, MD (*Media welcome)

For Information Contact:

Captain Franco Martinez  | 443-327-9313