Champion for Children’s Safety Recognized

One car seat at a time, she’s making a big difference

The Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service is proud to announce that Emilie Crown, Manager of Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service’s nationally recognized Car Seat Safety Program, was selected to receive the prestigious Barbara A. Foley Quality, Safety and Injury Prevention Award. The award recognizes individuals who exemplify exceptional innovation, dedication and advocacy in the field of emergency services.

Emilie has been leading the way in advancing safety for children for over 36 years. Initially as an Emergency Department nurse before bringing her talents to Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service to lead the department’s car seat safety program. She is the State’s only certified instructor for Safe Travel for all Children, a course that includes the travel needs of children with special healthcare needs. Emilie is well-known throughout the region for her contributions, tireless efforts, leadership and deep commitment to the safety and well-being of Montgomery County’s youngest residents and she leads the way in educating parents, caregivers and first responders on the importance of car seat safety. Over 150,000 seats have been inspected and installed in Montgomery County since the beginning of the program in 2000.

“Emilie’s efforts have been outstanding and she works tirelessly for the residents of Montgomery County,” said Fire Chief Scott Goldstein. “National research shows that three out of four car seats are used incorrectly. The goal of the car seat program is to educate on the proper use of car seats, booster seats and seat belts and to ultimately save lives. Emilie has also played a pivotal role in educating legislators on the importance of car seat laws designed to protect children. If you’re looking for a passionate educator and advocate for children’s safety, look no further.”

The award is one of the highest awards presented by the Emergency Nurses Association and was presented to Mrs. Crown on September 17, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. For more information about Montgomery County Fire & Rescue's Car Seat Program visit www.mcfrs.org/mcsafe.

About the Emergency Nurses Association 
The Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) is the premier professional nursing association dedicated to defining the future of emergency nursing through advocacy, education, research, innovation, and leadership. Founded in 1970, ENA has proven to be an indispensable resource to the global emergency nursing community. With more than 42,000 members worldwide, ENA advocates for patient safety, develops industry-leading practice standards and guidelines, and guides emergency healthcare public policy. ENA members have expertise in triage, patient care, disaster preparedness, and all aspects of emergency care. Additional information is available at www.ena.org.

What Time Is It?

Time to CHANGE your clocks & CHECK your smoke alarms this weekend
   

Simple task can be a potentially life-saving one!

Daylight savings time ends November 6^th and the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service is asking all residents to check their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are working when they change their clocks this weekend.   

“Home fires injure and kill thousands every year,” said Fire Chief Scott Goldstein.  “Smoke alarms that are properly installed and maintained play a vital role in reducing fire deaths and injuries. I encourage everyone to test their smoke alarms, replace any alarms that are 10 years or older and conduct a home fire drill this weekend.”

The peak time for home fire fatalities is between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. when most families are sleeping. A working smoke alarm dramatically increases the chance for survival and provides advance warning of a fire resulting in more time to react and put a home escape plan into action. 

Help keep your family safe by following these fire safety tips:

1.      Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement, and in all sleeping areas.

2.     Do you know if your smoke alarm is impacted by Maryland’s new law? Battery-only smoke alarms need to be replaced by 1/1/2018 with new smoke alarms that have sealed in, 10-year long life batteries.   

3.      Retire old smoke alarms and replace with new ones every 10 years. Like any electronic device, smoke alarms wear out over time and need to be replaced. The life expectancy of smoke alarms is 10 years. Smoke alarms work by sensing smoke particles and after 10 years, the smoke sensors lose their sensitivity. The test button only confirms that the battery, electronics and alerting system are working; not that the smoke sensor is working.

4.      Plan and practice home fire drills regularly. Decide in advance who will help family members that may need assistance escaping (young children, older adults or people with disabilities).        

6.      Make sure children recognize the sound of your smoke alarm and how to respond to its signal.

7.      Know your battery type. Sealed smoke alarms equipped with 10-year batteries are becoming more common and the batteries do not need to be replaced if they are sealed into the unit. Check your smoke alarms to see what type of battery it uses. While 10-year, long-life batteries do not need to be replaced annually, the entire smoke alarm unit does need to be replaced every ten years.Hard-wired smoke alarms, not affected by the new law, should have a battery backup and like all smoke alarm units need to be replaced every 10 years.

Got questions? Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service conducts free home safety checks of smoke alarms for residents at no cost. Please call 311 for information or visit our website for info as well as year-round safety information at www.mcfrs.org/mcsafe. 

Don’t be scared, be ready with a free Halloween CPR class! Reservations Required.

The only thing scarier than Halloween is not knowing how to save a life using CPR. Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is the leading cause of death among American adults.  Learn how to save the lives of your family and friends with a FREE CPR class and costume party. Please wear costumes however please keep your costumes family friendly and no weapons/simulated weaponry permitted! Refreshments and door prizes will be provided. All ages are welcome.  Act fast, limited space. 

Saturday, October 29, 2016
4:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Public Safety Headquarters
100 Edison Park Drive

Gaithersburg, MD 20878
* Secure Facility - ID required

To Register:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-halloween-costume-cpr-class-registration-18947281830

*This class is open to Montgomery County residents ONLY and does NOT result in certification. The Montgomery Community Emergency response Team (CERT) offers this  class free of charge to  Montgomery County Residents. The class are taught by ASHI professional instructors and Montgomery County EMT’s.

For more information, please contact the CERT Program Manager: greg.stjames@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Partnering Up for Your Safety! RVFD Thanks the City of Rockville for its ALS Chase Car

On Monday, Officers and Members of the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department presented ALS703 to the Rockville Mayor and Council. The unit which was recently placed in service was purchased with grant funding from the City of Rockville.

The RVFD would like to thank Mayor Bridget Donnell Newton and the Council for their support to the RVFD and the citizens we serve. ALS703 is staffed with a Paramedic which responds to reported critical emergency medical calls alongside an ambulance staffed with Emergency Medical Technicians.  ALS703 allows the paramedic to rapidly assess a patient and determine if advanced life support (ALS) is needed.  After the assessment, the paramedic will transport (ride with) the patient in the ambulance to the hospital when advanced care is needed.

There are many benefits of the Paramedic Chase Unit (PCU) which include a rapid return to service if the patient does not require the care of a paramedic during transport. This reduces the time a paramedic is unavailable to provide care to other potential patients.  Prior to the Paramedic Chase Unit or ALS Chase Car, paramedics where assigned to staff transport ambulances. With the paramedic assigned to a transport ambulance, they were the primary care provider even when a patient did not require higher level care.

Currently MCFRS has Paramedic Chase Units at the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department, Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad and Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad.  These units are each owned by the local fire and rescue departments and staffed with MCFRS career and volunteer professionals. Over the next couple of months, MCFRS will place additional PCU's in service resulting in a more efficient delivery of ALS service throughout the County.

Life Safety Educator of the Year

CONGRATULATIONS to retired Battalion Chief Jim Resnick who was selected as the 2015 Mid-Atlantic Life Safety Educator of the Year.

This very prestigious award was presented by Maryland Fire Marshal Brian Geraci and Maryland Secretary of State Police William Pallozzi yesterday during the annual Mid-Atlantic Life Safety Conference hosted at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab in recognition of his leadership and outstanding and distinguished work in the area of public safety. 

Known for his passion and enthusiasm for public education, Jim’s desire to help others began at a young age. Growing up, he lived near busy River Road which was frequently the site of vehicle collisions. Jim kept a metal toolbox stuffed with bandages and first aid supplies on his bike so he could rush to the aid of the injured. In middle school, he was first to sign up after an announcement offering First Aid Training by the Red Cross and the rest is, as they say, history. Jim joined the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad in 1976 on the first day he was eligible at age 17 ½ years old and continues as an active volunteer there today. 

Jim's leadership, personal integrity, energy and commitment to the residents of Montgomery County and the State of Maryland have been the hallmarks of a distinguished career and a lifelong commitment to public service. Jim's drive and passion to help others spans over 40 years as both a career and volunteer firefighter and paramedic. Most recently, Jim has been leading MCFRS Community Outreach and Risk Reduction efforts in Senior Outreach where he has been known to chase down senior citizens to talk about the importance of working smoke alarms and the department's free home safety check program. He has collaborated with dozens of County agencies and departments to develop innovative programs to reach those residents at greatest risk and ensures that first responders are trained on the unique skillsets needed when working with an aging population.  

Jim has been a determined champion of fire safety, injury prevention and education since those early days “responding” on his bike. MCFRS congratulates Jim on this outstanding achievement and very special honor! Jim's wife and his 94-year-old father surprised him and were in the audience during the award presentation. In talking to Jim after receiving the award – he was speechless – and those that know Jim know that is quite a feat! 

News You Can Use: New Driving Laws take effect Saturday

Maryland has several new driving laws on the books that take effect on Saturday, October 1. Among them is one that focuses on impaired driving; another requires proof of insurance. 

The Drunk Driving Reduction Act of 2016, also known as Noah’s Law, mandates the use of an ignition interlock for those convicted of drunk driving and significantly increases administrative driver’s license suspension periods. Noah’s Law was named in honor of Montgomery County Police Officer Noah A. Leotta, who was struck by a drunk driver while pulling over another suspected drunk driver during a holiday patrol. Tragically, he died a few days later as a result of his injuries.

Another law going into effect October 1 requires drivers to carry with them their current vehicle insurance identification card issued by their insurance company. It may be on paper or plastic or in electronic format. Starting July 1, 2017, anyone without a current vehicle insurance card can be charged a $50 fine.

For additional information on these and other laws going into effect on Saturday: News Release

Ready for Service: New Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad

Many were on hand as Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad (WVRS) officially dedicated Rescue Squad 742 and put the unit in service following today's 1:00 p.m. ceremony. Rescue Squad 742 will provide vital emergency services to the residents and businesses of the Wheaton community and Montgomery County. The Rescue Squad will respond to incidents that range from structural fires, vehicle extrication's, technical rescues and other types of complex, emergency incidents that require the technical services and advanced capabilities provided by specialized heavy rescue squads.

The Rescue Squad replaces a vehicle with over two decades of service and 192,000 miles logged. Purchased with support from community donations and grants, Rescue Squad 742 is one of the most advanced vehicles of its type in the region. The truck was custom build and features three winches, a 9,000 watt light tower and extrication tools powered by dual hydraulic generators. 

WVRS is located in the heart of the growing, thriving, multicultural community of Wheaton and responds to over 11,000 emergency calls annually in partnership with the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service. The WVRS has served the community since 1955 through generous donations of its neighbors and the surrounding community. Visit: www.wvrs.org for more information.

Rolltide? Roll Safety! Alabama Style.

Montgomery County Fire and Rescue was honored to have Jim Resnick invited to attend and present at the Alabama Association of Fire Chiefs Leadership Conference on Fire Prevention and Community Risk Reduction this week.

Jim presented to over 100 Fire Chiefs and other fire service leaders from across Alabama. He outlined the proactive Community Risk Reduction strategies, initiatives and educational programs that are having big impact in Montgomery County and resulting in a safer, resilient and engaged community. While Community Risk Reduction is a growing concept in many fire departments, Fire Chief Scott Goldstein ensures it's a tactical priority and part of each morning's roll call.

 

 

Safety for Life! It's Child Passenger Safety Week

Every 33 seconds, a child under 13 is involved in a crash. That's a terrifying statistic and one that demands immediate attention. Although highly preventable, motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 13. Proper use of car seats, booster seats and seat belts has the potential to reduce these deaths, as well as many more injuries.

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is sponsoring Child Passenger Safety Week, September 18-24, 2016 and throughout the year, Montgomery County Fire & Rescue’s child passenger safety technicians are dedicated to helping parents and caregivers learn how to correctly install child safety seats and properly buckle up children, whether it’s in child safety seats, booster seats or when using the vehicle’s seat belts.

For more information: MCFRS Car Seat Program

You're Invited! Saturday, September 17

The Germantown Volunteer Fire Department's Open House kicks off at 11:00 a.m. tomorrow!

This annual event will feature something for everyone. Watch firefighting demonstrations, meet everyone's favorite Fire Dog, learn important information about Maryland's New Smoke Alarm Law and much more.

Get a front row seat to a live demo that will demonstrate the power of residential fire sprinklers when two identical rooms are side-by-side and put to the test.

The Open House runs from 11:00 - 3:00 p.m. See you there!

 

Mark Your Calendars: October 1st is Rescue Day 2016

You're invited! The Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad will hold its free annual Open House, “Rescue Day 2016,” on Saturday, October 1, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  Rescue Day 2016 is being held in conjunction with the Taste of Bethesda, the outdoor food festival held just two blocks away in Bethesda's restaurant district.

Fire and Rescue Activities and Displays for All Ages

Rescue Day 2016 will feature fire and rescue activities, education and displays for all ages, including tours of the station; live demonstrations of emergency medical, rescue, and firefighting equipment; free kids’ firefighter hats; a moon bounce; and more.  The Rescue Squad’s most advanced firefighting and rescue equipment, including emergency vehicles, will be on display.

A special visit by a helicopter used to transport critically injured patients to area hospitals when time is truly of the essence is planned. Visitors will get an up-close view of the helicopter and have the opportunity to meet the flight medics.  (Because the helicopter may need to respond to emergencies throughout the day, its appearance at our event is subject to change.) 

Step back in history and check out “Rescue 15” which is the Squad’s sleek 1972 Cadillac ambulance. The last Cadillac to serve in the Squad’s fleet, “Rescue 15” now serves in a ceremonial function at Squad open houses, parades, and other events and has become a favorite of kids and families. 

Learn what it takes to be a first responder, all about volunteer opportunities with the Squad and the free training provided to become EMTs, Firefighters and Paramedics. 

Directions, Parking & Transportation OptionsThe Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad is located at 5020 Battery Lane, at the intersection of Old Georgetown Road. Ample parking is available at the Montgomery County public parking garages within walking distance of the Rescue Squad. For parking information visit www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/bethesda/bethesda-garage-36.html.

For more information visit: www.bccrs.org

Don’t wait. Communicate!

September is National Preparedness Month
In recent years, devastating earthquakes, tornadoes, winter storms, floods and wildfires have highlighted the need for Americans to prepare for natural disasters. However, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), over half of Americans have not discussed or developed a family emergency plan.

Do you have a plan in place for your family? Does everyone know where to meet, how family members will communicate following an emergency or disaster and how you’ll stay informed? Your ability to recover from an emergency tomorrow could depend on your planning and preparation today! Don't wait.

Take a minute, talk to family members, make sure your kids know important phone numbers and include seniors and any family members that require assistance in your plan.
Get started at www.ready.gov/make-a-plan

Commendation Medals Awarded

Emilie Crown was honored this week with the Fire Safety Commendation Award from the Sons of the American Revolution’s General William Smallwood Chapter in Montgomery County.

The prestigious Fire Safety Commendation Award is given to an individual for accomplishments and/or outstanding contributions in an area of fire safety and service. Emilie has been involved with public safety and community service for the past 37 years in Montgomery County, first as an emergency nurse and now in injury prevention with Montgomery County Fire Rescue’s nationally recognized car seat program and Safe Kids Montgomery County. Emilie's hard work and tireless efforts have been instrumental in saving countless lives. The Honorable Marc Elrich from the Montgomery County Council also spoke at the ceremony.

Three other public safety awards were presented. Chief Ned Sherburne from Bethesda Chevy Chase Rescue Squad received the EMS commendation medal (not able to attend) and Montgomery County Police officers Brian Nesbit (not able to attend) and Cody Fields (pictured) received the Sons of the American Revolution Law Enforcement Commendation and award recognizing their heroic actions. Congrats to all!

Slow Down, Watch Out. KIDS AHEAD!

Back to School Safety Tips - Children across the region are heading back to school and Fire Chief Scott Goldstein is asking all drivers to exercise extra caution and be alert as the school year begins. “Safety is our top priority. With schools back in session, drivers should allow extra time and be on the look-out for children at intersections and in neighborhoods,” said Chief Goldstein. “Additionally, as a matter of safety and compliance with laws, drivers are reminded to put their cell phones down and refrain from talking or texting while behind the wheel. Please be a good ROAD model.”

For Drivers:

• Be alert and slow down. Eliminate any distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings. Put down your phone and never text while driving.  Looking away from the roadway for just two seconds doubles the chance of being involved in a crash.
• Passengers should wear a seat belt and/or ride in an age and size-appropriate car safety seat or booster seat. Children of all ages are safest when properly restrained in the backseat of a vehicle.
• Exercise extra caution as you head out to work and be on the lookout for school buses. Many bus routes or schedules change each year and you may encounter a school bus or stop where you may have never seen one before.
• Scan between parked cars. Nearly 40 percent of child pedestrian fatalities occurred between the hours of 4 p.m. and 8 p.m., mostly at non-intersection locations, according to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Children can quickly dart out between parked cars or other objects along the roadway. Motorists should pay close attention not only at intersections, but along any residential roadways where children could be present.
• Take extra time when making a right turn on a red light and be on the lookout for pedestrians.
• School Zones: Slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods and around schools. Be alert to children as you back your vehicle out of your driveway or exit your garage.
• Expect delays near schools, plan ahead and allow extra time to reach your destination.
• Safety on the road is especially important for “new” drivers that may be driving to high school for the first time.

Reminders for Parents and Children:

• Be realistic about your child’s pedestrian skills. Children are not always aware of their surroundings and may dart into traffic assuming drivers will see and stop for them. Carefully consider whether your child is ready to walk to school or wait for the bus without adult supervision and walk the route with your child beforehand.
• Teach children to always cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks and look left, right and left again before crossing. Children may have difficulty gauging the distance and speed of an approaching car, and may not recognize and react to potentially hazardous situations.
• If traveling to school by bike, obey the rules of the road and wear a helmet. Not only is it the smart thing to do, it is also the law in Maryland.
• Be sure that your child knows his or her phone number and address, your work number and when to call 911 for emergencies.
• Only drive or park in authorized areas when picking up or dropping off students at school.
• Be a good neighbor. Respect private property and always be on your best behavior while waiting for the bus. 

School Bus Safety – What Motorists Should Know: 
All motorists are required by law to stop when the red lights on buses are flashing. Passing a school bus when the red lights are flashing is not only illegal it is also one of the biggest threats to student safety. Motorists should be aware that the red flashing lights and the stop sign may be engaged shortly after the amber lights are on. Vehicles traveling in the same direction as the bus are always required to stop. In Maryland, the law states that vehicles must come to a complete stop on both sides of the roadway if there is no physical divider or barrier.

Home Alone 
Parents need to carefully consider the pros and cons of having a child stay home alone before/after school. Be familiar with laws and child protective policies in your jurisdiction and, because children mature at different rates, your decision should not be based on age alone. Children should master important safety skills before staying home alone. Be sure to make and practice a home fire escape plan that includes a designated “safe” area outside where everyone will meet if the smoke alarm sounds and ensure they know when and how to call 9-1-1 in an emergency. Unattended cooking continues to be the leading cause of home fires in Montgomery County and firefighters strongly recommend having after school snacks on hand that do not require cooking. Children should only use kitchen appliances while under close adult supervision. Additional safety tips can be found on our website at mcfrs.org/mcsafe.

For the law in Maryland, Section 5-801 provides:(a) A person who is charged with the care of a child under the age of 8 years may not allow the child to be locked or confirmed in a dwelling, building, enclosure or motor vehicle while the person charged is absent and the dwelling, building, enclosure or motor vehicle is out of the sight of the person charged unless the person charged provides a reliable person at least 13 years old to remain with the child to protect the child.

If you need assistance with fire escape planning or obtaining smoke alarms, call 311 to schedule a free check-up by fire and rescue service representatives. To learn more about what you and your family can do to be safe year-round, visit the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service website at www.mcfrs.org/mcsafe.

Get Ready: Heat Wave in the Forecast

Excessive heat is especially dangerous to the elderly, the young, those with existing medical conditions and those that work outdoors. Fire Chief Scott Goldstein is urging residents to stay cool, stay hydrated and to check on the welfare of elderly or at-risk neighbors as things "heat up" 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 car seat 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.

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 on Vacation? Safety Starts Before You Leave Home

·         Never put your home address on your luggage tags. Write your phone number instead.

·         Make copies of all of your credit cards, important identification information, including your medical insurance cards. Take one copy with you (pack it separately from the cards themselves) and leave one copy at home.

·         Make sure all of the doors and windows to your home are secured and locked. It sounds like a no-brainer but many thieves gain access through unlocked windows and doors. 

·         Never post your travel plans on social media networks. The pictures of your non-stop fun and adventures are great – just wait until you return home to post.

·         Let your trusted neighbors know you’ll be away so they can keep an eye on your home while you are away.

·         Have your mail held at the post office and your newspaper delivery put on hold or ask a family member, friend or neighbor to pick them up for you.

·         Set automatic timers to turn your lights on.

When on Vacation Consider Taking a Vacation from Social Media

Be careful about the information you share on social media. Do not publicly post check-ins at distant locations or photos from the airport with details about your vacation plans – you may be letting the entire world know that your home will be empty. Think twice before you post!  

The best seat is a SAFE one!

Montgomery County Fire and Rescue's Car Seat program is nationally recognized. Over 25 seats installed Saturday! Visit mcfrs.org/mcsafe for information and to learn more about the program.  

Making History

County Executive Leggett greeted Battalion Chief Dorcus “Dee” Howard Richards to honor her for 27 years of service to the County and the Department of Fire and Rescue Service. Earlier this year, Chief Howard Richards received special recognition from the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) during the NAACP’s 41st Annual Freedom Fund Dinner and was recognized as the first African American female promoted to the rank of Battalion Chief in the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service.

Pictured (l to r): County Chief Administrative Officer Tim Firestine; County Executive Ike Leggett;
Battalion Chief Dee Howard Richards; and Fire Chief Scott Goldstein

Video: www.montgomerycountymd.gov/ccm/mosaic

Time to "Retire" Your Smoke Alarms?

Your smoke alarms need to have a retirement plan! Smoke alarms have a life expectancy of 10 years and then need to be replaced with new ones. Like other electronic equipment, smoke alarm components wear out over time and the sensors can begin to lose sensitivity. The test button only confirms that the battery, electronics and the alert system are working, not that the sensor that detects smoke is working. 

Remember:

- Even if your 10-year-old (or older) smoke alarm sounds when you push the test button, it still needs to be replaced.

- Even if a smoke alarm hasn’t reached the 10-year mark, replace it if it chirps after you’ve replaced the battery or if the alarm doesn’t sound when you perform the recommended monthly testing of your fire alarm system.

- Montgomery County Fire Officials recommend replacing all interconnected smoke alarms at the same time (even if some are working).

Remember: smoke alarms are an essential part of your home's fire prevention strategy! Be sure to read about Maryland's New Smoke Alarm law that affects all battery-only smoke alarms.  

Practice Playground Safety

• Watch out for hot surfaces that can burn children such as slides and swings.
• Make sure the safety surfaces are thick enough to protect children if they fall.
• Make sure there is an adult present to supervise at all times.
• For a playground safety checklist visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

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