tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589131276360443252024-03-14T16:11:33.681-04:00Montgomery County Fire & Rescue News & InformationThe official blog for MCFRS News and InformationMCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.comBlogger1590125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-76574024077804252762024-03-14T16:10:00.001-04:002024-03-14T16:10:46.797-04:00 Safety First: The Dangers of Windows<p><span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">For Spanish click</span><span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JN-JDO0QQdrYCIxpnZYWREsD_oRzPEeq/view?usp=sharing" style="color: #d52a33; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a></p><div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-1974832314250417201" itemprop="description articleBody" style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.4; position: relative; width: 586.193px;"><p style="clear: both;"><b><u></u></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><u style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="846" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjsp0CkS-aENuQL6JLY2tApw6TTT7hOx_EIR0WzGl5KJCJS1m0IADy47a1_6SOILWtG9dWZo9xYiISZVQRtxnIw43Ck8D3NWdfg7XKAyiVQ4ktiLSDJpoK3fzug_-CQJI8F__VjLsmYnA/s320/windowfall.jpg" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-radius: 5px; border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.2) 0px 0px 20px; padding: 8px;" width="320" /></u><b></b></div><b><u>Fact:</u></b> Falls are the leading cause of unintentional injuries in children less than 14 years of age. More than 80% of fall-related injuries among children ages 4 and under occur in the home.<div><br />You've child-proofed your home room-by-room. You've check your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. You've covered all electrical outlets and you've even mastered how to install your car seat. But there is one potential hazard you may have missed or underestimated. As cooler weather arrives and people are opening their windows again, be aware of young children who may have access to windows -- and not just in high rise buildings. Many falls occur from modest heights. <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Windows play a vital role in home safety, serving as a secondary escape route in the event of a fire or other emergency, but they also pose a risk for a fall if safety measures are not followed. While most windows have screens, they are not designed to provide protection to keep a child safe. Prevent window-related injuries in the home:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><ul style="line-height: 1.4; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;"><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;">Never rely on window screens to keep children from falling out of windows. A screen is not a safety device. It is designed to keep insects out, not to keep children in.</li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;">Keep furniture such as sofas, beds and dressers away from windows. This will discourage children from climbing near any windows.</li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;">Keep windows closed and locked when they are not being used.</li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;">When windows are open for ventilation, take advantage of all safety features. If possible, open windows from the top and not the bottom if you have double-hung windows – the kind that can open down from the top as well as up from the bottom.</li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;">Install safety devices such as window guards or window stops to help prevent falls.</li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;">Remind grandparents and other caregivers about window safety.</li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;">Always supervise children and keep their play area (or "home school" area) away from windows.</li></ul></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="1024" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2LLEvFPmh530Ly9zpc9vWnEthVy13m6HFY0vSuimEL15CZ3qqbc6BoqU7bPAwDtU1lIcEXf6gZIRxXCiflnWHadr7Lub5BikhVGQuaWTJRnuU6WtUzTTS9ANIJxH1fOTg7WimlH4oHco/w400-h200/windowstops.jpg" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-radius: 5px; border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.2) 0px 0px 20px; padding: 8px;" width="400" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Toddlers are top-heavy. Their heads are bigger in proportion to the rest of their body than adults.This means they are more likely to fall head first, injuring their skull and brain upon impact. Window falls can happen quickly and, in some cases, be deadly. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><ul style="line-height: 1.4; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;"><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;">If you see that a child has fallen out of a window and is lying on the ground not moving, do not move them. Call 911 and wait for emergency responders.</li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;">Seek medical attention after a window fall, even if your child appears to have no injuries. </li></ul></div></div></div></div>MCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-59610930169078959632024-03-05T11:16:00.000-05:002024-03-05T11:16:01.144-05:00 Spring forward time!<p><span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">For Spanish click</span><span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Mb9aewuTQM7It-TY_uOvHN7BVy3q80_g/view?usp=share_link" style="color: #d52a33; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-line: none;"><b>here</b></a></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjy2LqZ7a6zLU2Jk3EXLoVKT5nN6FHQTTxP6QCGrSELw2Lv3kqubX4QdcRc8PryXXbb2eNwhrT-Al-LPMjIxG-E_6MrN-wCcdNABGH-dHauzFkUij83gknCxd5d2WQlL_how5QzTTjAv3ucXNklWxwBvx3_M6gTS0UAOOyi8hoVPAIhp7xFiQhmEhms=s1280" style="color: #d52a33; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="1280" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjy2LqZ7a6zLU2Jk3EXLoVKT5nN6FHQTTxP6QCGrSELw2Lv3kqubX4QdcRc8PryXXbb2eNwhrT-Al-LPMjIxG-E_6MrN-wCcdNABGH-dHauzFkUij83gknCxd5d2WQlL_how5QzTTjAv3ucXNklWxwBvx3_M6gTS0UAOOyi8hoVPAIhp7xFiQhmEhms=w400-h200" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-radius: 5px; border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.2) 0px 0px 20px; padding: 8px; position: relative;" width="400" /></a></div></div><div><h2 style="border-bottom: 1px solid transparent; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 0.6em 0px 0.5em; position: relative;"> </h2></div><p></p><div><h3 style="margin: 0px; position: relative;">Don’t forget: TEST smoke and carbon monoxide alarms this weekend!</h3><p>It's that time of year again when we "Spring Forward" and change clocks (unless your clocks do it automatically!) and check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Here are our "Top Eight" Tips to remember when it comes to smoke alarms and fire safety this weekend:</p><p>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.</p><p>2. Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home.</p><p>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 mid-70's. </p><p>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.</p><p>5. DIY projects? Never (ever) paint over a smoke alarm. It will affect the operation of the smoke alarm, potentially disabling it.</p><p>6. Test your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarms once a month by pressing the test button.</p><p>7. Lightly clean your smoke alarms monthly when you test them. Smoke alarms get clogged with dust build-up which may affect performance. Vacuum lightly and follow manufacturer recommendations. </p><p>8. If your smoke 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 built before 1975 that have never pulled a building permit) to have a sealed,10-year long-life battery in the unit. Any "chirping" in these units is likely signaling that you need to replace the entire smoke alarm with a new one. </p><p>Today's home safety and security technology has evolved beyond 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 and you have smoke and carbon monoxide alarms with the newest technology. And practice your plan with a Home Fire Drill to ensure everyone knows what to do in an emergency. </p><div><br style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /></div></div>MCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-43175529599589125112024-02-13T15:15:00.003-05:002024-02-13T15:29:49.615-05:00Best. Gift. Ever.<p> <span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-size: 13px;">For Spanish click </span><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-NaqjmBwsTHH96Ov-Hb1li7GpROEa6NA/view?usp=sharing" style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #d52a33; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a></p><div style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><h3 style="margin: 0px; position: relative;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioSM5tTvXPRfyz5cWe7QdXKJGiba6ZLvhsFlNuJdeML5QMsSHk5XSex0Wfwcc5-lsqvI_ATPR-molgU3mhesyT7ZZYxumu6u4Lxuu1LmANxoHP2fQujkRAyJB5J379VCfd_V6m8CCvAoI/s640/valentinesday.png" style="clear: right; color: #d52a33; display: inline; float: right; font-family: georgia; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioSM5tTvXPRfyz5cWe7QdXKJGiba6ZLvhsFlNuJdeML5QMsSHk5XSex0Wfwcc5-lsqvI_ATPR-molgU3mhesyT7ZZYxumu6u4Lxuu1LmANxoHP2fQujkRAyJB5J379VCfd_V6m8CCvAoI/s320/valentinesday.png" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-radius: 5px; border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.2) 0px 0px 20px; padding: 8px; position: relative;" /></a></h3><h3 style="margin: 0px; position: relative;">Last minute shoppers, still looking for the perfect Valentine’s gift?</h3><h3 style="margin: 0px; position: relative;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Montgomery County Fire and Rescue officials are recommending smoke alarms as the PERFECT Valentine’s gift for loved ones this year. Nothing says you mean everything to me like the 24-hour protection that comes with a smoke alarm. And while you are busy planning the perfect evening, make it memorable for all the right reasons. A few tips to keep in mind:</span><br /></span></div></h3><ul style="line-height: 1.4; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;"><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b>Cooking:</b> Planning to put all those new cooking skills learned on Instagram? Be sure to 'Stand by your pan' and 'Keep an eye on what you fry.' Too many meals are ruined when cooks get distracted or forgetful and leave cooking unattended. As much as Fire/Rescue loves your cooking, you really don’t want us to have to extinguish that perfect meal. Cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires so keep anything that can catch fire – potholders, paper or plastic bags, dish towels, newspapers, and curtains – away from your stovetop, oven and appliances that generate heat and don't cook distracted.</span></li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b>Candles: </b>While candles may look festive and set the mood, did you know that unattended candles account for thousands of fires annually? The National Fire Protection Association reports that, on average, a candle fire in the home is reported to a US Fire Department every 30 minutes. Consider battery-operated, flameless candles instead. You really can’t tell the difference!</span></li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b>Getting lit?</b> If lighting up the fireplace is in your plans, make sure that’s all you light up. Believe it or not, every year people dispose of fireplace ashes before they have sufficiently cooled. Keep your ash out of the trash and only dispose of fireplace ashes in a sealed, metal container located far from anything combustible several days after they have cooled. Never dispose of fireplace ashes in your recycling bin, trash can, paper, or plastic bags or in a garage, carport, or on a deck or porch.<br /></span></li></ul><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Montgomery County Fire and Rescue wants you to have a great (and safe) Valentine’s Day. Remember, smoke alarms save lives and they make great gifts. Did you know you can schedule MCFRS to check your home's smoke alarms? Schedule an in-person or "virtual" visit or a quick phone consult ... we'll even help you pick the perfect alarms for your home. You'll just need to add a bow. Call 311 or visit www.mcfrs.org/mcsafe for all the info on this free program to Montgomery County residents. </span></span></div>MCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-42120000361843607422024-01-19T10:00:00.000-05:002024-01-19T10:55:46.908-05:00Cold Weather Probs - Prevent Pipes from Freezing<div><h3><b><i style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Beth Anne Nesselt<br /></span></i></b><b><i style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: small;">Manager, Community Risk Reduction Section</span></i></b></h3>___________________________________________</div><div><br /></div>For Spanish click <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eNk_FngUcyADAqL-HgWDuR_aRLGHyCIz/view?usp=sharing">here</a>
<h4 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span face=""arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif" style="color: #333333; line-height: 18.2px;"><br />With below-freezing temperatures in the forecast, a few simple steps can keep you and your family safe and your home's pipes from freezing. </span><span face=""arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif" style="color: #333333; line-height: 18.2px;">Please review the tips below to help minimize the possibility of damage.<br /><br /></span></span></h4><div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-6013122447468226607" itemprop="description articleBody" style="background-color: #fefdfa; position: relative; width: 586.193px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmDrw_8IdSoeoroAALKEkbug6MXIz4JiTsG_FDQmED9y8qd_EWqMk1NtvuYrL4A315udCpjKJbzPOhikN1WmoNlufs6ZNLZNaHaTR6eGBmo7sKxZJpPlloWDeP28dNG9Vs6ClpW2NQv5U/s1600/pipes.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmDrw_8IdSoeoroAALKEkbug6MXIz4JiTsG_FDQmED9y8qd_EWqMk1NtvuYrL4A315udCpjKJbzPOhikN1WmoNlufs6ZNLZNaHaTR6eGBmo7sKxZJpPlloWDeP28dNG9Vs6ClpW2NQv5U/s320/pipes.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div><ul style="line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;"><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: small; line-height: normal;">Prepare your pipes in advance. Remove, drain and store garden hoses used outside. If practical, use an inside valve to shut off and drain water from pipes leading to outside faucets. This reduces the chance of freezing pipes just inside your house.</span></span></li></ul><ul style="line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;"><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: normal;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: georgia;">Properly winterize automatic landscaping sprinkler systems. </span></span></li></ul><ul style="line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;"><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: normal;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: georgia;">Check and monitor any exposed pipes in unheated areas such as basements, garages, attics and crawlspaces.</span></span></li></ul><ul style="line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;"><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: georgia;">Locate the main water shut off for your home so that if a pipe bursts, you can shut off the water and minimize damage.</span></li></ul><ul style="line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;"><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: georgia;">Open cabinet doors in the kitchen and bathrooms to let heat in and around the plumbing. Especially important if some of these pipes run up against outside walls. If you open cabinet doors, be sure to remove anything that may pose a safety hazard to children, such as household cleaners.</span></li></ul><ul style="line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;"><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: georgia;">Keep any garage doors closed if there are water pipes or supply lines in the garage. If attached to home and safe, consider opening the door to the garage to allow some home heat to enter the garage. While your heating bill may take a hit, the cost will not compare to costly repairs from water damage.</span></li></ul><ul style="line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;"><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: georgia; line-height: 1.4;">DO NOT use kerosene or other fuel fed heating devices in the garage to heat it.</span></li></ul><ul style="line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwZKuF3kSO0SSqIFqbsqpNT0DyVuynptiE3wYGbU39e5F3F2_HDrq8BsCHCeA_K9wx9XX5Ko7yA6S0LETqK884TrStwcEWH75ZmAmajeZLwtTo8_OHdHo5rauqGZhW3BLOJt3iDMo6uWM/s1600/frozen_pipes_l.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwZKuF3kSO0SSqIFqbsqpNT0DyVuynptiE3wYGbU39e5F3F2_HDrq8BsCHCeA_K9wx9XX5Ko7yA6S0LETqK884TrStwcEWH75ZmAmajeZLwtTo8_OHdHo5rauqGZhW3BLOJt3iDMo6uWM/s320/frozen_pipes_l.jpg" width="316" /></span></a><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: georgia;">Let water drip from faucets served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe (even at a dribble) during a cold spell can often help prevent pipes from freezing.</span></li></ul><ul style="line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;"><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: georgia;">DO NOT use a blow torch or any other open flame to try and thaw out potentially frozen pipes! (did we really have to say this?!) </span></li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: georgia;">Mobile homes are typically more vulnerable to frozen pipes so take proper precautions. </span></li></ul><ul style="line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;"><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: georgia; line-height: 1.4;">Keep the thermostat set to no lower than 55° F during the evening hours or if you will be leaving the home for an extended period of time (day or night).</span></li></ul><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span face=""arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif" style="color: #444444; line-height: 18.2px;"> </span><br /><span style="color: #444444;"><span><span style="line-height: 18.2px;">Please check on elderly neighbors, family members and friends who may need additional assistance to ensure their safety during these challenging times. And always having wo</span></span></span><span style="color: #444444;"><span><span style="line-height: 18.2px;">rking and up-to-date smoke alarms in your home. Visit us at </span></span><span style="color: #444444;"><a href="http://www.mcfrs.org/mcsafe" style="line-height: 18.2px;">www.mcfrs.org/mcsafe</a><span><span style="line-height: 18.2px;"> for more safety tips.</span><span style="line-height: 18.2px;"><br /></span></span></span><span><span style="line-height: 18.2px;"><br /></span></span><span>Stay informed. Sign up for Alert Montgomery. For information, visit </span><a href="https://alert.montgomerycountymd.gov/register.php" style="line-height: normal;">https://alert.montgomerycountymd.gov/register.php</a></span></span></div>MCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-30675871480908827652023-12-30T12:29:00.003-05:002023-12-30T12:49:01.600-05:00Do What's Right - Don't Ignite. ALL Fireworks are ILLEGAL<p><b><span style="font-family: georgia;">For Spanish Click <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EgXLUEM24sn90cGyznfFlwhNBP-zYooJ/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">HERE</a></span></b><br /></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Montgomery County Fire and Rescue wants to keep everyone safe and reminds residents and visitors to the area over the holidays that ALL fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County - - YEAR ROUND. What you need to know:</span></div><p></p><div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-8904702726699148746" itemprop="description articleBody" style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; line-height: 1.4; position: relative; width: 586px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large; font-weight: 700;">The Law</span><b style="font-family: georgia;">:</b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 17.9218px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUvGh4MqN_ByscCBCEcdebXZ2Gb8n5Lu3Zuyp_Dj05GiOcb3b7W4GRicBklTJxeYsTptSc_Ta4FZSlNVsudfXpf4_RcYWJHjOHFxgnVJtpxSE6_tN__1wQ3Yb7IzuKbXHIBZ37unCBZqc/s231/fireworksillegal.jpg" style="clear: right; color: #d52a33; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" data-original-height="231" data-original-width="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUvGh4MqN_ByscCBCEcdebXZ2Gb8n5Lu3Zuyp_Dj05GiOcb3b7W4GRicBklTJxeYsTptSc_Ta4FZSlNVsudfXpf4_RcYWJHjOHFxgnVJtpxSE6_tN__1wQ3Yb7IzuKbXHIBZ37unCBZqc/s0/fireworksillegal.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border-radius: 5px; border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.2) 0px 0px 20px; padding: 8px; position: relative;" /></a></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;">I</span>t 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.<span style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b><span style="line-height: 18.4px;">What fireworks are legal?</span></b><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">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.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b><span style="line-height: 18.4px;">Can I receive fireworks at my home through the mail?</span></b><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">No. Use of the mail for the transportation of fireworks for use in the State of Maryland is illegal.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b><span style="line-height: 18.4px;">Can I have a private fireworks display at my residence with proper permits?</span></b><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">No. You can not have a private display; however, you can apply to have a public display with proper permits and insurance.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b><span style="line-height: 18.4px;">Can I receive fireworks at my residence delivered by a public carrier?</span></b><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span style="line-height: 14.95px;">No. It </span><span style="line-height: 18px;">doesn't</span><span style="line-height: 14.95px;"> matter where the fireworks are purchased or how they are brought into Maryland. <u>Fireworks are still illegal in Montgomery County</u>.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b><span style="line-height: 18.4px;">Where do I report violations involving fireworks?</span></b><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">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.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b><span style="line-height: 18.4px;">Where can I go to see the fireworks on July 4th?</span></b><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><div style="line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">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. <br /><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b>How many fires are caused by fireworks? </b></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #202124;">Fireworks started</span><span style="color: #202124;"> an estimated 19,500 </span><span style="color: #202124;">fires</span><span style="color: #202124;"> in 2018. According to the National </span><span style="color: #202124;">Fire</span><span style="color: #202124;"> Protection Association, </span><span style="color: #202124;">fireworks started</span><span style="color: #202124;"> an estimated 19,500 </span><span style="color: #202124;">fires</span><span style="color: #202124;"> in 2018, including 1,900 structure </span><span style="color: #202124;">fires</span><span style="color: #202124;">, 500 vehicle </span><span style="color: #202124;">fires</span><span style="color: #202124;">, and 17,100 outside and other </span><span style="color: #202124;">fires</span><span style="color: #202124;">.</span></span></span></div></div></div>MCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-13487818703845263252023-11-28T14:00:00.000-05:002023-11-28T16:56:27.652-05:00Tis the season to be … SAFE! Deck the Halls with Safety<h2>
For Spanish click <a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=1KOtE6LkaZT0WcF9RdZQZY87FO99GENWO">here</a></h2>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEbPbHRuP9tGuvRnQebL3I5qESucXFN2VzmrUR5BYSpoaW-IGH3KUSPiG0dJrTLft62h9J75ZPp8t30jxIh2n5O0npFCdsaKj2WBoK3eo3NVfronoqTSdWL0BxdT7zk0HkqpczdD8H8GI/s1600/catmuggo.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="723" data-original-width="685" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEbPbHRuP9tGuvRnQebL3I5qESucXFN2VzmrUR5BYSpoaW-IGH3KUSPiG0dJrTLft62h9J75ZPp8t30jxIh2n5O0npFCdsaKj2WBoK3eo3NVfronoqTSdWL0BxdT7zk0HkqpczdD8H8GI/s320/catmuggo.jpg" width="303" /></a><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">In the hustle and bustle of the holiday
season, it may be tempting to take a few shortcuts. Interim Fire Chief John Kinsley asks that you make sure that safety isn’t one of them!<b> </b></span><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj83G7wiJAfBwELIh9gATGeQ0J5ZwjK6p03a55MJO4LRwRas_gwVSyXq-PMSIoB5fyxg1CQBxYHRErJ2R-bG2702dLYTkqlf9KaiksZpJvITMfulOiatBoj6keZyewlhyphenhyphensGQJtOhKXaL4U/s1600/holiday_fire_hazard.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj83G7wiJAfBwELIh9gATGeQ0J5ZwjK6p03a55MJO4LRwRas_gwVSyXq-PMSIoB5fyxg1CQBxYHRErJ2R-bG2702dLYTkqlf9KaiksZpJvITMfulOiatBoj6keZyewlhyphenhyphensGQJtOhKXaL4U/s320/holiday_fire_hazard.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a><b><span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Christmas trees</span></b><span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> require special
attention. When </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">selecting a tree, freshness
is important. Check the needles to make sure they are green and difficult to
pull back from the branches. If the tree has been freshly cut, the needles
should not break. Tap the tree on the ground several times and notice if any
needles fall off. If they do, the tree is probably dried out and could be a
fire hazard. Water your tree daily and do not place the tree close to a
heat source, including a fireplace, radiator, space heater, or heat vent. Make
sure your tree is in a sturdy holder and can't be knocked over by pets or
children.<br />
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</span><b><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Using extension cords?</span></b><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Overloaded extension cords and
outlets can present a serious fire safety hazard. Make sure that the
extension cord is suitable for the electrical “load” needed. Do not place cords
under furniture or rugs and never plug two extension cords together to increase
the total length. Demanding too much power from an extension cord risks
overheating and fire. Be sure to read all packaging and instructions carefully
when purchasing an extension cord and ensure it is UL listed.<br />
<br />
</span><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Holiday lights</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">. Indoors or out, only
use lights that have been tested by an approved testing laboratory for safety
such as UL<b>.</b> All lights should be inspected for frayed wires, bare
spots, broken or cracked sockets, or excessive wear before plugging them in, and
discard any damaged sets of lights. Avoid stringing more than three
light </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">strands together.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><br />
</span><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Firing up the fireplace? Cool your ashes!</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> Every
year “cold” ashes result in house fires. Treat all ashes and coals as HOT
ashes, even when you think they have had enough time to cool. Your garage,
house, or deck are unsafe locations for ashes to cool and have been the site of
many recent and devastating fires both locally and nationally. Take extreme
care when disposing ashes and follow these tips: </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Allow all ashes to
cool in place for several days, when possible.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">W</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">hen it’s time to
dispose of ashes, transfer them to a metal container and wet them down. Only
<br />use an approved metal ash bucket that has a tight-fitting metal lid.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Store the container
outside, away from structures, decks, fences, wood piles, or other combustible materials. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Never use a vacuum
cleaner to pick up ashes and don’t dispose of ashes outside on a windy day. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">The
wind can whip up what may have seemed like cool embers, making them fiery hot,
and igniting nearby combustibles. </span></li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDYJEsROR1wvyX77NLbO2NZOcPM6nvkGiQaTEJoJjpTq11TzO4qrhM9oxBEtaOM5CsB345x7ySIAJDG7KNtos3npB4Bys23jeIr9jkEknf89TGp710GNLxjfyRi2YvG8qifpSB4DNaprI/s1600/flameless.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="274" data-original-width="355" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDYJEsROR1wvyX77NLbO2NZOcPM6nvkGiQaTEJoJjpTq11TzO4qrhM9oxBEtaOM5CsB345x7ySIAJDG7KNtos3npB4Bys23jeIr9jkEknf89TGp710GNLxjfyRi2YvG8qifpSB4DNaprI/s320/flameless.jpg" width="320" /></a><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Candle fires peak during the holiday season</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">.
Most holiday candle fires occur when people leave burning candles unattended or
place candles too close to holiday decorations. Keep candles in sight, in a
secure holder and on a safe surface away from children and pets. C</span><span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">onsider using flameless, battery-operated
candles making them much safer.<br />
<br />
</span><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Give space heaters space </span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">and<b> </b>ensure
at least a 3-foot clearance from anything that can burn. Do not overload
the electrical circuit or use extension cords with space heaters. Always stay
in the room while a space heater is operating and turn it off when leaving the
room or going to sleep. Follow all manufacturer recommendations and make sure
your space heater meets all safety standards.</span></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnkanO5kK_z8QJF3N6tnlUiagyDha3ImaoqyE2SA6nozIklzwcMyforXTovkVhYg0uLzLu8eRJaYozWrHZBkQyB0bqKK1KkaIXtETd6JNddHJnAEcYwCizLscmmZyjiLjm74oVALy8yUU/s1600/kithcenfire.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="700" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnkanO5kK_z8QJF3N6tnlUiagyDha3ImaoqyE2SA6nozIklzwcMyforXTovkVhYg0uLzLu8eRJaYozWrHZBkQyB0bqKK1KkaIXtETd6JNddHJnAEcYwCizLscmmZyjiLjm74oVALy8yUU/s320/kithcenfire.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnkanO5kK_z8QJF3N6tnlUiagyDha3ImaoqyE2SA6nozIklzwcMyforXTovkVhYg0uLzLu8eRJaYozWrHZBkQyB0bqKK1KkaIXtETd6JNddHJnAEcYwCizLscmmZyjiLjm74oVALy8yUU/s1600/kithcenfire.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><br />
<span style="background: rgb(254, 253, 250); color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><b>Cooking</b> is
a top cause of holiday fires. Be alert and focused and stay in the kitchen
when cooking. <span style="letter-spacing: 0.3pt;">Keep things that can catch
fire, such as oven mitts, wooden utensils, food wrappers, and towels <u>away</u> from
the cooking area. Make sure kids and pets stay at least three feet away from
the stove and oven, hot food, and liquids to avoid serious burns.</span></span><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: times new roman, serif;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.4px;"><br /></span></span>
<b><span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Disposing of your tree – </span></b><span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">never put tree branches or needles in a fireplace or
wood-burning stove. When the tree becomes dry, discard it promptly. The best
way to dispose of your tree is by having the County’s recycling service pick it
up on the designated day(s).<br />
<br />
</span><b><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Do you hear what I hear?</span></b><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> H</span><span style="background: rgb(254, 253, 250); color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">aving working smoke alarms DOUBLE your chances
of surviving a fire however smoke alarms do not last forever. If your alarms
are 10 years old or older, they need to be replaced with new alarms. <b>Bottom line: don't wait for a fire to test your smoke alarm.</b><br />
<br /><br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJtaY0IhY2veC9bmcUVV8aQPxbBnS_9adxliMibWvVUewspPBn6HUk4F5_k9ZVQ3ki9n1hBRLe_rWv83W2V_8wKI9VgA5L9GRJIzS-jOX7-wZh221JqBR17OqA_AmMGc5oBJwRsQ1I7W4/s1600/smokealarm.jpg" style="clear: right; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="480" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJtaY0IhY2veC9bmcUVV8aQPxbBnS_9adxliMibWvVUewspPBn6HUk4F5_k9ZVQ3ki9n1hBRLe_rWv83W2V_8wKI9VgA5L9GRJIzS-jOX7-wZh221JqBR17OqA_AmMGc5oBJwRsQ1I7W4/s320/smokealarm.jpg" width="320" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />
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<!--[endif]--></span></div>MCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-79165590712352006202023-11-28T13:30:00.000-05:002023-11-28T16:59:10.679-05:00Extension Cord Safety<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFD2MXZpgy4CMTKwo4Jq1aKE3GwmuUZ4Is3kSung5jjDXF4qodO6YfzA2rxBKvpRzvFsxJlvcTcMkZFow-qQ_lPvvMjpybvfxxJz-Jd4FvjFBRIe5AZnKo4r1KR-93wuvAAf75rIhLZQc/s1600/outlet3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFD2MXZpgy4CMTKwo4Jq1aKE3GwmuUZ4Is3kSung5jjDXF4qodO6YfzA2rxBKvpRzvFsxJlvcTcMkZFow-qQ_lPvvMjpybvfxxJz-Jd4FvjFBRIe5AZnKo4r1KR-93wuvAAf75rIhLZQc/s320/outlet3.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
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For Spanish click <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1SZhqhe1029nbS-aZVsANN6mB8N1E_adP/view?usp=sharing">here</a></h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 0.92em;">E</span>xtension cords are a convenient way to bring temporary power to electrical devices. Used without proper caution, they can become a fire hazard and pose a serious risk to your personal safety. </span><span style="background-color: white;">A heavy reliance on extension cords is an indication that you have too few outlets to address your needs. Some important tips from Montgomery County Fire & Rescue: </span></span></div>
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Selecting extension cords</h3>
<ul style="color: #333333; font-family: arial; font-size: 0.92em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 20px 20px; padding: 0px;">
<li>Purchase only cords that have been approved by an independent testing laboratory.</li>
<li>For outdoor projects, use only extension cords marked for outdoor use.</li>
<li>Read the instructions for information about the cord’s correct use and the amount of power it draws when running.</li>
<li>Select cords that are rated to handle the wattage of the devices with which they’ll be used. </li>
</ul>
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Using extension cords</h3>
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<li style="box-sizing: border-box;">Do NOT run extension cords through walls, doorways, ceilings, or floors. If a cord is covered, heat cannot escape, which may result in a fire hazard.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box;">Do NOT overload extension cords.</li>
<li>Never remove an extension cord’s grounding pin in order to fit it into a two-prong outlet.</li>
<li>Never use extension cords to power appliances. Plug appliances directly into wall outlets. </li>
<li>Never use indoor extension cords outdoors.</li>
<li>Don't attempt to plug multiple extension cords together.</li>
<li>Don't run extension cords under rugs or furniture.</li>
<li>Never tape extension cords to floors or attach them to surfaces with staples or nails.</li>
<li>Don’t bend or coil cords when they’re in use.</li>
<li>Immediately stop using extension cords that feel hot to the touch or show signs of deterioration.</li>
</ul>
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Caring for extension cords</h3>
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<li>Always store cords indoors.</li>
<li>Unplug extension cords when they’re not in use.</li>
<li>Throw away damaged cords.</li>
<li>Pull the plug—not the cord—when disconnecting from the outlet.</li>
<li>Consider covering unused cord receptacles with childproof covers.</li>
</ul>
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Remember: extension cords are intended as <b><u>temporary wiring solutions</u></b>. If you find you’re using them on a permanent basis, consider updating your home’s electrical system.<br />
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MCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-19999668491369915752023-11-16T11:00:00.001-05:002023-11-22T08:59:51.424-05:00Just Say "No" to Distracted Cooking<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1g-6DoYCwE0KLVbOu_2OkyZx29m6yhb3FD6dSBhuODWgeaZEJZgda89TkS3-xeXJCjn6X0MrRK7jxoghcO2WRRsPoh6d3zUH-TQ42yOWgUv6qSoaiIxw-h_uw_snCXtfHafzagn90vrc/s2000/tgiving.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1335" data-original-width="2000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1g-6DoYCwE0KLVbOu_2OkyZx29m6yhb3FD6dSBhuODWgeaZEJZgda89TkS3-xeXJCjn6X0MrRK7jxoghcO2WRRsPoh6d3zUH-TQ42yOWgUv6qSoaiIxw-h_uw_snCXtfHafzagn90vrc/s320/tgiving.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />For Spanish click <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1I1BD2PPt1r9zsmqFvXA9uw4H9Fe8LZbD/view?usp=sharing">here<span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /></a>Thanksgiving is almost here and Montgomery County Fire Chief John Kinsley 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.<div><div><br /><b>Cooking Safety Tips:</b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>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.<br /><br /></li><li>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.<br /><br /></li><li>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.<br /><br /></li><li>Clean cooking surfaces regularly to prevent grease buildup which can ignite.<br /><br /></li><li>Always wear short, tight-fitting sleeves when cooking to prevent clothing from coming in contact with a burner and catching fire.<br /><br /></li><li>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.<br /><br /></li><li> 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.<br /><br /></li><li>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.<br /><br /></li><li>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.</li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kjUynq0HXdQ?rel=0" width="420" youtube-src-id="cLOgwRkRVl8"></iframe></div><br /><div>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: </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Turkey Fryer Safety Tips:</b></div><div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Never leave a fryer unattended.<br /><br /></li><li>By design, turkey fryers are prone to tipping over. Fryers should always be used on a non-combustible, flat surface to reduce accidental tipping.<br /><br /></li><li>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.<br /><br /></li><li>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.<br /><br /></li><li>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. <br /><br /></li><li>Some units do not have thermostat controls and, if not carefully watched, have the potential to overheat the oil to the point of combustion.<br /><br /></li><li>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.<br /><br /></li><li>Keep children and pets away from fryers. The oil can remain dangerously hot even hours after use.</li></ul></div></div><div>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 <a href="http://www.mcfrs.org/mcsafe">www.mcfrs.org/mcsafe</a> </div></div></div>MCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-13215421388684676042023-11-01T08:30:00.000-04:002023-11-01T10:44:28.287-04:00Change Your Clocks - CHECK Your Smoke Alarms This Weekend<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">It's that time of year again when we "Fall Back" and change clocks (unless your clocks do it automatically)! Here are our </span><span style="background-color: white; font-style: inherit;"><b>Top Eight Tips</b></span><span style="background-color: white; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> to remember when it comes to smoke alarms and fire safety this weekend:</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">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.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">2. Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">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. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">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</span><span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b> entire smoke alarm units every 10 years </b></span><span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">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. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">Always read the manufacturer’s recommendations as some models recommend replacement every 5-7 years.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">5. Never (ever) paint over a smoke alarm. It will affect the operation of the smoke alarm, potentially disabling it.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">6. Test your alarms once a month by pressing the test button.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">7. Clean your smoke alarm once a month when you test it. Smoke alarms get clogged with dust build-up which may affect performance.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">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 (permitted in homes built b/f 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. </span><div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"></span><span style="font-family: times, times new roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<div style="background: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: black; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Today's home safety and security technology has evolved beyond 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. </span></span><span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: black; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">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. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><iframe class="scribd_iframe_embed" data-aspect-ratio="undefined" data-auto-height="false" frameborder="0" height="600" id="doc_37923" scrolling="no" src="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcfrs-info/Resources/Files/TipSheets/Smoke%20Alarm%20Safety%20-%20EN.pdf" width="100%"></iframe></span></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-12978056094453815132023-10-30T08:30:00.000-04:002023-10-30T10:36:04.684-04:00Countdown to Halloween<h2>
For Spanish click <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1V8CcDKw98R0Dtu-DSj_as6uAUnfC0GE8/view?usp=sharing">here</a></h2>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF7MAgg9AfkBKUutC5ibmfpUBHxl_gJTmWdIzoXbolCOsxfh1jeJIPwOf9ccB7MB93i1bj7cYfLQpXvxBYPTkvCJIbwpDeHNMQ_Mk4eSm7yOKwHbTI7h9KSQkT2LvDQBV7iRKdWd-hjIg/s1600/Twitterhalloween3.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="640" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF7MAgg9AfkBKUutC5ibmfpUBHxl_gJTmWdIzoXbolCOsxfh1jeJIPwOf9ccB7MB93i1bj7cYfLQpXvxBYPTkvCJIbwpDeHNMQ_Mk4eSm7yOKwHbTI7h9KSQkT2LvDQBV7iRKdWd-hjIg/s320/Twitterhalloween3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Tips for a Safe and Fun Night</b><div><b><br /></b>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 10px;">According to the National Safety Council, <b>Halloween is the day when children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed than on any other day.</b> With Halloween quickly approaching, Fire Chief John Kinsley and the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service offer some essential tips for a safe Halloween.<br />
<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><b>Plan a safe route.</b></div><div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 10px;"><b><br /></b>1. Accompany children and remind them to stop at all street corners, cross only at intersections and crosswalks. Teach them to look left, right, and left before crossing the street and to continue looking both ways as they cross. If you’re a motorist, please slow down and be prepared to give trick or treaters a brake.<br /> <br /> 2. Stay in familiar neighborhoods and have a parent or responsible adult accompany trick or treaters. Visit only those houses where the lights are on. Accept treats only in the doorway and NEVER go inside a house or apartment.<br /> <br /> 3. Secure emergency identification (name, address, phone number) discreetly within Halloween attire or on a bracelet.<br /> <br /> 4. Safety in numbers. If they’re old enough to trick-or-treat without an adult, designate a route before the kids go trick or treating, tell your kids to stay in a group, avoid taking short cuts through backyards and alleys and ask them to check in regularly.<br /> <br /> 5. Ensure trick-or-treaters stay away from open flames or jack-o-lanterns with candles burning.<br /> <br /> 6. Children should avoid busy streets, always use sidewalks, and follow all traffic rules and regulations. Motorists should drive slowly and be alert to small children crossing streets. Many accidents occur when motorists are backing vehicles out of driveways, unaware of the presence of small children.<br />
<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><b>Be Safe – Be Seen.</b></div><div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 10px;"><b><br /></b>1. Don’t assume the right-of-way. Motorists may have trouble seeing trick-or-treaters in the dark. Just because one car stops doesn’t mean others will.<br /> <br /> 2. Encourage kids to follow all the rules for pedestrian safety. That includes obeying all traffic laws, looking both ways before crossing, using crosswalks, crossing at intersections and corners and never darting between parked cars.<br />
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<span face=""Open Sans", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 700;">Be a good neighbor.</span><br />1. Keep your porch lights on and eliminate tripping hazards on your porch and walkway. Remove outdoor safety hazards such as toys, bicycles, garden hoses, and lawn ornaments. Make sure the driveway and steps are cleared of leaves, which can be a slipping and falling hazard. Make sure that the driveway and walks are well lit for incoming trick-or-treaters. Replace burned-out or broken light bulbs.<br /> <br /> 2. Pets get frightened on Halloween. Confine your pets for their safety and for that of trick or treaters.<br />
<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><b>All Dressed Up.</b></div><div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 10px;"><b><br /></b>1. Plan costumes that are bright and have reflective qualities. Consider adding reflective tape or decals to costumes and trick or treat bags. Be sure kids carry a flashlight and use glow sticks for extra visibility.<br /> <br /> 2. When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories purchase only those with a label indicating they are flame resistant.<br /> <br /> 3. Have an adult inspect treats BEFORE eating anything. Do not eat any unwrapped, partially wrapped, or homemade-looking treats.<br /> <br /> 4. Shorter IS safer. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.<br /> <br /> 5. Because masks can limit or block eyesight, consider non-toxic makeup as a safer alternative. <br /> <br /> 6. If a sword, cane or stick is part of your child’s costume, make sure it is not sharp or too long. A child may be easily hurt by these accessories if they trip or fall.</div>
<br /><b>Decorate Safely.</b></div><div><b><br /></b> 1. Illuminate your jack-o’-lanterns with flashlights or battery-operated candles instead of real ones. You won’t have the worries of an open flame coming in contact with anything . . .or anyone.<br /> <br /> 2. If you do use candles, keep them well away from where trick or treaters will be walking or standing. Review with your children the principle of “stop, drop and roll” should their clothing catch fire. <br /> <br /> Lastly, teach children how to call 9-1-1 if they have an emergency or become lost.</div>MCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-81906009940914769942023-06-20T12:00:00.000-04:002023-06-20T12:14:22.844-04:00What You Need to Know About FIREWORKS<h2>
For Spanish click <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EgXLUEM24sn90cGyznfFlwhNBP-zYooJ/view?usp=sharing">here</a>
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<p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18.4px;">Montgomery County Fire and Rescue wants to remind residents that </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18.4px;">ALL fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County. </b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">What you need to know:</span></span></p><div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-8904702726699148746" itemprop="description articleBody" style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; line-height: 1.4; position: relative; width: 586px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.9218px; text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><b><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Law:</span></b></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUvGh4MqN_ByscCBCEcdebXZ2Gb8n5Lu3Zuyp_Dj05GiOcb3b7W4GRicBklTJxeYsTptSc_Ta4FZSlNVsudfXpf4_RcYWJHjOHFxgnVJtpxSE6_tN__1wQ3Yb7IzuKbXHIBZ37unCBZqc/s231/fireworksillegal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="231" data-original-width="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUvGh4MqN_ByscCBCEcdebXZ2Gb8n5Lu3Zuyp_Dj05GiOcb3b7W4GRicBklTJxeYsTptSc_Ta4FZSlNVsudfXpf4_RcYWJHjOHFxgnVJtpxSE6_tN__1wQ3Yb7IzuKbXHIBZ37unCBZqc/s0/fireworksillegal.jpg" /></a></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">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.<o:p></o:p></span><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b><span style="line-height: 18.4px;">What fireworks are legal?</span></b><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">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.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b><span style="line-height: 18.4px;">Can I receive fireworks at my home through the mail?</span></b><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">No. Use of the mail for the transportation of fireworks for use in the State of Maryland is illegal.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b><span style="line-height: 18.4px;">Can I have a private fireworks display at my residence with proper permits?</span></b><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">No. You can not have a private display; however, you can apply to have a public display with proper permits and insurance.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b><span style="line-height: 18.4px;">Can I receive fireworks at my residence delivered by a public carrier?</span></b><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span style="line-height: 14.95px;">No. It </span><span style="line-height: 18px;">doesn't</span><span style="line-height: 14.95px;"> matter where the fireworks are purchased or how they are brought into Maryland. <u>Fireworks are still illegal in Montgomery County</u>.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b><span style="line-height: 18.4px;">Where do I report violations involving fireworks?</span></b><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">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.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b><span style="line-height: 18.4px;">Where can I go to see the fireworks on July 4th?</span></b><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;"><div style="line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">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. <br /><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b>How many fires are caused by fireworks? </b></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 17.9218px;"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #202124;">Fireworks started</span><span style="color: #202124;"> an estimated 19,500 </span><span style="color: #202124;">fires</span><span style="color: #202124;"> in 2018. According to the National </span><span style="color: #202124;">Fire</span><span style="color: #202124;"> Protection Association, </span><span style="color: #202124;">fireworks started</span><span style="color: #202124;"> an estimated 19,500 </span><span style="color: #202124;">fires</span><span style="color: #202124;"> in 2018, including 1,900 structure </span><span style="color: #202124;">fires</span><span style="color: #202124;">, 500 vehicle </span><span style="color: #202124;">fires</span><span style="color: #202124;">, and 17,100 outside and other </span><span style="color: #202124;">fires</span><span style="color: #202124;">.</span></span></span></div></div></div>MCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-54406461598596444952023-06-20T11:30:00.000-04:002023-06-20T12:04:56.903-04:00Grill Like a Pro! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibsDfEI8V8tqvURzgs9YMhpQP8WBdnw_qJVEPRy-sT7gQRW-FF5KakFGPvb682usRvKFCCtGu9bpGtegbk4VeUQMT1mXtXMl2IRqMKYNs8vHbeJgYM1EzZ7Grj_FiZfL9eCx2UGsbu5IU/s1600/grilling+safety+prepared.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="158" data-original-width="318" height="157" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibsDfEI8V8tqvURzgs9YMhpQP8WBdnw_qJVEPRy-sT7gQRW-FF5KakFGPvb682usRvKFCCtGu9bpGtegbk4VeUQMT1mXtXMl2IRqMKYNs8vHbeJgYM1EzZ7Grj_FiZfL9eCx2UGsbu5IU/s320/grilling+safety+prepared.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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For Spanish click <a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=1M8jRsnWd_zpQ-6EllSVCaMZ9FhFwCKcW">here</a></h2>
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Six Major Grilling Mistakes You Might Be Making</h2>
It happens every year. The weather gets warmer, more people use outdoor grills – and incidents of grill-related fires go up. With Memorial Day approaching, Fire Chief Goldstein is reminding residents to review these important safety tips before lighting up the grill this season.<br />
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<b>Mistake #1: Not Keeping Your Grill Clean</b><br />
If you haven’t used your grill in a while, give it a good cleaning. Did you know that grease is a major source of flare ups? If you allow grease and fat to build up on your grill, they provide more fuel for a fire. Regularly remove grease and fat buildup from the grill grates and drip trays.<br />
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<b>Mistake #2: Not Giving the Grill Enough Space</b><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM7-b-lHpvADgQzszxR2VYs1svQK7w1bexL56KzkmJYoWDxiRK_PUc0WMeXLM9M0mEeBMvSmHskYjQQwEJpnEX-wbE8UtIKuQehao_gGhqSjkyizidn9BTY1yG6ypbqyq0NqwR5xFWu0k/s1600/grillsafetyfire.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="558" data-original-width="992" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM7-b-lHpvADgQzszxR2VYs1svQK7w1bexL56KzkmJYoWDxiRK_PUc0WMeXLM9M0mEeBMvSmHskYjQQwEJpnEX-wbE8UtIKuQehao_gGhqSjkyizidn9BTY1yG6ypbqyq0NqwR5xFWu0k/s320/grillsafetyfire.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a>Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your house. Farther away is even better. While you may to want to stand in the shade while you’re grilling, having an awning, umbrella or tree branch too close to the grill can be dangerous and could easily spark a fire. Your grill—whether it’s charcoal or gas—should be at least 10 feet away from your home or garage, deck railings and other structures.<br />
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<b>Mistake #3: Leaving a Lit Grill Unattended </b><br />
Never leave a lit grill unattended – not even for a minute. Fires double in size every minute. Plan ahead so that any food prep chores are done and you can focus on grilling. Never try to move a lit or hot grill and remember the grill will stay hot for at least an hour after use. Supervise kids and pets when a grill is in use and have a “10 foot” kid free zone near the grill.<br />
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<b>Mistake #4: Garages and Grills Don’t Mix </b><br />
Charcoal and gas grills are designed for outdoor use only. It’s a common mistake to think it’s safe to use a grill, particularly a small one, in your house or garage. Never do this. In addition to being a major fire hazard, grills release carbon monoxide — a colorless, odorless gas -- that can be deadly. Keep your charcoal and gas grills outside!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgttUXjWFtVEdWUGO4VrU3zsOJkxZykwQRlQhaeYZnBBlJdyV5XTw4nKTPmy9WZI40PZusqKCfspV1mlJXpgTVihr4yzctbtetIWp8iwWkACKaoy4YrSFzBU1hs8kLRBNmHcChM5svxRmg/s1600/flashover.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="492" data-original-width="512" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgttUXjWFtVEdWUGO4VrU3zsOJkxZykwQRlQhaeYZnBBlJdyV5XTw4nKTPmy9WZI40PZusqKCfspV1mlJXpgTVihr4yzctbtetIWp8iwWkACKaoy4YrSFzBU1hs8kLRBNmHcChM5svxRmg/s320/flashover.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<b>Mistake #5: Starting a Gas Grill with the Lid Closed</b><br />
Lighting your grill with a closed lid can cause a dangerous buildup of gas, creating a fireball. Keep your gas grill lid open when lighting it. If the flame goes out, turn the grill and gas off, and wait at least five minutes before relighting. Charcoal grill owners: dousing lit coals with extra lighter fluid is another big mistake and doing so can easily cause a flare-up.<br />
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<b>Mistake #6: Not Shutting Down the Grill</b><br />
Don’t get distracted and forget to properly turn off your grill! As soon as you’re done cooking, turn off the burners and the fuel supply for gas grills. If you’re using charcoal, let the coals completely cool before safely disposing in a metal container.<br />
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<b>Be sure to:</b></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4jyp5oJxq-HD19TzXyKvLcELkAU-ZbenWRQzmLoPVfN_1vnI648xr0dNoMYyPJMzH8Rou_FT1AWuLJLIP9mqk6q2mWPrpLomReRO-StmJoWZN9OX5z8diRJiX4Xdk3nA3FAs2_IuspiM/s1600/garage.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="585" data-original-width="780" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4jyp5oJxq-HD19TzXyKvLcELkAU-ZbenWRQzmLoPVfN_1vnI648xr0dNoMYyPJMzH8Rou_FT1AWuLJLIP9mqk6q2mWPrpLomReRO-StmJoWZN9OX5z8diRJiX4Xdk3nA3FAs2_IuspiM/s320/garage.JPG" width="320" /></a><b> </b></h3>
<b>Check for propane leaks on your gas grill</b><br />
Before the season’s first barbecue, check the gas tank hose for leaks by applying a light soap and water solution to the hose and then turning on the gas. If there is a propane leak, the solution will bubble. Other signs of a propane leak include the smell of gas near the barbecue or a flame that won’t light. Consult your owner’s manual.<br />
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<b>If the flame goes out, wait to re-light</b><br />
If you are using a gas grill and the flame goes out, turn the grill and the gas off, then wait at least five minutes to re-light it.<br />
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<b>Be careful with charcoal starter fluid</b><br />
If you use a charcoal grill, only use charcoal starter fluid. If the fire starts to go out, don’t add any starter fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.<br />
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<b>Make sure your grill is stable</b><br />
Position your grill in a well-ventilated, flat and level surface away from your house, overhangs, deck railings. Make sure the grill can’t be tipped over.<br />
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<b>Wear the right clothing</b><br />
Clothing can easily catch fire, so be sure your shirt tails, sleeves, or apron strings don’t dangle over the grill.<br />
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<b><u>Links to Code Requirements</u>:</b><br />
Outdoor Cooking and Recreational Fires near Multi-Family Buildings:<br />
<a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DPS/Resources/Files/FPCC/outdoorfireMF.pdf">https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DPS/Resources/Files/FPCC/outdoorfireMF.pdf</a><br />
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Use of Fire Pits, Fire Bowls & Chimineas:<br />
<a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DPS/Resources/Files/FPCC/outdoorfire.pdf">https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DPS/Resources/Files/FPCC/outdoorfire.pdf</a><br />
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MCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-8868958872398694702023-05-26T14:00:00.000-04:002023-05-26T15:51:29.007-04:00DROWNING: It Can Happen in an Instant <h2>
For Spanish click <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1r0rLAbKDJYn6O2jc1-X-KaY-wF_zzvbD/view?usp=sharing">here</a>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJJkg1AKHygFhsQOSyZFD9LmLwwSNFiHB_kI7gLCeisagiJ4nBPm2gjp7D7wKn1jnsQfkT3pAPCm0srvqm2aPl3Y3VfmROXm6yOmuVdkmt3MTKotFqdHN64zDt95mb0mWfL2CgsXguEMQ/s1600/TOOFAR.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="1200" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJJkg1AKHygFhsQOSyZFD9LmLwwSNFiHB_kI7gLCeisagiJ4nBPm2gjp7D7wKn1jnsQfkT3pAPCm0srvqm2aPl3Y3VfmROXm6yOmuVdkmt3MTKotFqdHN64zDt95mb0mWfL2CgsXguEMQ/s320/TOOFAR.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Five words that save lives --- <b>All Eyes On The Pool!</b> MCFRS officials are urging residents to diligently supervise children when around any water sources. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just learning how to swim, many water-related injuries and tragedies can be avoided by constant supervision by adults. DYK that <b>drowning is the leading killer of children between the ages of 1 - 4 years</b>? The Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service kicks off our 2023 Summer of Safety Campaign with one of the most important topics of summer: Water Safety. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Be attentive. </b> 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.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Learn to swim and never swim alone.</b> 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. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Teaching your child how to swim does not mean that your child is “drown-proof.”</b> 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.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Seconds count when it comes to water emergencies. </b>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.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Learn life-saving skills. </b>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.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Avoid relying on inflatable swimming aids such as “floaties” and “noodles” to keep your child safe.</b> 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 fits your swimmer properly.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Lifeguards are an important safety feature</b> but are NOT intended to replace the close supervision of parents or caregivers. Remember, lifeguards are not babysitters.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Maintain constant supervision of children around water</b> (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. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Diving dangers.</b> 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. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Pay attention to local weather conditions and forecasts. </b>Stop swimming at the first indication of bad weather. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Know Your Limits.</b> Watch for the “dangerous too’s” . . . too tired, too cold, too far from safety, too much sun, too much strenuous activity. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Water and alcohol don’t mix. </b>Each year, up to half of all adult drownings are linked to alcohol use. Never swim impaired. </span></div>
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MCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-26833928437240114762023-05-24T12:45:00.000-04:002023-05-24T15:45:19.196-04:00Potomac River: What You Know Could Save Your Life <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEu165xp9pMsZIukWPzBc_TtvbLnHmM6AABs3UXEGv6Qk4OiVsW96pWcsmzArtzEJ7cdmOegnKwnka85pCPojKREbWtxj5-BtHkSXFhyphenhyphenQaHRyrOxLPKJtsaaPeiOGIFj-laL9kIaeysW0/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="462" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEu165xp9pMsZIukWPzBc_TtvbLnHmM6AABs3UXEGv6Qk4OiVsW96pWcsmzArtzEJ7cdmOegnKwnka85pCPojKREbWtxj5-BtHkSXFhyphenhyphenQaHRyrOxLPKJtsaaPeiOGIFj-laL9kIaeysW0/" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Fire Chief's annual Potomac River Safety Campaign kicks off this Memorial Day and MCFRS is asking residents to observe the warnings, come prepared, and be safe. <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">Lots to learn from Captain Bell with the MCFRS Water Rescue Team: </span></span></div><p></p><div style="background: 0px 0px rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; color: #333333; margin: 0px 0px 25px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">"The Potomac is very deceptive, it has some spots that look very calm, very tranquil, look very easy to swim in. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">But, because the river is a very high-volume flowing river there is a very strong undercurrent with lots of rocks, lots of unseen obstacles and the water is never clear, so you can never see what you’re getting into. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">These dynamics are especially pronounced in the area of the river called the Potomac Gorge. It is a turbulent zone where water comes into conflict with geology. This stutter-step in the earth’s crust makes Great Falls a beautiful spot, it also makes it dangerous." <br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Important to keep in mind that the falls are only a piece of a complicated section of river spanning about seven miles. Uprooted trees, debris, hidden boulders, and other hazards create a situation so dangerous for swimming that wading and swimming are illegal in many places.</span></div><p style="background: 0px 0px rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; color: #333333; margin: 0px 0px 25px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><p style="background: 0px 0px rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; color: #333333; margin: 0px 0px 25px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">The river is moving fast and there are a lot of hazards that you can get pinned up against, get your feet trapped in,” says Bell. “And the trees, they create what we call a strainer effect where, if you get swept into them, you can very easily get caught and trapped by your body.” </span><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;">Even wading into the river can lead to a dangerous situation. Mud and silt and pollutants make it impossible to see more than a few inches below the water’s surface. The river’s bottom is too often underestimated. </span></p><p style="background: 0px 0px rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; color: #333333; margin: 0px 0px 25px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">“I feel like I’m safe because I have my footing and I step into an eddy or something and I’m relatively safe there, but then as soon as I take one step to the rear of where I’m at it’ll drop from a four to five foot to a 20 to 30-foot drop. And as soon as you lose that, you run that panic sensation and you can very easily drown.”</span></p><p style="background: 0px 0px rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; color: #333333; margin: 0px 0px 25px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Bell and his team are well-trained, with plenty of experience. Even so, he says it’s tough to rescue someone once they are already in the river’s grasp.</span></p><p style="background: 0px 0px rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; color: #333333; margin: 0px 0px 25px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">“Usually we’re out of the firehouse within a matter of a minute, and then we have to go down there and it’s going to be five to ten minutes to get to the river’s edge to put the boat in. And then it’s going to depend on where in the river from where we launch as to how long it takes us.”</span></p><div style="background: 0px 0px rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; color: #333333; margin: 0px 0px 25px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: large;">Too often by the time swimmers realize they are in trouble, it’s too late. Captain </span><span style="font-size: medium;">Bell notes that it can take up to 20 minutes just to reach the scene. “A swimmer could very much be in a fight for their life prior to us arriving, and have lost that fight.” MCFRS is asking anyone who is visiting the Potomac River to be aware of the dangers and respect the river. (From an awesome interview w/ </span></span><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Bureau Chief Kris Ankarlo </span>WNEW)</span></div><p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/in-the-potomacs-grip-the-deceptively-placid-waters-at-great-falls/2013/08/10/2cd1f3c0-efd8-11e2-a1f9-ea873b7e0424_story.html" style="background-color: white; font-family: times; font-size: large;"><b>Why People Drown at Great Falls</b></a></p><h3 class="sub_header" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; line-height: 25px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/one-view-two-parks.htm">National Park Service - Plan Your Visit</a></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/billy-goat-trail.htm">Billie Goat Trail Information - Preview Conditions & Check out the Safety Video</a></span></p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">The Billy Goat Trail, especially section A, is challenging and dangerous. A sign in early parts of the trail says: <br />“Difficult Trail Ahead. Many hikers are injured every year on this section of the Billy Goat A trail. The terrain includes sharp drops, requires jumps across open areas, walking along the edges of rocks, and a climb up a 50-foot-traverse. Beyond this point, the next available exit is at the midpoint, <u>up to an hour's hike over difficult terrain</u>. If you are tired, low on water, or unprepared for a very strenuous hike, please turn back.” The bottom line, it's not a place for rookies. Be safe and please mind the warnings, friends! </span></span></h3><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><p></p>MCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-65668840407009062662023-03-06T09:30:00.006-05:002023-03-07T17:40:01.029-05:00Spring forward time! For Spanish click <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Mb9aewuTQM7It-TY_uOvHN7BVy3q80_g/view?usp=share_link">here</a>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></i></span><i style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: small;">~ Beth Anne Nesselt, </span></i><i style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: small;">Manager, Community Risk Reduction Section</span></i></h3></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjy2LqZ7a6zLU2Jk3EXLoVKT5nN6FHQTTxP6QCGrSELw2Lv3kqubX4QdcRc8PryXXbb2eNwhrT-Al-LPMjIxG-E_6MrN-wCcdNABGH-dHauzFkUij83gknCxd5d2WQlL_how5QzTTjAv3ucXNklWxwBvx3_M6gTS0UAOOyi8hoVPAIhp7xFiQhmEhms=s1280" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="1280" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjy2LqZ7a6zLU2Jk3EXLoVKT5nN6FHQTTxP6QCGrSELw2Lv3kqubX4QdcRc8PryXXbb2eNwhrT-Al-LPMjIxG-E_6MrN-wCcdNABGH-dHauzFkUij83gknCxd5d2WQlL_how5QzTTjAv3ucXNklWxwBvx3_M6gTS0UAOOyi8hoVPAIhp7xFiQhmEhms=w400-h200" width="400" /></a></div></div><div><h2> </h2></div><div><div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Don’t forget to test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms this weekend</h3><p>It's that time of year again when we "Spring Forward" and change clocks (unless your clocks do it automatically) and check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms! Here are our Top Eight Tips to remember when it comes to smoke alarms and fire safety this weekend:</p><p>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.</p><p>2. Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home.</p><p>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 mid-70's. </p><p>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.</p><p>5. DIY projects? Never (ever) paint over a smoke alarm. It will affect the operation of the smoke alarm, potentially disabling it.</p><p>6. Test your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarms once a month by pressing the test button.</p><p>7. Clean your smoke alarms monthly when you test them. Smoke alarms get clogged with dust build-up which may affect performance.</p><p>8. If your smoke 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 built before 1975 that have never pulled a building permit) to have a sealed,10-year long-life battery in the unit. Any "chirping" in these units is likely signaling that you need to replace the entire smoke alarm with a new one. </p><p>Today's home safety and security technology has evolved beyond 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 and you have smoke and carbon monoxide alarms with the newest technology. And practice it with a Home Fire Drill to ensure everyone knows what to do in an emergency. It could just save your life. </p><div><br /></div></div></div>MCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-72952479146087251062023-02-09T15:30:00.000-05:002023-02-09T15:53:01.687-05:00Best. Gift. EVER. <h2><span style="font-family: times;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">~ Beth Anne Nesselt<br />Manager, Community Risk Reduction Section</span></i></span></h2><div><br /></div>For Spanish click <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-NaqjmBwsTHH96Ov-Hb1li7GpROEa6NA/view?usp=sharing">here</a><div><br />
<h3 style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; margin: 0px; position: relative; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioSM5tTvXPRfyz5cWe7QdXKJGiba6ZLvhsFlNuJdeML5QMsSHk5XSex0Wfwcc5-lsqvI_ATPR-molgU3mhesyT7ZZYxumu6u4Lxuu1LmANxoHP2fQujkRAyJB5J379VCfd_V6m8CCvAoI/s640/valentinesday.png" style="clear: right; display: inline; float: right; font-family: georgia; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioSM5tTvXPRfyz5cWe7QdXKJGiba6ZLvhsFlNuJdeML5QMsSHk5XSex0Wfwcc5-lsqvI_ATPR-molgU3mhesyT7ZZYxumu6u4Lxuu1LmANxoHP2fQujkRAyJB5J379VCfd_V6m8CCvAoI/s320/valentinesday.png" /></a><span style="font-family: georgia;"><h3 style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; margin: 0px; position: relative; text-align: left;">Last minute shoppers, still looking for the perfect Valentine’s gift?</h3><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Montgomery County Fire and Rescue officials are recommending smoke alarms as the PERFECT Valentine’s gift for loved ones this year. Nothing says you mean everything to me like the 24-hour protection that comes with a smoke alarm. And while you are busy planning the perfect evening, make it memorable for all the right reasons. A few tips to keep in mind:</span><br /><br /></span></div></h3><ul style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; line-height: 1.4; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;"><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b>Cooking:</b> Planning to put all those new cooking skills learned watching Chopped or Gordon Ramsey? Be sure to 'Stand by your pan' and 'Keep an eye on what you fry.' Too many meals are ruined when cooks get distracted or forgetful and leave cooking unattended. As much as Fire/Rescue loves your cooking, you really don’t want us to have to extinguish that perfect meal. Cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires so keep anything that can catch fire – potholders, paper or plastic bags, dish towels, newspapers, and curtains – away from your stovetop, oven and appliances that generate heat and don't leave cooking unattended.</span></li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b>Candles: </b>While candles may look festive and set the mood, did you know that unattended candles account for thousands of fires annually? The National Fire Protection Association reports that, on average, a candle fire in the home is reported to a US Fire Department every 30 minutes. Consider battery-operated, flameless candles instead. You really can’t tell the difference!</span></li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b>Getting lit?</b> If lighting up the fireplace is in your plans, make sure that’s all you light up. Believe it or not, every year people dispose of fireplace ashes before they have sufficiently cooled. Keep your ash out of the trash and only dispose of fireplace ashes in a sealed, metal container located far from anything combustible several days after they have cooled. Never dispose of fireplace ashes in your recycling bin, trash can, paper, or plastic bags or in a garage, carport, or on a deck or porch. <br /><br /></span></li></ul><span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Montgomery County Fire and Rescue wants you to have a great (and safe) Valentine’s Day. Remember, smoke alarms save lives. They make great gifts, one-size-fits-all and MCFRS is available for a "virtual" visit or a phone consult to help you pick the perfect alarms for your home! Call 311 or visit www.mcfrs.org/mcsafe for all the info. </span><br /></span></div>MCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-49674281173447388162022-12-22T17:03:00.043-05:002022-12-24T14:00:19.964-05:00A Special "Opera-Tunity!" Local resident sends memorable "Thank You" to First Responders<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKBNPQH88Cw751bUHqIMKCQtREvu22XqaGiXA6ZipoSaQvLehrWlIv17GKj8Z1gy3OnGbq9yctIK7q3VDQCAa1nFkds5WmewT6sKOnuIPMDUKN52aYEshJUyhUeyFhHHb0HGqiUoLlpgYT6o6rduGpYgXVxTmMtrD46eqjt0RFZ3k1uPZEQh9BTXNz/s268/download.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="188" data-original-width="268" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKBNPQH88Cw751bUHqIMKCQtREvu22XqaGiXA6ZipoSaQvLehrWlIv17GKj8Z1gy3OnGbq9yctIK7q3VDQCAa1nFkds5WmewT6sKOnuIPMDUKN52aYEshJUyhUeyFhHHb0HGqiUoLlpgYT6o6rduGpYgXVxTmMtrD46eqjt0RFZ3k1uPZEQh9BTXNz/w320-h224/download.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />On the evening of Sunday, April 24th a crew from MCFRS Fire Station 23 in Rockville were dispatched to the Strathmore Hall for a report of people trapped in an elevator.<br /><br />MCFRS responders located and rescued Dr. Marc Hertzman and his wife from a malfunctioning elevator. The rescue included a rather prolonged rescue and harrowing climb up ladders and out the roof for the couple.<br /><br /><div>Dr. Hertzman, a talented opera performer, has something to say... sing ... to the first responders to express his gratitude for their service, kindness and going above and beyond to help them. He rallied colleagues from across the Country to produce an Opera Tribute to express his gratitude to the MCFRS personnel that responded that evening. MCFRS first responders included Lt. Joseph King, Lt. James Riddle and Firefighter II Oscar Monzon. <br /><br /></div><div>Thank you to Dr. Hertzman and your talented performers for this first-ever (for MCFRS) Opera tribute! Our responders couldn't be more grateful for your gift of music and unique thank you. And let the show begin . . . <br /><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Link to watch video tribute: </b><a href="http://bit.ly/3veQ0rO">Click here to view</a></span><br /><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: times;"><b> </b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MTYlWeCft-Q" width="320" youtube-src-id="MTYlWeCft-Q"></iframe></div><br /><br /><br /></span><p style="widows: 2;"><a class="x_ContentPasted0" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0" data-mce-href="https://youtu.be/-5KP7joH2lA" data-mce-style="color: darkblue; text-decoration: none; cursor: pointer; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, 'Liberation Sans', sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #ffffff;" data-safelink="true" href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fyoutu.be%2F-5KP7joH2lA&data=05%7C01%7Cpeter.piringer%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7Ce45ee0e659f34bfca6c608dad70643fb%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638058719182088919%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C2000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=35eB%2BmkB0uDPc7NDbWgB%2FeplB%2BgA%2B0drlSFX8yEKasg%3D&reserved=0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" shash="xcZ3mB8DlcLtaQBbbV/W/3Unj39/7J6xu0Wr+/R6pYuKOQ7+BpdJU88YqBX6OZDkGXLWIWKRbEkJBR711q2WV7tMv+E8c1vkZ2LVObQX77XK5sX5LqPo1ebjeRABB588JLQ4w0wTiKTc13n/CHO1/bbH+AFJl9PwNGHV62ZoTtM=" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; widows: 1;" target="_blank" title="Original URL: https://youtu.be/-5KP7joH2lA. Click or tap if you trust this link."><br /><br /><br /></a></p></div>MCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-27958576164583829832022-11-03T13:30:00.000-04:002022-11-03T13:47:17.484-04:00Time to Fall Back - Some SOUND Advice <div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 15pt; margin-bottom: 5.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 5.25pt; margin: 5.25pt 0in;">
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For Spanish click <a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=1Yef8s7pOFXa9-mTnnTWgooX59kKOFdAl">here</a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=1Yef8s7pOFXa9-mTnnTWgooX59kKOFdAl"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFcd2bo14BCu-QvYQnzCydgZShCfJskawpne1mk82nTlUKFvs8EAEOKbNM_K5BgATN700jB6toZjPOzIrt8kBEEAhvnG1nUQe-fOdjL0tmHHt60aM34p8FsRiUb0ZdN_jT85KsdP1mnxc/s680/house1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="680" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFcd2bo14BCu-QvYQnzCydgZShCfJskawpne1mk82nTlUKFvs8EAEOKbNM_K5BgATN700jB6toZjPOzIrt8kBEEAhvnG1nUQe-fOdjL0tmHHt60aM34p8FsRiUb0ZdN_jT85KsdP1mnxc/s320/house1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></h2></div><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 18.6667px;">Fire Chief Scott Goldstein </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt;">is urging all
residents to check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms when they change their clocks this
weekend and to also practice a home fire drill. "The busiest time for home fires is during the fall and winter months. A working smoke alarm provides critical early warning of a fire resulting in more time to react and put a fire escape plan into action. We're asking all residents to take a few minutes to check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms this weekend and conduct a home fire drill. It could just be a life-saver." <br /></span><br />
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<b style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Two minutes? Experts say you may have less than 2 minutes to escape a fire. </b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt;">Did you know the peak time for home fire
fatalities is between 11 pm and 6 am</span><b style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt;">when most families are sleeping? Help keep your family safe by following
these fire safety tips:</span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt;">1. Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement (finished or unfinished) and in all sleeping
areas. If you have a larger home you'll want to consider adding more alarms and interconnected alarms will alert you to an emergency sooner. Be sure to check out all the "smart" features available -- alarms don't just sound the alarm, they can also alert your phone and more! </span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiakcyHW_mN93lMyC36RoxC90zxrzcUieRjrdEwabDIveYb1XlppI-9cwhSPmh_SdtVTj2PnKzKv8UPYaG9d8gPnYVzxf5T_ljWEkHR3v21YhgWXrpKYkdu40CXb1uI8OjL4OGQszsFY58/s1600/smokealarm.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiakcyHW_mN93lMyC36RoxC90zxrzcUieRjrdEwabDIveYb1XlppI-9cwhSPmh_SdtVTj2PnKzKv8UPYaG9d8gPnYVzxf5T_ljWEkHR3v21YhgWXrpKYkdu40CXb1uI8OjL4OGQszsFY58/s200/smokealarm.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14pt;">2. Three words: Smoke Alarms Expire. </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">Retire old smoke alarms and replace with new ones EVERY 10 years from the date of manufacture printed on the back or as recommended by the manufacturer. Be sure to follow County Code requirements for the type of smoke alarms required for your home.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 15pt;">3. Plan and practice home fire drills. </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 15pt;">Decide in advance </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 15pt;">who will </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 15pt;">help family members that may need a</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt;">ssistance escaping (young </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt;">children, older adults or people with </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt;">disabilities) and establish an outside "meeting place" where everyone will meet. </span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14pt;">4. Make sure children recognize the sound
of your smoke alarm and how to respond to its signal. </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14pt;">5. </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt;">Know your battery
type. </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt;">Maryland’s Smoke Alarm Law (effective 1/2018) requires battery-only smoke alarms to have sealed in, 10-year long-life batteries which last the life of the alarm. The updates to the law emphasize the use of sealed, 10-year battery-powered smoke alarms however it is important to understand that battery-only smoke alarms are only appropriate where battery-operated smoke alarms are permitted by Code (generally in homes built b/f 1975) before hard-wired smoke alarm technology was developed. Remember: it is never acceptable to remove required hard-wired smoke alarms and replace with any type of battery-only smoke alarm. </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjunjhBo9D5_RXGhSJWnjp0SKVtNW81PUR5BxSN_zg08a8vq_wedcEyewgOETLgxEobwqs96lviUVut0C42TnDXn4GAcZ7bivpi_hHSU5YlSdkCb7hwlvSUXbLZsxAZ0niBsbDVzpQRLJ0/s1600/daylight-savings-time-15.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="569" data-original-width="470" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjunjhBo9D5_RXGhSJWnjp0SKVtNW81PUR5BxSN_zg08a8vq_wedcEyewgOETLgxEobwqs96lviUVut0C42TnDXn4GAcZ7bivpi_hHSU5YlSdkCb7hwlvSUXbLZsxAZ0niBsbDVzpQRLJ0/s320/daylight-savings-time-15.jpg" width="264" /></a><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14pt;">Questions? Montgomery County
Fire and Rescue Service is here to help! Call 311 or visit us on
line to schedule your free VIRTUAL home safety check. Bookmark our
website for year-round safety information and to learn more about virtual home safety checks at: </span><a href="http://www.mcfrs.org/mcsafe"><span style="color: #228cd3; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14pt;">mcfrs.org/mcsafe</span></a><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14pt;">. </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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MCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-84687721836013804942022-11-01T10:00:00.000-04:002022-11-01T10:30:52.081-04:00Do I need Carbon Monoxide Alarms? Probably!<b>For Spanish click <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dP-jpXBIvA9zyvv340D5P-Rt7ZEI4fTB/view?usp=sharing">here</a></b>
<div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEispzS2doJa0xOutKWf3IyTogeOAdFnB4VSHveYkD7cZbROEQZAyXrL7CFWKo9WOXalJdv0pSczxd20XgFttFPAY6XMe_yMTKOyu5fdUG9shJ8O2aZFqx3MctcGtJ-yNSWqAYBPyhBmP5Y/s1280/COAppliances.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="1280" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEispzS2doJa0xOutKWf3IyTogeOAdFnB4VSHveYkD7cZbROEQZAyXrL7CFWKo9WOXalJdv0pSczxd20XgFttFPAY6XMe_yMTKOyu5fdUG9shJ8O2aZFqx3MctcGtJ-yNSWqAYBPyhBmP5Y/s320/COAppliances.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><span style="font-size: medium;">Carbon Monoxide Alarms are a must for homes. When seconds count, you need an alarm that notifies you of potential danger so you can quickly take action. In 2019, a new law in Montgomery County went into effect requiring many existing single-unit, two-unit and townhouse dwellings to have Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms which alert occupants to the presence of potentially deadly gas.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />The Law requires all single, two-unit, and townhouse dwellings built before 2008 that have a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace or attached garage to install and maintain CO Alarms on every level of the home and outside sleeping areas. Maryland State Law has required CO Alarms in newly-constructed homes since 2008 and in all rental occupancies.</span></div>
<br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Why are Carbon Monoxide Alarms important?</b> </span><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">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. CO Alarms monitor your home 24/7 and are designed to emit an alarm when high levels of CO are detected but before they reach life-threatening levels ... and only cost about $20.<br /> <br /><b>Does the law apply to me?</b></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />Homes in Montgomery County 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 however fire officials recommend CO Alarms in all homes.<br /><br /><b>What if my Carbon Monoxide Alarm sounds?</b></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />Immediately have everyone in the home get outdoors to fresh air and call 911 from outside the building. Because CO 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. <br /> <br /><b> Where should Carbon Monoxide Alarms be installed?</b></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />Proper placement of CO Alarms is important and you want protection on every level of your home. For homes built before 2008, Montgomery County law requires that CO Alarms be installed: <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: medium;">On every occupiable level of the residence including basements, excluding attics and crawl spaces. </span></li><li><span style="font-size: medium;">Outside sleeping areas.</span></li></ul></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">For homes built after January 1, 2008 CO Alarms should be installed in accordance with the applicable building codes at the time of construction or alteration/modification. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing CO Alarms. <br /> <br /><b>What type of Carbon Monoxide Alarms are available?</b></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />There are a wide variety of CO Alarms on the market and include battery-powered, plug-in and hard-wired CO Alarms and meet the requirements of the new law. Some newer alarms feature visual and verbal cues, instructions on what to do if the alarm activates and can be set to English or Spanish alerts. <br /><br /><b>What about Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms?</b></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">For years Smoke Alarms and CO 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. <br /> <br /><b> Are battery operated or hard wired Carbon Monoxide Alarms required by the new law?</b></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />For properties built before 2008, the power source for your CO Alarms can be battery operated, hard wired with a battery back-up or plug-in with a battery back-up. For combination Smoke and CO Alarms, the power supply must match the existing Code requirements for your home's smoke alarms.<br /> <br /><b>At what height should Carbon Monoxide Alarms be installed?</b></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /> Unlike smoke which rises to the ceiling, CO mixes with air. CO 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.<br /><br /><b>What are the symptoms of Carbon Monoxide poisoning?</b></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />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.” Knowing the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can help you respond quickly in the event of an emergency. <br /><br /><b>What do the different beeps mean?</b></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />A CO 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 and information is often printed on the back of the alarm.<br /><br /><b>When should Carbon Monoxide Alarms be replaced?</b></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b>Replace CO 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. CO Alarms typically have a service life of 7 – 10 years. <br /> <br /><b> Where can I get Carbon Monoxide Alarms?</b></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /> CO Alarms are available for purchase at many stores and online. Only purchase alarms that are approved by UL (Underwriters Laboratories) in order to ensure that your alarms meet their strict testing and safety requirements. If you need assistance and live in Montgomery County, call 311 and a department representative will be in touch. </span><div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></div><b><a href="https://apps.montgomerycountymd.gov/CCLLIMS/BillDetailsPage?RecordId=2576&fullTextSearch=Bill%20AND%2023-18" target="_blank">Click here for information on the Carbon Monoxide Law</a></b></div><div><b><br /></b>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCPEAkSJCQy82XknLt5WHZ4WOCFkfM-js1gMj-mt9iYlQ8Qcna_fuLQIppYnDCuWiaTW3rQaCtd-i2YC5BQHYr5G8D-1oDhsW8_hDQEfK5ZrpYsTHBcfHv3_Qpt6i-97_-QAMPSL1L04Y/s1600/COLaw2020.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="1280" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCPEAkSJCQy82XknLt5WHZ4WOCFkfM-js1gMj-mt9iYlQ8Qcna_fuLQIppYnDCuWiaTW3rQaCtd-i2YC5BQHYr5G8D-1oDhsW8_hDQEfK5ZrpYsTHBcfHv3_Qpt6i-97_-QAMPSL1L04Y/s400/COLaw2020.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></div></div></div>MCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-4364463973710215012022-05-13T10:18:00.000-04:002022-05-13T10:18:02.212-04:00Investigators Ask Public for Help in 2021 Arson Fire<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi5mYz4UavUBlC9hI1qKlpu5oAaPHe-gmfT2LlKO5NPPZuB8l3QwgnfzdievklYH8xKXQxQt8w-wKix-5nwjU3t-alLRB9aVgtdeYbAb6Fami_szIm-I-zXVZ2KF71Ara3yHR_1AOqpgq-WWw6Xph9HewjGNvaRHysLvhDRRbMsjGbEpn4ElEbquDu7" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="703" data-original-width="691" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi5mYz4UavUBlC9hI1qKlpu5oAaPHe-gmfT2LlKO5NPPZuB8l3QwgnfzdievklYH8xKXQxQt8w-wKix-5nwjU3t-alLRB9aVgtdeYbAb6Fami_szIm-I-zXVZ2KF71Ara3yHR_1AOqpgq-WWw6Xph9HewjGNvaRHysLvhDRRbMsjGbEpn4ElEbquDu7=w315-h320" width="315" /></a></div>Gaithersburg, MD – The Montgomery County Fire and Explosive Investigations unit continues to investigate a 2021 arson fire on Marquis Drive in Gaithersburg and are asking the public for help.<br /><br />At approximately 1 a.m. on Thursday, April 1, 2021, Montgomery County Fire and Rescue units responded to a reported house fire in the area of Marquis Drive and Cullinan Drive. Units arrived on the scene and found a single-family dwelling located on Marquis Drive with heavy fire conditions throughout the residence. Montgomery County Fire and Explosive Investigators were dispatched to the scene and determined that the cause of the fire was incendiary in nature.<p>The department is asking anyone who may have information about this arson to call the Fire and Explosive arson tip line at 240-777-2263.<br /><br />Anonymous tipsters can call Crime Solvers of Montgomery County toll-free at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477). A reward of up to $10,000 is being offered for information that leads to the arrest of the suspect(s).<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiSHN4yAMO8Q7T7qx55OnmlsPqUZe9KrXKS4OX2r6MzpfpHkNTWV1kDIT9TVwZnq6QRjnyINDuGHb0Ip1erY9PBOAf8P7lTCfNZC9UZkbUnGUja0I34EchJieBYa3QWP_p05xwZ6dT1FUDjsJKVQxU4e1pEje9xNjfFevcsomEB6Jsfhn3wuV4fUej8" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="433" data-original-width="323" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiSHN4yAMO8Q7T7qx55OnmlsPqUZe9KrXKS4OX2r6MzpfpHkNTWV1kDIT9TVwZnq6QRjnyINDuGHb0Ip1erY9PBOAf8P7lTCfNZC9UZkbUnGUja0I34EchJieBYa3QWP_p05xwZ6dT1FUDjsJKVQxU4e1pEje9xNjfFevcsomEB6Jsfhn3wuV4fUej8=w298-h400" width="298" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5lmENNHwlyTdnDkyASkeI3HRX97PeW-tD9bzpwNIBscL2ZB74lNlMZOKsioelWR4SMUOAIk8PGd3xUsLkswRh0QtZxhrhh7Ghxdzo5pHADJ6kgOikOudbCehuNTK0pbmlQXPN79PplLuRne6Kk8G5xARpDzRUUXt0IHI8DfhI6ZHV_5UKa2XfKYLz" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="382" data-original-width="509" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5lmENNHwlyTdnDkyASkeI3HRX97PeW-tD9bzpwNIBscL2ZB74lNlMZOKsioelWR4SMUOAIk8PGd3xUsLkswRh0QtZxhrhh7Ghxdzo5pHADJ6kgOikOudbCehuNTK0pbmlQXPN79PplLuRne6Kk8G5xARpDzRUUXt0IHI8DfhI6ZHV_5UKa2XfKYLz=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgUzm8H-bxCZ8Bk5hdjhfuIIFxkq-TDQJEn3uC-i7o1utFQrTQrytCXffu206cjPhbk5gGAE7Lf11e-6NdMk3YJLFh9i40q_ZJb8vxbYy5wKp-_Zl697yKWUN7Q99-A_FsaCm0_wOyLGpBCMKKkS2nlHRyzD9CGjDwnMTPK2bXKUOqHnqzy0j5D61P8" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="382" data-original-width="509" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgUzm8H-bxCZ8Bk5hdjhfuIIFxkq-TDQJEn3uC-i7o1utFQrTQrytCXffu206cjPhbk5gGAE7Lf11e-6NdMk3YJLFh9i40q_ZJb8vxbYy5wKp-_Zl697yKWUN7Q99-A_FsaCm0_wOyLGpBCMKKkS2nlHRyzD9CGjDwnMTPK2bXKUOqHnqzy0j5D61P8=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhP1JH_jP3Oq8CyhJATnovj7VeEewKM04BmYy_xy5wLkdxYN_dHhVZgch4z6O2k2uHdRvKd2yl087JFEtcAe5h0I1_362og5gBvUASyqtu845W8GhIzj3YCK20cQozn6C8EgAzd0kATZV9OexjHB5AkIJwpJSmz26VWxk4ispjfwTicehVWRmKKKegR" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiaZkHpt51gkuMNxd13eV6GDfT-LTJ2NHSA917Xt0fDkumCJcZW9I4W_J6ohOUpg2ILCwCS5xhK7_I0sxP5NDAfo7HCdkrdDmBi7uppEpcvpDe50ZyUmSISmQFiIggXjH90SbiuaK8opKvga3-U-d6duHbjYJHuZxnzv0aGd4CygjiYnnda_6fFdzH7" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br /></div><br /><br /><img alt="" data-original-height="381" data-original-width="508" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiaZkHpt51gkuMNxd13eV6GDfT-LTJ2NHSA917Xt0fDkumCJcZW9I4W_J6ohOUpg2ILCwCS5xhK7_I0sxP5NDAfo7HCdkrdDmBi7uppEpcvpDe50ZyUmSISmQFiIggXjH90SbiuaK8opKvga3-U-d6duHbjYJHuZxnzv0aGd4CygjiYnnda_6fFdzH7=w400-h300" width="400" /><p></p>MCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-75510900429528056902022-04-27T12:04:00.008-04:002022-04-27T12:47:30.890-04:00You look like a great Car Seat Tech! <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjlM7F7olBb_iQRYXra-5xGYtgHJLtWOOY47yprmduCOnZ8-XI1enMHZdOAZ0EzpaUoRxjnphlFNLJ-6vC75kWfF9xRlYToPbtnnbSgBRJy-VhjIfAcoMm87EhQqP5VwWK7GVn9t0yLrqa2iHFYexN3xPMR6r1JkUUy3G64h4l2k3-IwVutVaPKtBlq" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjlM7F7olBb_iQRYXra-5xGYtgHJLtWOOY47yprmduCOnZ8-XI1enMHZdOAZ0EzpaUoRxjnphlFNLJ-6vC75kWfF9xRlYToPbtnnbSgBRJy-VhjIfAcoMm87EhQqP5VwWK7GVn9t0yLrqa2iHFYexN3xPMR6r1JkUUy3G64h4l2k3-IwVutVaPKtBlq=w400-h225" width="400" /></a></div><br /></div>For over two decades, the Car Seat Program has educated thousands
of caregivers on how to properly use and install car seats. Thousands of
children have been properly secured in their car seats or seat belts thanks to
the efforts of the many amazing child passenger safety technicians who make up
MCFRS’ Car Seat Program. These technicians all have one thing in common: they
care deeply about kids and want to make sure kids are safe on every ride.<p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Car Seat Program is always looking for passionate, dedicated, and
community-oriented individuals to become part of our team. If this description
fits you, please consider becoming a nationally certified Child Passenger
Safety (CPS) Technician. This year, we are hosting two certification trainings
in Montgomery County and invite you to sign up. The first training will be held
in May and another in October. Information on the trainings and how to sign-up
is at the link below. Both trainings will be held in Gaithersburg.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">CPS technicians use their considerable knowledge and expertise at
a variety of community-based activities, such as child safety seat checks,
where parents and caregivers receive education and hands-on assistance. Here in
Montgomery County, we host car seat check on a weekly basis in Germantown, Aspen
Hill, and Takoma Park with occasional events in Rockville and Wheaton. In
addition to the checks, technicians educate the community on child passenger
safety at community events, festivals, schools, and non-profit organizations. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Our program is highly rated and nationally recognized. We strive
to provide a fun, friendly, and welcoming environment to caregivers. If you have
questions or are interested in becoming a car seat technician, you can click on
the link below or contact Anthony Ramirez, Program Manager, at </span><a href="mailto:anthony.ramirez@montgomerycountymd.gov"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">anthony.ramirez@montgomerycountymd.gov</span></a><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> or
240-777-2467.<br /><br /> __________________________________________________________________<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><i>🔷 May 9<sup>th</sup> through 12<sup>th</sup> (Monday -
Thursday) with final seat check on Saturday the 14<sup>th</sup>:</i></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><i><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://portalskcms.cyzap.net/dzapps/dbzap.bin/apps/assess/webmembers/secure/manage?webid=SKCMS&pToolCode=COURSE-SEARCH&pToolCmd=Details&pPrint=Yes&pSys=&pSignupID=&pProgramID=CMS-COURSE-2045">Click for Class Information</a> </span><br /></i></b>Course ID: <span style="background: white; color: black;">MD202112211131<br /><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><i><b>🔷 October 13<sup>th</sup> and 14<sup>th</sup> (Thursday
and Friday) and then October 18 -20 (Tuesday, Wednesday, and seat check on
Thursday the 20<sup>th</sup>):</b><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /><a href="https://portalskcms.cyzap.net/dzapps/dbzap.bin/apps/assess/webmembers/secure/manage?webid=SKCMS&pToolCode=COURSE-SEARCH&pToolCmd=Details&pPrint=Yes&pSys=&pSignupID=&pProgramID=CMS-COURSE-2048" style="font-weight: bold;">Click for Class Information</a><b><br /></b></span></i>Course ID: <span style="color: black;">MD202112211134</span> <br /><br /> __________________________________________________________________</p><p class="MsoNormal">There are other trainings occurring throughout Maryland in
2022 and people can attend any of these trainings too. They are at the
following locations/dates. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">6/7 – 6/11 in Middletown<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">7/12 – 7/16 in Edgewood<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">11/1 – 11/4 in Pikesville<o:p></o:p></p>MCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-68817122368714453082022-04-15T15:43:00.000-04:002022-04-15T15:43:14.232-04:00Fire Safety Tips <p><span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;">With the holiday season approaching, Fire Chief Goldstein and the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service would like to share some important fire safety tips for our friends celebrating Passover. There are many things families can do to reduce the chance of a fire starting in their homes. Please make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working and that you have practiced a home escape plan. Remember, the very best safety plan is prevention.<br /><br /></span></p><p><span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjcJ0tzIgc7JNGC2iGkwPZvPbZE9lh8VuWjmLEADBUnSjPkMFLfQJj3iRw58E3-wfNgPJihtLoLSnzAUIDhAYI7Q3zdt6ORr-g-xl4M--GynMtEVBVDFO_9-Nth4P2EWJpKjMyivl70PgpJCLJJdiJkHQaXT06_Lv2rFGH653FhvscCsp207ERJgXu4" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="989" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjcJ0tzIgc7JNGC2iGkwPZvPbZE9lh8VuWjmLEADBUnSjPkMFLfQJj3iRw58E3-wfNgPJihtLoLSnzAUIDhAYI7Q3zdt6ORr-g-xl4M--GynMtEVBVDFO_9-Nth4P2EWJpKjMyivl70PgpJCLJJdiJkHQaXT06_Lv2rFGH653FhvscCsp207ERJgXu4=w493-h640" width="493" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjRajHgcWTOPnurHf9cP3gmnnquXH8_IWwXg5Q9pL8tgWdy1oD5ZwNEaTq7pS-E2WLyEWlgb9mNvecdeB07XlOAYqZqE09FbwWfIxAqMB0l7Td-CpbdEtp_ms9pQLshs_Oh6ITtbWjLxrpuZkSV5XvZFx0uJu-j5CPOfPB_cJBarL7O75ljrlcqW8cW" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="989" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjRajHgcWTOPnurHf9cP3gmnnquXH8_IWwXg5Q9pL8tgWdy1oD5ZwNEaTq7pS-E2WLyEWlgb9mNvecdeB07XlOAYqZqE09FbwWfIxAqMB0l7Td-CpbdEtp_ms9pQLshs_Oh6ITtbWjLxrpuZkSV5XvZFx0uJu-j5CPOfPB_cJBarL7O75ljrlcqW8cW=w493-h640" width="493" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><p></p>MCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-85190321428488866362022-04-11T15:12:00.000-04:002022-04-11T15:12:43.554-04:00A Community-Centered Budget<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #444444; font-size: medium;">Highlights from the FY23 Recommended Budget </span><br /><br /></h3><p></p><p><span color="inherit" style="background-color: white; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span color="inherit" style="background-color: white; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhGxvoe_EbdUU5LrUM2OLsd5wEEtJZ8O4-eTsfEsnLF1PPFS5O92ZBfxE_4CnfsAbFF6WEITSDTF_mJukot-lBaXKItE4bHe1TIGzdQ4hXjIgt55PlesiJNThKj00m4LRNFhVenubZJRWilp6aaMtEbdvWHMcZ1PvI8JajwpXxJUA5ZLZVvLqaaEDzr" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhGxvoe_EbdUU5LrUM2OLsd5wEEtJZ8O4-eTsfEsnLF1PPFS5O92ZBfxE_4CnfsAbFF6WEITSDTF_mJukot-lBaXKItE4bHe1TIGzdQ4hXjIgt55PlesiJNThKj00m4LRNFhVenubZJRWilp6aaMtEbdvWHMcZ1PvI8JajwpXxJUA5ZLZVvLqaaEDzr=w400-h225" width="400" /></a></span></div><p></p><h3><span style="font-size: small;">Link to the Complete Budget: <a href="https://apps.montgomerycountymd.gov/basisoperating/Common/Department.aspx?ID=45D" style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia;" target="_blank"><b>MCFRS FY23 Proposed Budget</b></a></span></h3><p></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span color="inherit" style="background-color: white; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span aria-hidden="true" class="word1" style="box-sizing: border-box;">The</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word2" style="box-sizing: border-box;">mission</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word3" style="box-sizing: border-box;">of</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word4" style="box-sizing: border-box;">the</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word5" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Montgomery</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word6" style="box-sizing: border-box;">County</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word7" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Fire</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word8" style="box-sizing: border-box;">and</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word9" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Rescue</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word10" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Service</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word11" style="box-sizing: border-box;">(MCFRS)</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word12" style="box-sizing: border-box;">is</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word13" style="box-sizing: border-box;">to</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word14" style="box-sizing: border-box;">provide<br /></span></span></span><span color="inherit" style="background-color: white; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span aria-hidden="true" class="word15" style="box-sizing: border-box;">maximum</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word16" style="box-sizing: border-box;">protection</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word17" style="box-sizing: border-box;">of</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word18" style="box-sizing: border-box;">lives,</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word19" style="box-sizing: border-box;">property,</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word20" style="box-sizing: border-box;">and</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word21" style="box-sizing: border-box;">the</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word22" style="box-sizing: border-box;">environment</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word23" style="box-sizing: border-box;">with</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word24" style="box-sizing: border-box;">comprehensive</span> <br /></span></span><span color="inherit" style="background-color: white; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span aria-hidden="true" class="word25" style="box-sizing: border-box;">risk</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word26" style="box-sizing: border-box;">reduction</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word27" style="box-sizing: border-box;">programs</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word28" style="box-sizing: border-box;">and</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word29" style="box-sizing: border-box;">safe</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word30" style="box-sizing: border-box;">and</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word31" style="box-sizing: border-box;">effective</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word32" style="box-sizing: border-box;">emergency</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word33" style="box-sizing: border-box;">response</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word34" style="box-sizing: border-box;">provided</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word35" style="box-sizing: border-box;">by</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word36" style="box-sizing: border-box;">highly</span> <br /></span></span><span color="inherit" style="background-color: white; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span aria-hidden="true" class="word37" style="box-sizing: border-box;">skilled</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word38" style="box-sizing: border-box;">career</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word39" style="box-sizing: border-box;">and</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word40" style="box-sizing: border-box;">volunteer</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word41" style="box-sizing: border-box;">service</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word42" style="box-sizing: border-box;">providers</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word43" style="box-sizing: border-box;">representing</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word44" style="box-sizing: border-box;">the</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word45" style="box-sizing: border-box;">County's</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word46" style="box-sizing: border-box;">diverse</span> <span aria-hidden="true" class="word47" style="box-sizing: border-box;">population.<br /><br /></span></span></span></div><span color="inherit" style="background-color: white; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-weight: inherit;">MCFRS is voluntarily participating in a new Supplemental Payment Program with Maryland Department of Health which provides federal reimbursement for certain qualified ambulance transports. The program is intended to infuse EMS systems with sustainable funding to support EMS operations and create enhancements. Through this program, the County Executive intends to fund several initiatives in his proposed FY23 budget:</span></span></span><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span color="inherit" style="background-color: white; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">Add a paramedic chase car to enhance advanced life support (ALS) emergency </span>medical service delivery in Silver Spring. </span></li><li><span color="inherit" style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">Add an EMS Duty Officer position to enhance advanced life support field supervision. <br />This increases coverage from two to three EMS Duty Officers.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span color="inherit" style="font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"><span><span style="background-color: white;">Add a permanent Emergency Medical Service System Capacity Officer to coordinate </span></span><br /><span><span style="background-color: white;">patient transport to hospitals and balance emergency department loads. This enhancement is expected to assist in reducing hospital drop times and increase <br /></span></span></span>EMS transport availability.</span></li><li><span color="inherit" style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">Increase the capacity of the Mobile Integrated Health program by adding two <br />paramedics to support the existing social worker and registered nurse on home visits, complement the County's Mobile Crisis Team and enhance <br />other public health efforts, assist with emergency room diversion options, and address the needs of frequent 911 callers. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span class="x_xword1" color="inherit" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Increase</span></span><span style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> <span class="x_xword2" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">support</span> <span class="x_xword3" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">for</span> <span class="x_xword4" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">local</span> <span class="x_xword5" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">fire</span> <span class="x_xword6" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">and</span> <span class="x_xword7" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">rescue</span> <span class="x_xword8" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">department</span> <span class="x_xword9" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">emergency</span> <span class="x_xword10" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">medical</span> <span class="x_xword11" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">service</span> <span class="x_xword13" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span>activities <span class="x_xword14" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">infrastructure.</span></span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span class="x_xword1" color="inherit" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Add</span></span><span style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> <span class="x_xword2" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">an</span> <span class="x_xword3" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Emergency</span> <span class="x_xword4" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Medical</span> <span class="x_xword5" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Service</span> <span class="x_xword6" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Quality</span> <span class="x_xword7" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Management</span> <span class="x_xword8" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Battalion</span> <span class="x_xword9" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Chief</span> <span class="x_xword10" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">to</span> <span class="x_xword11" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">evaluate</span> <br /><span class="x_xword12" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">emergency</span> <span class="x_xword13" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">medical</span> <span class="x_xword14" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">services</span> <span class="x_xword15" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">system</span> <span class="x_xword16" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">performance</span> <span class="x_xword17" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">and</span> <span class="x_xword18" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">assist</span> <span class="x_xword19" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">in</span> <span class="x_xword20" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">optimizing</span> <br /><span class="x_xword21" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">resource</span> <span class="x_xword22" color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">deployment.</span></span></span></li></ul><p class="x_xmsonormal" style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">This enhancement list strives to ensure that the services we are provide are of the highest quality by bolstering point-of-care supervision, enabling correction, and measuring clinical data and patient safety metrics. These enhancements increase administrative bandwidth to expand on current quality programs and improvement initiatives. The proposed FY23 budget provides the framework to increase agility, introduces scalable efficiencies and innovations to meet the needs of Montgomery County's residents, visitors and business community. </span></span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span></p><p class="x_xmsonormal" style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; margin: 0in;"><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></p><p class="x_xmsonormal" style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiRYl4uIUHweeIM-0cnqNOZ7vwwLG6L9GptWpo_4rbLHveGDRDIVw8UAoX-0EqbgJTkh9xqsWf9hFXStmGE_svLolImJ2E5NlmHg7wMbRDlf3V63ddWGOJtoMnvgvYOZ8_H27c9Rjuetz4lYjVPVbCnIrzDzwTB2Zl_OWPLDA509m_-XjILNO0xRFCG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiRYl4uIUHweeIM-0cnqNOZ7vwwLG6L9GptWpo_4rbLHveGDRDIVw8UAoX-0EqbgJTkh9xqsWf9hFXStmGE_svLolImJ2E5NlmHg7wMbRDlf3V63ddWGOJtoMnvgvYOZ8_H27c9Rjuetz4lYjVPVbCnIrzDzwTB2Zl_OWPLDA509m_-XjILNO0xRFCG=w489-h275" width="489" /></a></div><p></p>MCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-47874521563106429552022-04-05T15:10:00.004-04:002022-04-07T15:51:47.115-04:00It's What's on the Inside that Counts - Beeping Easter Eggs <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiFUe03CVSvvSugyecGupBt9Q3qz2JK8hYBAmhd5stxha45A0U9rxvj_fR8okNeYID0u9WRk8dd3GkfAb5k73BIj6JAzcGYRtL9oqeTUqJ_6FN2FoDtULB9OYFBNtsPTaJj9NeLmSd81XoZ_VjhuJ8D5aQbZLEuk6_dawQJGWBfPWjpZ1Sonq7L3RI2" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiFUe03CVSvvSugyecGupBt9Q3qz2JK8hYBAmhd5stxha45A0U9rxvj_fR8okNeYID0u9WRk8dd3GkfAb5k73BIj6JAzcGYRtL9oqeTUqJ_6FN2FoDtULB9OYFBNtsPTaJj9NeLmSd81XoZ_VjhuJ8D5aQbZLEuk6_dawQJGWBfPWjpZ1Sonq7L3RI2=w300-h400" width="300" /></a><span style="font-family: Droid Serif;"></span></div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">~ Beth Anne Nesselt<br />Manager, Community Risk Reduction Section</span></i></span></h2><div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">A father’s solution to help his blind daughter participate in an Easter Egg hunt is spreading across the United States thanks to the efforts of military and law enforcement members. <span style="background-color: white;">David Hyche’s daughter was 4 months old when she lost her vision and has been the motivation behind his research and passion to </span><span style="background-color: white;">manufacture "audible" Easter eggs. His work as an ATF agent inspired him to tweak designs until he had eggs equipped with beepers so his daughter and others with vision loss could participate in egg hunts. <br /></span><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;">When he showed off his beeping eggs at a convention for bomb technicians, the association thought it would be a great initiative for their members. That’s how the <b>Rachel Project </b>got started and every year military and law enforcement members donate their time and skills to build the eggs for other children with visual impairments. Members of Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service Bomb Squad is proud to participate in this year's event and have been busy constructing over 100 beeping eggs for this month's special events. <br /></span><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span color="inherit" style="font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">Who is behind this project? Lt. </span>Phil Baker is the quiet (and humble) force behind the MCFRS Team who has worked closely with the </span><span color="inherit" style="font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind, Ace Hardware in Brunswick and others key partners and organizations. It is definitely a case of "what's on the inside that counts" and for Montgomery County's Bomb Squad --- they are all heart. The "beeping eggs" are used year-round to help children develop navigational skills and confidence. <br /></span></span><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.5in;"><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><i><span style="font-size: medium;"><b></b></span></i></span></p><blockquote><i><span style="font-size: medium;"><b></b></span></i></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote><i><b>“The Montgomery County Bomb Squad is honored to partner with the Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind. This charitable project was initiated and led by Montgomery County Bomb Technician, Lieutenant Phil Baker who was inspired to create beeping Easter eggs after reading about the nationwide event founded by the International Association of Bomb Technicians and Investigators (IABTI). The event has grown in popularity and the building of these eggs has become an annual event for bomb squads across the country. The Montgomery County Bomb Squad built over 100 beeping eggs and will be delivering them to the members of the visually impaired and blind community and the Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind.”<i style="color: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit;"><b> </b></i></b></i></blockquote><p></p><p class="x_MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><i><b> -Captain Andrew Gettig, Acting Bomb Squad Commander</b></i></span></p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"></span></blockquote><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><span color="inherit" style="font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">Learn more about “The Rachel Project” (read about it</span><span color="inherit" style="font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><a data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0" href="https://www.iabti.org/beeping-eggs/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="border: 0px; color: #0563c1; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">here</a></span><span color="inherit" style="font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">).</span> </span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj0g85KcaEH9kPRdg-r3Z47LI7HLsCva85fxrwcNlSymolzN4GCCmi_x44K5kgZ9xgUMx7pCjwaHJWTNNvLCLYnnoRgcvreRJFs0DS8vfoMGHTYqfj-kPQaJjjN7K2PSX3LmzrMExZ_5egZ60mrAOEVjvz5ODhBXNgGx0TowJnEiTru4UeT2ixJZy9j" style="clear: right; 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text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjNp0aB70tyc0r1KrS5_je-6X2j7Rz23InVysCBbkVwE_vOTxrpNvCn3kzwFl4DyqGtbu4YQQoM7z2_m-cMS5VpTApu6mS8reUMBIf9ErJ_8vAkxRXHGhD3ImlI2kusZ6U72xmgQIXRqCFJomelUUAXL6gf0aD26LQxFPwc0ELY6DokULx8BT4s34Xf" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjNp0aB70tyc0r1KrS5_je-6X2j7Rz23InVysCBbkVwE_vOTxrpNvCn3kzwFl4DyqGtbu4YQQoM7z2_m-cMS5VpTApu6mS8reUMBIf9ErJ_8vAkxRXHGhD3ImlI2kusZ6U72xmgQIXRqCFJomelUUAXL6gf0aD26LQxFPwc0ELY6DokULx8BT4s34Xf=w240-h320" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p></div>MCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-458913127636044325.post-88732799535824663242022-02-18T18:07:00.007-05:002022-04-07T15:54:07.623-04:00Montgomery County's Bomb Squad Selected to Test New Technology <div class="separator"><h2><span style="font-family: times;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">~ Beth Anne Nesselt<br />Manager, Community Risk Reduction Section</span></i></span></h2></div><div class="separator"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgIQseHnVWdJf5aZsw-9yvuMeG2GhWYd6u4B3Cr9XTAzyUjyz5EHGYTEooxF8JKw3lKrnuohYmYKoM8n2LvmxvWgfI25xiZ-1EkosGQlEb-hicGTxOAJxWOZ5O9247jwxRoepag4Cosu81X3owMHdTp3A7F6r4tST79qRJ1SQgA3_stDnmdg4aJUNT7" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgIQseHnVWdJf5aZsw-9yvuMeG2GhWYd6u4B3Cr9XTAzyUjyz5EHGYTEooxF8JKw3lKrnuohYmYKoM8n2LvmxvWgfI25xiZ-1EkosGQlEb-hicGTxOAJxWOZ5O9247jwxRoepag4Cosu81X3owMHdTp3A7F6r4tST79qRJ1SQgA3_stDnmdg4aJUNT7" width="180" /></a></div></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="text-align: left;"><img alt="" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdSJn3aI25Cj9riIF-1iG2rO-WuPfD0b2jmojB1Wi2elFlxfYQQZZnQgcw1Tjn4rIo4ZwfnvrOcqGFO0UuQJbmrrBq5DAtHiCOyWUjpeHy9eKQMSTLT6xZe2BRLuB9gkXYljC6XPMrg5jXPF1fh-j4d-SYREgTx9RFvh80BOG_WqAc7NchMuxuKYfO" width="180" /><br /></div></blockquote><p></p><br />The Montgomery County Bomb Squad was named as a participant in a select group of only 10 Bomb Squads from across the country to participate in a pilot program to test a new technology developed for bomb squad robotic equipment. This project was funded and supervised by the Department of Homeland Security, First Responders Technologies, Responders, and Resilience Group.<p></p><p>Montgomery County Bomb Techs have received this new, state of the art equipment developed by Honeybee Robotics, LLC, and over the course of the next 6 months and possibly longer, will test and utilize it and provide valuable feedback and suggestions for improvement and changes to the DHS and their partners prior to commercial release. <br /><br />"This is a unique opportunity for our department Being counted among this elite group will allow the department to enhance safety and response capabilities," said Captain Tim Ferguson. "Public-private partnerships such as the one with Honeybee allows our bomb technicians to experiment with emerging technologies in order to keep pace with challenges confronting our field. We are fortunate to be part of advancing innovative solutions." </p><p>Montgomery County Bomb Squad is honored in joining other elite squads from Texas, Michigan, Florida, New Jersey, Minnesota, North Carolina, and New York in participating in this important federal government project that will help to advance the safety and success of bomb technicians everywhere in the United States. <br /> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjYFVNh6N0WJT3QsDF8CThRIvMjDtW6r-1osXHM7qFOHSOcq5TbnJ8T4HRocgFiSJyaxdmF-0tV2xKpxTdG_KN0ULA2ee2scYZuac3lucO2V-k36FDsohu1NCr3_TXknS7uWeUPTJG87x9Allvzucni5RM7JJaElZu9_oKPrcYfa1gyiPkv0m5c8LHE" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjYFVNh6N0WJT3QsDF8CThRIvMjDtW6r-1osXHM7qFOHSOcq5TbnJ8T4HRocgFiSJyaxdmF-0tV2xKpxTdG_KN0ULA2ee2scYZuac3lucO2V-k36FDsohu1NCr3_TXknS7uWeUPTJG87x9Allvzucni5RM7JJaElZu9_oKPrcYfa1gyiPkv0m5c8LHE" width="180" /></a></div> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgmYKoj03jOIWjPTsKeNochMEP6waMeU1ahg12U28DTHGqDd0L0YyLZkd6LYEpSzyRd8tbnNv2JlI6LSklBk8s8MCupnk9SIf16VL8bS4h2LD2yQ3dQLbqWPbKcKmYWQI4HrQplJURV8__jqSQ0C4l-t9T67MwV7Kih4WivAszI20jp1qDVeTYkOvH9" style="clear: right; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgmYKoj03jOIWjPTsKeNochMEP6waMeU1ahg12U28DTHGqDd0L0YyLZkd6LYEpSzyRd8tbnNv2JlI6LSklBk8s8MCupnk9SIf16VL8bS4h2LD2yQ3dQLbqWPbKcKmYWQI4HrQplJURV8__jqSQ0C4l-t9T67MwV7Kih4WivAszI20jp1qDVeTYkOvH9" width="180" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-oMyhYgyQ89OftidCu6jsT7qhJCf3UuFaurssEDT9olBzw2y1bzbXC0bM-vWsBiG4_NB4OtxgVFpWzXeisfrVl8GPIehhtfECj3RoedbDyGPeoFHJltNyiiMb-VeSv5fUarWzzOFGERnkkuvQK2fxU0J4ySlmrxIy7KJOuM0-ZJzyrwLfwcBz4goh" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-oMyhYgyQ89OftidCu6jsT7qhJCf3UuFaurssEDT9olBzw2y1bzbXC0bM-vWsBiG4_NB4OtxgVFpWzXeisfrVl8GPIehhtfECj3RoedbDyGPeoFHJltNyiiMb-VeSv5fUarWzzOFGERnkkuvQK2fxU0J4ySlmrxIy7KJOuM0-ZJzyrwLfwcBz4goh" width="180" /></a><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdSJn3aI25Cj9riIF-1iG2rO-WuPfD0b2jmojB1Wi2elFlxfYQQZZnQgcw1Tjn4rIo4ZwfnvrOcqGFO0UuQJbmrrBq5DAtHiCOyWUjpeHy9eKQMSTLT6xZe2BRLuB9gkXYljC6XPMrg5jXPF1fh-j4d-SYREgTx9RFvh80BOG_WqAc7NchMuxuKYfO" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><p></p>MCFRS Community Outreachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06007793235936164575noreply@blogger.com0