Spontaneous Combustion Dangers

Earlier this month, MCFRS made residents aware of the danger of spontaneous combustion. While rare it does happen more often than you think and results in major fire losses each year.

Take a moment to learn more here: Safety Alert: How to Avoid a Disaster in Your Home

Yesterday, to further highlight the dangers of spontaneous combustion fires, Battalion Chief Dee Howard-Richards and Master Firefighter Donnie Boyd appeared on Good Morning America to highlight the dangers of spontaneous combustion. ‪Take the couple of minutes to watch and actually see a spontaneous combustion fire occur.


ABC Breaking News | Latest News Videos

Heatstroke - How Hot The Inside Of A Car Can Get

An extremely eye opening video from our friends at SafeKids. Please take 53 seconds to watch!

If you ever see a child alone in a car, please call 911. You could save a life!

Community Connections

By: Lieutenant Robert Furst

Fire Station 19, in Montgomery Hills, is located directly next Snyder's Super Foods. The parking lots touch each other and the apparatus bay is in plain view of the customers that are patronizing the store. The constant traffic moving in and out of Snyder's affords the crew of Company 19 with many opportunities to interact with their customers - who are also our customers.

Frequently, we have the pleasure of meeting young children and their parents or guardians which proves to be a twofold win. First, we have a chance to show the children the fire apparatus (kids love fire trucks) and the station. And we take the opportunity to educate the adults about our mission and fire safety practices.

We frequently converse with the same people, and sometimes we are presented with showings of appreciation of our efforts for which we are grateful.

Lt. Dustin Poist showing off Engine 19

Going Out Of Town? Do Not Take A Vacation From Fire Safety!

Getting ready to go out of town? The summer months are not the time to take a vacation from fire safety. Be sure to check your home before leaving to minimize the risk of fire while you are away and review these important safety tips:

Your Home

• All stoves and electrical appliances should be turned off or disconnected.
• Unplug all television sets, computers and radios. Lightning storms or sudden electrical surges can damage or even cause a fire in these types of equipment.
• When you return, check to make sure all smoke alarms are working.
• Tell a trusted neighbor your departure and return dates. Supply an itinerary with phone numbers where you can be reached in the event of an emergency.

If You Are Staying In A Hotel/Motel

When you are traveling away from home and staying in a hotel or motel, it is important to know what actions to take in the event of a fire. While hotel fires account for only a small number of fire fatalities, they present a unique fire risk. Fire can spread quickly in hotels and guests are typically in unfamiliar surroundings. While sprinklers, smoke alarms and fire walls are required in many parts of the world, do not assume that all hotels will have the same safety features you may be accustomed to. The more you know in advance about dealing with a fire emergency, the better your chances for survival:

• Select a hotel/motel that, at a minimum, has smoke alarms installed. It is recommended to select lodging that also has a fire sprinkler system installed. If you must stay in a hotel/motel without alarms or sprinklers, or have mobility limitations, request a room on the first or second floor.
• When you arrive, review the fire safety information provided. It is typically posted near or on the back of the entry door. Just like in your home, you need to plan your escape ahead of time. Locate the two exits nearest your room. Walk the potential escape routes, counting the number of doors between your room and the exit. Make sure that the fire exit doors work and are unlocked. In a real fire, the hallway may become dark with smoke making it hard to see.
• Put your room key, flashlight, cell phone, eyeglasses and shoes, near the bed. You don't want to waste any time looking for things during a fire and keeping everything together can make your escape easier.
• Learn what number to call in the event of an emergency - not all locations use 9-1-1.

It’s HOT Out There! Important Reminder For Athletes Of All Ages

Another hot one with more on the way. Many athletes young, and young at heart, still want to work out or participate in a variety of outdoor activities and sports. Please make sure you do so wisely and be informed.

Below are some important tips from our friends from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to take into consideration before you train, workout, or compete.

• Pace activity. Start activities slowly and pick up the pace gradually.
• Schedule workouts or practices earlier or later in the day to avoid midday heat.
• Drink from two to four cups of water every hour while exercising. Muscle cramping may be an early sign of heat sickness. 
• Drink plenty of water and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.
• Avoid liquids containing large amounts of sugar.
• Exercise with a partner or teammate.
• STOP all activity and get to a cool environment if you feel faint or weak. 

Safety Alert: How to Avoid a Disaster in Your Home

Spontaneous combustion happens more often than you think and results in major fire losses each year. Spontaneous combustion of oily rags occurs when rag or cloth is slowly heated to its ignition point through oxidation. A substance will begin to release heat as it oxidizes. If this heat has no way to escape, like in a pile of rags, the temperature will raise to a level high enough to ignite the oil and ignite the rag or cloth causing major fire damage and loss. One of the most common scenarios occurs when floors, fences or decking are being refinished and stain-soaked and oily rags are left in a pile on the floor, deck or garage.

Common Products:

• Linseed oil and other drying oils
• Wood Stain
• Alkyd Enamel Resins
• Motor Fuels
• Oil-based products such as primer, sealer, paint, White-Pigmented Shellac, paint thinner, turpentine, mineral spirits and denatured alcohol.

Prevention of spontaneous combustion fires begins with good housekeeping. A clean work area can prevent a fire from spreading and getting bigger by not allowing the fire fuel to burn. Also understanding the potential for self-heating of rags soiled with oils such as linseed oil and turpentine is a key step in eliminating these preventable fires. Be sure to educate contractors that may be working in your home and “DIY” friends and family members.  Always read and follow the safety precautions listed on the container of any solvent-based material.

Tips for Storing and Disposing of oil-soaked rags:

1. DO NOT ball up, pile, stack or fold any wiping cloth, rag, towel, drop cloth, steel wool or piece of work clothing that becomes moistened or wet due to contact with a solvent-based material.

2. DO NOT toss used rags into a trash can or plastic bucket or even consider putting them in the dryer!

3. DO store used rags in a metal container with water in it and a lid firmly on top away from the house.

4. SAFELY STORE any garage/workshop supplies. Paints and solvents should not be kept near heat generating equipment such as cars, furnaces or water heaters.

Please take a moment to view this informative report on the subject from NBC4.

Heat Exhaustion and Heatstroke

Today, tomorrow and Friday are going to be HOT! With that in mind MCFRS wants to share the below information that might be helpful. Be safe out there the rest of the week!

from CDC.gov

Extreme heat brings with it the possibility of heat-induced illnesses. During the hot, humid summer weather, the body's internal temperature can rise and can result in heat exhaustion and heatstroke. If not treated quickly, heat exhaustion can progress into heat stroke, which requires immediate medical care and can be fatal.

Signs and Symptoms:

Heat Exhaustion

• Severe thirst
• Muscle weakness
• Nausea, sometimes vomiting
• Irritability
• Headache
• Increased sweating
• Cool clammy skin
• Elevation of body temperature to 105 degrees Fahrenheit
• Weak, rapid pulse

Heat Stroke

• Severe, throbbing headache
• Weakness, dizziness or confusion
• Difficulty breathing
• Decreased responsiveness or loss of consciousness
• Little or no sweating
• Flush, hot, dry skin
• Elevation of body temperature to 105 degrees Fahrenheit

What to Do:

If the person has a temperature of 105 degrees Fahrenheit or more or shows signs and symptoms of heatstroke, seek emergency medical care immediately. In cases of heat exhaustion and while waiting for help:

1. Move the person to a cool place indoors or under the shade of a tree.
2. Loosen clothing.
3. Have the person lie down. Elevate feet slightly.
4. If the person is alert, place in cool (not cold) bath water.
5. IF the person is alert, give frequent sips of cool, clear fluids (clear juice or sports drinks are best).
6. If the person is vomiting, turn his or her body to the side to prevent choking.
7. Monitor the person's temperatures.

Think Prevention! Be sensible about how much you exert yourself in hot weather.
Heat Exhaustion is the result of excessive heat and dehydration. Heat Stroke is a medical emergency!

Get Ready: High Heat In The Forecast

Be Careful and Check on Elderly Neighbors.

After a relatively wet and cool last couple of days, it appears that summer is getting ready to heat up this week. Weather forecasters are expecting hot and humid air to move in for the next several days. High temperatures are anticipated to get back into the 90's on Wednesday with a potential heat index around 95. The days to keep a very close eye on are Thursday, Friday and Saturday as highs are projected to be in the mid to upper 90's with a heat index near 105 degrees.

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

Staying hydrated is essential all year long but is particularly important when temperatures soar. During hot weather and extreme heat, keep informed by listening to local weather and news channels and take a minute to review the tips below.

1. Pre-hydrate, hydrate and re-hydrate.
During hot weather you will need to increase your fluid intake, regardless of your activity level. Drink plenty of fluids in advance, during and after activities and don’t wait until you're thirsty to hydrate.

2.  Dress for the heat.
Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect some of the sun’s energy. Limit your direct exposure to the sun and wear a hat for extra protection.

3.  Monitor those at high risk.
Extreme heat can be hazardous to your health and although anyone can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others. Those most at risk for heat-related illnesses include children, older adults, those that work or exercise outside and those with pre-existing medical conditions. Elderly or disabled residents in Montgomery County in need of a free fan can call 311 for information.

4. Children and cars - use common sense.
Never, ever leave infants, children, pets or the elderly in a parked car where temperatures can become life-threatening in minutes, even with the windows rolled down. Additionally, hot interior surfaces of a car can burn a child’s skin. Before you put your child in a car that has been parked in a warm/sunny spot, check the temperature of the car seat or upholstery first.

5. Avoid strenuous activity.
Take regular breaks when exercising or engaged in physical activity on warm days. If you recognize that you, or someone else, is showing signs of a heat-related illness, stop the activity immediately, find a cool place to rest, hydrate and seek medical attention if necessary.

6. Be a good neighbor.
Isolated, elderly adults are at a much higher risk of health-related issues. Be a good neighbor and take a minute to check in with your neighbors.

7. Remember your pets.
Hot weather can affect the well-being of pets making them susceptible to overheating which can lead to very dangerous heat stroke. Always provide a source of water and a cool, ventilated place for your pet. Leaving your pet inside a parked car, even for a few minutes, can be fatal. The inside of a car can reach 120 degrees in a matter of minutes.

8. Stay indoors, if possible.
Stay indoors and, if possible, in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, consider going to the shopping mall, community center or public library. Even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you return to the heat.

Fire In Abandoned House

At approximately 1:40 a.m. this morning, MCFRS units were dispatched for the reported house fire in the 400 block of Norwood Road in the Colesville area of the county. Firefighters arrived on scene to find an abandoned, two-story single family home well involved in heavy fire.

An exterior fire attack was initiated to quickly bring the fire under control.

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. A total of 50 firefighters were on-scene. There were no reported civilian or firefighter injuries. Damages were estimated to be $250,000.00.

Drinking This Fourth of July? Don't Drive And Get A FREE Ride!

Celebrating Independence Day tomorrow, July 4, with an adult beverage? Make sure you plan ahead and either have a designated driver or call WRAP's SoberRide. Information below.

This Fourth of July, Don't Drink and Drive!

En español                    Download PDF Version of SoberRide Poster

New Training Academy Nearing Completion

The new Public Safety Training Academy (PSTA) is nearing completion. As you can see in the photo album below, carpet is going down for administrative suites, painting is being done, bathrooms are getting finalized, ceiling tiles are going up and safety rails and staircase rails are installed.

Especially impressive when you take a peek back at our earlier updates with photos:

New Public Safety Training Academy Campus Progress

More Progress At The New Public Safety Training Academy Campus

Progress Continues At The New Public Safety Training Academy Campus

Move in is tentatively scheduled for sometime late August or early September. Fall Semester training will be conducted at the new PSTA along with our new recruit class that is expected to start in December.

Photos provided by Assistant Chief (ret) Mike Clemens.

Fight The Bite

Another day and another 101 Days of Summer Safety tip. Learn everything you need to know about the Zika virus and the County’s Plan for fighting it by clicking on the graphic below.

Be aware that there is a Zika Town Hall meeting tonight Wednesday, June 29, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. at the Sidney Kramer Upcounty Regional Services Center.

Helicopter Training

By: Lieutenant Rob Tobin
      Fire Station 10 B-Shift

Throughout the year, the United States Park Police (USPP) and Montgomery County Fire and Rescue work very closely together all along the Potomac River. As a result, each year, the personnel from Fire Station's 10 and 30 have to recertify in helicopter tactics and safety with the USPP.

Yesterday, personnel reported to the Headquarters of USPP in Washington DC. to recertify. The training varies from 4-6 hours depending on the size of the group.

All personnel were provided a review of the different pieces of equipment that we may utilize throughout the year. The equipment is not just for injured residents visiting Great Falls Park, but also distressed individuals who may have fallen into the Potomac River. Also we, as rescuers, can be placed in dangerous situations that may require immediate removal from the river.

That's why it is important that we recertify with this equipment each year. It's also an excellent opportunity to get know one another from each agency. As the relationships strengthens, the safety for both the residents and rescuers grows.

Oh Baby!

You have a new baby in the house and there’s no better time to make fire safety a top priority. Kids under the age of five are at twice the risk of dying in a residential fire than those in other age groups, according to the U.S. Fire Administration.

Click on the graphic below to find a check list to help get you started:

Seat Belts Save Lives

A 101 Days of Summer Safety message that never gets old - especially since our firefighters and paramedics still respond to vehicle crashes in which people are seriously injured, or worse, because they are not wearing their seat belts.

Seat Belts Save Lives. No brainer, right? Not to one in every seven drivers who still don't wear their seat belts. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), automotive accidents are the number one cause of death in the U.S. among people aged 5 to 34. Furthermore, the CDC says that drivers who buckle their seat belts cut their chances in half of being seriously injured or killed in a crash.

Buckle up, Montgomery! Follow us on Twitter and Facebook using the #mcfrsSOS as we will be posting tips on how to buckle up if you, or a loved one, are pregnant.

More Gold And More Records Set

Captain Ingles (L) with two Gold medals

As you may have read on Monday, Captain Penny Ingles is competing in the United States Police and Fire Championships that are being held in San Diego, California. She had already won several medals and even set a record. You can learn more here: Captain Earns Gold Medals At The United States Police And Fire Championships

We are happy to report that Captain Ingles set two more records and earned two more Gold Medals.

Penny competed in Indoor Rowing and records were set in the Women's 40+ 2000m Individual and in the Women’s 40+ 1000m Doubles. Her partner for the 1000m Doubles was Georgiana Browning from Disneyland Fire.

Penny has completed all her events and will be returning home with Five Gold Medals, Two Silver Medals and Three Records set for her age group.

Well done and congratulations Captain Ingles! Safe travels home!

Renovation Of Kensington/Aspen Hill Fire Station 25

Plans are in the works for the renovation and expansion of existing Fire Station 25 located in the Aspen Hill section of the county.

Growth in the Aspen Hill Area has increased demands on the existing fire station, which was constructed in 1988. The current facility lacks space for the number of firefighters assigned to this location, and needs additional space for the larger amount of fire apparatus needed at this station.

Planning calls for work to begin in 12 months and to last for up to 24 months. Check out the plans below. You can also learn more about the project by going to the Montgomery County DGS Division of Building Design and Construction.

Derwood House Fire

On June 20 at approximately 7:22 p.m., MCFRS units responded for a reported house fire in the 7300 block of Blanchard Drive in the Derwood area of the county. Firefighters arrived on the scene and reported smoke showing from the two-story single family home.

Crews quickly located and began extinguishment of a fire around the electric panel. The fire was discovered by an occupant of the home who then called 9-1-1.

The cause of the fire has been determined to be electrical in nature. Two occupants of the home have been displaced as a result of the fire.

There were no firefighter or civilian injuries. Damages were estimated to be $200,000.00 to the structure and $75,000.00 to the contents.

Captain Earns Gold Medals At The United States Police And Fire Championships

Captain Penny Ingles 

The United States Police and Fire Championships are held every year in California. This event brings together Fire/Rescue and Law Enforcement agencies from around the United States. 2016 marks the 50th Anniversary of these games.

There are 41 sporting disciplines’ offered from archery to wrestling, track and field to golf. There are a few non-traditional events like surfing and fitness throw down.

Our own Captain Penny Ingles is in San Diego competing in this prestigious event and has already earned some hardware! Penny’s results thus far:

GOLD MEDAL - Javelin Throw

GOLD MEDAL and NEW MEET RECORD - Women's Triple Jump

Silver Medal - Shot Put

Silver Medal - Hammer Throw

Congratulations Penny! This is especially amazing as, until just a few weeks ago, Penny was on crutches not knowing if she was going to be well enough to even compete.

Ready For Anything

By: Firefighter/Paramedic Joseph Crum
      Station 17, A-Shift

With all the major roadways that run through Montgomery County it is almost inevitable that someone, somewhere, will be involved in a vehicle collision. Every vehicle is different, every collision is different and so every incident we run is different.

As we arrive on the scene of a collision a vehicle may be on its wheels, turned over on its side or roof, and the occupants may be trapped inside. Because of this, we must be prepared for any situation.

Laytonsville Fire Station 17 has one of six Rescue Squads in the county that carry the appropriate equipment for the most serious types of these situations. Pictured below are photos from a recent training where we prepare ourselves for the real thing when our best work is requested. We performed a “tie-back” system to prevent a car from rolling over after it was found flipped onto the passenger side. Once the vehicle is secured we can use hydraulic tools to remove pieces from the car to gain access to any occupants still inside.

Our job is not always as easy as opening the door. Sometimes we may need to force or cut a door/roof to be able to get the occupants out of danger and treated for injuries.