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Five words that save lives --- All Eyes On The Pool! MCFRS officials are urging residents to take proper precautions around the water and to diligently supervise children when they are around any water sources. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just learning how to swim, many water-related injuries can be avoided by knowing what to do and how to stay safe. The Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service kicks off the 2019 Summer of Safety Campaign with Water Safety:  

Be attentive.  Research from the National Safe Kid Campaign shows that nearly 9 out of 10 children between the ages of 1 and 14 who drowned were under supervision when they died. How is this possible? Distractions – cell phones, ipads, reading materials, chores and socializing needs to be resisted when YOU are on “lifeguard duty” watching your child. Be engaged and committed to watching them constantly. The study defined supervision as being in someone’s care, not necessarily in direct line of sight.

Learn to swim and never swim alone. One of the best things you can do to stay safe around the water is to learn to swim and to always swim with a buddy. Make sure they know how to tread water, float on their backs and get to the edge of the pool and hang on. Even the most experienced swimmers can become tired or get muscle cramps which might make it difficult to get out of the water safely.  

Teaching your child how to swim does not mean that your child is “drown-proof.” If you have a pool or are visiting a pool, protect your children by supervising them at all times and being prepared in case of an emergency. Consider designating a adult “water watcher” when children are participating in water activities.

Seconds count when it comes to water emergencies. Keep a phone (cell or cordless) by the pool or nearby when engaged in recreational water activities so that you can call 9-1-1 in an emergency.

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

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

Lifeguards are an important safety feature but are NOT intended to replace the close supervision of parents or caregivers. Remember, lifeguards are not babysitters.

Maintain constant supervision of children around water (bathtubs, pools, ornamental backyard ponds, etc.). Never leave a child unattended in the water or pool area. Don't be distracted by phone calls, chores or conversations. If you leave the pool area, take the child with you. Remember: swim lessons are no substitute for the supervision of children. Formal swimming lessons can help protect young swimmers around the water however constant adult supervision is critical. 

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

Pay attention to local weather conditions and forecasts. Stop swimming at the first indication of bad weather. 

Know Your Limits. Watch for the “dangerous too’s” . . . too tired, too cold, too far from safety, too much sun, too much strenuous activity. 

Water and alcohol don’t mix. Each year, up to half of all adult drownings are linked to alcohol use. Never swim impaired. 

Countdown to Halloween - Tips for a Safe and Fun Night

With Halloween quickly approaching, the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service offers some important tips for a safe Halloween. "Recent research shows that children are four times more likely to be hit by a car on Halloween than any other night of the year, said Fire Chief Scott Goldstein. “Fatal collisions between motor vehicles and young pedestrians occur most frequently between the hours of 4 and 8 p.m. It’s a dangerous night because so many kids are on the streets, many without their parents or an adult, and in their excitement often forget important pedestrian safety rules.”

Plan a safe route.

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.

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.

3. Secure emergency identification (name, address, phone number) discreetly within Halloween attire or on a bracelet.

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.

5. Ensure trick-or-treaters stay away from open flames or jack-o-lanterns with candles burning.

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.

Be a good neighbor. 

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.

2. Pets get frightened on Halloween. Confine your pets for their safety and for that of trick or treaters.

Be Safe – Be Seen.

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. 

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.

All Dressed Up.

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.

2. When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories purchase only those with a label indicating they are flame resistant.

3. Have an adult inspect treats BEFORE eating anything. Do not eat any unwrapped, partially wrapped, or homemade-looking treats.

4. Shorter IS safer. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.

5. Because masks can limit or block eyesight, consider non-toxic makeup as a safer alternative.

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.

Decorate Safely.

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.

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.

Lastly, teach children how to call 9-1-1 if they have an emergency or become lost.

Champion for Children’s Safety Recognized

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

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

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

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

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

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

What Time Is It?

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

Simple task can be a potentially life-saving one!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

News You Can Use: New Driving Laws take effect Saturday

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

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

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

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

Ready for Service: New Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad

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

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

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

Rolltide? Roll Safety! Alabama Style.

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

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

 

 

Safety for Life! It's Child Passenger Safety Week

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

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

For more information: MCFRS Car Seat Program

You're Invited! Saturday, September 17

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

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

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

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

 

Don’t wait. Communicate!

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

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

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

Commendation Medals Awarded

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

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

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