Heads Up in Parking Lots

Look for this bag at a parking lot near you soon!

Did You Know: 30% of pedestrian collisions in Montgomery County occurred in parking lots last year – and many of them resulted in severe injuries.

Today's MCFRS 101 Days of Summer Safety focus is on pedestrian safety in parking lots. County Executive Leggett held a press event today highlighting additional efforts in the County’s ongoing campaign to improve pedestrian safety in parking lots.

Please take a moment to view the short video below to increase your awareness. As well, please also go to the Department of Transportation's Pedestrian Safety web site to find educational resources that you can share with friends and family.

Help us to spread this important safety message to friends and family! Help us help you to prevent having to make the 911 call.

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.

Everything You Wanted To Know About Fireworks And Show Locations In Montgomery County

The Fourth of July is right around the corner and Montgomery County Fire and Rescue wants to remind residents that ALL fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County. 

Here’s what you should know:

The Law:

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.

What fireworks are legal?

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.

Can I receive fireworks at my home through the mail?

No. Use of the mail for the transportation of fireworks for use in the State of Maryland is illegal.

Can I have a private fireworks display at my residence with proper permits?

No. You can not have a private display; however, you can apply to have a public display with proper permits and insurance.

Can I receive fireworks at my residence delivered by a public carrier?

No. It doesn't matter where the fireworks are purchased or how they are brought into Maryland.  Fireworks are still illegal in Montgomery County.

Where do I report violations involving fireworks?

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.

Where can I go in Montgomery County to see the fireworks?

MCFRS and safety experts agree that the best way to celebrate is to enjoy one of the many free, public fireworks displays in the area on July 4th.  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.

Show Locations:

Mid-County Sparkles at Albert Einstein High School

Germantown Glory at South Germantown Recreation Park

Gaithersburg Independence Day Celebration

Rockville Independence Day fireworks

Takoma Park’s 127th Annual Independence Day Parade and Fireworks

Poolesville 4th of July Fireworks