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Remember Fallen Firefighters
2005 News Archive
Why You Shouldn't Run From the Police! - December 30, 2005 - Citizens of Rockville were reminded of why it is not a good idea to run from Rockville City Police, when a single car slammed into a parked car after being chased by the police. The two occupants became trapped in their vehicle and Rockville firefighters responded at 0029 hours to extricate them. Medic 39, Ambulance 339, Rescue Squad 3, Engine 33, and Truck 3 all responded to find two patients, already handcuffed by police, trapped in their vehicle. Rescue Squad 3 stabilized the vehicle by cribbing the rear and placing step chalks in the front. The passenger side door was removed first, allowing the first patient, who refused treatment, to get out of the vehicle and be placed in police custody. The second patient, who was a priority 2 head trauma, was being difficult, forcing Rescue Squad 3 to remove the roof of the vehicle, allowing crew to remove the patient. The driver was transported to Suburban Hospital Trauma Center by Medic 39. |
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Morning House Fire - December 23, 2005 - At 0757 hours, Engines 231 and 33, Aerial Tower 23, Truck 3, Rescue Squad 3, and Ambulance 238 were dispatched to the 13000 block of Atlantic Avenue, box area 2305, for the house fire. Engine 231 arrived on the scene with fire showing from a second story bedroom. Engine 231 pulled an attack line to the second floor and began attacking the fire, while Aerial Tower 23 threw ladders and ventilated. Rescue Squad 3 conducted the primary search and controlled the utilities, Truck 3 threw additional ladders, and Engine 33 assisted Engine 231 on the second floor. |
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Small Fire For Company 3 - December 21, 2005 - At 0951 hours Engine 33 was dispatched to Roxboro Road for smoke in the area. While enroute, the Public Safety Communications Center received additional calls reporting a house fire in the 700 block of Roxboro Road and filled box 0306, bringing Engines 231, 331, and 311, Truck 3, Aerial Tower 23, and Rescue Squad 3. Engine 33 arrived on the scene to find smoke coming from the attic. Engine 33 and Truck 3 quickly opened up the attic and extinguished the fire. Aerial Tower 23 laddered the roof and opened the roof up for ventilation. |
Morning Basement Fire In Gaithersburg - December 20, 2005 - At 0631 hours, Engines 311 |
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Three Trapped On Shady Grove Road - December 18, 2005 - At 1759 hours Medic 239, Rescue Squad 3, and Engine 31 were dispatched to the intersection of Shady Grove Road and Frederick Avenue. Rescue Squad 3 arrived on the scene to find a two car t-bone collision with three trapped in the front of a vehicle. Rescue Squad 3 stabilized the vehicle and the proceeded to remove the door on the front passenger side. All three occupants were extricated and refused transport, denying injury. |
Second 3rd Alarm Fire of the Week Causes $2.5 Million in Damage - December 18, 2005 - At 0325 hours, Engine 311 and other Montgomery County Fire & Rescue units were dispatched to the 20200 block of Halethorpe Lane for the apartment fire, box area 29-21. Company 29 units arrived on the scene with heavy fire on the first floor, with extension to the second and third floors. The Rapid Intervention Dispatch and second alarm were added at 0333 hours, bringing Truck 31, Engine 31, Truck 3, and Aerial Tower 23. Engine 311 advanced a 300' 1 3/4" attack line to the third floor to cut off the fire, while Truck 31 became part of the Rapid Intervention Group. Truck 3 also reported to the third floor, conducted the primary search, opened up the apartments on Exposure "D," and assisted in keeping the fire in check. Truck 3 was then reassigned to the roof to perform a trench cut. Aerial Tower 23 arrived on scene as the building was being evacuated and immediately set up its platform for defensive operations, knocking the bulk of the fire. The third alarm, sounded at 0352 hours brought Engines 231 and 331. Engine 231 reported to the second floor to assist with fire attack, while Engine 331 assisted with fire attack on the first floor. It took about 30-45 minutes to knock down the bulk of the fire. The entire building, with three separate addresses was evacuated. All families were displaced. Damage was estimated to be at least a $2.5 million dollar loss, including $2 million dollars damage to the structure and $500,000 dollars to the contents. The fire was believed to be intentionally set after a domestic dispute. |
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3rd Alarm Fire Displaces 40 in Gaithersburg - December 15, 2005 - A three alarm fire displaced 40 people and caused $1.1 million in damage to a Gaithersburg Apartment building. At 0237 hours Engine 311 and Aerial Tower 31were dispatched along with other Montgomery County Fire & Rescue units to the 800 block of Gallop Hill Road for the apartment fire, box area 0816. Battalion Chief 5 arrived on the scene with fire on all three floors of a three story apartment building. The second alarm was added, bringing Engine 31, Engine 231, Truck 3, Aerial Tower 23, and Medic 319. Engine 311 advanced a 200' 2" handline to the third floor and extinguished the fire in the apartments and attic area, while Aerial Tower 31 threw ladders to side "C" and then forced entry to the third floor apartments, conducted a primary search, and opened up the ceiling and walls. Engine 31 and Truck 3 reported to the second floor and extinguished hotspots and overhauled the apartments. Engine 331 also responded on the incident. |
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Storage Barn Fire - December 11, 2005 - At 0920 hours, Engine 331 and Tanker 31 were dispatched for the barn fire in box area 1019. Cabin John Park Engine 301 arrived on scene with a 20' by 40' storage barn well involved. Engine 331 supplied Engine 301 and assisted in fire attack. |
Kitchen Fire At Dave & Buster's Restaurant - December 7, 2005 - At 0147 hours Engine 231, Aerial Tower 23, and Ambulance 238 were dispatched for fire in the kitchen of the Dave & Buster's Restaurant at White Flint Mall. Aerial Tower 23 arrived on the scene with smoke coming from the roof of the three story shopping mall. Company 23 forced entry into the restaurant and and found fire in the laundry room. Additional units from Rockville were Medic 239, Engine 31, Chief 3-1, and Chief 3-2. |
One Pinned In Twinbrook - December 4, 2005 - At 0237 hours, Medic 39, Rescue Squad 3, and Engine 31 were dispatched to the intersection of Clagett Drive and Crawford Drive for the personal injury collision with one pinned. Company 3 units arrived on the scene to find a two vehicle collision with one patient in the back seat of a two door car. Rescue Squad 3 stabilized the vehicle, covered the patient, and removed the car's glass. Rescue Squad 3 then removed the passenger side door and performed a third door conversion to access the rear seat. Medic 39 packaged and removed the patient, transporting him to Suburban Hospital Trauma Center as a priority 2 head and abdominal trauma. |
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Mittens for Santa - December 3, 2005 - Rockville Volunteers took Santa Claus on Engine 31 to the North Potomac Women's Group's annual "Mittens for Santa" party. Each December, this group collects hats and gloves for Santa to take to the needy. This year, approximately fifty children lined up on a cold day to have a chance to visit with Santa. The Rockville Volunteers also took this opportunity to distribute fire safety brochures to the parents. Ambulance 38 was on the scene and the families were invited to inspect both the engine and the ambulance. A good time was had by all!! |
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Four Alarm Fire Kills One, Causes Firefighter Mayday - December 2, 2005 - At 1859 hours, Montgomery County Fire & Rescue units were dispatched to the 3200 block of S. Leisure World Boulevard for the apartment fire. Company 25 arrived on the scene with heavy smoke showing from a two story garden apartment building with multiple people trapped. Units were able to rescue six occupants from their windows using ground ladders. After company 25 entered the building conditions deteriorated rapidly and a Mayday was sounded by one of the firefighters who had become trapped in the building. Between having a trapped firefighter and the fact that this was a retirement community the EMS Task Force was added to the incident along with the second alarm. The firefighter was rescued and was flown by Maryland State Police Helicopter Trooper 8 to Medstar Trauma Center in Washington, D.C. with burns to his body. As the fire continued to burn through the building and began catching the two adjoining buildings on fire the third and fourth alarms were added. One victim, an 81 year old male, was found on the first floor during the search of the heavily damaged area. |
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The fire at the 9,000-resident Leisure World complex in the Aspen Hill area spread to the roof and to the two adjacent roofs. It took about 90 minutes to bring the fire under control. The need to focus on rescues slowed efforts to fight the fire. About 150 firefighters responded to the fire that killed one and caused $1.6 million dollars in damage. The fire was believed to be started when a plastic coffee pot was left on the stove top and the wrong burner was turned on. The huge Leisure World development with its landmark globe is on the east side of Georgia Avenue, about five miles north of the Capital Beltway. It includes garden-style units and high-rise buildings.
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Vehicle Strikes Pedestrian, Then Building - November 29, 2005 - At 1343 hours Medic 39, Rescue Squad 3, and Engine 31 were dispatched to 50 West Edmonston Drive for a personal injury collision with a pedestrian struck. Company 3 arrived on the scene to find a single vehicle into an office building after striking a pedestrian and injuring another bystander. The pedestrian was thrown 15 feet into the building and was found on her stomach, semi-conscious, with large amounts of blood pooling. The patient, who was also pregnant, was transported as a priority 1 trauma to Medstar Trauma Center in Washington, D.C. The bystander suffered minor injuries after diving out of the way of the vehicle. The driver of the vehicle was under the influence of a controlled substance and charged with six felony counts. |
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Mutual Aid To West Virginia for the Wildland Fire - November 27, 2005 - At approximately 0200 hours, a fire was reported in the remote section of a state park in
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President Recognized for Diversity - November 24, 2005 - Rockville, Maryland. November 2, 2005 - President Eric N. Bernard of the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department was recognized with the Montgomery County Diversity award at a ceremony attended by hundreds of County leaders today. The award recognizes Bernard’s commitment in promoting diversity within the volunteer fire and rescue community in Montgomery County. As President of the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department, Bernard is responsible for over 240 volunteer men and women as well as 4 stations, 28 pieces of apparatus and budgets exceeding $10 million annually. The award “For exemplary Leadership and Unwavering Commitment to Promoting Diversity and Equality in the Workplace” was presented by the EEO and Diversity Management Team Office of Human Resources. This is the first time the County has recognized a volunteer for their commitment and work. The award was presented by Angela Washington, Esq. Director of EEO and Diversity for Montgomery County as well as CAO Bruce Romer, Chief Tom Carr and the County Council. President Bernard received a standing ovation and addressed the audience thanking the men and women who dedicate thousands of hours each year to their community. “It is because of the volunteer’s excellence and commitment that I stand before you today. Their dedication and devotion to service is second to none is this Country and I am proud to accept this on behalf of all fire and rescue professionals in this County” Bernard said. |
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President Bernard has been a volunteer firefighter/EMT since the age of 16 starting in his home town of Pittsburgh, Pa. He has been a member of the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department for over 18 years and continues to service as the President and Chairman of the Board, a position he has held for 6 years. He holds several professional degrees including a Master’s Degree in Forensics from the George Washington University. He holds faculty positions at the George Washington University, the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences School of Medicine and the Prince George’s Community College. Since February, he has served as the first Executive Director of the Montgomery County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. The Association represents over 1,500 professional fire and rescue volunteers in the County. His work maintains and expands their participation and protection and is believed to be the first of its kind in the United States. Mr. Bernard lives in Rockville with his wife Diane and two sons Jacob and Max. |
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One Pinned Under Vehicle On Interstate 370 - November 24, 2005 - At 0534 hours Rescue Squad 3, Medic 39 and other MCFRS units responded to westbound Interstate 370 between Shady Grove Road and Route 355 for the personal injury collision with report of one pinned. Gaithersburg Ambulance 289 arrived on scene at the corrected location of eastbound Interstate 370 at Route 355 to find a single car rolled over with the driver's left leg pinned under the "A" post and door of his car. Rescue Squad 3, using the hydraulic spreaders and cribbing, quickly lifted the car off the patient's left leg, freeing him from underneath the vehicle. The patient, a priority one trauma, was transported by Medic 39 to Suburban Hospital Trauma Center. Chief 3-2 was also on the incident. |
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Another Townhouse Fire In Gaithersburg - November 23, 2005 - Rockville firefighters ran another townhouse fire in Gaithersburg late tonight. At 2334 hours, Engine 31, Truck 3 and other MCFRS units were dispatched to the 18640 block of Grosbeck Terrace, box area 0808, for the townhouse fire. Gaithersburg Engine 81 arrived on scene to find a two story townhouse with nothing evident from side "A." Upon entering the structure Engine 81 and Aerial Tower 8 found heavy smoke banking down the stairwell to the first floor. The safety dispatch, Engine 311 and Truck 31, was added for the working fire on the second floor. Crews found fire on the second floor, originating from the master bedroom. Engine 31 was assigned to exposure "D", Truck 3 was assigned to exposure "B", and both Engine 311 and Truck 31 were assigned to the RIT. |
Morning Townhouse Fire - November 22, 2005 - At 0737 hours, Engine 33, Engine 311, Truck 3, and other MCFRS personnel were dispatched to Capricorn Court, box area 2815, for fire in the basement of the townhouse. Gaithersburg Company 28 arrived on the scene to find heavy smoke showing from both floors of a two story end of the row townhouse. The safety dispatch was added at 0745, bringing Rescue Squad 3 and Medic 39. Engine 281 pulled a handline into the structure and located the fire in the basement. Engine 33 arrived third due and stretched a handline to the first floor, and then to the second floor, extinguishing the extension in the walls and pipe chase. Truck 3 ventilated the structure, laddered side "C," and opened up the walls and ceiling on Division 1 and 2. Engine 311 arrived fourth due and was assigned to assist on opening up Division 2. |
Katrina Recognition Ceremony - November 20, 2005 - Rockville personnel were recognized this Sunday for their contributions to the Montgomery County Hurricane Katrina relief effort. Congressmen Chris Van Hollen and County Executive Doug Duncan were on hand to recognize the MCFRS personnel who deployed to New Orleans to assist the New Orleans Fire Department and those who deployed to Mississippi as part of the Urban Search and Rescue Team. Ray Whalen was given special recognition for arranging the donation of air travel to fly all MCFRS personnel deployed to New Orleans home. |
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Overturned Pickup With Two Trapped - November 19, 2005 - At 1851 hours, Medic 39, Rescue Squad 3, and Engine 231 responded to the intersection of E. Gude Drive and Taft Court for the personal injury collision with one trapped. Rescue Squad 3 arrived on the scene to the corrected location of E. Gude Drive between Taft Court and Route 28 to find a three vehicle collision with a pickup truck on its side with two trapped. Truck 3, Ambulance 238, and Kensington Ambulance 219 were added to the call to assist. Rescue Squad 3 stabilized the truck with struts and a come-along, using Truck 3 as its anchor for the tie-back. The patients, both BLS, were quickly extricated. |
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Heavy Fire For Company 31 - November 19, 2005 - Rockville firefighters were kept busy today with a working fire in Company 31's area. At 1629 hours, Engine 311, Engine 33, Truck 31, Medic 319, and other MCFRS units responded to Melmark Court, box area 31-32, for the house on fire. Company 31 arrived on the scene with heavy fire in an attached garage on sides "A" and "B", extending rapidly through the attic, and eventually out the gable on side "D." The safety and task force assignments were added, bringing Engine 331, Truck 3, Hose Tender 3, and Ambulance 38. Engine 311 made an aggressive knock on the fire in the garage and attic, while Engine 33 pulled a backup line to division 2 to assist and Truck 31 opened hooked to up the house. Total damage to the structure was approximately $275,000. Chief 3-1 and Chief 3-3 were also on the scene. |
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One Pinned, Two Trapped, and A High-Angle Rescue In Two Hours. - November 18, 2005 - At 1302 hours, Medic 39, Rescue Squad 3, Engine 231, Ambulance 238, and Kensington Ambulance 219 responded to the intersection of E. Gude Drive and Taft Court for the personal injury collision with one trapped. Company 3 arrived on the scene to find a two vehicle collision with one trapped. Rescue Squad 3 stabilized the vehicle and removed the driver's sidewall. |
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At 1350 hours, Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad Ambulance 25, Truck 3, and Rescue Squad 3 responded to the 700 block of Hungerford Drive for the high-angle rescue. Units found a male patient with a broken ankle on the roof of a strip shopping mall. Truck 3 used its aerial to provide access to the patient and a 28' extension ladder for the rescue. The patient was placed in a stoke's basket and lowered to Wheaton Ambulance 25 using the rope system that Rescue Squad 3 built. |
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At 1550 hours, Ambulance 38, Gaithersburg Ambulances 88 and 289, Gaithersburg Medic 89, Wheaton Medic 21, Rescue Squad 3, Gaithersburg Engine 281, and Maryland State Police Helicopter Trooper 8 responded to the intersection of Crabbs Branch Way and Redland Road for the personal injury collision with people trapped. Ambulance 38 arrived on the scene to find a three car collision with one pinned and one trapped. Upon evaluation of the patients it was determined that there were two priority 1 patients and one priority 2 patient. With a six man crew, Rescue Squad 3 stabilized the vehicle and began extrication of the patients. Rescue Squad 3 removed both sidewalls and the roof, and then rolled the dash in less then 15 minutes. The two priority 1 patients were transported by Trooper 8 to Shock Trauma in Baltimore, while the priority 2 patient was transported to Medstar Trauma in Washington, D.C. by Medic 21. |
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One On Its Side, With One Trapped - November 10, 2005 - At 1843 hours Medic 319, Medic 39, Rescue Squad 3, Engine 311, and Chief 3-2 responded to the intersection of Great Senecca Highway and Medical Center Drive for the report of one on it's side with one trapped. Chief 3-2 arrived on the scene to confirm one on it's side with one trapped. Rescue Squad 3 arrived on the scene and stabilized the vehicle. They then did a roof conversion and freed the trapped patient from the driver's seat. Medic 39 and 319 were transported to Suburban Trauma Center as priority 2 traumas. |
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Aerial Tower 23 Assists Extrication In Bethesda - November 09, 2005 -
At 1331 hours on Aerial Tower 23 and other Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Units responded for a personal injury collision at Rockville Pike and Pooks Hill Road with a report of one trapped. Bethesda Naval Hospital Engine 501 arrived on scene to fine one pinned with two priority 2 and one priority 3 patients. Rescue Squad 18 with the assistance of Aerial Tower 23 proceeded to extricated the patient that was pinned while Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad Medic 21 and Kensington Volunteer Fire Department Ambulance 59 attended to the two priority 2 patients in the other vehicle. Medic 21 and Ambulance 59, upgraded by EMS 1, transported patients to local hospitals. |
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Rockville Pike and Pooks Hill Road |
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One Trapped Ruled Homicide After Shooting - November 06, 2005 - At 0210 hours, Ambulance 238, Rescue Squad 3, and Engine 231 were dispatched to the intersection of Veirs Mill Road and Twinbrook Parkway for the personal injury collision. Rescue Squad 3 arrived on the scene to find a single car into a pole with an unresponsive male trapped. Rescue Squad 3 began extrication and popped the drivers door, while Engine 231 requested a medic unit. Upon further assessment, it was determined that the injuries to the driver were sustained from a single gunshot wound and not the collision. The driver was pronounced dead and the scene was handed over to Police. It is believed that the drivers death is a result of road rage. |
Two Trapped Ends Busy Day - November 05, 2005 -
At 2245 hours, Ambulance 38, Medic 39, Rescue Squad 3, Engine 31 and Chief 3-2 were dispatched for a personal injury collision at the intersection of Wootton Parkway and Tower Oaks Boulevard with reports of possible patients trapped. Units arrived on scene of a two vehicle collision with four patients of which two were trapped. The two trapped individuals were quickly assessed as one priority 1 and one priority 2 multi-system trauma patients. Chief 3-2 established command and requested Maryland State Police Trooper 8 and two additional medic units . Rescue Squad 3 and Engine 31 expeditiously began extrication, while Ambulance 38 and Medic 39 initiated patient care. Trooper 2 landed on the scene on Wootton Parkway east of Tower Oaks Boulevard and transported the Priority 1 multi-system trauma. The two priority two patients were transported to Suburban Hospital Trauma Center by Medic 239 and Medic 319, while Ambulance 38 provided EMS care and transport the one priority 3 patient. Rockville City Police detained a fifth individual allegedly involved in the collision. Chief 101, Battalion Chief 3, and EMS 2 were also on the scene. |
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Truck Fire Closes Interstate 270 - October 28, 2005 - At 0130 hours, Engine 31, 331, Truck 3 and Ambulance 38 responded to Southbound Interstate 270 between Route 28 and Montrose Road for the truck on fire. Units arrived to find a tractor-trailer truck that had hit the barrier wall, dislodged one of its saddle tanks, and was fully involved. Although Company 3 and 33 were able to quickly extinguished the tractor of the truck, Interstate 270 remained shutdown into the morning. No one was hurt in the accident and units cleared shortly after. |
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Second High Rise Fire of the Weekend - October 23, 2005 - Engine 31 and Truck 3 were dispatched at 2232 hours for the Alarm Bells at the Americana Center at 118 Monroe Street. Company 3 arrived on the scene with nothing evident, but were met by multiple residents who reported smoke on the fourth and fifth floors and a report of smoke coming from apartment 406. Truck 3 laddered the fourth floor and Engine 31 connected to the standpipe connections. Company 3 arrived on the fourth floor and were met with thick smoke in the hallway. After Engine 31 hooked up the standpipe and advanced the line to apartment 406, Truck 3 forced entry to the apartment to find a working fire. Engine 31 called for the box alarm to be filled. |
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At 2242, High Rise Box 0302 was filled for the working fire on the fourth floor of a 15 floor apartment building. Engine 231, 331, Aerial Tower 23, Rescue Squad 3, Ambulance 38, Chiefs 3-1 and 3-3, and other Montgomery County units responded. Chief 101 arrived on scene and took command. Engine 31 and Truck 3 quickly controlled the fire with a well coordinated attack. Truck 3 performed a primary search, ventilated the apartment, and performed salvage and overhaul. Rescue Squad 3 controlled the utilities and assisted in overhaul. |
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Passing of Wheaton VRS Deputy Chief John Horvat - October 23, 2005- The Rockville Volunteer Fire Department is saddened by the passing of Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad Deputy Chief John Horvat. Deputy Chief Horvat, a member of Rescue 2 since 1977, was often seen on calls in Rockville on the way to and from work, his home, and his station. Funeral arrangements and further information are available on Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad's web site....Click here>>> |
High-Rise Fire In Kensington - October 22, 2005 - At 1632 hours Engine 231 and Aerial Tower 23 were dispatched on the Safety Assignment for High Rise Box 0502 for fire on the fourth floor of the Rebecca House, 10920 Connecticut Avenue. Kensington Engine 51 arrived on the scene and reported heavy smoke on the fourth floor of the seven story retirement apartment building. Engine 51 was able to locate that had originated in the kitchen of apartment 417 and put a quick knock on it. Aerial Tower 23 was assigned to Division 5 as the Ventilation Group Coordinator and assisted in the search of the apartments on that floor. Engine 231 was assigned as the Rapid Intervention Team. |
Early Morning Wreck Traps One - October 19, 2005 - At 0605 hours, Ambulance 38, Engine 31, Rescue Squad 3, and Chief 3-3 were dispatched to the 600 block of Veirs Mill Road for the personnel injury collision. Company 3 arrived on the scene to find one trapped after the T-bone collision at Veirs Mill Road and Rockville Pike in the "Mixing Bowl." |
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Rescue Squad 3 stabilized and de-energized the vehicle with the occupant trapped while Engine 31 pulled a handline. Rescue Squad 3's crew then removed both passenger side doors and the "B" post. After the sidewall was removed, Ambulance 38 transported the patient to Shady Grove Hospital. |
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RVFD Captain Attends Katrina Ceremony At White House - October 18, 2005 - Representatives from the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service, including RVFD Captain John Bosco, were invited to the White House for a recognition ceremony for those responders from around the country who went to the hurricane affected areas in the Gulf of Mexico area (
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One Overturned With Two Trapped - October 16, 2005 - At 1239 hours, Medic 239, Rescue Engine 33, Engine 231, BCCRS Rescue Squad 18, Ambulance 238, Chief 3-1, and Battalion Chief 3 responded to the intersection of Executive Boulevard and Old Georgetown Road for the personnel injury collision with one trapped. Company 23 arrived on the scene and reported a vehicle on its side with two occupants trapped. Rescue Engine 33 arrived on the scene and stabilized the vehicle by tie-back. After the vehicle was stabilized, the patients were removed from the vehicle. The patients were then transported to Suburban Hospital. |
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Station 3 Runs 30 Wrecks in 48 hours - October 8, 2005 - With unusual amounts of rain, Station 3 units ran 30 wrecks in 48 hours. The wrecks had multiple traumas, trapped occupants, and close calls, where occupants escaped serious injury. On Southbound 270 between Shady Grove and Rt 28 Rescue Engine 33 extricated a single patient trapped in her vehicle on Friday night. Saturday was a day of traumas ranging from an overturned vehicle with a priority 2 trauma on Northbound 270 between Shady Grove Road and Interstate 370 to a collision at Muddy Branch Road and W. Deer Park Road where a single car wrapped around a pole. On a lighter note, Station 3 units ran another collision on Interstate 270 in which bootlegged pornography was thrown from one of the vehicles and littered the highway, giving a new meaning to a rear-end collision. |
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Tower Crane Training - October 2, 2005 - Station 3 personnel got a view of a life time while training with a neighboring construction site's 200 foot tower crane. Joe Byington, aka "Crazy Indian Joe", the crane engineer, was on site providing RVFD instruction and education on tower crane operations and awareness.
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One Pinned During Rockville "Safety In The Square." - September 24, 2005 -
At 1408 hours, during the Rockville "Safety In The Square," Engine 31,Rescue Engine 33, Medic 39, and Ambulance 38 were dispatched to the intersection of Crabbs Branch Way and Gude Drive for the personal injury collision with one pinned. Company 3 units arrived on scene and confirmed a three car collision with one pinned. Engine 31 pulled their trashline as Rescue Engine 33 stabilized the vehicle. Rescue Engine 33 then quickly extricated the patient by performing a sidewall removal. |
Rockville Firefighters Returning From New Orleans - September 18, 2005 - Nearly 100 firefighters including about a dozen police officers, as well as several other support staff who functioned in New Orleans, Louisiana as part of the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) with the State of Louisiana and the City of New Orleans return this weekend on Sunday, September 18, 2005.
In addition to filling in for the New Orleans Fire Department (NOFD) by responding to fires and other emergencies, Montgomery County personnel in New Orleans assisted individual firefighters, police officers and their families by doing what they can at their homes that in most cases were destroyed by the storm and flood water. Seventy to eighty percent (70-80%) of all New Orleans public safety workers lost their homes and personnel items. In fact most public safety family members have relocated out of the New Orleans area. |
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(Left) Press conference thanking MCFRS and announcing donation of MCFRS apparatus to NOFD. (Right) Group picture after landing at Baltimore-Washington International Airport with Southwest Airlines flight crew. Southwest Airlines donated airfare for all MCFRS personnel to fly home. Click on picture for more images. |
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(Left) Computer equipment and tee-shirts donated to New Orleans. (Right) Voodoo, one of the two adopted dogs. Click on picture for more images. |
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To welcome Montgomery County's deployed personnel home, two receptions with family and friends took place at the Public Safety Training Academy (PSTA) located at 9710 Great Seneca Highway, in Rockville, Maryland. Nearly 90 returnees arrived in two groups – one group of about 50 people arrived at around 3:30 p.m. and the other group of about 30 people arrived around 10:30 p.m. Modified from the press released from September 16, 2005 by Pete Piringer, Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service |
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Busy Weekend For Antique Engine 34 - September 18, 2005 - This weekend was a busy weekend for Engine 34 . It attended the Montgomery County Fire Rescue Association Parade hosted by the Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad on Saturday and then went to the Armed Forces Retirement Home in Washington, DC for the Second Annual District of Columbia Firefighters Burn Foundation Antique Fire Apparatus Show. Engine 34 was selected the Best Overall Show Winner and was presented the first ever award named after Firefighter Jackson H. Gerhart, a former DC fireman and IAFF Local 36 Secretary. Jackson retired from the DC Fire Department two years ago and lost his life in the line of duty volunteering on a fire call in his hometown of Chamberburg, Pennsylvania last year. Jackson was a mentor to many young men on the job and also was active in the antique fire apparatus circuit. It is quit an honor for Rockville to accept this award. |
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(Left) Life Member Jones and Mrs. Gerhart. Life Member Jones was honored to accept this award on behalf of RVFD. (Right) Engine 34 and Rescue Engine 33. |
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Rockville Firefighters Doing Humanitarian Work and More In New Orleans - September 14, 2005 - At least 75 firefighters, including other support staff continue to function in New Orleans, Louisiana as part of the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) with the State of Louisiana and the City of New Orleans. On Labor Day, September 5, 2005, Montgomery County sent nearly 70 firefighters with equipment and apparatus to assist the NOFD, along with firefighters from New York and Illinois. In addition, Montgomery County dispatched logistical support, including mechanics to maintain apparatus and police for security of personnel and equipment.
In addition to filling in for the New Orleans Fire Department (NOFD) by responding to fires and other emergencies, Montgomery County personnel in New Orleans are assisting individual firefighters, police officers and their families by doing what they can at their homes that in most cases were destroyed by the storm and flood water. Eighty percent (80%) of all New Orleans public safety workers lost their homes and personnel items. In fact most public safety family members have relocated out of the New Orleans area. |
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(Left) Flooded section of New Orleans. ( Right) Division Chief Bowers presents MCFRS contribution to NOFD as part of the “Shirts Off Our Backs” program. Click on picture for more images. |
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On Tuesday, September 13, 2005, Montgomery County Fire Chief Tom Carr met with New Orleans Superintendent (Fire Chief) Charles Parent at the New Orleans Emergency Operations Center and facilitated the delivery of over 30 computers and 8,000 tee shirts from some local tech businesses, offered to donate two (2) Montgomery County aerial ladder trucks (including Reserve Truck 31, which is being used in New Orleans and which is scheduled to be replaced), assigned an additional high level command officer from Montgomery to assist with oversight, operational, logistical support and development of an exit strategy, as well as coordinate other specific donations and contributions from Montgomery County Fire and Rescue. Previously, MCFRS Chief Carr coordinated the delivery of over 1,200 Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service work tee shirts donated by career and volunteer firefighters through the “Shirts Off Our Backs” program sponsored by the website www.firehouse.com. In addition, all thirty-three (33) Montgomery County fire and rescue stations have adopted the 33 NOFD fire stations, again through a program sponsored by www.firehouse.com and other major fire service organizations and manufacturers, and will be providing assistance in many forms to these fire stations and their personnel through this initiative. |
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(Left) House fire in the Garden District of New Orleans. (Right) MCFRS personnel work to clean up NOFD Engine 16's station in the Martin Luther King section of the city. Click on picture for more images. |
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Since arriving last week, Montgomery County career and volunteer firefighters have set up a base camp along with fire fighters from Illinois and New York on the campus of Our Lady of Holy Cross College and Little Sisters of the Poor Nursing Facility, in Algiers on the New Orleans Westbank, housed along with public safety personnel from New Orleans. Montgomery County personnel have helped to make repairs and clean-up dozens of local firefighters' homes. In addition, crews have worked to get dozens of NOFD fire stations back in order, most are still without utilities. Several days ago on September 11, 2005, NOFD Station #9 was ready for service. Montgomery County mechanics have made repairs to NOFD apparatus, as well as others in the area assisting. For the most part Montgomery County has supplied the resources to make our operation self sufficient thus not placing a strain on the already stressed New Orleans government and NOFD. It is hoped that we have improved the quality of life for those firefighters and police officers who tried to serve the New Orleans community during this historic weather disaster. Modified from the press released from September 14, 2005 by Pete Piringer, Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service |
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Two Alarm Fire At The Maytag Store In Company 23's Area - September 13, 2005 - At 0747 hours, units were dispatched to the 5400 block of Randolph Road for the report of fire in the walls of the Maytag Store in Company 23's area. Engine 231 went on scene with heavy smoke showing and called for the second alarm. Engine 231 stretched a 1-3/4" handline into the store and began an interior attack, while personnel from Aerial Tower 23 and Rescue Engine 33 threw multiple ground ladders and went to the roof for vertical ventilation. Truck 3 was assigned RIT and Engine 31 assisted with the fire attack. While Aerial Tower 23 and Rescue Engine 33 were on the roof, it began to collapse, forcing the building to be evacuated and defensive operations to begin. The fire was controlled and extinguished, allowing overhaul operations to be conducted. |
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| Units from Rockville included: Engines 231, and 31, Rescue Engine 33, Aerial Tower 23, Truck 3, and Medic 239. | |
Rockville Sends Firefighters and Equipment to New Orleans - September 5, 2005-Rockville volunteer and career firefighters, as part of over 60 additional fire and rescue personnel, as well as equipment and apparatus, are being sent to New Orleans, Louisiana to assist with the Hurricane Katrina relief and recovery efforts. In response to an Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) request and following a phone call with the New Orleans Fire Chief, County Executive Doug Duncan authorized the increased support to New Orleans and the Gulf Coast region. This particular mission involves relieving and/or assisting firefighters in the City of New Orleans with firefighting operations. Montgomery County already has more than 35 fire fighters and emergency rescuers from Maryland Task Force One (MDTF-1), its Urban Search and Rescue Team deployed in Mississippi and nearly 20 additional personnel involved with FEMA Incident Support Teams (IST) all of whom are assisting with the rescue and recovery efforts in the Gulf Coast area. MDTF-1 is being demobilized and is expected to return home late on Tuesday, September 6, 2005 |
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(Left) Arrival of Maryland Task Force 1 personnel at the Public Safety Training Academy at 0500 hours (Right) Engine 311 is one of four engines deployed |
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“The people of New Orleans need our help, and the people of Montgomery County are responding,” said Duncan. “The Gulf Coast region has been devastated and our community is coming together to assist in many ways.” Within 24 hours of receiving the EMAC request from Louisiana via the Maryland Emergency Management Agency and Montgomery County’s Homeland Security Department, under Executive Duncan’s direction, Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Fire Chief Tom Carr and his command staff quickly put together a comprehensive plan and developed a team of career and volunteer fire and rescue personnel who departed for New Orleans on Monday morning, September 5 (Labor Day). A caravan of 20 Montgomery County vehicles being escorted by County police pulled out of the Public safety Training Academy, in Rockville, Maryland this morning. The Montgomery County contingent was joined by about one dozen EMS units from across the State making up a EMS Strike team coordinated by the Maryland Institute of Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS). The MIEMSS EMS Strike team, comprised of about 45 personnel will report to West Jefferson Medical Center to support EMS response, in-patient ER care and body recovery. In all more 30 vehicles and over 100 persons from Maryland will be traveling to Louisiana as part of this effort. |
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(Left) Reserve Truck 31 is one of two ladder trucks deployed (Right) Maryland Task Force 1's convoy stopped on Interstate 81 in Virginia |
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The team over 60 firefighters will take more than a “Box Alarm” of personnel and equipment and fire and rescue apparatus, including Engine 311 as one of four (4) engines, Reserve Truck 31 as one of two (2) aerial ladder trucks, one (1) EMS unit, several command and communication units and other supplies to ensure self-sufficiency. Security, logistical support and maintenance (mechanics) for this effort will be provided by over a dozen support personnel from the County’s police and sheriff, as well as public works departments. Due to the possible nature of the environment in New Orleans, all personnel were medically screened and received the appropriate immunizations from the County’s health department before leaving. The County’s second Urban Search and Rescue Team is on alert and awaiting word from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to be deployed, if needed “Our fire fighters and rescuers are the some of the best in the nation, and that is exactly what this situation calls for,” said Chief Tom Carr. “As we keep the victims of Katrina in our thoughts and prayers, especially all of the public safety personnel who have in some way been affected, I would ask that the families of the rescuers also be comforted and lifted up at this difficult time.” Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service is a combination system (career and volunteer) which located in suburban Washington, D.C. and is comprised of about 1,000 career personnel and an equal number of volunteers serving a population of about 1 million people. With a budget of over $160 million, the department operates out of 33 community fire and rescue stations and annually responds to over 100,000 incidents. Modified from the press released from September 5, 2005 by Pete Piringer, Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service |
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Two Townhouses On Fire In Fallsgrove - September 5, 2005 - At 0058 hours, while Engine 31 was responding on a service call for spilled fuel in King Farm, ECC called them to reroute to the 300 block of Fallsgrove Drive for the townhouse fire in box area 0321. Engine 31 arrived on side "C" and reported heavy fire showing, while Rescue Squad 3 was pulling past on side "A" with heavy smoke from several townhomes. Truck 3 was clearing an alarm bells call in 23's area and was added to the call at 0100. At 0103, the safety dispatch was requested, then the task force at 0107 and finally the second alarm filled at 0112. Rescue Squad 3's crew made entry into side "A" of the fire building, completed a primary search of the second floor, completed horizontal ventilation and opened up for the engine company. Engine 31's crew then advanced a handline up a ladder to the deck on side "C" and knocked the fire in the attic area. Truck 3, arriving as the third due truck and made entry into exposure "D" to check for extension. |
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Search and Rescue Team Returning from Mississippi - September 5, 2005 - On Tuesday, August 30, 2005 Maryland Task Force One (MDTF-1) was activated and deployed to the Gulf States region to assist Hurricane Katrina victims. MDTF-1 is a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) supported Urban Search & Rescue (US&R) team based out of Montgomery County, Maryland and comprised almost exclusively of personnel from the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service. MDTF-1 was demobilized this morning, Monday, September 5, 2005. Early on the morning of Wednesday, August 31, 2005, MDTF-1 arrived in Harrison County near Gulfport, Mississippi. They relocated and set up a base camp in Waveland (Hancock County) Mississippi and operated fro several days engaged in search and rescue activities. They were involved in many searches and were responsible for three “live” rescues, two on their day of arrival, Wednesday, August 31 and one other on Friday, September 2, 2005. They continued search operations through Sunday, September 4, 2005. Around 4 a.m. Wednesday morning, August 31, 2005, MDTF-1 arrived at the Harrison County courthouse near Gulfport. Together with VATF-2 (US&R team from Virginia Beach), MDTF-1 was assigned to search the tri-county area of Hancock County, Harrison County and Jackson County, MS. They would later be joined by a US&R team from Massachusetts and several technical rescue teams from Alabama. This tri-county area stretches between Alabama to the east to Louisiana to the west along the Gulf of Mexico. Many observers believe this area to have been “ground zero” – the area that was northeast of where the eye of the hurricane is believed to have come on shore. At FEMA’s request MDTF-1 dispatched a light task force comprised of 35 persons, including specialists from various disciplines such as structural engineers, search and rescue canines (dogs), technical search, communications, planning, hazardous materials, medical (including a physician), as well as management oversight. At least eighteen FEMA Urban Search & Rescue task forces and at least two Incident Support Teams (IST) were initially deployed and prepositioned in Shreveport, La., and Jackson, Miss., including teams from Florida, Indiana, Maryland, Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia. An additional eight swift water rescue teams have been deployed. There are 28 FEMA US&R teams in the United States, all of whom have been alerted and/or activated to assist. Several other Montgomery County Fire and Rescue personnel have activated throughout the week in order to assist with FEMA incident support team (IST) functions. Additional Montgomery County US&R resources have been placed on alert status and are available to respond from Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service should they be requested by FEMA. Released September 5, 2005 by Pete Piringer, Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service |
Update From MCFRS Urban Search & Rescue Team In Mississippi - September 1, 2005 - Maryland Task Force One (MDTF-1) reports from Waveland, Mississippi. Search efforts continue in adverse conditions. The weather is hot and humid and raining lightly. The Task Force continues to work with members from VATF-2 (Virginia Beach) and now have been joined by Task Force members from Massachusetts. Local volunteer firefighters have been linked up with MDTF-1 and have proven to be invaluable leading search and rescue crews to the most potentially populated areas, whereas all local landmarks and most buildings have been totally decimated.
The team faces many environmental hazards including natural gas leaks, contaminated standing water, animal carcasses, not to mention total structure collapse and significant wood, twisted metal and debris piles. The team reports no “rescues” today, however they have assisted several displaced residents. Two canine search and rescue dogs received some minor injuries, were treated by a Task Force vet and were able to resume work. Task Force members expect to be engaged in this area for several more days. On Tuesday, August 30, 2005 Maryland Task Force One (MDTF-1) was activated and deployed to the Gulf States region to assist Hurricane Katrina victims. MDTF-1 is a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) supported Urban Search & Rescue (US&R) team based out of Rockville Station 31 in Montgomery County, Maryland and comprised almost exclusively of personnel from the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service. Early on the morning of Wednesday, August 31, 2005, MDTF-1 arrived in Harrison County near Gulfport, Mississippi. They have since relocated and set up a base camp in Waveland (Hancock County) Mississippi. Initially the team was headed for Hattiesburg, MS, but while enroute were redirected to NASA’s Stennis Space Center, located about 50 miles east of New Orleans and 50 miles west of Biloxi, MS. Around 4 a.m. Wednesday morning MDTF-1 arrived at the Harrison County courthouse near Gulfport. Together with VATF-2 (US&R team from Virginia Beach), MDTF-1 was assigned to search the tri-county area of Hancock County, Harrison County and Jackson County, MS. This area stretches between Alabama to the east to Louisiana to the west along the Gulf of Mexico. Preliminary reports from the scene indicate damage is wide-spread and appears severe. Many observers believe this area to be “ground zero” – the area that was northeast of where the eye of the hurricane is believed to have come on shore. .Search and rescue personnel will continue to face tough working conditions with high temperatures and high humidity, as well as some light rain. Often in situations such as these the structural damage makes the work treacherous. Shortly after arriving on Wednesday morning around 10 a.m. (Central Time), MDTF-1 rescued two injured victims from a debris field. After treating their injuries and stabilizing each patient for transport they were transferred to a medical facility. At FEMA’s request MDTF-1 dispatched a light task force comprised of 35 persons, including specialists from various disciplines such as structural engineers, search and rescue canines (dogs), technical search, communications, planning, hazardous materials, medical (including a physician), as well as management oversight. A rolling caravan of vehicles and equipment included one tractor trailer, two passenger vehicles, three pick-up trucks, and several other support vehicles. The team is self-sufficient. At least eighteen FEMA Urban Search & Rescue task forces and two Incident Support Teams (IST) were initially deployed and prepositioned in Shreveport, La., and Jackson, Miss., including teams from Florida, Indiana, Maryland, Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia. An additional eight swift water rescue teams have been deployed. There are 28 FEMA US&R teams in the United States, all of whom have been alerted and/or activated to assist. Several other Montgomery County Fire and Rescue personnel were activated on Wednesday, August 31, and again today, Thursday, September 1, 2005 in order to assist with IST functions. .Additional US&R resources are available to respond from Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service should they be requested by FEMA. Released September 2, 2005 by Pete Piringer, Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service |
Urban Search & Rescue Team Members From Rockville Deploy To Louisiana -August 30, 2005 - Rockville firefighters employed by Montgomery County Fire & Rescue and members of the Montgomery County Urban Search & Rescue team, Maryland Task Force One, deployed today to Stennis Space Center in Louisiana, about 50
miles west of New Orleans. The team was originally deployed to
Hattiesburg, Mississippi.As
part of the
National Urban Search and Rescue Response System, Maryland Task Force One has served down south before, providing relief after hurricanes and tornadoes. They were sent to the aftermath of the Oklahoma City bombing and they rescued people trapped in the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001. |
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(Left) Damage in Louisiana; (Right) Rockville Station 31, home of Maryland Task Force One |
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| A team of 35 members, including four search dogs, is prepared to be deployed for up to 15 days. They are currently one of the 18 task forces deployed to the region hit by Hurricane Katrina. In all, up to 24 teams out of FEMA's 28 are expected to deploy to the region. Rockville Volunteer Fire Department Station 31 in Darnestown, Maryland is the home of Maryland Task Force One. Check back with www.rvfd.org for pictures and news from the Maryland Task Force 1 | |
Self Storage Fire In Gaithersburg and Two Trap Jobs - August 18, 2005 -Rockville firefighters were dispatched at 2235 hours to the intersection of Beechcraft Ave and Mooney Drive for the possible fire at the U-Haul. Gaithersburg Company 28 arrived on the scene of the corrected location of the self storage on Beechcraft Ave with heavy smoke showing from multiple storage units. Truck 3 and Rescue Squad 3 forced entry to the storage units, while Engine 311 and Rescue Squad 17 opened up the rear wall. Once the fire was controlled, the storage units were ventilated and overhaul operations were conducted. Rescue Squad 3 also ran a personal injury collision with entrapment in front of 206 N. Frederick Avenue and another one at E. Deer Park Drive and S. Frederick Ave. |
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Afternoon Room and Contents Fire - August 13, 2005 - At 1304 hours Engine 31, Engine 311, Truck 3, and Ambulance 38 responded to the 17600 block of Towne Crest Drive for the townhouse fire in box area 2815. Gaithersburg Engine 281 arrived on scene to find a two story townhouse with a fire in the laundry room. Engine 31 pulled their leaderline to side "C" of the building, while Truck 3 threw ladders and ventilated the structure. The fire was quickly extinguished and Company 3 and 31 units returned to service shortly after. Truck 31 and Medic 319 also responded on the safety dispatch. |
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Company 3 Arrives First On Company 25 House Fire - August 8, 2005 - At 1638 hours Engine 31, Engine 231, Truck 3, and Rescue Squad 3 were dispatched to the 14500 block of Woodcrest Drive in box area 2515 for the house on fire. Kensington Truck 25 and Company 3 arrived on the scene with fire showing from the first floor living room of a split level home. Engine 31 assumed first due and pulled a handline to the first floor. Truck 3 placed ladders, performed horizontal ventilation, and assisted with searching the home. Rescue Squad 3 controlled the utilities and performed the primary search, while Engine 231 backed up Engine 31. The safety dispatch was added to the assignment, bringing Truck 23 for the RIC assignment. Engine 31 quickly knocked the fire and units remained on the scene for salvage and overhaul. |
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One Trapped After Hitting Tree - August 6, 2005 - At 0835 hours, Medic 39, Rescue Squad 3, Engine 31, and Chief 3-1 responded to the intersection of Falls Road and Great Falls Road for the personal injury collision with one trapped. Company 3 units arrived on the scene to find a single car off the road, after hitting a tree, with one trapped. Rescue Squad 3 stabilized the vehicle while Engine 31 pulled an 1-1/2" handline and Medic 39 evaluated the patient. Rescue Squad 3 removed the driver's side door,cut the "A" posts, and then rolled the dash off the patient. The patient was quickly removed by Medic 39 and transported as a priority 1 trauma to Suburban Hospital Trauma Center. |
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Car Vs Truck on Interstate 270 - August 1 , 2005 - At 0804 hours, Rescue Squad 3, Ambulance 38, Engine 331, and Engine 311 responded to northbound Interstate 270 in the CD lanes between Interstate 370 and Montgomery Village Avenue for the reported car into a truck with one trapped. Units arrived on scene to find one priority 1 patient pinned after slamming into a parked truck on the side of the highway. Engine 331 stabilized and de-energized the vehicle while crews further assessed the patient. Rescue Squad 3 was able to cut the patients seat and lay it back, freeing the patients legs from under the dash. Since the patient was a priority 1, crews quickly grabbed the patient from the vehicle for treatment. The patient was flown as a priority 1 multi-system trauma to Suburban Hospital Trauma Center by Maryland State Police helicopter Trooper 2. |
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One In To A Tree With One Trapped - July 30, 2005 - At 0334 hours, Rescue Squad 3 was dispatched to the intersection of Midcounty Highway and Shady Grove Road for the single van vs a tree with one possibly trapped. Engine 281 arrived on scene to the corrected location of Midcounty Highway, just before Shady Grove Road, with on trapped. Rescue Squad 3 arrived on scene and stabilized the van, which was leaning on a hill, with step chocks and struts, and then proceeded to pop the driver's door. The patient did not give Rescue Squad 3 a chance to completely remove the door by attempting to pull himself from the van. The patient was transported as a priority 2 trauma to Suburban Hospital Trauma Center by Medic 89. |
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Apartment Fire and House Fire at Same Time - July 27, 2005 - At 1814 hours, while heavy storms moved through the area, Engine 311 and Engine 31 were dispatched to the 12900 block of Churchill Ridge Circle, box area 2915, for the apartment on fire. Germantown Company 29 arrived on the scene with fire showing through the roof on side "C" of the structure. Upon reaching the third floor, Company 29 found heavy fire in the attic of the structure. The safety and task force assignments were added, bringing Truck 31 on the safety and Truck 3 on the Task Force. Engine 311 pulled a 300' 2" backup line to the third floor fire apartment and assisted Engine 291 with extinguishing the fire, while Engine 31 pulled a third line to the third floor for exposure "B". Truck 31 assumed RIC responsibilities, while Truck 3 reported to exposure "C," opened up the apartment to check for extension and ventilated the apartment. The fire was aggressively controlled and all units remained on the scene for salvage and overhaul operations. Also on the scene were Chief 3-2 and Chief 3-3. |
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Images of Churchill Ridge Circle fire by Ed Tenney. Click image for larger view. |
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While Rockville firefighters were operating in Germantown, another fire was dispatched in Dickerson. At 1848 hours Rescue Engine 33, Rescue Squad 3, and numerous units from Frederick County, Maryland and Loudoun County, Virginia responded to the intersection of Dickerson Road and Nicholson Farm Road, box area 1408, for the house on fire. An off duty Loudoun County firefighter arrived on the scene first with heavy fire showing from the attic. Upper Montgomery Engine 141 arrived and confirmed fire in the attic of a two story balloon frame farmhouse. Rescue Squad 3 and Rescue Engine 33 arrived after a nearly 30 minute response and assisted with fire control and salvage and overhaul. |
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One Trapped at Norbeck Road and Bel Pre Road - July 16, 2005 - At 1727 hours Rescue Squad 3 was dispatched to the intersection of Norbeck Road and Bel Pre Road for the personal injury collision. Car 155 arrived on the scene first and reported one trapped after the two car T-bone collision. Kensington Engine 251 and Ambulance 258 arrived on the scene, began patient care, and stabilized the vehicle. Rescue Squad 3 performed a complete driver's sidewall removal by taking both doors and the "B" post. The patient was transported BLS by Ambulance 258. |
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One Trapped At Shady Grove Road and Route 355 - July 11, 2005 - Rescue Squad 3 and Medic 39 were dispatched at 1115 hours to the intersection of Shady Grove Road and Route 355 for the personal injury collision with one pinned. Gaithersburg Engine 281 and Ambulance 289 arrived on the scene first to find a three vehicle collision with one trapped, not pinned. Rescue Squad 3 stabilized the vehicle and the removed the passengers side door. The patient extricated was transported as a priority 2 multi-system trauma to Suburban Hospital Trauma Center by Medic 39. |
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Click here for more images. Images by Michael Collins, DFRS |
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Wear Your Seat Belt!- July 10, 2005 - Rockville firefighters ran two personal injury collisions where multiple people were seriously injured or killed because they were not wearing their seat belts. At 0010 hours Medics 39 and 239 were dispatched to Georgia Avenue and Hewitt Avenue in Company 25's area to assist on the wreck with multiple patients ejected and one patient pinned for a total of five priority 1 traumas and one priority 2 trauma. Later in the night, at 0403 hours, Ambulance 38, Medic 319, Rescue Squad 3, and Engine 31 were dispatched to Southbound Interstate 270 between Route 28 and Montrose Road for the personal injury collision with one unconscious and pinned. Rescue Squad 3 arrived on the scene first to find a single pickup truck with a trauma code trapped after rolling multiple times. The patient, who was not belted, was trapped between the front seats, the dash and the floor. Engine 31 and Rescue Squad 3 stabilized the car using cribbing and de-energized the battery. Rescue Squad 3 was forced to remove both passenger side doors because of the position of the patient's head against the door. Once removed from the vehicle, the priority 4 male was taken to Suburban Trauma Center. |
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Afternoon Apartment Fire In Rockville - July 6, 2005- Rockville firefighters put a quick knock on an afternoon apartment fire in Rockville today. At 1525 hours, units responded to the 12400 block of Braxfield Court, box area 2307, for the reported fire in the bedroom of apartment 13. Ambulance 238 and Engine 231 arrived on the scene with heavy smoke showing. Engine 231 passed command to Engine 31 and stretched a 300' 2" handline to the third floor. Truck 3 performed a complete circle check around the building and found fire blowing out of the third floor apartment. Engine 31 called for the safety and task force assignments and passed command to Rescue Chief 2. Truck 3 split its crew of five and threw multiple ground ladders to the building on sides "A" and "B", placed its aerial to the roof, and forced entry to the exposure apartments. Engine 31 pulled a 2" backup line to the third floor and helped extinguish the fire. Aerial Tower 23 and Engine 331, both at Station 20 on a transfer, responded on the safety and task force dispatches and formed the RIC. |
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First Alarm: Engines 231 and 31, Kensington Engines 181 and 251, Truck 3, Kensington Aerial Tower 18, Wheaton Rescue Squad 29, and Ambulance 238. Safety Dispatch: Kensington Truck 25, Engine 331, Medic 239, and Canteen 3. Task Force: Chevy Chase Engine 71, Aerial Tower 23, and Silver Spring Engine 161. Other Rockville units: Chief 3 and Chief 3-2. (Units Rockville VFD unless otherwise stated.) |
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House Fire in Sandy Spring - July 1, 2005 - Rockville Engine 31 and Truck 3 responded to the 16000 block of Wallingford Rd, box area 0407, for the second task force on the working house fire in Sandy Spring this evening. At 1836 hours, units responded for the report of smoke coming from the chimney of the single family home. Sandy Spring Company 4 units arrived on the scene and reported heavy smoke showing from the roof. |
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Lightning Strike Causes House Fire In Potomac- June 29, 2005- As heavy storms moved through Montgomery County, Rockville firefighters were dispatched to box area 3306, for the 9200 block of Fall River Lane, for the report of the house on fire after being struck by lightning. As units were enroute the Public Safety Communication Center advised they were receiving multiple calls and they were adding the safety dispatch to the assignment. Engine 331 arrived on the scene first, reporting fire showing from the attic and roof. Engine 331 established command and stretched a 1-3/4" handline to the house. Chief 3-2 arrived with three personnel, assumed command, and supplied the two out for Engine 331. Engine 331 and Truck 3, who assumed first due, entered the home and went to the second floor. Crews initially found fire beginning to show around the attic scuttle and opened up the ceiling in that area. Heavy fire was evident throughout the attic. As Rescue Squad 3 finished controlling the utilities and the primary search, they went to quadrant "C" and "D" and opened up the ceiling. Engine 231 and 31 both stretched backup lines to the second floor and assisted crews with extinguishing the fire. Aerial Tower 23 initially assumed RIC responsibilities, until relieved by Engine 201, when they then became Roof Sector. |
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Click image for more pictures. Images by Matt Strouse. |
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Once the entire second floor ceiling was opened crews were easily able to extinguish the bulk of the fire. Considerable salvage and overhaul was required. With all of the ceilings, much of the second floor walls, and the debris from the roof and attic in the second floor, it took crews hours to remove it all. Firefighters were able to save pictures, files, and some artwork on the second floor, and protect the unaffected first floor and basement from further water damage. The fire caused $750,000 in damage. |
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First Alarm: Engines 331, Cabin John Park 301, 31, and 231, Bethesda Aerial Tower 26, Truck 3, Rescue Squad 3, and Ambulance 38. Safety Dispatch: Bethesda Engine 201, Aerial Tower 23, and Cabin John Park Medic 309. Task Force: Carder Rock Engine 501, Kensington Engine 51, and Cabin John Park Rescue Squad 10. Other Rockville units included Chief 3, Chief 3-1, Chief 3-2, Car 3-7, and Canteen 3. (Units Rockville VFD unless otherwise stated.) |
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Maryland State Firemen's Association Convention - June 23, 2005- Rockville Volunteers Fire Department members made the annual 160 mile trip to Ocean City, Maryland this year for the Maryland State Fireman's Association Convention from June 19th through the 22nd. On Monday the 20th, RVFD was on hand at to present the Marbery F. Gates Service Cup Award. This award was established by the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department and accepted by the Maryland State Firemen’s Association (MSFA) Executive Committee in 1981 to honor over sixty (60) years of active service performed by charter member, Mr. Marbery F. Gates of
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Left Image: From left to right -Chief Ferguson,
Chief Daniel B. Smith, Chief Russell Dawson, and President Eric Bernard. Right Image: Convention center apparatus showcase. Click images for more pictures. |
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This year’s winner is Chief Daniel B. Smith, Sr., a 55-year member of the Aberdeen Volunteer Fire Department. Chief Smith is an active member of that Department who has served as Chief, President and a member of their Board of Directors for 30 consecutive years. He is still among the 10 most active responders of the AVFD, even though he now spends about four months of the year in
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In addition to presenting our award, members enjoyed the beach, the exhibitor displays, the department's crab feast, and entering Rescue Engine 33 in the parade. A special thank you to our members who stayed back at the station throughout the week for continuing to staff the apparatus. |
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Five Alarm Fire In Glenmont Destroys 42 Apartments - June 19, 2005- After a slow day in Montgomery County, units were dispatched at 1548 hours to the 12100 block of Shorefield Court for the reported fire in the bathroom, box area 1801. Kensington Company 18 arrived on the scene with light smoke showing. Upon investigation, a working fire was discovered in apartment 32. As crews began opening up the apartment and extinguishing the fire it became clear the fire had already reached the pipe chase and was traveling through the walls to the attic. The safety and task force assignments were added, bring Aerial Tower 23 and Medic 239. Command soon filled the second alarm to bring Engine 231 and then the third alarm to bring Rescue Squad 3 and Hose Tender 3. Heavy fire was now through the roof and evident on the third and fourth floors and the stairwells began collapsing so command added the fourth alarm. Aerial Tower 23 reported to the roof and made a trench cut, Rescue Squad 3 assisted in the throwing of ground ladders, and Hose Tender 3 laid out 1000 feet of 5 inch line to supply the a ladder pipe if needed. Rescue Squad 3 then reported to the third and fourth floors to help with extinguishing and containing the fire. |
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Images by Murray Hunt Jr. Click image for more pictures. |
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As more of the building began collapse and after approximately two hours of interior operations, command evacuated the building and NIH's Aerial Tower 51 set up their ladder pipe. The fifth alarm, including Engine 31 and Truck 3, was called to help with the overwhelming task of overhaul. Units remained on the scene through the night, completing operations after hours of hard work. In all more than 100 people were left homeless and 42 apartments were destroyed. The cause of the fire is still unknown, but damage is estimated at over $3.5 million. |
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Images by Murray Hunt Jr. Click image for more pictures. |
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Firefighter James Williams Checks In From Kuwait- June 18, 2005- Here are a couple of pictures sent by James Williams, currently serving as part of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit. Williams, who is assigned to the Air Combat Element (ACE) in the medical section, flies CASVAC missions to care for wounded marines on the battlefield. The members of the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department would like to wish James a safe time onboard the USS Kearsarge, in the desert, or wherever else his missions take him. |
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Union Bridge Volunteers Welcomed to Rockville With An Afternoon Trap Job - June 18, 2005 - Most of the day Saturday, Station 3 hosted three firefighters from the Union Bridge Volunteer Fire Department in Carroll County, Maryland. Although we unsuccessfully tried to give them a fire, we did give them an opportunity to cut. At 1806 hours Ambulance 238, Rescue Squad 3, and Engine 231 responded to the intersection of E. Jefferson Street and Montrose Road for the personal injury collision. Engine 231 arrived on the scene to find a two car t-bone collision with three injured and one trapped. The trapped patient was upgrade to a priority 2 trauma, so Medic 239 responded to the scene. Rescue Squad 3 arrived and immediately stabilized the vehicle, covered the patient, de-energized the battery, and removed glass. Rescue Squad 3's crew removed the passenger's sidewall by popping both doors and removing the "B" post. The patient was extricated and taken to Suburban Hospital Trauma Center. |
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Second Alarm Townhouse Fire In Germantown - June 14, 2005 - At 1658 hours, Rockville Engine 311 was alerted to the 18900 block of Birdseye Drive, box area 2924, for the report of smoke coming from the house. Germantown Company 29 units arrived on the scene with heavy fire and smoke showing from a two story end of the row townhouse. The safety and task force assignments were added upon arrival of Company 29, bringing Rescue Squad 3 to the fire. Engine 311 pulled a line to exposure "D", opened up the walls and ceiling to find fire, and extinguished the extension. As Rescue Squad 3 arrived, command added a second alarm, brining Engine 31, Truck 3, and Truck 31. All four of the Rockville units on the task force and second alarm assisted in considerable salvage and overhaul operations. Damage from the fire is estimated at $550,000. |
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Click image for larger view. Images courtesy Deb Farkas DFRS 29B Shift |
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Small Fire In Potomac Estate - June 11, 2005 - At 1318 hours Rockville firefighters were dispatched to the 10800 block of Red Barn Lane, box area 3310, for the reported fire in the rear of the house. Rescue Squad 3 arrived on the scene first to find a large two story home with nothing showing. Upon further investigation, Rescue Squad 3 found a fire in the rear of the house, and with the help of the home's garden hose, the fire was extinguished before any of the responding engine companies arrived. Rescue Squad 3, Engine 301, and Engine 31 remained on the scene for about an hour to perform salvage and overhaul. Units from Rockville included Engine 31, Engine 331, Truck 31, Truck 23, Rescue Squad 3, Ambulance 38, and Chief 3-3. |
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Storm Causes Two House Fire At the Same Time - June 6, 2005 - Strong storms moved through the D.C. Metro area Monday evening, bringing heavy rain, hail, and lightning. At 1951 hours, Rockville Engine 31 and Truck 31 were dispatched to the 9400 block of Vineyard Haven Drive for the reported house fire after a lightning strike in Gaithersburg box area 0805. While enroute, the Public Safety Communications Center advised units they were receiving multiple calls for a fire through the roof. Battalion Chief 5 arrived on the scene first, confirmed heavy fire through the roof, and called for the safety dispatch. Engine 171 and 281 each stretched a handline to the second floor and began knocking the fire. Engine 31 was directed to pull a handline and protect Exposure "B", while Truck 31 through ladders and conducted salvage and overhaul on Division 1. The fire, which caused approximately $450,000 in damage, was completely extinguished within an hour. |
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Images of the Vineyard Haven Drive House Fire. |
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While units were still fighting the house fire in Gaithersburg, Rockville Engine 231 and Aerial Tower 23 were operating on another fire in the 14900 block of Waterway Drive, box area 2514. Also caused by a lightning strike, Company 25 arrived on the scene to find fire in the carport storage shed, extending into the attic and roof. Engine 231 arrived on the scene and assumed the two out responsibilities, while Aerial Tower 23 reported to the attic for extension. Unfortunately for the rest of the Rockville units, they were stuck running dozens of alarm bells, wires, and other storm related calls while the fires were happening. |
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Test Drive Traps Driver- June 6, 2005 - At 1640 hours Ambulance 38 and Rescue Squad 3 were dispatched to the 300 block of Baltimore Road for the personal injury collision. Rescue Squad 3 arrived on the scene to find a two car T-bone collision involving a new Volkswagen, on a test drive, and an Explorer. The driver of the SUV was determined to be trapped, so Engine 31 was added to the incident. Rescue Squad 3 stabilized the vehicle with step chokes and cribbing, and then removed the drivers side door. The patient was extricated and transported by Ambulance 38 to Shady Grove Hospital. |
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Rockville Volunteer Fire Department Participates In Career Day - June 3, 2005 - Firefighter Christopher Hinde participated in a career day for Meadow Hall Elementary school, in Company 23's first due. The Montgomery County Public School held its first annual career day, allowing the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department to educate our neighborhood children on what its like to be a firefighter. This program was developed to further the school's fifth graders education. Highlights included a gear demonstration, question and answer session, and gear try-on for the students. All the students were very excited and interested in learning the daily life of a Rockville firefighter. The Rockville Volunteer Fire Department looks forward to participating in many more Career Day's at Meadow Hall in the future. Other guests included Mayor of the City of Rockville Larry Giammo, the Montgomery County Police, and many others professionals from the Rockville community.
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Click on image for larger view. Images courtesy of Chris Hinde |
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Memorial Day Weekend A Success - May 30, 2005 - The Rockville Volunteer Fire Department participated in the Hometown Holidays weekend, the Washington area’s biggest Memorial Day Weekend celebration. The three days of events attracted an estimated 60,000 people to Rockville’s Town Center over Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Rockville VFD was out in full force promoting fire prevention, safety, and our volunteer opportunities. Members conducted an auto extrication drill and rappelled from the tip of Truck 3 (Reserve Truck 31). The weekend was highlighted by a number of free concerts, including the Saturday night performance of Hootie and the Blowfish. The concert crowd included Maryland Governor Robert Ehrlich and many on and off duty Rockville Volunteer Fire Department members.
On Saturday, Engine 34 had the honor of serving as the tail end of the Montgomery Motorcycle contingent to the Rolling Thunder event in the District of Columbia. |
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Overturned Vehicle With One Pinned - May 23, 2005 -At 1909 hours, as Rescue Engine 33 and Truck 3 were headed to the Public Safety Training Academy to conduct an extrication drill, the Public Safety Communications Center advised Rescue Engine 33 to disregard their training detail and respond with Ambulance 238, Engine 231, and Bethesda-Chevy Chase Medic 10 to the intersection of Veirs Mill Road and Okinawa Avenue for the personal injury collision with one trapped. Ambulance 238 arrived on the scene first, reporting a single car on its side with one pinned. The patient, who was in and out of consciousness, was pinned by the steering column and the "A" post. |
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Rescue Engine 33 arrived on the scene and quickly began stabilizing the car. Paratech struts and cribbing were used to support the vehicle. Once the vehicle was stabilized, Rescue Engine 33 cut the roof and flapped it down, then removed it completely. When the patient was finally accessible, the crews from Ambulance 238 and Medic 10 assumed complete patient care. Initially a Maryland State Trooper Helicopter was request, but instead Medic 10 decided they were better off transporting the patient as a priority 2 multi-system trauma to Suburban Hospital Trauma Center in Bethesda. Battalion Chief 103 had command. |
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Three Alarm Industrial Fire In Company 3's First Due - May 19, 2005 - Rockville firefighters had their work cut out for them with a three alarm blaze in Company 3's area at the Lafarge Concrete Facility. At 1626 hours, units were dispatched for the report of the building on fire in the 14900 block of Southlawn Lane, box area 03-19. Hillandale Engine 241, who was on their way back from the Public Safety Training Academy, arrived on the scene while the incident was still being dispatched. Engine 241's nitial report was heavy fire showing from a four story concrete plant with significant exposure problems. An exterior attack was called for by Engine 241 because of fire involvement and concerns of collapse. The second alarm was sounded and moments later Company 3 arrived on the scene. Truck 3 assumed a position on side "C" because of electrical wires and immediately began ladder pipe operations and attempted to control the utilities. Rescue Engine 33 picked up a plug in front of the building and stretched its blitz-fire nozzle to the building. |
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Engine 231 positioned on side "D" and also stretched their blitz-fire, Engine 211 supplied Truck 3's ladder pipe, and Aerial Tower 23 set up their aerial. Truck 3 and Rescue Engine 33 opened up the structure as best as possible for master stream access. Since there were considerable exposure problems the third alarm was eventually sounded. As second alarm units began arriving, they assisted crews with additional master streams. Aerial Tower 18 was able to position on side "D" and help reach the seat of the fire. The fire was controlled after about a half hour and extinguished completely after about a hour. Units remained on scene for overhaul operations and cleanup. |
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Rockville Firefighters Run Townhouse Fire In Company 26's Area - May 16, 2005 - At 1559 hours Engines 331, 231, and 31, as well as Aerial Tower 23 were dispatched to the 7700 block of Scotland Drive, Bethesda Fire Department Company 26's area, for the report of fire in the rear of the townhouse. While enroute, the Public Safety Communications Center notified units of multiple calls and that they believe it to be a working fire. Engine 261 and Aerial Tower 26 arrived on the scene with smoke showing. A safety dispatch was sounded, bring Truck 3 and Medic 239. Company 26 advanced a handline into the structure and quickly located the fire in a second floor bedroom. Engine 31 was bumped back in the assignment by Engine 101 and instead of being fourth due they became the first unit on the safety, assuming the RIC responsibility. The fire was quickly knocked and units began picking up. |
Long Night of Wrecks and Transfers For Rockville Firefighters - May 14, 2005 - Rockville firefighters experienced a long night filled with serious collisions, extended transfers, and the normal array of calls of any other night. At 2033 hours Company 23 units and Rescue Engine 33 responded to the intersection of Edson Lane and Old Georgetown Road for the report of a personal injury collision with entrapment. Engine 231 arrived on the scene to find a two car T-bone collision with at least two pinned. Medic 39 was added to the call as well as Aerial Tower 23 to provide manpower and to upgrade Ambulance 238 to a medic unit. Upon further assessment it was determined that in the vehicle struck, there were two pinned. The driver was an adult male priority 1, the front passenger was an adult male priority 4 (DOA), the left rear passenger was an adult female priority 1, and the right rear passenger was an adult female priority 1. Both occupants on the passengers side were pinned. The driver of the second car was uninjured. Rescue Engine 33 and Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad 18 stabilized the vehicle and coordinated extrication. The rear passengers side door was removed and the "B" post and frame were spread away from the patients legs. The driver and one of the passengers was transported to Medstar Trauma Center by Medic 238 and Medic 239, while the passenger who was pinned was transported by Medic 39 to Suburban Trauma Center. Rescue Engine 33 return around 0100 hours to extricate the priority 4 (DOA) victim after the Montgomery County Police Department investigation was concluded . |
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Minutes after returning to Station 3, Rescue Engine 33 was dispatched to another wreck with entrapment at 2344 hours. Medic 319, Rescue Engine 33, Engine 311, and Chief 3-2 responded to the intersection of Travilah Road and Glen Road for the single car collision with entrapment. Car 6-1 arrived at the intersection and found the complainants father, but no wreck. The father notified Car 6-1 that his daughter called him but did not know where she was just that it was on a "Glen" road. The PSCC added Engine 331 and Ambulance 339 to assist in searching the miles of roads with "Glen" in their names. Engine 331 arrived on scene first to the corrected location of Glen Road, between Piney Meetinghouse Road and South Glen Road, and reported a single car into a tree. Upon evaluation, it was determined that there was a priority 2 multi-system trauma and two priority 3 patients. The vehicle was leaning down an embankment so Rescue Engine 33 stabilized the vehicle by tying it back to a tree with a come-along and chain. The patients were removed from the vehicle an all three were transported to Suburban Hospital. |
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While Rockville units operated on Glen Road, Medic 239 responded to the 4500 block of Randolph Road, Kensington Company 21's area, for a single vehicle high speed collision. After extrication from the vehicle by Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad 19, Medic 239 transported a teenage male priority 1 patient to Suburban Hospital Trauma Center. Throughout the remained of the night nearly all Rockville units were transferred to different station in the county because of a working fire in Hillindale. All remained busy running medical locals, wrecks and other calls like the auto fire Engine 331 ran in the picture above. |
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First Due House Fire For Company 3 - May 12, 2005 - At 2015 Rockville firefighters were dispatched to the 1100 block of Veirs Mill Road for the report of smoke coming from the home. Battalion Chief 3 arrived on the scene with Company 3 units to report smoke showing from the rear of a one and a half story single family home. Rescue Engine 33 assumed first due engine while Engine 31 picked up there line and took two out. Rescue Engine 33 stretched a 200' 1-3/4" handline to the house and entered with Truck 3's crew. the fire was immediately located and extinguished within minutes. Truck 3's crew opened up the structure and checked for extension. Crews quick operations contained the fire to the kitchen and living room. Company 3 cleared the fire at 2132 hours. Additional units from Rockville included Engines 331 and 231, Aerial Tower 23, Ambulance 38, Chief 3, and Chief 3-2. |
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Cigarette Causes Three Alarm Fire In Gaithersburg - April 21, 2005 - At approximately 0345 hours Engine 311 and Truck 31 were dispatched to 9800 block of Feathertree Terrace in Gaithersburg for the reported condominium building on fire. Company 8 arrived on the scene moments later with heavy fire on the third floor and roof, immediately calling for the second alarm. Police already on the scene alerted many residents, but initial fire units still had to make numerous ladder rescues off balconies. Although the building had sprinklers, since it was primarily an exterior fire, firefighters were stilled challenged. The fire, which was started by a cigarette discarded in a pile of mulch, worked its way up the side of the building and into void spaces and the attic. The fire caused over $1 million in damages to 12 units. The blaze reached a total of three alarms and included Rockville Engines 311, 33, 231, and 331, Truck 31, Aerial Tower 23, Rescue Squad 3, Ambulance 38, and Medic 319. |
Mass Casualty Incident At Local Hotel - April 19, 2005 - In the early morning, members from the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department responded to the Marriott Courtyard at Research Boulevard and Shady Grove Road for the report of multiple sick people in the hotel. While enroute unit were updated that children were sick from what was possibly food poisoning, but this was still unconfirmed. Upon arriving first on the scene, Engine 31 established command, and assigned Rescue Squad 3 with the Triage Sector. Engine 31's and Rescue Squad 3's crews initiated Mass Casualty Procedures while evaluating the eight patients who met them in the lobby. All additional EMS units were staged in the circle drive as initial triage was completed. After evaluating over 90 patients in the hotel, about 20 were transported with some type of illness causing nausea and severe vomiting. In total, five EMS units were utilized, along with Chief 3-1, Battalion Chief 5 and EMS 1.
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Passing of Master Firefighter Maynard Saunders - April 17, 2005 - The Rockville Volunteer Fire Department would like to offer our condolences to the family and friends of Master Firefighter Maynard Saunders. Maynard was a Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service career firefighter assigned to the Public Safety Communication Center. |
Second Alarm Fire Destroys One Townhouse, Damages Two Others - April 16, 2005 - Three townhouses were heavily damaged by a two alarm fire in Gaithersburg. At 2100 hours, Rockville Volunteer Fire Department Engines 31 and 311, as well as Truck 31, were dispatched to the 10100 block of Kindly Court, box area 0804. Medic 89 arrived on the scene with two townhouses well involved. A safety, task force and full second alarm were sounded, bringing Truck 3 on the task force and Engines 231 and 331, Aerial Tower 23, and Rescue Squad 3 on the second alarm. One townhouse was fully involved and interior operations were conducted only in the "B" and "D" exposures. Engine 31 pulled their blitz fire to side "C," Truck 3 worked aggressively in exposure "B," Rescue Squad 3 was assigned as the RIC, and Aerial Tower 23 assumed the roof division. Crews were able to extinguish the fire within 30 minutes and save the two adjacent townhouses. The fire originated in an unoccupied townhouse that was undergoing renovation.
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Wreck With Hazmat on Interstate 270 Followed By Trap Job - April 16, 2005 - At 0847 hours units from Rockville and Montgomery County Fire & Rescue's Hazardous Incidents Response Team were dispatched to Southbound Interstate 270 between Shady Grove Road and Route 28 for the personal injury collision with with hazmat. Maryland State Police arrived on the scene first to find a tractor trailer truck into the jersey wall with a large fuel spill. Company 3 units arrived to confirm the police report. The driver of the truck was taken as a priority 2 trauma to Suburban Hospital Trauma Center. Engine 31 and Rescue 3 contained the fuel spill with absorbent until the HIRT units arrived to cleanup the spill. Units from Rockville included Ambulance 38, Rescue Squad 3, Engine 31, Medic 319, and Chief 3-1. HIRT units included Engine 71, Hazmat 7, Hazmat Support Unit 7, Ambulance 289, Engine 281, and Aerial Tower 26. Battalion Chief 3 had command. |
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While still on scene of the tractor trailer wreck on Interstate 270, Rescue Squad 3 was dispatched at 1011 hours to the intersection of Old Georgetown Road and Executive Boulevard for the personal injury collision with entrapment. EMS 1 arrived on scene to confirm one trapped and assessed the patients. Engine 231 and Aerial Tower 23 blocked off the scene and stabilized the vehicles. Once Rescue Squad 3 arrived on the scene they went to work removing the driver's sidewall. After both doors and the "B" post was removed, Rescue Squad 3 took the roof of the vehicle. The patient was then packaged and then taken to Suburban Hospital Trauma Center. Battalion Chief 103 had command. |
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Trap Job - Car vs. Dump Truck - April 15, 2005 - At 1020 hours, Medic 39, Rescue Squad 3, Engine 31, and Medic 239 were dispatched to the intersection of E. Gude Drive and Norbeck Road. Engine 31 arrived on scene to find a dump truck on its side after hitting an SUV and trapping its driver. Rescue Squad 3 stabilized the vehicle with both step chokes, box cribbing, and a wench. Rescue Squad 3 then removed the drivers sidewall, allowing medics to remove the patient. The patient was taken by Medic 239 to Suburban Hospital Trauma Center as a priority 2 multi system trauma. The Hazardous Materials Response Team had to respond to the scene to offload the trucks fuel from ruptured tanks. |
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Rockville High School Students Receive Lesson About Drunk Driving - April 13, 2005 - At 1030 hours units from the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department responded to a report of a vehicle collision with 2 pedestrians struck at Rockville High School in Rockville, Maryland. Engine 33, Rescue Squad 3, Medic 39 and Ambulance 38 arrived on the scene with a vehicle into a pole and 4 students trapped inside. 2 pedestrians were struck, 1 was DOA and the other a priority 1 multi-system trauma, transported to a local hospital. After a rapid extrication, the front seat passenger was declared DOA, a rear seat passenger was transported to the trauma center via US Park Police Eagle One Helicopter. Two other passengers were uninjured. The driver of the vehicle, a 16 year-old male, was arrested on the scene for driving while intoxicated. Multiple beer and liquor bottles were found inside the vehicle.
Sounds bad, right? Well, if had been a real crash, it would have been. This simulated crash scene was part of the "Every Fifteen Minutes" drunk driving awareness program that is designed to send a very powerful message to the students. It simulates what happens when alcohol use and driving are mixed and the life-changing effects it has. In this simulation, three students ended up dying. Luckily, those students will go home to their families tonight. But the outcome would have been much different if the crash happened for real.
The sponsors of this bi-annual program, Rockville High School, Rockville City Police Department and the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department know that they won't get to all of the students, but if at least one student makes the good decision not to drink alcohol and drive, or as important, not to get into a car when the driver has been drinking alcohol, then all the efforts to put on the program are well worth it. |
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Room and Contents Fire - April 9, 2005 - At 2316 hours Engine 33, Truck 3, Rescue Squad 3, Chief 3-1 and Chief 3-3 responded to the 7800 block of Miller Fall Road, box area 2817. Engine 281 arrived onscene to find smoke showing from the second floor on sides "A" and "B." Engine 281 was able to put a quick knock on the fire while Rescue Squad 3 controlled the utilities and Truck 3 threw ladders, provided lighting, and assisted in ventilation. Units cleared after about an hour of salvage, overhaul, and clean up. |
Rockville City Police Officer Rescues One From Early Morning Fire - April 3, 2005 - At 0339 hours Rockville volunteer firefighters were dispatched to the house fire in the 1200 block of Edmonston Drive, box area 0301. Rockville City Police arrived on the scene first, reporting a working fire with people trapped. An officer with RCPD entered the structure and rescued an adult male from the fire. Rescue Squad 3 arrived moments later, confirmed fire showing and established command, which it later passed it to Kensington Chief 5. Engine 31 took the hydrant in front of the house, stretched a 200' 1-3/4" crosslay to the house, and made entry with Rescue Squad 3. Company 3 had heavy fire in three of the room, extending into the attic. Engine 31 knocked the fire, while Rescue Squad 3 was negative on their primary search and Truck 3 opened up the home. Company 3 units were on the scene for about five hours doing salvage and overhaul.
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Pin Job In Company 21's Area - April 02, 2005 - Rescue Squad 3 and Medic 39 were dispatched at 0220 hours to the intersection of Arctic Avenue and Aspen Hill Road for the reported car vs a tree. Company 21 arrived to find a single vehicle with an uninjured male pinned in the vehicle after the vehicle collided with a tree on the passengers side. Rescue Squad 3's crew removed the passengers door and the roof of the vehicle, freeing the occupant. The occupant then insisted on getting out of the vehicle by his own means and was finally able to walk out of the vehicle. |
Working Basement Fire in Kensington - March 28, 2005 - Engine 31, Truck 3, and Rescue Squad 3 were dispatched at 1809 hours to the house fire in the 15000 block of Emory Lane, box area 2513. Company 25 units arrived to find smoke showing and called for the safety assignment, bringing Aerial Tower 23, Engine 231, and Medic 239. |
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One Overturned and Two Trapped - March 6, 2005 - At 1428 hours Rescue Squad 3 responded to the 200 block of N. Frederick Ave for a car on its side with two people trapped. Rescue Squad 3 arrived on the scene, stabilized the vehicle, and proceeded to remove the roof of the car. After the patients were removed, one was transported to Suburban Hospital Trama Center as a priority 2 multi-system trauma and the other as a priority 3. |
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One Trapped In Gaithersburg - February 26, 2005 - Rescue Squad 3 was dispatched at 1854 hours to the intersection of 355 and Shady Grove Road for the personal injury collision. While enroute, the PSCC advised responding units of additional calls of one trapped. Gaithersburg Engine 281 arrived first onscene to correct the location to in front of the Casey Barns Community Center at 810 S. Frederick Ave and confirm one trapped. Medic 39 and Chief 3-1 were added to the incident. Rescue Squad 3 extricated the patient quickly and Medic 39 transported the driver as a priority 2 patient to Suburban Hospital Trauma Center. |
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Eric Bernard Named New MCVFRA Executive Director - February 24, 2005 - The Montgomery County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association named its first Executive Director in the organizations 84 year history. Eric N. Bernard was announced as the Executive Director at the Associations February 2005 monthly meeting at the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad following a nationwide search. Bernard was selected from an outstanding pool of applicants from across the spectrum of fire and rescue services. He began his public safety career in Pittsburgh , Pennsylvania as a volunteer EMT, Crew Chief and training officer. He was the Disaster Action Team Leader for the American Red Cross of Allegheny County, Pa for several years. Since 1987, Executive Director Bernard has served the residents of Montgomery County as a volunteer firefighter and EMT with the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department. He has worked his way up through the ranks holding the positions of sergeant, lieutenant, secretary, director, vice president and since 2000 President and Chairman of the Board. |
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Chief Hinde New MCFRS Volunteer Division Chief - February 24, 2005 - County Executive Douglas Duncan announced today that RVFD's First Deputy Chief, William Alan Hinde, has been appointed as the new MCFRS Volunteer Division Chief. Please join us in congratulating Chief Hinde on his appointment and wishing him the best of success in this new position. We are extremely pleased that one of our own will be the leader of the County volunteer service, but at the same time saddened that he will not be able to continue as a chief officer for RVFD. I am sure, however, that he will continue to provide us with his experience, expertise and knowledge.
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Two Pin Jobs and Six Traumas Make For Busy Saturday Morning - February 19, 2005 - Rockville Volunteer Fire Department had a busy morning running traumas. Out of three separate incidents, Rockville volunteers sent a total of six patients to local hospital trauma centers - four by medivac and two by land - and ran two personal injury collisions with people pinned. At 0136 hours Rescue Squad 3, Medic 39 and Engine 31 responded to the intersection of Redland Road and Muncaster Mill Road, company 28's area, for the personal injury collision with one pinned. Rescue Squad 3 performed a sidewall removal and rolled the dash of one of the vehicles. In all three priority 2 traumas were flown by Maryland State Police Helicopters Trooper 3 and Trooper 8, and one trauma was taken by land to Suburban Hospital Trauma Center. |
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Frederick Road and College Parkway. Click on image for larger view |
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At 0528 hours Ambulance 38, Rescue Squad 3, and Engine 31 were dispatched to the intersection of Frederick Road and College Parkway for the personal injury collision. Rockville City Police arrived on the scene and reported a single car with a priority 1 patient pinned and a second priority 2 patient. Medic 39, Medic 239, Engine 231, and Truck 3 were added to the call. Rescue Squad 3 quickly removed the pinned priority 1 patient allowing her to be taken by Medic 39 to Shady Grove Adventist Hospital as a trauma code. The driver of the vehicle was flown as a priority 2 trauma by MSP Trooper 8 to a local trauma center. Later in the morning a fourth patient was flown to Children's Hospital in Washington, D.C. as a spinal trauma by MSP Trooper 2. |
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House Fire In Kensington - February 12, 2005 -
Rockville Volunteer Fire Department units responded to a house fire on
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Aerial Tower 23 Runs House Fire In Kensington - February 11, 2005 - Rockville Aerial Tower 23 responded to the 13600 block of Layhill Road for the task force assignment on the working house fire Friday night. Engine 181 arrived on the scene to reported heavy fire coming from the first and second floors of the structure. The initial arriving companies used a master stream to quickly knock down the fire, allowing crew to conduct an interior attack. The fire was contained and extinguished in less than an hour. |
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Early Evening Fire for Company 33 - February 10, 2005 - Companies 33, 23, and 3, Aerial Tower 26 and Rescue Squad 18, were dispatched to Devilwood Drive, box area 3303, for the reported fire in the attic of a single family home. Engine 331 and Ambulance 339 arrived first on the scene to report smoke showing. Engine 331 stretched a hand line to the second story of the split foyer, and made attack on the fire in the attic. Upon their arrival Aerial Tower 23 proceeded to throw ground ladders, check for extension, and ventilate the structure. Aerial Tower 26 and Engine 31 checked the roof. Chief 3-1 had command and Chief 3-3 had interior. |
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Second Alarm Fire in Gaithersburg - February 5, 2005 - At 2334 hours, Rockville Engine 311, Truck 31, and Chief 3-2 responded to the 18300 block of Lost Knife Circle, box area 0812, for the reported mattress on fire in apartment 303.Aerial Tower 8 arrived on the scene to report heavy fire showing from the third floor on side "C." Command immediately requested the second alarm, bringing Engine 31, Rescue Engine 33, Truck 3, Aerial Tower 23, and Chief 3-1. The fire, across the street from Lake Forest Shopping Mall, was controlled in approximately 20 minutes. |
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Third Rockville Volunteer Attends Training In Nevada - January 31, 2005 to February 3, 2005 - The Rockville Volunteer Fire Department sent its third volunteer to the Department of Energy's Responding to Terrorist Incidents in Your Community: Flammable-Liquid Fire Fighting Techniques for Municipal and Rural Firefighters at the University of Nevada, Reno Fire Science Academy in Elko, Nevada. This industrial fire training course was fully paid for by government scholarship, allowing over 50 firefighters from around the country to train together each session. |
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One Pinned On Southlawn Lane - January 29, 2005 - At 0045 hours, Medic 39, Rescue Engine 33, Wheaton Rescue Squad 29, and Engine 31 were dispatched to Southlawn Lane and Sounthlawn Court for the report of the personal injury collision with one pinned. Company 3 units arrived on the scene to find one priority 1 patient, one priority 2, two priority 3 patients, with a passenger pinned in the rear of one of the vehicles. Maryland State Helicopter Trooper 8, Truck 3, Medic 239, Ambulance 38, and Kensington Engine 251 were add to the call to assist with the multiple patients and the landing zone for the helicopter. |
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After the vehicle with one pinned was stabilized, Rescue Engine 33 began extrication. Their crew removed the roof of the car, performed a sidewall removal, and removed the drivers seat in order to free the patient. With the assistance of Rescue Squad 29 and Truck 3, all patients were removed quickly. The priority 1 trauma, transported by Trooper 8, and the priority 2 trauma, transported by Medic 39, were both taken to Suburban Hospital Trauma Center in Bethesda, Maryland, while the two priority 3 patients were taken by Ambulance 38 to Shady Grove Hospital. Engine 251 setup the landing zone for Trooper 8 and Chief 3-2 and Battalion Chief 3 also responded to the incident. |
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Three Alarm Apartment Fire In Twinbrook - January 27, 2005 - At 1334 hours, the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched to the 13100 block of Twinbrook Parkway, box area 2303, for the reported fire in apartment 101 of the Rock Creek Woods Apartments. Engine 231 arrived on the scene to find a working fire in a four story apartment building. Units encountered heavy fire conditions in two apartments on the second floor, three apartments on the third floor, and the attic. The fire quickly went to three alarms, bringing about 125 firefighters to the scene. Although firefighters initiated an aggressive interior attack, the volume of fire was too great and caused the roof to collapse. All personnel were forced to temporarily evacuate the structure until a ladder pipe operation was able to knock the fire back down. Crews were able to reenter the structure an extinguish the fire. Initial reports are that the fire started in the walls as workers were sweating pipes in the basement of the building. Damage from the fire is estimated at over $5 million. |
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First Alarm - Engines 231 and 31, Rescue Engine 33, Engine 51, Aerial Tower 23, Truck 3, Rescue Squad 18, Medic 239, and Battalion Chiefs 3 and 4. Safety Dispatch - Truck 25, Aerial Tower 18, and Ambulance 38. Second Alarm - Engines 251, 181, 331, and 201, Aerial Towers 26 and 51, Medic 259, and EMS1. Third Alarm - Engines 501, 281, 61, and 191, Truck 6, Rescue Squad 29, Ambulance 25, and Air 16. Other units from Rockville - Chief 3-3 and Utility 3 |
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Heavy Fire In Company 3's Area - January 21, 2005 - At 1630 hours, Rockville Volunteer Fire Department units were dispatched to a reported house on fire on Bowie Rd. in Rockville. As Chief 3-1 approached the scene, he could see a column of smoke indicating a working fire and asked for a safety dispatch. When he arrived on the scene with Rescue Engine 33, he reported heavy fire showing from sides "A" and "B" of the house. The fire apparently started in the utility room on side "B" of the house and extended into the first floor and second floor of the house. There was a simultaneous fire attack on the first and second floor of the house. After the initial knockdown, Aerial Tower 23 began to ventilate the building, by cutting a hole in the roof. Once ventilated, units reported additional fire showing under the eaves and around the chimney. Chief 3-1 requested a task force assignment. |
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The fire was quickly brought under control. The preliminary assessment by the fire investigators was combustibles too close to the hot water heater. There were no injuries. The interior of the house was a total loss with damages estimated at $425,000 for both structure and contents. Initial Assignment included Rockville Engine 31, Rescue Engine 33, Engine 231, Engine 331, Truck 3, Aerial Tower 23, Wheaton Rescue Squad 29, Rockville Ambulance 38, Chief 3-1 (Incident Command), Chief 3, Kensington Chief 5-4, Battalion Chiefs 3 and 4, EMS1 and Chief 200. The Safety included Kensington Engines 211 and 251, and Rockville Medic 39, while the Task Force brought Gaithersburg Engine 281, Rockville Engine 311, Kensington Aerial Tower 18, and Bethesda-Chevy Chase Air 1 |
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New International Links Page - January 19, 2005 - The Rockville Volunteer Fire Department would like to welcome its international visitors to rvfd.org. Since the rebuild of the site in 2004, we have noticed an increase in visitors from overseas. To date we have seen visitors from Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, India, Iran, Israel, Italy, Latvia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Switzerland, Thailand, United Kingdom, and Uruguay. To further recognize our friends from abroad, we are inviting all to send us a link to your department's or brigade's web site to be placed in our new International Links Page. |
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Attic Fire In Gaithersburg - January 15, 2005 - Rockville Volunteer Fire Department ran another fire in Gaithersburg tonight. At 1818 hours Engine 31, Rescue Engine 33, Truck 3 and Truck 31 were dispatched to the unit block of Standard Court, box area 0807, for the townhouse fire. Gaithersburg- Washington Grove Volunteer Fire Department Engine 81 arrived on scene with smoke showing from the roof of a two story townhouse. Upon stretching a handline into the structure, Engine 81 found fire in the attic. Truck 3 opened up the roof while Engine 81 extinguished the fire. Rockville and Gaithersburg firefighters were able to contain the fire to the townhouse of origin. Additional units from Rockville included Engines 311, Engine 231, Chief 3, and Chief 3-2. |
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Small Basement Fire Starts Morning For Rockville Firefighters - January 14, 2005 - At 0629 hours units from the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department were alerted to the 500 block of Palmsprings Drive, box area 0802, for the reported basement fire. Engine 81 arrived on the scene on side "A" with nothing evident, while Battalion Chief 5 established command and Engine 311 took the two out. Upon entry to the structure, Company 8 units found heavy smoke conditions throughout the two story townhouse. Engine 81 stretched a handline to the basement and attacked the fire while Engine 31 was assigned to assist them. The fire was quickly knocked and contained to the room of origin. Engine 31 assisted with overhaul and went in service shortly thereafter. Additional units from Rockville included Rescue Engine 33, Truck 3 and Truck 31, and Chief 3-3. |
Passing of Kensington VFD Deputy Chief Robert Tantardini - January 13, 2005 - The Rockville Volunteer Fire Department would like to send its condolences to the family and friends of Kensington Volunteer Fire Department Deputy Fire Chief Robert "BT" Tantardini. Bob was a twenty four year member of their department. Please visit www.kvfd.org for more information on arrangements. |
Auto Pinned Under Tractor Trailer - January 13, 2005 - At 0338 hours, Rockville Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched for the report of two pinned in a car under a tractor trailer.
Engine 231 arrived to find a two-door car wedged under the trailer of a tractor trailer, up against the trailer’s rear wheels. The passenger had self-extricated them self and was uninjured, while the driver was pinned by the roof. The roof of the vehicle was pushed down by the driver’s door, against the front of the rear wheels, and by the center console. The truck was crossing Rockville Pike at Old Georgetown Rd. The car was traveling north on Rockville Pike, at a high rate of speed, in dense fog, and run under the center of the trailer and became wedged against the rear wheels of the trailer, causing it to be dragged about 100 feet before the truck stopped.
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Second Floor Apartment Fire - January 12, 2005 - At 1544 hours Engine 31, Rescue Engine 33, and Truck 3 were dispatched for the possible electrical fire at 6 W. Deer Park Road, box area 0801. Company 8 units arrived on scene to find a working fire in a second floor apartment from workers sweating pipes. Engine 31 arrived to assume the two out responsibility while Rescue Engine 33 stretched a handline to division 3 and Truck 3 performed a search of division 3. Also dispatched was Engine 311 on the safety dispatch and Truck 31 on the Task Force. |
Second Alarm Townhouse Fire - January 10, 2005 - Rockville Volunteer Fire Department responded to a blaze that caused more than $700,000 damage to three units in a townhouse complex in Olney today. At 1729 hours Truck 3 was dispatched to the 17600 block of Longview Lane, box area 4007, for the reported dryer fire in the middle row townhouse. Sandy Spring Company 40 units arrived on scene to find a working fire that quickly engulfed the entire three story home. Starting in the basement, the fire spread to the roof, causing an exterior attack to called for and requiring a second alarm. Engines 31 and 231 as well as Rescue Engine 33 and Aerial Tower 23 responded on the second alarm. Even with more than 80 firefighters to battle the blaze, the townhouse suffered an estimated $550,000 damage. The two adjacent units were also damaged and preliminary estimates to those units is expected to top $150,000.
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Girl Trapped Between Concrete Slabs - January 3, 2005 - Units from the Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Urban Search & Rescue Team out of Rockville Station 31 were dispatched to the 18900 block of Watkins Mill Road this afternoon for the confined space rescue. Gaithersburg Truck 8 and Ambulance 87 arrived on the scene to find 12 year old female trapped between concrete slabs. The girl had been walking home from school when she fell down a slope in Blohm Park and became trapped. Truck 8 established a "Hot Zone" pending the arrival of USAR team members. The girl was rescued and transported by Maryland State Trooper Helicopter 8 to Children's Hospital in Washington, D.C. |
Afternoon Basement Fire - January 3, 2005 - At 1300 hours Engines 31 and 331, Rescue Engine 33, and Aerial Tower 31 were dispatched to the 200 block of Ridge Rd, box area 0807, for the reported house fire. Gaithersburg Engine 81 arrived on scene to find smoke showing and confirmed a working fire in the basement. Engine 31 arrived on scene second and assumed command. Engine 81 and Rescue Engine 33 both pulled a handline to the basement, while Engine 331 pulled a handline to the first floor to check for any extension. The fire was extinguished quickly and was contained to the basement. |
Multiple Traumas After Head On Collision - January 1, 2005 - At 1431 hours Rescue Engine 33 was dispatched to the 6500 block of Muncaster Mill Road, in front of the Redland Middle School, for the report of a personal injury collision with people pinned. Gaithersburg Engine 281 and Ambulance 289 arrived on scene to find no one pinned, however all three occupants of the two vehicles were traumas. Rescue Engine 33 was redirected to Redland Middle School to set up a landing zone for Maryland State Police Helicopter Trooper 2 and United States Park Police Helicopter Eagle 1, while Medic 39 was called to assist. Both priority 1 patients went with Eagle 1 - one to Children's Hospital and one to Medstar Trauma Center (Both on the same complex in Washington, D.C.). The priority 2 trauma went with Trooper 2 to Medstar Trauma Center. |
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