As you attend the 23rd Annual Harford County Farm Fair you will see members of your Harford County Volunteer Fire and EMS companies in attendance throughout the week to provide on site EMS care to injured or ill Farm Fair attendees, standby Fire and Rescue services during the Truck and Tractor Pulls, and Fire Police for traffic control along Tollgate Road. In addition,  members of the Harford County Volunteer Fire and EMS Companies will be staffing a tent along the promenade to talk with our citizens about the benefits of becoming a member of your local Volunteer Fire and EMS Company. Please look for these members and the HCVFEMS Association tent, stop and speak with them, and pick up information on your community First Responders.

As the month of June comes to an end, we find ourselves moving into the “heat” of the summer months. In Harford County, there are numerous natural attractions for the public to visit as part of their summer rituals. Water activities attract visitors to the Susquehanna, Gunpowder, and Bush Rivers, the Chesapeake Bay, as well as Winters Run and Deer Creek. The love of outdoor life finds groups, families, and individuals alike drawn to our campgrounds and other parks throughout the county. Hikers, climbers, and others enjoy the natural beauty of Rocks State Park and Kilgore Falls. Unfortunately, all too often, persons taking advantage of these outdoor attractions find themselves requiring assistance from emergency service providers of the Harford County Volunteer Fire and EMS Association (HCVFEMSA) member companies. The following are recent examples of the types of responses made by HCVFEMSA companies.
 
 
Thursday, May 20, 2010 -

On Thursday May 20th at 1715 hours the Norrisville Volunteer Fire Company (Company 10) along with the Harford County Volunteer Fire and EMS Association Technical Rescue Team (TRT) were dispatched for a citizen stuck on the cliff face of Kilgore Falls in Falling Branch Park. First arriving units found a 19 year old male who had free climbed about half way up the falls. This area is about 1 mile from any roadway and is only able to be accessed on foot or by ATV.He was uninjured however he was not able to climb up to the top or back down to the bottom on his own.

 
Units from the TRT arrived and met with the Incident Commander (Chief 10-1) for a briefing. The TRT then prepared for a high angle rescue. TRT members were able to rappel down the face of the falls to the victim where he was placed in a harness and lowered to the ground without incident. The subject refused further medical treatment or transport.
Company 10 would like to thank the Whiteford VFC for responding with Special Unit 688 (Gator), the Company 10 Support Services for cold drinks and the members of the Harford County Volunteer Fire and EMS Association Technical Rescue Team for their expertise in making this a safe and successful rescue. Units were on scene approximately 1 ½ hours. (Courtesy of Norrisville VFC, see www.nvfc10.org for photos)
 
 
Tuesday, May 25, 2010 -
At 2210 hours the Whiteford Volunteer Fire Company (Company 6) was dispatched for an injured patient in the 800 block of Federal Hill Road. Harford County Fire Dispatch advised Ambulance 691 that the patient had fallen from a tree stand in the woods. Information gathered by the 911 call taker also determined that emergency responders would have to travel an unknown distance through the woods to access the patient. Chief 6 (Incident Commander) requested Special Unit 688 (4 X 4 Gator) and Engine 611 to respond also. Whiteford VFC personnel were able to locate the patient about 1 mile from the roadway in the woods. The patient had fallen 30 feet from a tree stand ramp and was lying on a 12 degree slope. Patient assessment by EMS personnel determined that referral to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore was required. The Incident Commander requested a rescue assignment to assist with patient removal from the wooded area, which brought Rescue 751, Engine 714 (Jarrettsville Volunteer Fire Company) & Light Tower 6 to the scene and also Maryland State Police Aviation for patient transport. It was learned that the patient had been at this location since 1400 hours until he was discovered by friends. Crews quickly packaged the patient for transport and deployed a Z-rig rope system to assist with the slope evacuation. The patient was extricated from the site at 2311 hours and transported to Shock Trauma by MSP Trooper 1. (Courtesy of Whiteford VFC, see www.whitefordvfc.com for photos)

Units on scene:
Chief 6, Amb. 691, Utility 671, SU 688, Eng. 611, Utility 672, Light Tower 6, Eng 612
Rescue751, Eng. 714, Utility 1496 (HCVFEMS Foundation ALS)
 
 
 
Wednesday, June 23, 2010 -
On Wednesday June 23rd, around 1650 hours the Joppa Magnolia Volunteer Fire Company (Company 8) and surrounding fire departments became faced with a unusual type of rescue. A 19 year old male had jumped from a CSX railroad bridge in an attempt to cool off in the Gunpowder River near U.S. Route 40 and Joppa Farm Road. The patient landed on a large pole that was under water which became impaled in his abdomen. Responding EMS personnel rapidly assessed and treated the patient as fire suppression, water rescue, and Baltimore City H.E.A.T. Team members along with the Special Operations Chief of the Baltimore City Fire Department developed an action plan for extracting the patient. Maryland State Police Aviation Division (MSP) Trooper 1 was dispatched to perform a hoist rescue, as was MSP Trooper 6 to transport the patient. A landing zone was established at a nearby shopping center to accommodate the two aircraft, and the patient was transported by MSP helicopter to University of Maryland-Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore. (Courtesy of JMVFC)
 
Units on scene:
Engines 811, 814. Brush 842, Medics 892, 894. Utility 871 (Joppa Magnolia VFC)
Squad 483, Swift Water Team 48 (Kingsville VFC - Baltimore County).
MSP Trooper 1, Trooper 6.

http://wjz.com/video/?id=72056@wjz.dayport.com     




http://wjz.com/video/?id=72012@wjz.dayport.com


 
Saturday,  June 26, 2010 -

A swim with friends turned deadly for an Edgewood man at Rocks State Park in Northern Harford County on Saturday.

Around 3 p.m. the Jarrettsville Volunteer Fire Company, Harford County Volunteer Fire and EMS Association Technical Rescue Team (TRT), Maryland Department of Natural Resources Police (DNR), and other emergency responders were dispatched to the Deer Creek Rapids section of Rocks State Park off of Maryland Route 24 after a caller to Harford County 911 reported a drowning.

Phillip Randall Anders Jr., 31, of Edgewood, was swimming in the area with friends when he was overtaken by the water, according to Sgt. Art Windemuth, public information officer with DNR.

Anders was removed from the water and CPR was started. Emergency Medical Services personnel continued life saving efforts, but Anders was pronounced deceased after arrival at a local hospital.

"We're not sure why he ended up under the surface of the water," Windemuth said.

Windemuth said Anders was in a shallow area and it is not clear whether he got sucked under the surface of the falls, stuck on debris or some other scenario. During the rescue effort one emergency responder suffered a leg injury and was transported by ambulance to a local hospital for treatment. (Courtesy of The Aegis)

All of the officers and members of the Harford County Volunteer Fire and EMS Companies ask that our citizens use care when exploring the natural resources of Harford County. Whether boating, swimming, hiking, or camping please follow all established safe practices, rules and regulations, and never place yourself in a situation that you are not trained or prepared for. While the volunteer emergency responders in Harford County are trained, equipped, and prepared for incidents such as those reported above we hope that everyone is able to enjoy a safe and fun filled summer here in Harford County.

 

Open Burning Ban In Effect !!!!   Maryland Department of the Environment Imposes Area Wide Open Burning Ban.

The ban coincides with warmer weather when there is potential for poor air quality and drought. During hot, dry weather periods, Maryland’s forests and meadows are vulnerable to fires. These weather conditions can also cause poor air quality, especially for high concentrations of ozone pollution. To reduce the risk of fires and bad air episodes, the open burning ban will be imposed through September 1. The MDE ban is in effect in the following counties: Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Calvert, Carroll, Cecil, Frederick, Harford, Howard, Montgomery and Prince George’s. 

The ban restricts the open burning of leaves, yard debris, and trash to prevent smoke and emissions of volatile organic compounds, which can contribute to ozone formation. The local fire departments where the MDE ban is imposed see the benefits of the ban in preventing wild land fires.

The MDE ban does not apply to the outdoor cooking of food or to recreational campfires. However, the Maryland Forest Service or Department of Natural Resources may impose separate bans for open burning at parks and other woodlands if conditions necessitate a ban to protect woodlands. Preventing forest fires also protects air quality as smoke from wildfires contains fine particle matter with numerous chemicals and compound groups that can enter the lungs and pose a threat to human health.

The Maryland Department of the Environment is considering a proposal to ban open burning year-round and statewide to meet goals for particle pollution. Banning the burning of trash, leaves and wood debris prevents the release of soot and other air pollutants associated with open burning.

Burning regulations are enforced by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Violations carry fines up to $1000 and/or one year in prison. The landowner can be charged with all of the costs associated with extinguishing the fire. Even small campfires can cause wildfires if they are not fully extinguished. Soak the coals with lots of water and make sure they are out cold!

 As spring time arrives in Harford County, homeowners and others begin their annual yard clearing and maintenance projects. Often this results in property owners trying to use open burning to dispose of brush and other debris. Following are excerpts from information provided by our affiliated agencies. Please read and determine your responsibilities if you intend to use open burning to eliminate yard debris at your location.  

 Do I need a permit to do open air burning?   YES !!!

In Harford County open air burning permits are issued by the Health Department. All open burning must be done in accordance with Maryland Department of the Environment Air Quality Regulations, COMAR 26.11.07 and Code of Harford County, Section 109.12. To apply for a open burning permit call (410) 638-8437 or (410) 879-2404.

The following regulations for open air burning apply, after the permit is obtained:

1. Prior to the start of the burning call Fire Communications at (410) 638-3400.

2. At the completion of each days burning re-contact Fire Communications at (410) 638-3400.

3. No burning will be done during heavy overcast or other conditions which do not allow smoke to rise and disperse.

4. Burning should be controlled at all times, in a manner to prevent creating a nuisance.

5. The burner must comply with applicable Maryland Forest, Park and Wildlife Service Regulations.

6. The following materials may not be burned at any time:

• logs in excess of 12" in diameter.
• tree stumps in excess of 6" in diameter.
• any trash or garbage.
• any material that will produce a dense or toxic smoke. i.e. rubber tires, tar roofing materials and plastics.

The Maryland DNR Forest Service responds to an average of 660 wildfires that burn 3,600 acres annually. Nearly all wildfires in Maryland are started by people. Debris or open air burning is the leading wildfire cause in the state accounting for over 30% of wildfire starts.

 Open Burning Alternatives-

 Recycle !

 Compost leaves and yard waste.

 Deliver brush to approved Harford County disposal sites where it may   be ground into mulch.

 Larger wood can be used as firewood.


Burning Tips

• Don’t burn on windy days

• Have hand tools & water hose ready

• Never leave your fire unattended

• Burn at a safe distance from your house, shed, or other structures.

• Check for additional local and state regulations


 For additional regulations go to http://www.dsd.state.md.us/comar/SubtitleSearch.aspx?search=26.11.07.*

 

Maryland's Open Burning Ban-
In effect annually between June 1 and September 1.

As in past years, a seasonal open burning ban will be imposed in: Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Calvert, Carroll, Cecil, Charles, Frederick, Harford, Howard, Montgomery, and Prince George's counties and Baltimore City.

The ban includes the open burning that is primarily used as a form of disposal of certain waste materials by individuals, farmers, and developers.

The ban does not affect backyard barbecue grilling or open fires for recreational purposes, such as campfires. Public officers may authorize certain other types of fires.
 

 The purpose of all of the above regulations is to insure that citizens using open burning to dispose of brush and yard debris do so in a manner that provides safety to themselves, their community, and the environment. Too often these so-called "controlled burns" are allowed to become un-controlled and the results can be devastating. Please adhere to all requirements set forth by the various agencies having responsibility for the permitting of open air burning. 

 

As we turn our clocks ahead to begin Daylight Saving Time, the member companies of the Harford County Volunteer Fire and EMS Association urge all residents to also test your smoke alarms. Smoke alarms that are properly installed and maintained play a vital role in reducing fire deaths and injuries. Having a working smoke alarm cuts the chances of dying in a reported fire in half.

There are many recent improvements in smoke alarm technology that homeowners should be aware of. Consumers now have a choice between Ionization-Type Smoke Detectors and Photoelectric-Type Smoke Detectors. Ionization smoke detection is generally more responsive to flaming fires, while Photoelectric smoke detection is generally more responsive to fires that begin with a long period of smoldering (called "smoldering fires").Since you can not predict the type of fire you may have in your home or when it will occur, for best protection, it is recommended both (ionization and photoelectric) technologies be in homes.

Also available are Wireless Interconnected Smoke Alarms. In older homes that do not have hard wired interconnected smoke alarms, these devices afford a similar level of protection. If one smoke detector activates, all of the wireless interconnected smoke alarms in the residence will sound an alarm. Additional information is available on these devices at local home improvement stores or on the smoke alarm manufacturers web sites.

Much research has been performed on the ability of children and others to awaken to smoke alarms in an emergency. Due to the findings of this research, there are now smoke alarms with a recorded parental voice message that children may respond to quicker. Also, for those individuals suffering from hearing loss there are devices available which utilize strobe lights and tactile notification devices.

And where would we be without batteries to power these smoke alarms? Well, once again technology has been improved in this area also. Smoke alarms have a functional life of approximately 10 years, at which time the entire smoke alarm should be properly discarded and replaced with a new device. Now there are smoke alarms available with 10-year non-replaceable batteries so that regular testing is all that is required for the useful life of the alarm.

As you can see, smoke alarms have come a long way since their introduction into the home fire safety arena. Even though a 2008 survey found that 96% of U.S. households had at least one smoke alarm, in 2003-2006 no smoke alarms were present or none operated in two out of the five (41%) of the reported home fires. Also, almost two-thirds of reported home fire deaths in 2003-2006 resulted from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.

Smoke alarm installation and maintenance is not difficult, and your local Harford County Volunteer Fire and EMS Company will be glad to assist in providing and installing smoke alarms in your home. To contact any of the Harford County Volunteer Fire and EMS Companies click on the "Links" selection to the left to find the company closest to you.

Information for this article provided by and further information on smoke alarms available from       www.nfpa.org.

HEAVY RAIN, MELTING SNOWPACK COULD CAUSE FLOODING

Harford County Could Be Affected Over Weekend
 
             Heavy weekend rains, compounded by saturated ground may cause Harford County to be susceptible to flooding over the next several days. Areas forecasts are stating that Harford County may be impacted by several different types of flooding – flash flooding in narrow stream and creek valleys, river cresting near or above flood stage along major waterways, and tidal flooding, particularly along the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.
            “The Harford County Volunteer Fire and EMS Association members urge everyone to follow local weather forecasts and take appropriate steps if they are in areas subject to flooding. And most importantly, if you see standing water in a roadway, do not attempt to cross. As little as six inches of swift moving water can move a vehicle downstream.” stated HCVFEMSA President Albert (Cubby) Bair.
            Residents of affected areas should follow the instructions given by emergency officials. If told to evacuate, do so!
            Listen to radio or television for information or have a NOAA Weather Radio with a warning alarm tone and battery-back-up to receive warnings.
A Flash Flood or Flood Watch means that flash flooding or flooding is possible with the designated watch area. Citizens are advised to be alert.
A Flash Flood or Flood Warning means that flash flooding or flooding has been reported or is imminent and citizens are advised to take necessary precautions at once.      
An Urban and Small Stream Advisory means that flooding of small streams, streets and low-lying areas such as railroad underpasses and urban storm drains is occurring.
If you receive a flash flood warning, you may have only seconds to take the following actions:

• Get out of the area subject to flooding. This includes dips, low spots, canyons and washes.
• Avoid already flooded and high or rapidly flowing areas. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO     CROSS FLOWING STREAMS.
• If driving, be aware that the road bed may not be intact under flood waters. TURN       AROUND AND GO ANOTHER WAY! NEVER DRIVE TROUGH FLOODED          ROADWAYS!
• If the vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground. Rapidly rising water     may engulf the vehicle and its occupants and sweep them away. Remember, it is better to be wet than dead.
• Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.
• Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening weather conditions.
• If you come to a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, STOP, TURN AROUND AND GO ANOTHER WAY!

 
Remember, if you see standing water in a roadway, DO NOT attempt to cross. TURN AROUND, DON’T DROWN!
 
        The Harford County Volunteer Fire & EMS Association wants to inform the citizens of Harford County that if they experience a flooded basement or any water infiltration in their home, DO NOT call 911 for this matter. This does not constitute an emergency condition. However, IF the water coming in the residence threatens any utilities or the structural integrity of the home then call 911 and the situation will be handled as a high priority. Please be aware that the volunteer fire and EMS companies in Harford County will possibly be inundated with other calls for service that are of a higher priority. Please be patient and remember to be prepared for any storm related circumstances that might arise.

 
 
Here are steps residents can take in advance to prepare for floods:
·        Move furniture and valuables to higher floors as floodwater rise.
·        Keep the car gas tank filled in case you need to evacuate.
·        Make sure that any important document – especially insurance documents – are kept in a dry place.
 
Here are steps to take after flooding has already occurred:
·        Do not eat or drink anything that has come into contact with flood water.
·        Follow emergency officials' instructions on safe water consumption. You may have to boil your water.
·        Clean and have electrical equipment checked before using.
·        Report broken utilities to the proper authorities.
·        NEVER play around high water, storm drains, downed utility lines, etc.
·        Use flashlights, not an open flame like a candle. Candles are a fire hazard and could cause an explosion if it comes into contact with flammable gases.
·        Watch out for snakes and other "stray" animals. Water will cause snakes to come out of the ground with nowhere to go. Many other animals may be abandoned and lost. Never kill snakes or other animals as they will eventually lead to a rodent problem.
·        Remember, floodwaters sometimes take days to rise, even when the sun is shining. It can take days for floodwaters to make their way downstream. Don't underestimate the power and speed in which flood waters can rise and destroy everything in its path.
·        As people start cleaning up the mess left by the flooding, emergency officials urge them to take extra precautions to protect their own health and safety. Health officials recommend that anyone who has suffered any kind of wound while cleaning up storm damage consider contacting his or her health care provider. Tetanus shots are good for up to ten years.
·        Renters and homeowners should assume that anything touched by floodwater is contaminated and will have to be disinfected or thrown away. Mud left by floodwater may contain chemicals from sources as varied as your garden chemicals to a neighbor’s septic tank to the oven cleaner you stored in the kitchen. It is important to clean everything touched by floodwaters as quickly as possible.
·        Don’t let floodwater sit for long. Use a mop, squeegee, or wet/dry vacuum cleaner to remove standing water. Remove as much mud as possible. Plan to disinfect the basement at a later date. Once you’ve checked the water system for leaks, hose down the inside of the house and its contents. It’s best to use an attachment that sprays soap to wash and rinse the walls, floors, furniture, sockets, electrical boxes and other major items that got muddy.
·        Flood victims should separate out flood damaged chemical wastes and not dispose of them with other waste materials. Improper disposal may further threaten the quality of drinking water supplies. Products that should be set aside from other debris for proper disposal include waxes and polishes, caustic cleaners, fertilizers, oils, pesticides and aerosols.
·        Wear rubber boots and waterproof gloves during cleanup. Always wash your hands with soap and clean water after working in the area.
·        Clean all walls, hard-surface floors and other household surfaces with soap and water and disinfect them with a solution of one cup of bleach to five gallons of water. Pay particular attention to areas that come in contact with food, or where small children play. After cleaning a room or item, go over it again with disinfectant to kill germs and odors left by floodwaters.
·        When using household cleaners, disinfectants and bleach, always follow directions. Be sure to read the labels and be aware of any caution or danger warnings. Never mix household bleach with other cleaning agents.
·        Use a two-bucket method when cleaning. Put cleaning solution in one bucket and rinse water in the other. Replace rinse water frequently.
·        Remove and discard contaminated household goods such as wall coverings, rugs, cloth and drywall that can't be disinfected. When in doubt, throw it out.
·        Remove mildew with household mildew cleaner; a mixture of five tablespoons washing soda or tri-sodium phosphate to a gallon of water or 1/4 cup of laundry bleach to a gallon of water.
&middo...  [  more  ]  

The Harford County Department of Emergency Operations has made available several methods for citizens to stay informed of emergencies and other events which may impact your safety, welfare, or routes of travel throughout Harford County.

Connect-CTY is a service by which the Department of Emergency Operations will notify citizens directly of events affecting certain areas of Harford County. This service will contact  land-line phones, cell phones, or other devices when events occur in your area. To sign up for Connect-CTY notifications click on "Links" in the left column of this page and look for the Harford County Emergency Operations Center. Then click on the icon for "Sign Up Now/ CONNECT-CTY" on their website.

The Harford County Department of Emergency Operations has also begun posting a direct link to active emergency incidents that may have an effect on traffic conditions in Harford County. This feature is reached at http://pwc.harfordpublicsafety.org/publicwebcad.  There is a direct link to this in the Links section of the HCVFEMSA website.  

Please check out these informative links and use them to increase your safety and knowledge of emergency incidents and events throughout Harford County.     

As the region was struck by back to back winter storms prompting blizzard warnings for Harford County, heavy snow and high winds presented numerous challenges for the members of the Harford County Volunteer Fire and EMS Association companies. Impassable roads, driveways, and sidewalks created by the large snow accumulations required additional resources to be committed to each and every call to insure that EMS personnel could reach our citizens and remove patients needing transport to hospitals. Firefighters were required to struggle while advancing hoselines and equipment through deep snow to reach structures when responding to calls. For almost a week our Volunteers continued to encounter these obstacles and challenges while answering emergency calls throughout Harford County. Through it all, the members of the twelve Volunteer Fire and EMS companies of the HCVFEMSA responded to the needs of our customers- the citizens of Harford County.

As this latest winter storm winds down Harford County citizens and businesses are moving into the recovery phase. The tasks performed while recovering from a storm of this magnitude can present many hazards to the safety of those involved. These hazards range from slips and falls, to traumatic injuries while using snow blowers and other machinery, to health issues from overexertion. Do not use any machinery that you are not familiar with and only use devices for their intended purpose while following the manufacturer’s instructions. Use caution when driving and walking on icy or snow covered surfaces. Remember- snow removal is a physically demanding task! If you are not capable of severe physical activity seek assistance from friends, relatives, and neighbors to remove the accumulated snow or other debris from these storms.  
 
In addition, Harford County Volunteer Fire and EMS personnel along with crews from other agencies have been responding to calls for occupied snowbound vehicles and structural collapses throughout the county. Many roads are still impassable and may remain so for several days. Do not attempt to drive into or through snow drifts. Travel should be limited to essential needs only as highway crews are working 24/7 to clear roads as expeditiously as possible and need to be unimpeded by vehicle traffic at this time. If your building or structure has a flat roof you need to pay particular attention to the structural integrity of the building at this time. This also includes structures such as decks, porches, and carports. Look for doors and windows that have shifted or do not open and close properly. Cracks in walls or supporting members such as rafters and beams are signs of impending collapse. Any unusual noises (creaking or cracking sounds) from structural supports could be indicators of an overloaded condition. If you believe your structure is in danger of collapse you should evacuate the building immediately and call 911. If you have a structure that has suffered a collapse it should be reported to the Emergency Operations Center at 410-838-5800.
 
Recovery from these back to back winter storms will take several days. Please use safe practices at all times during this period. Injuries and fires can be prevented if basic safety guidelines are followed. Your Harford County Volunteer Fire and EMS personnel have been, and will be here working along with the multitude of other public agencies to respond to the needs of the citizens of Harford County during this difficult time. Help us to help our citizens by limiting your risk and being safe!

As of 1600 hrs Wednesday, February 10 the following Harford County Volunteer Fire & EMS Companies have opened their stations as warming centers for the public.

Aberdeen Volunteer FD  21 N. Rogers Ave. in Aberdeen

Darlington Volunteer Fire Co. 2600 Castleton Rd. in Darlington

Fallston Volunteer Fire & Amb. Co    2201 Carrs Mill Rd. in Fallston

Bel Air Volunteer Fire Co.  109 S. Hickory Ave. in Bel Air

Norrisville Volunteer Fire Co. 2134 Harkins Rd. in Norrisville

Currently their are about 240 power outages within the county. Utility companies have restored power to over 15,000 customers in Harford County throughout the storm today. Residents are encouraged to go to any of the above fire houses to get warm. Any questions can be referred to the Harford County EOC 410-838-5800.

For the second time in four days Harford County is experiencing a winter storm with heavy snow accumulations. The forecast also calls for high winds leading to near-blizzard conditions and blowing, drifting snow. The Harford County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is again staffed and operating to coordinate the efforts of the Harford County Volunteer Fire and EMS companies and other public agencies to provide assistance to the citizens of Harford County throughout this severe weather event.
 
As in past storms there are fire and life safety concerns that the Harford County Volunteer Fire and EMS Association companies want to inform our citizens of to avoid injury and loss during this period. In prior stories on this website we have discussed generator safety, alternate home heating devices, downed power lines, carbon monoxide poisoning hazards, and other safety issues. Please review the past posts to review the safety guidelines when encountering these situations.
 
These back to back major snow storms will present additional, unusual hazards not previously encountered by the public and responding emergency personnel. One of the primary concerns with this second storm is the extreme accumulation of snow on roofs of buildings of all types. Several roofs and structures throughout the region have already collapsed from the weight of the snow. Remember- It is extremely dangerous to attempt to clear snow off of rooftops. There have been serious injuries to individuals trying to remove snow from rooftops. Only trained personnel with appropriate equipment should attempt to remove snow from rooftops. Please see the attached press release from Harford County Executive David Craig related to this.
 
The high winds forecasted to accompany this storm will lead to white-out conditions on the roadways and the potential for downed trees, utility poles, and power lines. These conditions make emergency responses by Fire and EMS units extremely difficult. Several emergency responses in the greater Baltimore region have been affected by the recent snow storm and road conditions. Your Harford County Volunteer Fire and EMS personnel urge all citizens to stay fire and injury free during this period of severe weather.
 
To report non-emergency storm related concerns to the EOC please call 410- 838-5800.

Harford County, along with the entire the Mid-Atlantic region is under the effects of a record breaking snow storm. Harford County Volunteer Fire & EMS Companies, other public safety agencies, and the Maryland National Guard (MNG) are working together to respond to the needs of the citizens of Harford County. Your Volunteer Fire and EMS companies have responded to several structure fires, weather related incidents, and numerous medical emergencies since the beginning of the storm on Friday. MNG Humvees are currently assisting EMS crews to reach and transport patients on emergency calls. This snow is extremely heavy. Individuals who are at risk for cardiac or other stress related ailments or are  not physically able should not attempt to shovel this snowfall.  

The Harford County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) has been opened and is staffed by representatives of several agencies. Citizens may report non-emergency storm related needs to the EOC by calling 410-838-5800. Click on the links with this story to see weather related information from Harford County and also a press release from County Executive David Craig.

Other fire and life safety concerns related to this snow storm include downed utility lines, emergency generator use, and alternate heat source hazards. Citizens may call Harford County 911, or BGE at 410-685-0123 or 1-800-685-0123 to report unsafe conditions such as wires down. Avoid damaged or downed wires, trees, and standing water. Keep pets and children away from them as well. Always assume downed lines are energized. If you see a downed wire, do not attempt to get close to it and never touch downed wires. If possible, advise others to stay away as well. Also, a link to information on safe generator use is provided here for your convenience. Please keep safety at the forefront throughout the storm recovery efforts at your home, in your community, and throughout Harford County.

Applications are now being accepted for the 2010-2011 school year Fire fighter Cadet Program. Students who will be seniors (due to graduate in 2011) at Harford County High Schools are eligible for inclusion in this program. Click on the link at left for the Cadet High School Program for additional information.

During this time of snow and cold weather, the member companies of the Harford County Volunteer Fire & EMS Association remind everyone to follow these important safety tips to avoid fires or burn injuries.

Smoke Detectors - Install a smoke alarm on at least every level of the home or building, preferably in every room. Test your smoke alarm batteries every month and change the batteries at least once a year. New technology has greatly improved smoke alarms and detectors for home use. Smoke detectors have shown to have a useful life of ten years. Now detectors are on the market with a long-life (10 year) battery sealed in the unit. As the useful life of the detector expires, the homeowner simply discards the old detector and installs a new unit. The only maintenance is a monthly test of the unit. Also, for older homes without hardwired detectors there are now wireless interconnected detectors available. When multiple detectors of this type are installed in the home remote areas can be protected. When one detector activates they will all sound an alarm.
 

Alternate Home Heating - Never use a range or oven to heat a home or building. These appliances are not designed for long term or continuous use. In addition, toxic carbon monoxide gas can be produced by these devices. Space heater use must be monitored at all times.  Never leave an operating space heater unattended. Be sure to allow at least three feet of clear space all the way around the heater so that combustible items do not ignite.  Make sure the space heater has an emergency shut-off in case it tips over.  Follow all manufacturers guidelines especially in the use of the recommended fuel for any space heater.  Never refuel the space heater indoors. Always refuel them away from the house and never refill it while it is operating or still hot. Electric space heaters must be connected directly to a wall receptacle. Never use extension cords or any type of multi-plug outlet for these devices. 

Make sure wood stoves are properly installed and away from combustible surfaces.  They need to have proper floor support and adequate ventilation.  Never use flammable liquids (such as gasoline) to start or accelerate the fire. Make sure that your chimney is professionally inspected annually and cleaned if necessary. The use of a glass or metal screen in front of a fireplace to prevent sparks from igniting carpets or furniture nearby is essential. Dispose of hot ashes in metal containers placed away from the house or building. Never use a combustible container (e.g.- paper bag, cardboard box, or plastic pail) to dispose of the ashes, no matter how long after the fireplace or stove has been used. And never place the ashes or their container on a deck or in your garage. 
 

Additional Tips -  Be sure to keep the fire hydrant near a home or business clear of snow for easy access by firefighters. This can save precious moments during an emergency after the snow plows have been through your neighborhood. Practice your family Exit Drills In The Home. The family meeting place you selected in good weather may not be accessible after a snow event. Also remember when clearing snow, to clear a path from all the exits from your home.

These are just a few safety reminders for everyone to follow to help stay safe and warm during cold weather. For additional information contact your nearest Harford County Volunteer Fire & EMS Company.

As we continue through the winter holiday seasons, Christmas Tree Fire Safety becomes one of the primary topics that your Harford County Volunteer Fire and EMS Association member companies need to discuss with our communities. U.S. fire departments annually respond to several hundred structure fires caused by Christmas trees. Nearly half of them are caused by electrical problems, and one in four resulted from a heat source that’s too close to the tree. You can help to insure a fire safe Christmas in your home by using only Christmas tree lights that carry the label of an independent testing laboratory, and make sure you know whether they are designed for indoor or outdoor use. Replace any string of lights that have worn or broken cords, or loose bulb connections. Connect no more than three strands of mini-string sets and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs.. Always turn off or unplug the lights before leaving home or going to bed. Never  use lit candles to decorate a tree.

If you have an artificial tree, be sure it’s labeled, certified or identified by the manufacturer as fire-retardant. If you choose a fresh tree, make sure the green needles don’t fall off when touched; before placing it in the stand, cut 1-2” from the base of the trunk. Add water to the tree stand, and be sure to water it daily.

Make sure your tree is not blocking an exit, and is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, space heaters, radiators, candles and heat vents or lights. After Christmas, get rid of the tree. Dried-out trees are a fire hazard and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside the home. Check with your refuse hauler or local municipality as to the proper procedures for pick up and disposal of your tree.

By taking these preventative steps and following simple rules of thumb, most home fires can be prevented during the holidays and beyond. For further information on Christmas Tree fire safety, and other winter and holiday fire safety topics contact your nearest Harford County Volunteer Fire and EMS Association Company or go to www.nfpa.org/holiday.