Journalist @baltimoresun writer artist runner #amwriting Chaplain PIO #partylikeajournalist

Journalist @baltimoresun writer artist runner #amwriting Chaplain PIO #partylikeajournalist
Journalist @baltimoresun writer artist runner #amwriting Md Troopers Assoc #20 & Westminster Md Fire Dept Chaplain PIO #partylikeajournalist
Showing posts with label Public Safety Carroll Co Emerg Resp. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Public Safety Carroll Co Emerg Resp. Show all posts

Wednesday, June 12, 2013

Westminster Maryland Online: MEMA urges Md residents to prepare for potential severe weather Wed & Thurs

Westminster Maryland Online: MEMA urges Maryland residents to prepare for poten...: MEMA urges Maryland residents to prepare for potential severe weather Wednesday and Thursday http://kevindayhoffwestgov-net.blogspot.co...

 MEMA urges Maryland residents to prepare for potential
severe weather Wednesday and Thursday http://kevindayhoffwestgov-net.blogspot.com/2013/06/mema-urges-maryland-residents-to.html

Labels: Public Safety, Public Safety Carroll Co Emerg Resp, Public Safety Emerg Resp safety, Weather, Weather Carroll County, Weather Maryland

REISTERSTOWN, MD June 12, 2013– With forecasters predicting a high risk for severe weather over the next two days, the Maryland Emergency Management Agency is urging residents to be prepared for strong storms that might affect the area. Although much of Maryland has a chance of thundershowers today, the National Weather Service says the greatest risk for severe weather in the state will be on Thursday.

            Residents are reminded to:

·                 Make sure cell phones and other portable devices are fully charged and consider purchasing and charging spare batteries.

·                 Have a disaster supply kit with bottled water, non-perishable food (with a hand-operated can opener), a first aid kit, portable radio and flashlight with extra batteries, toiletries, special items needed for pets or infants, prescription medicine, a change of clothes and bedding. The kit will be helpful if you have to evacuate quickly or if you are without power.

·                 Keep some cash available in case ATM machines are not available.

·                 Have copies of important documents such as home and property insurance policies, driver’s licenses, health insurance cards, etc.
·                 Know where you would meet other members of your family if your home is not safe.

·                 Remember that in the immediate aftermath of a serious event, wireless communications systems may be overloaded. Text family members to let them know you are safe so voice calls for emergency agencies can go through.

Follow local weather forecasts in your area for the next two days to learn if there are any warnings in your specific area and take appropriate actions.

The following websites have preparedness information for severe storms and other emergencies:

Maryland Emergency Management Agency: www.mema.maryland.gov. 

MEMA also is on Twitter @MDMEMA and you may follow us on Facebook.

Federal Emergency Management Agency: www.ready.gov

American Red Cross: www.redcross.org

Centers for Disease Control: www.cdc.gov
# # #
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Kevin Dayhoff is an artist - and a columnist for:
Kevin Dayhoff's The New Bedford Herald: http://kbetrue.livejournal.com/ = www.newbedfordherald.net
Tumblr: Kevin Dayhoff Banana Stems www.kevindayhoff.tumblr.com/
Smurfs: http://babylonfluckjudd.blogspot.com/
Google profile: https://profiles.google.com/kevindayhoff/
E-mail: kevindayhoff(at)gmail.com
My http://www.explorecarroll.com/ columns appear in the copy of the Baltimore Sunday Sun that is distributed in Carroll County: https://subscribe.baltsun.com/Circulation/

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Kevin Dayhoff is an artist - and a columnist for:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/kevindayhoffTwitpic: http://twitpic.com/photos/kevindayhoff
Kevin Dayhoff's The New Bedford Herald: http://kbetrue.livejournal.com/ = www.newbedfordherald.net

 Tumblr: Kevin Dayhoff Banana Stems www.kevindayhoff.tumblr.com/
Smurfs: http://babylonfluckjudd.blogspot.com/
Google profile: https://profiles.google.com/kevindayhoff/

 E-mail: kevindayhoff(at)gmail.com
My http://www.explorecarroll.com/ columns appear in the copy of the Baltimore Sunday Sun that is distributed in Carroll County: https://subscribe.baltsun.com/Circulation/
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Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Kevin Dayhoff Explore Carroll: Firefighters battle fire and ice in two-alarm Westminster blaze

Firefighters battle fire and ice in two-alarm Westminster blaze

Units across county help in fighting house fire

By Kevin Dayhoff
kevindayhoff@gmail.com
Posted 1/09/11  http://www.explorecarroll.com/news/5063/firefighters-battle-fire-ice-two-alarm-westminster-blaze/

Area firefighters had their hands full Saturday afternoon as they battled the winter weather and lack of water at a two-alarm blaze north of Westminster.

The fire was called in to the Carroll County emergency operations center at 1:30 p.m.  When units from the Westminster Fire Engine and Hose Co. No. 1 arrived at 1:42 p.m., the two-story 3,500-square-foot house in the 1000 block of Phyllis’s Reward Drive, just north of Westminster, showed heavy black smoke, according to Bob Cumberland, Westminster Fire Department president and public information officer.

Shortly after arriving on the scene, incident commander Lt. Josh Evans requested a tanker task force and Rapid Intervention Dispatch to battle.

A second alarm was sounded. The rural location of the home, outside of available hydrants, presented firefighters with constant water supply issues.

The freezing cold, light snow on the ground, along with the water being used on the fire freezing on the ground, made matters worse.

The Carroll County roads crews assisted by salting the ground to help with the ice. Nearby neighbors, Dale and Teresa Fletcher, opened their home – and their garage -- for firefighters to set up a relief station for the 80 to 100 firefighters from three counties to periodically take refuge in shifts.

More than 40 pieces from every fire station in Carroll, except Harney, fought the blaze.  Harney provided back-up services, while units from Baltimore County and York and Adams counties, Pa., also assisted...  http://www.explorecarroll.com/news/5063/firefighters-battle-fire-ice-two-alarm-westminster-blaze/
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Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Westminster home on Cranberry Road damaged by fire

Westminster home on Cranberry Road damaged by fire

By Kevin Dayhoff

It took over 40 firefighters from Carroll and Adams County to control a house fire on North Cranberry Road in Westminster Monday afternoon.

The fire was quickly brought under control before it caused extensive damage to a very old brick farmhouse as firefighters had to contend with freezing temperatures and wind.

The first alarm rang-out at approximately 2:21 p.m. as central alarm dispatched units for a working house fire, according to Westminster Fire Engine and Hose Company No. 1 public information officer Robin Stansbury and fire department chief Jim Bangerd.

Upon arrival, firefighters found heavy smoke and fire in the rear of the residence and requested a “working fire dispatch” for additional fire suppression units to arrive.  Additional fire suppression units from Westminster, Reese, Pleasant Valley, Manchester, Hampstead, and Littlestown, Pa., quickly responded. 

The fire declared under control at 2:43 p.m.  Firefighters and equipment remained on the scene for another hour for clean-up and to assist the Maryland fire marshal’s investigation.

One of the two occupants of the residence was home at the time of the fire, according to Stansbury.  The Red Cross was called to provide assistance to the occupants of the home.

The fire remains under investigation by the Maryland State Fire Marshall’s office.

For more information please see a report on the Westminster Fire Engine and Hose Company No. 1 website – here: http://www.westminstervfd.org/ or Carroll County Times article by Ryan Marshall here: http://www.carrollcountytimes.com/news/local/article_aab0d6a6-07fc-11e0-a6dd-001cc4c002e0.html and here: http://www.carrollcountytimes.com/news/local/article_5729d066-0741-11e0-96a1-001cc4c03286.html

*****
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Monday, April 19, 2010

Three flown to shock trauma after Route 140 accident in Westminster

Three flown to shock trauma in Route 140 accident

April 17, 2010 By Kevin Dayhoff

An accident at 8:23 Friday evening at Route 140 and Gorsuch Road in Westminster resulted in several people hurt.

Two Maryland State Police medevac helicopters landed in the westbound lane of Route 140 and three individuals were flown to the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center with unknown injuries.

Route 140 was closed for over an hour as emergency rescue personnel from the Maryland State Police, the Westminster Police Department, Westminster, Reese, Pleasant Valley, and Winfield Volunteer Fire Departments responded with multiple pieces of equipment including five medic units, a heavy rescue unit, and several engines.

When the first units arrived on the scene, they found that a Jeep and a Ford sedan had collided at the busy intersection leaving two individuals trapped. The occupants of the Jeep were unhurt.

Extrication procedures were immediately implemented as additional units were called to the scene.

Scores of onlookers crowded the parking lots of the Olive Garden and McDonalds to witness the hard work of the emergency responders and the rescue.

About a dozen fire, medical and rescue personnel swarmed over the vehicle in an intermittent drizzle to quickly free the trapped individuals with specialized equipment including the Jaws of Life as they removed a large portion of the side of the sedan.

According to Westminster Fire Department spokesperson Robin Stansbury, the cause of the accident has yet to be determined and the condition of those injured was not available.

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Saturday, March 13, 2010

Heavy Rain, Melting Snowpack Could Cause Flooding

Heavy Rain, Melting Snowpack Could Cause Flooding


http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/2010/03/heavy-rain-melting-snowpack-could-cause.html

http://kbetrue.livejournal.com/307846.html

Below is a news release from the Maryland Emergency Management Agency concerning anticipated flooding tonight and tomorrow. Please consider sharing this information. There is a list of useful tips that follows the release.

HEAVY RAIN, MELTING SNOWPACK COULD CAUSE FLOODING

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 12, 2010

All parts of Maryland could be affected over weekend

REISTERSTOWN, MD (March 12, 2010) – Heavy weekend rains, compounded by saturated ground and, in some parts of the state, heavy snowpack still on the ground, is leaving all of Maryland susceptible to flooding over the next several days. Different areas of the state likely will be impacted by different types of flood – 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.

“Flooding is one of the most dangerous hazards facing Maryland residents,” said Richard Muth, executive director of the Maryland Emergency Management Agency. “I 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.”

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!

MEMA also reminds those who want to volunteer to assist first responders in flood areas that they should NOT self-deploy. You should only respond if you are part of an organization trained in emergency response and/or recovery AND you have been requested either through normal mutual aid assignments or by an official request from the local emergency management office.

For more information about the particular flood issues in you area, contact you local emergency management office.

Attached to this release is a list of things to do before a storm hits and what to do after a flood strikes. Additional information can be found on MEMA’s web site at www.mema.state.md.us/MEMA/content_page.jsp?TOPICID=floods
or at http://www.floodsmart.gov/.

# # #

CONTACT: Ed McDonough, MEMA Public Information Officer, 410-517-3632 (desk) or 410-446-3333 (cell)

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.

Empty standing water out of birdbaths, tires, flowerpots and other containers.

If the pilot light on your natural gas furnace, hot-water heater or stove goes out, have it re-lit by a professional.

For more information, a joint publication of the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the American Red Cross is available. For a free copy of “Repairing Your Flooded Home,” write FEMA Publications, P.O. Box 70274, Washington, DC 20024, or call 1-800-480-2520.

###

20100312 PR March Flooding 3-12-10

*****

Kevin Dayhoff Soundtrack: http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/ = http://www.kevindayhoff.net/ Kevin Dayhoff Art: http://kevindayhoffart.blogspot.com/ or http://kevindayhoffart.com/ = http://www.kevindayhoff.com/ Kevin Dayhoff Westminster: http://kevindayhoffwestgov-net.blogspot.com/ or http://www.westgov.net/ = www.kevindayhoff.org Twitter: https://twitter.com/kevindayhoff Twitpic: http://twitpic.com/photos/kevindayhoff Kevin Dayhoff's The New Bedford Herald: http://kbetrue.livejournal.com/ = www.newbedfordherald.net Explore Carroll: www.explorecarroll.com The Tentacle: www.thetentacle.com

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Monday, February 15, 2010

Donations to help the Sykesville Fire Dept rebuild


Donations to help the Sykesville Fire Dept rebuild

R.I.P Station 12! South Side Pride!

Donations to help the Sykesville Fire Dept rebuild…

Donations of cash or checks to help the company rebuild can be sent to Sykesville Freedom District Fire Department Inc., P.O. Box 275, Sykesville, MD 21784.

Photos from Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Eldersburg-MD/RIP-Station-12-South-Side-Pride/326355621843?ref=mf&v=wall#!/album.php?aid=184527&id=326355621843

For more information about the fire see: Explore Carroll Sykesville fire hall destroyed by Schelle - - “Sykesville fire hall destroyed in roof collapse and blaze - Weight of snow triggers roof collapse, which ignites blaze” By Charles Schelle cschelle@patuxent.com Posted http://www.explorecarroll.com/news/3947/sykesville-fire/ 2/14/10

20100214 sdosm Donations to help Sville Fire Dept rebuild Fire CC Depts 12 Sykesville, Public Safety Carroll Co Emerg Resp, Weather Winter, Weather Winter Snow

Carroll County Government Press Releases Update: Sykesville fire hall damaged by roof collapse fire http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/2010/02/carroll-county-government-press.html
*****

Kevin Dayhoff Soundtrack: http://www.kevindayhoff.net/ Kevin Dayhoff Art: http://www.kevindayhoffart.com/ Kevin Dayhoff Westminster: http://www.westgov.net/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/kevindayhoff Twitpic: http://twitpic.com/photos/kevindayhoff Kevin Dayhoff's The New Bedford Herald: http://kbetrue.livejournal.com/
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Thursday, February 11, 2010

Carroll County Government Press Releases Update: Sykesville fire hall damaged by roof collapse fire

Sykesville fire hall damaged by roof collapse, fire

February 11, 2010
Contact:
Vice President David Kreimer
Cell Phone #443-392-0823

Sykesville, MD (1:45 p.m.) – Weight from heavy snow collapsed the roof of the Sykesville Freedom District Fire Department’s social hall this morning. The collapse broke a gas line, sparking a blaze that destroyed that wing of the building. No fire apparatus was damaged, and no one was injured. Sleeping quarters, administrative offices, and the bingo hall were affected by the collapse and fire. Damage totals are not yet available.

Crews from four counties – Carroll, Baltimore, Howard and Frederick –are still on the scene to assist. Responding to the three-alarm blaze were approximately 200 firefighters and more than 50 pieces of equipment from approximately two dozen companies. The roof collapse was reported at 7:57 a.m. BGE crews were able to shut down the gas line around noon.

Sykesville-Freedom Co. 12 will continue to operate from the station. In fact, service in the Sykesville/Eldersburg area was not interrupted during the incident. Temporary housing will be established for the volunteers. Donations of cash or checks to help the company rebuild can be sent to Sykesville Freedom District Fire Department Inc., P.O. Box 275, Sykesville, MD 21784. Because of limited storage capacity, please do not donate supplies unless requested.

# # #

20100211 sdsom Carroll Co Govt PR Sykesville fire hall damaged Fire CC Depts 12 Sykesville, Public Safety Carroll Co Emerg Resp, Weather Winter, Weather Winter Snow
*****
Kevin Dayhoff Soundtrack: http://www.kevindayhoff.net/ Kevin Dayhoff Art: http://www.kevindayhoffart.com/ Kevin Dayhoff Westminster: http://www.westgov.net/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/kevindayhoff Twitpic: http://twitpic.com/photos/kevindayhoff Kevin Dayhoff's The New Bedford Herald: http://kbetrue.livejournal.com/
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Sykesville MD fire hall roof has collapsed and is on fire

According to multiple sources including https://twitter.com/sfaulstich on Twitter, the Sykesville Fire Company social hall has collapsed and the building is on fire.

Ms. Faulstich reported that the incident began at 8:40 or so?

She reported at approximately 9:40 a.m. “#Sykesville VFD engulfed - 3 counties assisting”

Fire companies from Baltimore, Carroll, Frederick County Md and Littlestown PA are on scene and battling the blaze.

At 11:22 a.m. the fire was reported to be continuing to progress into the main structure. Meanwhile Baltimore Gas and Electric arrived just recently – at approximately 11 a.m. - and is having difficulty shutting off

Carroll County Fire and Rescue live audio feed on www.radioreference.com: http://www.radioreference.com/apps/audio/?action=cwp&ctid=1194 Hat Tip: https://twitter.com/sfaulstich

20100211 sdosm Sykesville MD fire hall roof collapsed on fire
*****
Kevin Dayhoff Soundtrack: http://www.kevindayhoff.net/ Kevin Dayhoff Art: http://www.kevindayhoffart.com/ Kevin Dayhoff Westminster: http://www.westgov.net/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/kevindayhoff Twitpic: http://twitpic.com/photos/kevindayhoff Kevin Dayhoff's The New Bedford Herald: http://kbetrue.livejournal.com/
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Tuesday, February 09, 2010

Carroll County MD government: Major winter storm

Latest storm to bring heavy snow, high winds http://tinyurl.com/ylsc7wk

February 9, 2010, 3:10 p.m. – Carroll County’s Emergency Operations Center will activate today at 3 p.m. to coordinate response efforts during the latest winter storm. While not expected to produce quite as much snow as the most recent blizzard, the latest storm will bring stronger winds, increasing the chance of power outages.

A major concern for emergency managers is the weight of another foot of snow on top of earlier accumulation. Carroll County’s building code requires all structures to be able to manage 35 pounds per square foot on low-sloped (flat) roofs, and 30 pounds per square foot on pitched roofs.

Even with some melting on Monday, existing loads on most roofs in the region are estimated at 11 to 14 pounds per square foot. Indications that structural damage has occurred include ceilings that have cracked or dropped; problems with doors and windows not operating properly; new roof leaks; and unusual sounds. Do not go out onto a roof to investigate.

Because power outages are expected, people should be prepared to get by at least 72 hours without power. An emergency kit should include

Water – a gallon per person per day. Have more on hand if you have pets. Households with wells should also store additional water in case power is lost to their pumps.

Flashlight with batteries. High winds increase the likelihood for power outages.

Battery-operated radio. Monitor local media for updated weather conditions and emergency announcements.

Food – Keep enough non-perishable food on hand to last three days. Make sure you have a manual can opener.

Medications – Fill any prescriptions now that you may need through Monday.
A complete list of recommended emergency supplies can be found at www.ReadySetGood.org. A non-emergency information line will be staffed throughout the storm. Carroll County residents can call 1-888-543-8362. Updates will also be posted periodically on Twitter by @CarrollCoMD.

20100209 sdosm Carroll Co govt Major winter storm Carroll Co Govt News, Public Safety Carroll Co Emerg Resp, Weather Winter, Weather Winter Snow

http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/2010/02/carroll-county-government-major-winter.html http://tinyurl.com/ylsc7wk

Carroll County MD govt: Major winter storm – prepare for Latest storm to bring heavy snow, high winds http://tinyurl.com/ylsc7wk
*****
Kevin Dayhoff Soundtrack: http://www.kevindayhoff.net/ Kevin Dayhoff Art: http://www.kevindayhoffart.com/ Kevin Dayhoff Westminster: http://www.westgov.net/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/kevindayhoff Twitpic: http://twitpic.com/photos/kevindayhoff Kevin Dayhoff's The New Bedford Herald: http://kbetrue.livejournal.com/
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Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority Police Department officer killed in motorcycle accident

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority Police Department officer killed in motorcycle accident

UPDATE: @CarrollEagle Westminster man who was a Metro officer, died today after Monday night motorcycle accident http://bit.ly/147SGs

Major Phil Kasten
Carroll County Sheriff’s Office
100 North Court Street
Westminster, MD 2157
410-386-2759

ADDITIONAL CONTACT:

Director Lisa Farbstein
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority Police Department
600 5th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
202-962-1051

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

“Westminster motorcyclist killed after being struck by pick-up truck”

Westminster, Carroll County, Maryland, August 11, 2009 ---- At approximately 9:45 pm last evening Carroll County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to reports of a vehicle collision on Route 97 at Bartholow Road. Upon reaching the scene, deputies discovered a 2005 Harley Davidson Road King motorcycle laying on the roadway against the guardrail on the southbound shoulder of Route 97, its driver was being treated by paramedics from the Winfield Volunteer Fire Company.

Sheriff’s Office investigation revealed the motorcycle had been traveling North on Route 97 when it was struck by a 2007 Chevrolet Silverado Pick-up Truck, which failed to yield the right-of-way as it crossed Route 97 Westbound on Bartholow Road.

The motorcycle’s operator, Dennis Michael Henley Jr. aged 32 of Westminster was transported by helicopter to York County Hospital and died early this morning as a result of his injuries.

The truck’s operator, George Chochos aged 49 of Westminster was released from the scene uninjured.

Alcohol is not considered a factor in this collision.

Henley, who is a Police Officer with the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, was returning home after attending a training class at the Maryland Police & Correctional Training Commission Facility in Sykesville. Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Investigators are conducting a detailed investigation and reconstruction of the accident, which could take several weeks. Charges are pending the outcome of that investigation.

Anyone with information about this incident, or that may have witnessed the collision is asked to contact Corporal Mike Zepp of the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office at 410-386-2900, or mzepp@ccg.carr.org. The Sheriff’s Office Investigation continues…

# # #

20090811 DC Metro Transit Auth officer killed in motorcycle accident

@kevindayhoff RT @CarrollEagle Westminster man who was a Metro officer, died today after Monday night motorcycle accident http://bit.ly/147SGs
*****
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Monday, July 27, 2009

Possible tornado touches down in southern Carroll County, 2 hurt, 2700 homes without power.

Possible tornado touches down in southern Carroll County, 2 hurt, 2700 homes without power.
http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/2009/07/possible-tornado-touches-down-in.html
By Kevin Dayhoff July 27, 2009 1:30 AM

Sykesville - Several violent thunderstorms ripped through southern Carroll County Sunday evening. The storm downed trees and power lines, damaged cars and 37 homes; and kept the Sykesville Freedom District Fire Company busy past midnight.

The Baltimore Gas and Electric Company reported 2700 homes without power as the evening wore-on.

The first call for help was received by the Sykesville fire department at 5:52 pm. Before the evening was over, the department had responded to over 39 – 911 calls including one call in which two persons had to be extricated from a vehicle struck by a fallen tree, according to Sykesville fire department chief Ed Ruch, Sr.

It was moments earlier, at 5:40 pm that, according to “The Emergency Email and Wireless Network”: “the National Weather Service in Sterling Va issued a severe thunderstorm warning for N. Howard County in central Md. So. central Carroll County in No. central Md. and southwestern Baltimore County in N. Md. until 645 Pm EDT.

“At 538 Pm EDT. Natl Weather Svc Doppler Radar Indicated A Severe Thunderstorm. This Storm Was Located 9 Miles West Of Sykesville.& Moving East At 25 Mph.

“Locations Impacted Include: Sykesville, Eldersburg, Gamber, Oakland, Ellicott City, Randallstown, Owings Mills, Milford Mill, Reisterstown, and Lochearn. Hail To The Size Of Pennies Can Be Expected In The Warned Area.”

An article by Clay Myers on the Gamber and Community Fire Company website reports “One very large old tree at the corner of Sunset and Liberty Lake Drive in Eldersburg blew down on top of a car during the sudden storm. For more information and pictures, click here.

“Units from Sykesville Freedom District Fire Department, Liberty Road Volunteer Fire Company (Baltimore County), and Gamber & Community Fire Co. were alerted for a tree on a car with people trapped at approximately 6:07 pm.

“First arriving units reported multiple persons trapped. Remaining units arrived from different directions and conducted a rescue operation. Numerous neighbors had already started using chain saws to remove limbs from the car. Two children were rescued and sent to Johns Hopkins Hospital Pediatric Emergency Room by ambulance.”

Meanwhile, firefighters from the Sykesville department worked late into the night going door-to-door in the three-mile area around the Oak Hill, Locust Lane, Liberty Road, and Macbeth Way area of the county checking on citizens and doing a damage assessment.

For several hours in the late evening an emergency response command center was set-up at the Sykesville fire station conference room to coordinate the response to the damage and an evacuation shelter was set-up in the station’s social hall staffed by members of the Red Cross and the Sykesville fire department auxiliary.

The command center was staffed by members of the Sykesville fire department, Maryland State Police, Carroll County Sheriff’s Department, the Carroll County Emergency Management Division, and the Carroll County Chapter of the American Red Cross.

In the command center, Sykesville department public information officer Dennis Beard and county emergency management division representative Chrissy Calp helped coordinate the county emergency response efforts with the county roads department, Vivian Laxton, the county public information officer and Chief Ruch, who served as the incident commander.

At the command center, Major Tom Long of the county Sheriff’s Department said sheriff’s department deputies would maintain heightened patrols throughout the night and into Monday.

Chief Ruch said that “come daylight people will be surprised as to how much damage was done to the area.”

According to several citizen reports, the widespread damage was caused by what appeared to have been a tornado.

A funnel cloud was reported to have spotted as citizens scrambled for cover. Firefighters reported trees “twisted” and damaged in swath that travelled east to west across the region.

As midnight fell upon the station, the last of the firefighters who had gone door-to-door returned to the fire station with a house-by-house list of the damaged properties and reported that portions of at least four roads remained closed: Raincliffe, Oakland Mills, Liberty Lake Drive and Slacks Road.

In other parts of the state, WJZ Channel 13 reporter Mike Schuh “reports the damage in Baltimore County was widespread…

“‘Within the darkness, I saw from the corner of my eye, a really dark snarling mass. I guess a funnel cloud was going to go right through the door," said one onlooker.’

“‘We all ran into the basement, stayed there for about a minute or two, and then realized that it passed by,’ said another man.

“The storm packed hail and high winds.

“There were more than 20,000 people without power just in Baltimore County.”

For more of Mr. Schuh’s report, click here.

Kevin Dayhoff writes from Westminster. E-mail him at kevindayhoff AT gmail.com.

For the latest information see http://www.explorecarroll.com/
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20090727 d1 sdosm Possible tornado touches down so CC
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Sunday, July 26, 2009

Possible tornado touch down in the Sykesville Carroll County area

Possible tornado touch down in the Sykesville area

Sunday, July 26, 2009 7:35 pm

Unconfirmed preliminary reports indicate that a tornado may have touched down in the Sykesville area of Carroll County MD. There are sketchy reports of damage and no reports of injuries.

20090726 sdosm Possible tornado touch down in the Sykesville area
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Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Maryland State Police: Barricade In Carroll County Has Ended

Maryland State Police: Barricade In Carroll County Has Ended

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 21, 2009

BARRICADE IN CARROLL COUNTY HAS ENDED

(Westminster, MD) - Maryland State Police found one person deceased after entering a Carroll
County home this afternoon where they had been since this morning after receiving a phone call from a man who threatened to harm himself.

The deceased has been identified as Carl Michael Byczkowski, 45, of the 600-block Glen Drive, Westminster, Maryland. He sustained a self-inflicted gunshot wound and was pronounced dead at the scene by a forensic examiner. Byczkowski will be taken to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore for an autopsy.

Shortly before 9:30 a.m. today, troopers at the Westminster Barracks surrounded a single-family home in the 600-block of Glen Drive, in Westminster, Maryland, after receiving a call from a man at that address who said he was going to shoot himself. The man closed the interior blinds to the home when troopers arrived on the scene.

Responding troopers established a perimeter around the house. Due to the statement of the man in the house about his possession and use of a firearm and the proximity of the house to other homes, troopers quickly notified nearby residences to evacuate until the situation was resolved. Area schools were also notified of the incident, but none were in close proximity to the home to be in danger. Detours around the area were established by troopers.

The Maryland State Police Special Tactical Assault Team Element (STATE), negotiators from the Hostage Recovery Team, and a representative from the Carroll County
State’s Attorney’s Office responded to the home. Throughout the day, troopers attempted to make contact with Byczkowski, but never received a response.

At about 2:00 p.m. STATE Team members made a tactical entry into the single family home where they found Byczkowski deceased. No one else was in the home.

CONTACT: D/Sgt. James Dewees
Westminster Barrack
4103-386-3000

###

CONTACT: Sergeant Arthur Betts
Office of Media Communications & Marketing
410-653-4236 (Office) 410-653-4200 (through Headquarters Duty Officer)

20090421 SDOSM MSP Barricade In Carroll County Has Ended
Kevin Dayhoff: www.westgov.net Westminster Maryland Online www.westminstermarylandonline.net http://kevindayhoffwestgov-net.blogspot.com/

Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/
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Explore Carroll: Man shoots himself in Westminster standoff

Explore Carroll: Man shoots himself in Westminster standoff

In an update on Troopers On Scene Of Carroll County Barricade; Explore Carroll com is now reporting:

“Man shoots himself in Westminster standoff”

Police are unsure if there are victims inside the house

From staff reports Posted 4/21/09

A man who had barricaded himself inside his Westminster home today from police has apparently killed himself according to Sgt. Arthur Betts of the Maryland State Police.

Read the rest here: “Man shoots himself in Westminster standoff”

http://explorecarroll.com/news/2772/man-barricades-himself-inside-westminster-home/

20090421 SDOSM Exp Carroll Man shoots himself in Wster standoff
Kevin Dayhoff: www.westgov.net Westminster Maryland Online www.westminstermarylandonline.net http://kevindayhoffwestgov-net.blogspot.com/
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Troopers On Scene Of Carroll County Barricade

Troopers On Scene Of Carroll County Barricade

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 21, 2009 2:13 PM

TROOPERS ON SCENE OF CARROLL COUNTY BARRICADE

(Westminster, MD) - Maryland State Police have established a perimeter and are attempting to contact a Carroll County man who is refusing to come out of his house after telling troopers this morning in a phone call that he was going to harm himself.

A positive identification of the man who called has not been made at this time. He is believed to be a 45-year old man in possession of multiple loaded firearms inside of the residence.

Maryland State Police have surrounded a single-family home in the 600-block of Glen Drive, in Westminster, Md.
Troopers have not been able to determine at this time if anyone is in the house with the suicidal man.

Shortly before 9:30 a.m. today, troopers at the Westminster Barracks received a call from a man at that address who said he was going to shoot himself. The man closed the interior blinds to the home when troopers arrived on the scene.

Responding troopers established a perimeter around the house. Due to the statement of the man in the house about his possession and use of a firearm and the proximity of the house to other homes, troopers quickly notified nearby residences to evacuate until the situation is resolved.

Area schools have also been notified of this incident, but none are in close proximity to the home to be in danger.

Detours around the area have been established by troopers.

The Maryland State Police Special Tactical Assault Team Element (STATE) has responded to the scene, as have
negotiators from the Hostage Recovery Team, and a representative from the Carroll County State’s Attorney’s Office.

State Police negotiators have attempted to make contact with the man, but have been unable to do so.

No shots have been fired by the suspect or by police since troopers first arrived on the scene. Troopers are urging the man to surrender and resolve this situation peacefully.


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CONTACT: Sergeant Arthur Betts
Office of Media Communications & Marketing
410-653-4236 (Office) 410-653-4200 (through Headquarters Duty Officer)

20090421 Troopers On Scene Of Carroll County Barricade

Kevin Dayhoff: www.westgov.net Westminster Maryland Online www.westminstermarylandonline.net http://kevindayhoffwestgov-net.blogspot.com/

Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/
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Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Manchester house fire quickly extinguished March 9 2009


A Manchester volunteer firefighter puts the finishing touches to extinguishing a house fire in the 3200 block of York Street in Manchester on March 9. Photos by Kevin Dayhoff

Manchester house fire quickly extinguished

By Kevin Dayhoff

At approximately 8:30 in the evening of March 9, units from the Hampstead and Manchester Volunteer Fire Departments responded to a working house fire at 3250 York Street.

The fire was quickly extinguished and units remained on the scene until almost midnight. The Maryland fire marshals’ office is investigating the incident. Victims of the fire were assisted by the Carroll County office of the American Red Cross.

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Dayhoff Daily Photoblog
Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/
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Thursday, January 08, 2009

Carroll County Sheriff sets plan for New Year; includes alternative funding and furlough


“Sheriff sets plan for New Year; includes alternative funding and furlough”

Westminster, Carroll County, Maryland, January 7, 2009 ---- Sheriff Kenneth L. Tregoning is pleased to announce the law enforcement strategic priorities for 2009: “Promote Professional Development & Wellness; Implement New Technologies that Enhance Public Safety Communications & Information Sharing; Promote Service Excellence through Maintenance of [Accreditation] Standards; and, Increase Outreach Efforts.”

As with any organization the establishment of new goals is not the challenge, rather it’s their execution - an increasingly difficult task in a declining economy. In considering Governor Martin O’Malley’s December appeal to elected leaders, Sheriff Tregoning submitted a five (5) day furlough plan to the County Comptroller’s Office this past month, thereby returning the 2% salary increase legislated for his position this year.

With local government freezing employee Career Ladder Promotions this past summer in response to falling revenue projections, Sheriff Tregoning said, “I can not justify accepting a salary increase when my employees aren’t receiving theirs.” Likewise Sheriff Tregoning trimmed several projects from the coming year’s budget before submitting it to the Commissioner’s Budget Office for approval, including funding for transitioning deputies to a different model handgun and non-mandated training programs.

However, to insure that employee safety, professionalism and public service are not compromised by funding shortfalls, the office has established “Professional Development & Wellness” as its top priority. With the lowest rate of disability, death and retirement benefits among Maryland’s Sheriff’s Offices, funds for the evaluation of those programs are included as a budget item. Further, the office plans to expand its partnerships with public safety advocacy groups such as the Law Enforcement Employees & Families Association, and the Concerns of Police Survivors.

Additionally, the office will increase its pursuit of grants and scholarships from professional organizations to fund additional training and equipment needs. In fact, the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office was recently notified by the Governor’s Office of Crime Control & Prevention that it had been awarded more than $27,000 towards the agency’s goal of establishing “Public Safety Communications & Information Sharing”, or interoperability.

Contrary to the declining economy, the demand for police services continues to increase, including the incidents of identity theft, computer crimes and fraud. These crimes are costly to the victims, many of whom are seniors on a fixed income. For law enforcement, the investigations are labor intensive as they require expensive technology and extensive collaboration with criminal justice agencies abroad. The Sheriff’s Office will continue to partner with local and state government to expand the use of the use of technology to enhance investigative solvability and operational efficiency.

Likewise, the county’s population continues to increase in both size and diversity – leading the Sheriff’s Office to “Increase Outreach Efforts” not only to share resources with our government and public safety partners, but to define the community’s changing needs and align Office resources to communicate with new cultures, prevent emerging crime trends and close existing cases.

In as much, the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office takes seriously our obligation to provide quality service in a fiscally responsible manner. Until the full impact of budget shortfalls are known, the Sheriff’s Office will continue the cost saving measures implemented this past year, including restrictions on fuel consumption, off-duty vehicle usage and participation in the county’s car wash program. Embracing the challenges that lie ahead, we look towards the continued innovation of our staff and ever expanding partnerships to secure public safety.

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20090107 Carroll County Sheriff sets plan for New Year
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Sunday, October 26, 2008

Carroll County Times Other Voices: Medevac system necessary By Thomas Scalea

Carroll County Times Other Voices: Medevac system necessary By Thomas Scalea, Other Voices Saturday, October 25, 2008

Dr. Thomas Scalea, Chief at the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, has written a short, but nevertheless compelling and persuasive for the Maryland State Police Medevac system, which has been brought into question as a result of a recent tragedy.

I cannot agree with Dr. Scalea more…

Related: On October 10, 2008 I wrote about The Future of Maryland Medevac in The Tentacle:

The recent tragic crash of the Maryland State Police aviation command Medevac helicopter has unfortunately developed a subplot for those who wish to further a debate about the future of the vital air rescue service.

The debate began before grieving co-workers, friends, and family hardly had a chance to say goodbye to the three rescue workers and one patient who died.

Much can be said about the inhumanity of state elected leaders who would use such a tragedy for political expediency; however, for those who have observed Maryland politics for many decades, there is very little that can surprise any longer.

We live in a state with a national reputation for politicizing everything from algae to windmills – with all the accompanying mediocrity that is associated with the enormous egos of politicians who are rarely held accountable for their mendacious, meddlesome behavior.

Ever since Maryland modeled its Medevac rescue system from the lessons learned on the battlefields of the Vietnam War, it has been copied all over the world with varying success, although arguably, the Maryland system remains the premier service.

Read my entire column here: The Future of Maryland Medevac

Meanwhile, Dr. Scalea wrote…

In the aftermath of the Maryland State Police Medevac helicopter crash, some have called the use of helicopter transports to bring critically injured patients to trauma centers into question.

As the Chief at the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, I have a particular perspective. Residents of Carroll County, where trauma patients are generally evacuated to trauma centers in Baltimore, also have a real stake in this discussion.

[…]

Trauma professionals across the state are determined that this recent tragedy will have some positive outcome. We will embrace whatever lessons we can learn. We have a responsibility to assure the public that the Medivac fleet is equipped with the finest technology available and that our protocols are grounded in good science. Above all, we absolutely reject the notion that it is acceptable to let people die to save money. The public needs to know that the system is working, that it is safe, and that it remains the best in the nation and the world.

Thomas M. Scalea, MD, FACS, is Physician-in-Chief at the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, Francis X Kelly, Professor of Trauma Surgery and Director, Program in Trauma, University of Maryland School of Medicine.

Read Dr. Scalea’s entire piece here: Medevac system necessary By Thomas Scalea

20081025 Carroll County Times Other Voices: Medevac system necessary By Thomas Scalea

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