The Bright Times
A look back at some of the positive moments of 2023
Cardiac arrest survivor reunites with firefighters who helped save his life
In May, a citizen began frantically ringing the doorbell at Station 2 in Ellicott City. At the door, firefighters learned that the citizen’s wife was in the car and had just had a seizure. When crews walked outside, they found the patient in cardiac arrest. A few months later, the patient and her family walked into Station 2 to thank the crews who saved her life. Read the full story.
Whole Blood Program Launch
On September 7, 2023, the department launched its new Whole Blood Program. The program allows specially trained and equipped EMS supervisors at HCDFRS to administer whole blood transfusions to patients who have sustained major blood loss through suspected traumatic injury or bleeding.
A few short snippets
In case you missed it on social media, here are a few quick memories from 2023 (in 15 seconds or less)
Deputy Chief Wallace going “Over the Edge” with Special Olympics Maryland Howard County in the fall. Watch him on the left!
On September 29, a new fire engine hit the road out of our Rivers Park station—Engine 101! Here's a quick peek as the crew pushed in the engine.
Campers at our annual First Alarm Fire Camp learned first aid and CPR, responded to medical, fire, and rescue scenarios, and more!
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Installing dozens of smoke alarms in Deep Run Park
HCDFRS and the American Red Cross worked together to visit dozens of homes throughout Deep Run Park in Elkridge in May to ensure that their smoke alarms were working and, if needed, to install or replace alarms. Read the full story.
A continued legacy of service
The day before Thanksgiving, the Phoenix Sentinels continued their longstanding tradition of giving back to the community by coming together to serve a hot meal to dozens of citizens in need. Read the full story.
3,000+ community members learned CPR and/or Stop the Bleed this year
This year, more than 3,000 community members have learned either CPR and/or how to recognize life-threatening bleeding and intervene effectively. Being equipped with these skills isn't just about preparedness—it means being ready to step in during emergencies, providing vital assistance when it's needed most. Learn more about our community outreach programs and classes.
A Reunion Ten Years in the Making
On October 23, 2013, a gunman shot Howard County Police Department Officer Steven Houk on Route 1 in Laurel. Ten years later, Officer Houk reunited with the paramedic and EMT who saved his life.
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Above and beyond
While out training one morning in September, firefighters from Station 1 in Elkridge came across a resident who needed some help with a flat tire. Without hesitation, the crew lent a hand and got her back on the road in time for her doctor's appointment.
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Tavon Claggett appointed as newest Deputy Chief
In April, Howard County Executive Calvin Ball and Fire Chief Louis Winston announced that Tavon Claggett would be joining the department as the newest Deputy Chief. Read the press release.
Educating the community
A few snapshots from community outreach events throughout the year.
Trainee Class 36 Graduates
On March 24, 2023, Trainee Class 36 graduated from the academy and entered the field as firefighter recruits.
Many years and a lasting impact
Deputy Chief John Jerome
After 30 years of service, Deputy Chief John Jerome retired in April. Deputy Chief John Jerome began his fire service career in Howard County in 1987 as a member of the Ellicott City Volunteer Firemen’s Association, and he joined the career service as a part of Trainee Class 9 in 1993.
Ms. Robin Watson
After 48 years of service, Mrs. Robin Watson retired in February. Mrs. Robin began her career in Howard County government in 1973. She held many titles over the years, from Clerk Typist to Clerical Technician, to Administrative Aide, Fiscal Specialist, and Financial Services Officer, and worked for all 13 fire chiefs.
Cat in a tree? Not this time!
In September, Station 8 received a call from a resident for a cat stuck in a car. Members from Engine 82 arrived to find a 10-week-old kitten in distress and injured, stuck behind the engine block of a vehicle. They were able to gently remove the kitten and deliver it to a local animal rescue for first aid.
Just a few of the promotional pinnings from 2023
Paramedic Class 9 graduates
In April, seven HCDFRS personnel and one Johns Hopkins Lifeline employee completed a 19-month paramedic program. Throughout the course, students received in-depth education on anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, advanced airway management and respiratory care, cardiology, special patient populations, medical emergencies, and shock and trauma resuscitation. Read the full story.