2024 ANNUAL REPORT - Final

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EMERGENCY SERVICES

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Safety Office (continued)

• Work Performance Evaluation (WPE) o

Conducted evaluations for all incumbent personnel except those on extended leave or injured. • Fitness Equipment Standardization Stations were equipped with a minimum level of standardized fitness resources, ensuring all personnel have access to essential physical wellness tools.

Traffic Safety and Incident Management •

Traffic Incident Management System (TIMS): Secured $450,000 in funding to train personnel and equip apparatus with MUTCD-compliant traffic cones and signs, adhering to NFPA 1091 standards. • Probationary Firefighter Driver Training: Continued requiring 10 hours of non-emergency driving and training with shift safety officers before progressing to emergency driving evaluations. Operational Safety Enhancements • Conducted station inspections focusing on safety, clean water, clean air, and bed bug prevention. • Noise Assessment: Following a noise assessment in 2023, a purchase order was issued to equip 16 pieces of large apparatus with headset systems for effective communication and hearing conservation. Installation began in December 2024. Incidents and Investigations The Safety Office responded to 619 emergency incidents in 2024 and managed the investigation of: • 98 vehicle collisions • 216 injuries • 29 property damage cases CPAT and Recruitment • 278 new hire candidates passed the written exam, with 254 participating in CPAT. • 136 candidates passed CPAT with Frederick County, 76 of whom attended mentorship sessions. • 179 candidates passed overall, with 75 failing, including 22 who attended mentorship at least once. Training and Professional Development Safety personnel attended key training conferences, including: • Fire Department Safety Officers Association • National Safety Council • Fire Department Instructors Conference • Symposium in the Sun • National Staff and Command Fleet and Equipment • SCBA and Structural Turnout Gear Replacement: Safety personnel are active participants in the committee overseeing these replacements. In 2024, the Safety Office solidified its role as a proactive leader in health and safety, introducing programs and policies that exemplify our commitment to the well-being of Frederick County’s fire and rescue personnel. We will continue to innovate and evolve to meet emerging challenges and ensure the highest safety standards.

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