CHIEF'S CORNER

As we bid farewell to 2018, I would like to wish everyone a Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year! Throughout this year, the members of the Baltimore City Fire Department have performed with great honor and valor – which is why I remain humbled and honored to serve as your Fire Chief.

The fourth quarter brought on many challenges for several members of the department. In November, while responding to an apartment fire, several Firefighters were severely injured in a gas explosion in Northeast Baltimore. As I stood amidst the fire grounds on the day of the incident, I can recall a somber mood hovering over me, which seemed to spread quickly among the other first responders. Several of our members were hurt; consequently, I was deeply impacted as a result of their injuries. Incidents such as this one, is truly a demonstration of the bravery the men and women put forth for the citizens of Baltimore on a daily basis.

Also in November, Shane Horn – a Firefighter stationed at Truck 23 experienced a horrific mishap while at home. Shane and his wife were preparing their home for holidays. He was hanging Christmas lights outside their home when he suddenly fell and sustained a major life-changing injury. After being rushed to the hospital, Shane learned that he suffered a significant back injury – which severely impeded his mobility. When I was notified of Shane’s accident, I was crushed and have been praying for Shane and his family ever since. It is my humble challenge – as fellow Firefighters – for you to do the same. Both incidents have taken a huge toll on the affected members and their families. Take time to reach out to your fellow brothers and sisters to show your support and appreciation for all they do.

Furthermore, if there are other members in the department that may be in the midst of challenging times, please connect with them to show your support. We wish everyone the very best and pray for a speedy recovery.       

This quarter has also brought on new opportunities. We have taken great strides to maintain the safety of the residents of this great city. In October, we partnered with Gilmor Elementary School to host Fire Prevention Week. This year’s theme was, “Look. Listen. Learn. Be Aware, Fire Can Happen Anywhere.” Members of BCFD had the pleasure of interacting with kids one-on-one in an effort to spread the word about fire safety and steps to take in order to reduce the likelihood of having a fire – and the response was simply amazing.

We also had the privilege of teaming up with the Department of Transportation for their Winter Weather campaign to highlight tips for staying warm during the colder months. Additionally, Chief Kyle Caldwell and Chief Joe Wade were able to share information about scene safety and their personal experience with obeying the Move Over Law during the Maryland Department of Transportation for National Incident Response Awareness Week.

As we transition into a new year, I am extremely optimistic that this will be a great time for the Baltimore City Fire Department. The hard work and dedication that each member embodies is truly admirable. I am constantly amazed at the valor put forth by our members and I’m honored to be a part of this great organization. Through this newsletter, I hope you will attain deeper insights into the events that have taken place throughout the year.  As always, The Baltimore City Fire Department will continue to have “Pride Protecting People.”

Your brother in service to the City of Baltimore,

Fire Chief Niles R. Ford, PhD