It was a very busy Independence Day holiday for the DC Fire and EMS Special Operations Division and the Office of the Fire Marshal.
At a news conference today, Fire/EMS Chief Dennis L. Rubin and Fire Marshal Gary Palmer announced that a total of 14 people were arrested since a crackdown on illegal fireworks sales began in the District on June 28. “Our mission is to promote a safe and sane Fourth of July holiday” said Chief Rubin. Fire/EMS inspectors and investigators and members of the Metropolitan Police Department, The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) and prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney's Office joined forces to create the Fireworks Taskforce. In addition to the 14 arrests, the taskforce confiscated more than 200 cases of illegal fireworks and explosives from illegal fireworks vendors. Something new this year was a special Fireworks Hotline. Private citizens phoned in more than 60 tips, leading to at least 4 arrests.
The improper use of fireworks was also an issue. DC Fire/EMS crews responded to reports of smoke and/or fire at four homes. All of the incidents were linked directly to fireworks. Three vehicles were also damaged by fireworks over the past seven days.
DC Fire/EMS Assistant Chief of Operations, Lawrence Schultz led the Department’s activities in and around the National Mall. The weather turned out to be a major factor. High temperatures and humidity were the main culprits during the annual Independence Day parade. 21 people were treated along the parade route and 35 others were seen at first-aid tents for heat related illnesses. None of the patients had to be transported to the hospital. Late afternoon, severe weather warnings led to a voluntary evacuation of the National Mall. Visitors were asked to shelter in place, inside museums and other buildings. The operation went very smoothly and the all-clear was sounded a short time later. The Special Operations Division also expanded its public service component this year offering health screenings. 110 people had their blood pressure and glucose checked for free.