September 7, 2006
For immediate release
Photo Opportunity

Media & Community Advisory

Contact: Capt. Kendall Sanderson
Phone: 240-447-7028

Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad Holds
Annual “Rescue Day” Open House

The Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad (BCCRS), one of the nation's most advanced and best trained rescue squads, will hold its free annual open house, “Rescue Day 2006,” on Saturday, October 7, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., rain or shine.  Rescue Day 2006 is being held in conjunction with Taste of Bethesda, the outdoor food festival held just two blocks away in Bethesda's restaurant district.

Rescue Day 2006 will feature fire and rescue activities and displays for all ages, including tours of the station; live demonstrations of emergency medical, rescue, and firefighting equipment; free children's firefighter hats and KidCare™ identification kits; and moonbounce. The Rescue Squad’s most advanced firefighting and rescue equipment will be on display, including emergency vehicles and the Squad’s thermal imaging camera that is used to help locate fire victims in blinding smoke.  Also scheduled is a special visit by a helicopter used to transport critically injured patients to area hospitals when time is truly of the essence.  Visitors will get an up-close view of the helicopter and have the opportunity to meet the flight medics.

Another special treat will be the public debut, after a 1 ½-year restoration, of  “Rescue 15,” the Squad’s sleek 1972 Cadillac ambulance.  “Rescue 15,” which was the last Cadillac to serve in the Squad’s fleet, now serves in a ceremonial function at Squad open houses and parades, and has become a favorite of kids and families.

The Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad is located at 5020 Battery Lane, at the intersection of Old Georgetown Road.  Ample parking is available at Montgomery County public parking garages within walking distance of the Rescue Squad.  For more information, call 301-652-0077. 

BCCRS is a community-supported 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides no-cost emergency fire, rescue, and ambulance services to the Bethesda-Chevy Chase area and Upper Northwest Washington, D.C.  BCCRS raises almost all of its $1.4 million operating budget from individual donors, foundations, and businesses.  Contributions to BCCRS are tax-deductible as allowable by law.

The Rescue Squad requests that community organizations distribute copies of this advisory or publish this information in newsletters, electronic bulletin boards and listservs.