New Prince George's County, MD, Fire Chief Collapses During Demonstration
Prince George’s County’s newly appointed fire chief, Thelmetria "Meme" Michaelides, was rushed to a hospital Wednesday after collapsing at the podium during a Fourth of July fireworks safety demonstration.
She received immediate care from firefighters who were with her as she answered questions from the medial about fireworks.
Michaelides was conscious when she left in an ambulance that had been at demonstration at the training acdemy, The Daily Voice reported.
The chief, who was sworn in on Monday, has recovered from the episode.
“I am so thankful for the immediate care and compassion that I received from our own Fire/EMS Department firefighters and paramedics. As well as for the expert care I received at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center. I am grateful for all the prayers and well-wishes offered by so many in our incredible community,” she wrote in a statement.
During her swearing in ceremony, County Executive Aisha Braveboy remarked: "From dispatcher to battalion chief, Meme has blazed trails, broken barriers, and built a legacy of service. With her unmatched experience, she is ready to lead PGFD to greater success.”
The new chief was the first female African-American bomb squad technician in Maryland.
She replaces former Fire Chief Tiffany Green, who retired a few days ago.
While she left the fire service, Green isn't going far. She will be the assistant deputy chief administrative officer for the county’s Public Safety and Homeland Security Department.
