Hollywood Deputy Fire Chief Joins Elite Fire Dynamics Research Project

HOLLYWOOD, Md. – William Rector, assistant fire chief for the Hollywood Volunteer Fire Department, was selected as one of 28 participants out of 600 applicants for a groundbreaking research project on fire dynamics. This initiative, led by researcher Keith Stakes, aims to strengthen firefighter safety by studying the behavior of fires in single-family residences.

The research will focus on various scenarios, including basement, first floor, second floor and attic fires in multi-story homes. Rector says this study is crucial because modern construction techniques and materials have dramatically changed fire behavior.

“For example, newer homes built with lightweight materials collapse much faster than older homes built with mass timber,” Rector explained.

Rector's interest in fire dynamics was significantly influenced by a tragic incident last year that claimed the life of firefighter Brice Trossbach.

“This experience had a profound impact on me and directed my interest towards this project,” he said. “We owe it to Brice to learn from such incidents and prevent them in the future. »

Rector said the application process for the research project was simple, involving submitting a resume and answering questions about department size, leadership roles and significant experiences. Rector's extensive experience, including eight years with the DC Fire Department and his current role in Hollywood, played a significant role in his selection. He highlighted the Trossbach incident as a pivotal experience that shaped his commitment to improving firefighter safety.

The project will include numerous in-person sessions on the East Coast, where participants will engage in scientific research. They will build houses, set controlled fires and study various factors such as smoke dynamics, wind changes, air and water flow paths and the effectiveness of different firefighting tactics. fires. The goal is to develop research-based guidelines that can be integrated with practical experience to improve firefighting strategies worldwide.

The rector expressed his honor and humility in being selected for the project.

“I was very lucky to be chosen. You have people from major metropolitan fire departments, and I was fortunate to be able to represent Maryland. Hollywood has definitely made me a much better person and man.

Being a volunteer firefighter is a big commitment, but for Rector, it's a way of life. Rector joined the local volunteer fire department in Burtonsville, Maryland, at age 16 and says he hasn't looked back since.

“Volunteering in the city you live in is important, and Hollywood has been an incredible place to continue this journey,” he shared.

Rector attributes a significant portion of his success at the Hollywood Volunteer Fire Department to the mentorship and support of four key individuals: Chief Ernest Rogers, Former Chief Ricky Brady, Former Chief Doug Insley and Former Chief Bryan Riley.

“I owe a lot of my success to their commitment to me,” Bill said. “They all play an important role in the department today.”

Despite the challenges, particularly that of being available at all hours, the rector's dedication remains unwavering.

“We have more than 100 members from a variety of professions, including medical professionals, military personnel and even a U.S. Marine Corps colonel. This is a diverse and engaged group that genuinely cares about the community,” he said.

His family, although sometimes affected by his busy schedule, supports his commitment.

“My wife is amazing. She knows how important this is to me and she supports it, even if it means getting up at 3 a.m. for a call,” he said. His children, ages 10 and 8, are proud of their father's work, even participating in firefighter-related community events.

Looking forward, Rector strives to honor the memory of Brice Trossbach by ensuring that lessons learned from the past are applied to improve the safety of all firefighters.

“We have a difficult road ahead, but it is crucial to have these difficult conversations and make the right decisions,” he said.

Rector's participation in this research project is a testament to his dedication to the fire service and his community. As research progresses, his contributions will undoubtedly play a vital role in improving the safety and efficiency of firefighters across the country.

For more updates on the research project and the Rector's involvement, stay tuned.

For more information or to support the local volunteer fire department, please visit the Hollywood Volunteer Fire Department website.

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