Lynnhill Condos Cited for Fire Code Violations

MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930

MEBrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

The Prince George’s County Office of the Fire Marshall issued a correction order to the management company of two Temple Hills building on Thursday evening citing several significant fire code violations. 

On Friday, August 18, Fire Chief Ben Barksdale held a press conference outlining the plan to bring the buildings into fire code compliance by Tuesday, August 22.  If management is not able to meet the mandate then the buildings will be declared “unsafe” and residents will have 24 hours to vacate.  

This action is being taken to ensure the safety of what residents remain in the building.

This is the letter notifying the residents of the current situation as it pertains to the Fire/EMS Department.  The notices were posted today.

Office of the Fire Marshal

NOTICE

                                                                                                            August 18, 2017

Residents, Staff, and Management
Lynnhill Condominiums
3103 and 3107 Good Hope Avenue
Temple Hills, Maryland  20748

During the past several weeks, The Prince Georges County Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department (PGFD) has been working with the property management of the Lynnhill Condominiums to correct significant fire code violations that could compromise the safety of residents.  As a result, PGFD has notified the property management of Lynnhill Apartments that they have until 8:00 a.m. Tuesday, August 22, 2017, morning to correct major fire code violations identified throughout the facility.   Furthermore, PGFD has made it clear that these violations must be corrected at that time, and if these violations are not corrected, the building will be deemed as an "Unsafe Building".  Residents will have 24-hours to vacate the building following the posting of the Unsafe Building Notice.

            Critical violations that must be corrected include:

·         Fire alarm system must be inspected and in proper working order

·         All doors to vacant units must be secured

·         Accumulated trash/debris in all vacant units and areas must be removed

·         Fire doors throughout the buildings must operate properly, close and latch

            PGFD realizes the significant inconvenience this situation will have on residents, however, this action is being taken to ensure that the people are safe.  If the building is deemed “unsafe” residents will be allowed to return to the building after it is closed to retrieve personal belongings to include furnishings during the following days.  The Prince George’s County Police Department will remain on site to monitor the situation and ensure the security of the building until all residents have vacated the building. The Prince George's County Department of Social Services, other County agencies, and the Red Cross will provide assistance to those needing temporary housing and other services during this time.  For information and assistance, please call the Lynnhill Residents Assistance Hotline at 301-909-6065, or you may email at Lynnhill.Residents@maryland.gov.