Photo by Graham Cullen Elyssa Cool, a student at Frederick Community College was named this year's Miss Frederick County Fire Prevention. Cool is a member of Vigilant Hose Co. in Emmitsburg and also volunteers at Emmitsburg Ambulance Co.

"I figured I'd give it another try," she said.

This year she won and was awarded the crown and sash in early October.

"I was excited," she said, "but I really had not thought about how much harder it was going to be."

But she is not shying away from the commitment.

"I am ready to take on that challenge," she said.

The county title was not the only one she won this year. Before representing the county, Cool was named Vigilant Hose Co.'s Miss Fire Prevention in March.

Cool, 19, hopes to help as many companies as possible spread the word about preventing fires during her reign.

"I'd like to attend as many events as possible," she said.

Cool will represent the county at the state Miss Fire Prevention contest in Ocean City during the annual convention of the state Firemen's Association in June.

"It's a big title to have on your shoulders," she said. "It's something I take pride in doing because you are representing the county, all the companies and the commissioners."

Cool became a member of Vigilant a year ago this month and was able to go on fire calls.

"It's been a lot of hard work, but it's been fun," she said.

She got involved with the company years ago through the Emmitsburg Junior Explorer Post 6.

Cool also volunteers with the Emmitsburg Ambulance Co. and serves on its board of directors.

She is a 2008 Catoctin High School graduate, and is attending Frederick Community College.

"I still run as many calls as I can between both companies," Cool said.

When she completes her courses in the spring, she plans to transfer to the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, to study paramedics.

"The fire company really supports me a lot," Cool said. "Without them, I wouldn't be able to do as much as I am doing right now. Anytime I need help they are there to offer a hand."