Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 25

Nitro Extrication Training

Nitro Fire Department firefighters were involved with some hands-on training recently. The firefighters trained on new extrication tools at Abbott's lot. - Photos courtesy of Nitro FD

Fire Safety Inspector William ‘Bill’Jiles Retires

After nearly three decades of service with the Office of the State Fire Marshal, William ‘Bill’Jiles has retired. Jiles, 76, has worked as a full-time fire inspector since 1995.

Maryland State Fire Marshal Brian S. Geraci said that Jiles would be missed. “To me, Bill has been a great employee, but he’s been a great friend to all of us. Bill has always brought a laugh and smile to this job, and he can be proud of the hundreds if not thousands of people he has saved by his inspections,” Geraci stated.

Jiles began his career in emergency services after joining Fawn Grove Volunteer Fire Company in the 1960s. He got hired as a firefighter with Perry Point Fire Department and later went to the former Edgewood Arsenal Fire Department. After 31-years, he retired as Captain with Aberdeen Proving Ground Fire Department.

“I’ve enjoyed my time with the State Fire Marshal’s Office. There have been so many changes over the years, but the core mission is protecting life and property from fire through the enforcement of the State Fire Prevention Code,” Jiles said.

State Fire Marshal Brian S. Geraci presented Jiles with a State Fire Marshal Commendation and Governor Citation, thanking him for his years of dedicated service. - Photo courtesy of the Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal

FormerCumberland Police Lieutenant Nominated As Deputy State Fire Marshal Of The Year

Deputy State Fire Marshal Robert ‘Rocky’Reed has been selected as the Western Regional Office nominee for Deputy State Fire Marshal of the Year. He will join other investigators chosen throughout the state for the 2021 James C. Robertson Deputy State Fire Marshal of the Year Award.

After retiring from the Cumberland Police Department, Reed was hired by the Office of the State Fire Marshal nearly three years ago and has performed consistently in all aspects of his assignment. In 2021 Deputy Reed was in the top 10 employees statewide for the number of total investigations, total inspections, and criminal arrests.

While DSFM Reed brings substantial law enforcement experience from his prior 20-plus-year career with the Cumberland Police Department, he’s shown great initiative at identifying and attending fire investigation-specific training.

“Deputy Reed has undoubtedly demonstrated himself as a quality fire and explosive investigator,” stated Deputy Chief Jason Mowbray, Western Regional Commander. “Through his performance and work ethic, Deputy Reed has had a positive impact on the citizens of Western Maryland and the employees of the Western Regional Office.” - Photo courtesy of the Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal