Story on Pages 7-8
Photos Courtesy Howard Meile, III
Line Of Duty Deaths
EMS Highlights Of the 2025 Legislative Session
The MIEMSS Office of Government Affairs (OGA) serves as the liaison for the executive and legislative branches of State government. Through the cultivation of collaborative partnerships with all relevant stakeholders, the OGA is dedicated to developing and advancing effective statutory and regulatory policies in support of all components of the statewide EMS system, the emergency care system, and Maryland’s healthcare system as a whole.
The 2025 legislative session of the Maryland General Assembly convened on January 8, 2025, and adjourned on April 7, 2025. During this time, the House and Senate considered hundreds of bills, including those with an impact upon Maryland EMS. Here are four such bills of interest that passed during the session:
• HB 1131 – Public Health – Buprenorphine – Training Grant Program and Workgroup. This legislation (1) establishes a Buprenorphine Training Grant Program (Program) to assist EMS Operational Programs with offsetting the cost of training paramedics to administer buprenorphine, (2) includes this Program as an authorized use of funding from the Opioid Restitution Fund, and (3) requires the Maryland Office of Opioid Response to convene a workgroup to study access to buprenorphine in the State.
• HB 1131 includes a provision that requires the Governor to include in the annual budget bill an appropriation of at least $50,000 from the Opioid Restitution Fund for the Program. Based on projected training costs and the amount of this annual appropriation, the number of para medics to be trained to induce buprenorphine therapy could be achieved in four years. This, of course, assumes there is interest among EMS Operational Programs in conducting and arranging the education and among paramedics in receiving it. MIEMSS estimates that it would cost approximately $500 to train each paramedic, or $200,000.
• HB 246 / SB 205 – Human Services – Adult Protective Services. This legislation specifies that certain provisions of law relating to confiden tiality do not prohibit the disclosure of certain information by state or local government employees or the United States if the officer or em
• HB 1380 / SB 676. This legislation requires the Maryland Department of Health, in coordination with MIEMSS, to adopt regulations establishing minimum perinatal care standards for hospitals that meet or exceed the Maryland Perinatal System Standards for each hospital that provides obstetrical services, as well as for freestanding birthing centers. This legislation requires compliance with these standards as a condition of licensure.
• SB 369 / HB 593. This legislation requires each branch of a county library system or the Enoch Pratt Free Library to place an automated external defibrillator (AED) in a prominent area, accessible to employees and library users, and comply with the requirements of the Maryland Public Access AED Program. By December 1, 2026, MIEMSS must report to the Senate Committee on Education, Energy, and the Environment and the House Ways and Means Committee on the libraries that registered AEDs in accordance with regulations adopted under §23102.2 of the Education Article.
With the exception of HB 246 / SB 205 (which was signed into law on April 8), the aforementioned bills now await the Governor’s approval.
30th Annual EMS Medical Directors’ Symposium
The Office of the State EMS Medical Director, in partnership with the State Office of Commercial Ambulance Licensing and Regulation and the Maryland EMS for Children program, drew regional, jurisdictional, and commercial ambulance service medical directors, base station physicians and coordinators, jurisdictional and quality assurance officials, and various MIEMSS personnel for the 30th Annual EMS Medical Directors’ Symposium, held April 9, 2025, at the James N. Robey Public Safety Training Center in Marriottsville. The daylong invitational event featured educational programming and discussion on such topical matters as unified response, whole blood implementation, pediatric prehospital bench-
Baltimore City
2 Alarm High-Rise Apartment Building in Downtown
Story and Photos Courtesy Howard Meile, III
On March 27, 2025, around 1815 hrs, Fire Box 6-61 was struck out for a reported dwelling fire at Guilford Avenue and Saratoga Street in downtown Baltimore. Additional calls were being received reporting it to be an 8-story high-rise apartment building located at 222 E. Saratoga Street. Engine 6 arrived along with Battalion Chief 2 with the Chief reporting smoke showing on the eighth floor. On the other side of the building Battalion Chief 6 arrived and reported residents on the upper floor balconies waving requesting help to be rescued. Communications upgraded the incident to a high-rise fire box adding additional units. When Car 5(Shift Commander) arrived he took over Command and made it a working fire, followed quickly by a second alarm with two additional truck companies for rescues.
Within several minutes of arrival, Engine 6 along with Truck 10 made their way up to the eight floor and reported a fire ahead of them on the balcony. Truck 10 reported that the sprinkler was keeping the fire in check. In the meantime outside, truck companies were setting up and assisting residents who were trapped on their balconies. Engine 6’s crew had gotten water on the fire and once it was knocked down additional firefighting crews began searches to look for any trapped residents in their apartments on the fire floor. If they were okay they were sheltered in place and if they needed medical attention they were led down the stairs to receive medical treatment in the triage area set up outside.
Aerial ladders were set up around the building and multiple rescues were made as residents were led down the ladders to safety. Several additional medic units were dispatched to treat those that needed attention.
Once the fire was extinguished the sprinkler system was shut down and ventilation was conducted to clear the upper floors of residual smoke. And Fire Investigation was able to start their investigation of the origin. The fire was placed under control at 1926 hours. Miraculously there were no serious injuries or fatalities. Of the injured most were just smoke inhalation and nothing was life-threatening.
Baltimore City FD News
Line of Duty Death Lieutenant Mark Dranbauer
On May 24, 2025, BCFD honored the life and legacy of Lieutenant Mark Dranbauer with a heartfelt farewell. Family, friends, and fellow firefighters gathered to pay their respects and celebrate his dedicated service. Lt. Dranbauer served with courage, pride, and unwavering commitment to the citizens of Baltimore. His memory will forever remain a part of the Baltimore City Fire Department family.
Lt. Dranbauer dedicated more than two decades of his life to serving the people of Baltimore. His leadership, compassion, and dedication to his fellow firefighters and the community will never be forgotten.
Even after death, Lt. Dranbauer continued to think of others as his tissues and organs were donated and saved an estimated 70 lives.
Mark is survived by his son, James, his parents Mark and Robin Dranbauer, his sister Kate Smith, and his nephew Gabriel Smith and niece Raelynn Smith. Mark was beyond loved and is also survived by countless cousins, relatives, and, of course, his brothers and sisters of the Baltimore City Fire Department.
We stand together in grief and gratitude for the service of a true hero.
Baltimore City FD News
7 Alarm Warehouse Fire in West Baltimore
Story and Photos Courtesy Howard Meile, III
On May 12, 2025, around 1900 hrs, One of the largest fires in recent memory struck Baltimore’s west side. Fire Communications dispatched Fire Box 36-1 for an initial report of a dwelling fire at Edmondson Avenue and Bentalou Street, right at the intersection of the quarters of Engine 36. As Engine 36 hit the street heavy black smoke was billowing above the rooftop of a 5-story warehouse across the street from them. To enter the yard of the building’s property they had to drive three blocks north and one block east to enter the front gate. From there they led off from a hydrant and pulled up to the building to begin their fight. They encountered heavy fire from an exterior structure on side B with extension to a trailer and into a loading dock of the 100’ x 150’ building. Along this side of the 100- year-old former Ward Baking Company Building are four mainline tracks of the Amtrack Northeast Corridor line which runs from Washington D.C. to Boston, MA. The two bottom floors of the warehouse are stacked full of mattresses. It was not known as to what else was stored inside. Several explosions were heard as they began operations. Most of the upper floors are empty or contain offices.
The Lieutenant of Engine 36 immediately called for a second alarm and requested Communications to have all rail traffic shut down on the railroad lines and de-energize the overhead electric lines. When Battalion Chief 3 arrived he took Command and requested Tower 1 to be added to the box. As units arrived access was going to be a problem along with water supply. There is no access on the railroad side and limited alley access on the opposite side. The building is 5 stories in the front and 3 stories in the rear, on the Edmondson Avenue side.
At 1912 a third alarm was requested along with a special call for a mutual aid tower out of the BWI Airport Fire Department. When companies began opening up doors and windows heavy black smoke poured out. This was to be exterior operations only for the duration of the night. Visibility was becoming limited due to the heavy smoke pouring out of the front. By 1938 hours four alarms were in and the fire continued to travel throughout the building, eventually breaking out through the first and second floors on the Edmondson Avenue side. At the height of the fire, around 2200 hours, flames had made their way to the top floor and through the roof as well as the side that backs up to the occupied houses in the 600 block of Bentalou Street. Only a ten-foot-wide alley separates the building from these houses. As a precaution, residents were temporarily evacuated to the nearby Engine 36 firehouse until other arrangements could be made. BGE then shut off power to that block. After the evacuation companies began setting up on Bentalou Street and firefighters went on to the rooftops with hose lines and along with the ladder pipes to fight the spreading fire from that vantage point. By now seven alarms were in along with several special calls and companies continued to pour water on to the fire until the early morning when Command announced the fire was contained.
By the following morning Chief James Wallace announced that he would seek assistance in determining the cause of the massive fire from his Fire Investigation Bureau, Baltimore Police Arson, Maryland State Fire Marshal Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms and Explosives. At Wallace’s request the ATF would take the lead in the investigation. As the fire was winding down the assignment was reduced to three alarms as companies continued to find and douse hot spots and deep-seated fires for the next few days. The authorities on the scene would devise a plan for possible demolition of parts of the building that were structurally unsafe. Rail traffic was reopened but limited to one track until it was determined if any others could be safely reopened.
48 residents from 15 different households were transported by MTA buses to motels and other temporary housing in the area. This was coordinated by the Office of Emergency Management along with the Department of Housing and Community Development and the American Red Cross. They were allowed back into their homes two days later when it was deemed safe and BGE returned the power back into the area.
Multiple agencies throughout the city and state contributed to the Fire Department’s efforts at this fire. The fire was officially placed under control at 2032 hours on May 13th. There were no reported injuries. Over 250 firefighters battled this blaze along with mutual aid resources from Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Harford, Howard Counties, and BWI Airport.
Baltimore City FD News
2 Alarm Gas Station Fire in Brooklyn
Story and Photos Courtesy Howard Meile, III
On March 22, 2025, around 1300 hrs, Fire Communications dispatched Fire Box 35-40 for a reported building fire in the 900 block of East Patapsco Avenue in the Brooklyn section of south Baltimore. As companies were responding heavy black smoke was visible for miles in every direction. First arriving Engine 35 reported the auto bays of a one-story Marathon gas station were fully involved, through the roof, and were putting their deck gun in service on the Alpha side. On the Charlie side Engine 57 arrived and reported several vehicles outside along with the building were involved. Battalion Chief 6 requested Tower 1 while he was enroute and directed companies to defensive operations only. When he arrived he took Command and requested the second alarm several minutes later. It was an operating gas station with four service bays connected to an office.
Units operated with two ladder pipes and a tower along with several portable deck guns and handlines for around thirty minutes before the fire was contained. All of the employees were able to get out of the building before firefighters arrived. The fire was placed under control at 1400 hours. Fire Investigation was on the scene to determine the cause. No injuries were reported.
Vacant Rowhome
Fire in Downtown
On April 19, 2025, at 0153 hrs, BCFD was dispatched to the 1800 block of Ramsey Street for a vacant rowhome fire with reports of people climbing out windows.
Units arrived to find heavy fire throughout the second floors of 4 rowhomes with two having fire through the roofs. Crews set up a couple of ladder pipes, handlines and a mini gun to extinguish the fire.
One civilian was taken to the hospital in unknown condition.
The caue of the fire is under investigation.
Photos Courtesy Rusty Brown
Vacant Rowhome Fire in W. Baltimore
On April 29, 2025, at 1230 hrs, BCFD was dispatched to the 400 block of South Pulaski Street for a reported rowhome fire.
Units arrived to find smoke showing from the front and fire showing in the back of this vacant rowhome. Crews determined that there was little extension to the left and right homes. Crews determined that the structure was sound and crews could perform an interior attack. Crews extinguished the fire quickly.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Photo Courtesy Rusty Brown
Apartment Building Fire in Downtown
On April 21, 2025, BCFD units were alerted to the 5100 block of Denview Way for a reported apartment fire.
Units arrived to find heavy smoke showing from the second floor with people trapped. Crews began an aggressive interior attack. The fire eventually got into the attic area and it took off through the roof. Command then ask for the 2nd alarm. Crews stretched multiple handlines and started getting the fire under control.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Photos Courtesy Rusty Brown
Vacant
Rowhome Fire in Downtown
On April 26, 2025, at 0100 hrs, BCFD was alerted to the 3100 block of McElderry Street for a reported vacant rowhome fire.
Units arrived to find smoke showing from the second floor of the middle of the group rowhome. Crews advanced handlines and quickly extinguished the fire.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Photo Courtesy Rusty Brown
Western Maryland News
Washington – Allegany – Garrett
3 Alarm Commercial Building Fire in Hagerstown
On April 24, 2025, at approximately 1535 hrs, Washington County Fire and Rescue and surrounding stations were dispatched for a large fire at the Maryland Paper facility following reports of flames both inside and outside the structure.
Units arrived and encountered multiple bales of recyclable paper burning inside the building, activating the facility’s sprinkler system. The fire had also spread to compacted stacks of cardboard and paper located outside—materials used in the facility’s paper processing operations.
Due to the scale and complexity of the incident, a second and third alarm were requested. Heavy equipment from the Washington County Landfill was brought in to help tear apart burning stacks, while specialized ventilation units—including an air boat and large commercial ventilation truck from Frederick and Loudoun counties—were deployed to ventilate the building and remove smoke.
No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
Photos Courtesy Washington Co. Division Of Emergency Services
MVA with Entrapment in Sharpsburg
On April 13, 2022, Sharpsburg and surrounding stations were dispatched for a vehicle accident on Shepherdstown Pike.
Units arrived to find a vehicle into a single story home. Crews extricated the driver and the victim was transported to the hospital.
House Fire in Clear Springs
On May 26, 2025, just after 0830 hrs, Washington County ECC received 911 calls reporting a house on fire in the 13400 block of Draper Road.
CSVFC Chief 4 arrived to find a two story residential home with fire showing from a majority of the dwelling. Due to the volume of the fire, a ladder pipe operation was setup. Additional crews assisted with extinguishment.
There were no injuries reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
Photos
by Clear Springs VFC
MVC with Entrapment in Bittinger
On May 12, 2025, at 0500 hrs, Bittinger was dispatched for a single vehicle accident rollover.
Units arrived to find one vehicle overturned with a victim trapped. Crews extracted the victim who was transported to the hospital for evaluation.
Photo by Bittinger VFD
Photo by Sharpsburg VFC
Northeast Maryland News
Cecil – Harford
Fatal Dwelling Fire in Joppa
On May 14, 2025, at around 0810 hrs, Joppa Magnolia and surrounding stations responded to a house fire in the unit block of Gunpowder Drive in Joppa.
Units arrived within minutes to find heavy fire, and were told that two people may be inside. Crews entered the home and rescued a victim inside. The victim was brought outside to EMS. Crews were told that another person may still be inside.
Firefighters later located another victim inside and brought them outside to EMS. Sadly, both victims were later pronounced deceased.
The cause remains under investigation.
Photos Courtesy MSFMO
Fatal Structure Fire in Earleville
On April 16, 2025, 2210 hrs, Cecilton and surrounding stations were dispatched to the block of Kent Road, in Earleville, for a structure fire.
Units arrived to find a fire in a mobile home. A tanker task force was alerted to help control the blaze. Crews were able to control the fire quickly but discovered human remains during the suppression of the fire.
Deputy State Fire Marshals have determined the fire originated inside the mobile home, but the cause remains under investigation. Damages to the structure and its contents are estimated to be $150,000.00. It is undetermined if smoke alarms were present within the home.
Photo Courtesy MSFMO
Photo Courtesy
Dwelling Fire in Edgewood
On May 20, 2025, Abingdon and surrounding stations were dispatched to a reported house fire in the 3000 block of Ebbtide Drive, in Edgewood.
Units arrived to find two-story, single-family home with fire through the roof. Crews stretched attacklines and began to extinguish the fire.
No injuries were reported. The MSFMO has the cause of the fire under investigation.
Dwelling Fire in Jarrettsville
On May 16, 2025, at 1810 hrs, Jarrettsville and surrounding stations were dispatched to a house fire in the 2300 block of Schuster Road, in Jarrettsville.
Units arrived to find heavy fire throughout the house. Due to the home’s location, firefighters used numerous tankers to extinguish the fire. Although the home had fire sprinklers, investigators determined that fire had most probably originated within the attic, where sprinklers are not located, and rapidly spread throughout the home.
MSFMO has preliminarily determined that the cause of a house fire in Harford County was due to a lightning strike.
Photos Courtesy MSFMO
Vacant Commercial Building Fire in Charlestown
On May 12, 2025, 2210 hrs, Charlestown and surrounding stations were alerted for a building fire in the 800 block of Bladen Street, in Charlestown.
Units arrived to find fire showing from a two story commercial building, Beachcombers Restaurant, that was vacant. Crews stretched attacklines and began to extinguish the fire.
No injuries were report and the cause of the fire is under investigation by the MSFMO.
Photo Courtesy Susquehanna Hose Co.
Photo Courtesy Abingdon FC
Instructor Candidates Train To Teach Tomorrow’s First Responders
Fifty-eight instructor candidates (28 Fire; 16 EMS; 9 Rescue; and 5 Hazardous Materials) spent two weekends this April training to teach at MFRI. Under the direction of veteran instructors from across the state, candidates demonstrated skills while simultaneously explaining their actions during the hands-on sessions.
“This process is designed to overview all skills necessary to teach within each respective emergency discipline,” said Todd Dyche, who coordinates the instructor candidacy and training twice a year and also serves as Coordinator for MFRI’s Western Maryland Regional Training Center. “If students are successful, they possess the ability to instruct for their sponsoring agency. Sponsoring agencies for this course included each regional MFRI office and other academy programs across the state.”
The 2025 Fall Skills Enhancement will be held on September 20th and 21st and the Skills Weekend will run October 4th and 5th at MFRI headquarters in College Park. If you are a sponsoring agency and have candidates to submit, please look for an informational email soon or contact Todd Dyche at tdyche@mfri.org or by phone at 301-729-0431.
If you are interested in joining the MFRI instructor team, please reach out to your regional MFRI office or email: mfri-instructor-info@umd.edu.
Service-Year Program Offers Paid Opportunities In Public Safety
At the start of his term, Governor Wes Moore created the Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation to promote service and volunteerism across the state. Secretary Paul Monteiro, who leads the department, recently toured MFRI and spoke with firefighter recruits about the Maryland Corps/Service-Year Option.
Designed for high school graduates, the program offers young adults a yearlong paid opportunity for professional growth and career opportunities while they serve the community. This is the first program of its kind in the nation and it includes opportunities in public safety.
New Recruits Confront the Fire
Tackling live-fire training, 25 new recruits from Howard County geared up for drills in the burn building. They also observed the mobile fire sprinkler demonstration, learning more about how the extinguishing systems operate.
Central Maryland News
Carroll – Frederick
Dwelling Fire in Green Valley
On May 2, 2025, at 0451 hrs, Frederick Co. were dispatched to the 11500 block of Nor-Ray Circle, Green Valley.
Units arrived and reported fire showing from the rear of a 2-story single family house. Crews stretched attacklines and were able to quickly extinguish the fire.
There were no occupants in the home at the time of the fire. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
Photo Courtesy Frederick Co. Fire & Rescue
Dwelling Fire in Brunswick
On April 30, 2025, at 1330 hrs, Frederick and surrounding stations were alerted for a house fire in the block of Concord Drive, in Brunswick.
Units arrived to find a two-story, single-family home with smoke showing from second story\attic area of the side of the house. RID was requested. Crews made entry and quickly extinguished the fire on the 2nd floor
No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
Photo Courtesy Frederick Co. Fire & Rescue
Dwelling Fire in Sabillasville
On May 10, 2025, at 1553 hrs, Frederick and surrounding stations were dispatched to the 15300 block of Sabillasville Road, in Sabillasville, for a reported house fire.
Units arrived to find fire through the roof of a two-story, single family home. RID was immediately requested. Crews stretched attacklines and quickly extinguished the fire.
It was determined the occupants were not at home. No injuries were reported and MSFMO has the cause of the fire under investigation.
Photo Courtesy Frederick Co. Fire & Rescue
Central MD News
Dwelling Fire in Frederick
On April 22, 2025, at 1758 hrs, Frederick units were dispatched for a reported house fire in the 8000 block of Gambrill Park Road, in Frederick.
Units arrived to find fire showing from the garage of a single story house with extension into the house. A RID was requested. Crews stretched attacklines to begin extinguishing the fire. The fire spread into the woods at the rear of the house and across the attic. Crews knocked the fire out an began extensive overhaul.
There were no injuries reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Photos Courtesy Frederick Co. Fire & Rescue
Central MD News
Dwelling Fire in Frederick
On April 28, 2025, at 1744 hrs, Frederick and surrounding stations were alerted for a house fire in the 6900 block of Greenvale Court, in Frederick.
Units arrived to find a two-story, single family home fully involved. RID was requested. Crews confirmed the home was vacant and began an aggressive defensive attack on the fire.
There were no injuries reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Fire & Rescue
Photos Courtesy Frederick Co.
Howard County Station, Apparatus & Fire News
Fire Chief Louis Winston
Submitted by Assistant Chief Pat LePore, Howard County DFRS
Building Fire near
Ellicott City
On March 12, 2025, a Box Alarm was sounded alerting stations 2 (Ellicott City), 7 (Banneker), 14 (Merriweather), 9 (Long Reach), 10 (Rivers Park), Battalion Chief-2 & 1, Safety-1, and EMS-2 for the reported house fire on Mustering Drum Court.
Units arrived to find a working fire and requested additional units to assist. The fire was brought under control within 30 minutes.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. The fire was commanded by BC-2 (Sharpe).
Photo by Howard County DFRS
Building Fire in North Laurel
On April 9, 2025, a Box Alarm was sounding alerting stations 6 (Savage), 27 (Maryland City-AACoFD), 810 (Laurel Fire-PGFD), 849 (Laurel Rescue Squad-PGFD), 11 (Scaggsville), 10 (Rivers Park), 12 (Waterloo), Battalion Chief’s 1 & 2, Safety-1, and EMS-1 for the reported building fire in the 9900 block of Washington Boulevard.
Units arrived to find smoke showing from a commercial occupancy that housed an automotive repair and paint booth and initiated an aggressive offensive attack.
The fire was brought under control quickly and the scene was turned over to Howard County FI’s for the cause and origin investigation.
Howard County Department Fire Rescue Services
Station 3
2024 F-550 Ford/Outback Fire Apparatus 135 GPM Hale-HPX75-B23 pump
400 gallon water tank
12 gallon Foam tank
Photo by Howard County DFRS
Photo Courtesy Pat LePore
Howard County Fire & Rescue
Merriweather Long Reach
2025 Seagrave Marauder II Pumpers Cummins L9 – 450 hp Diesel 1500 gpm Pumps – 750 gallon Tanks
Sold by Matheny Fire & Emergency
Building Fire in Jessup
On March 10, 2025, a Box Alarm was sounding alerting stations 12 (Waterloo), 9 (Long Reach), 10 (Rivers Park), 1 (Elkridge), 29 (Jessup-AACoFD), 2 (Ellicott City), 6 (Savage), Battalion Chief-1 & 2, Safety-1, and EMS-2 for the reported building fire in the in the 7100 block of Montevideo Road.
Units arrived on the scene of a large one-story warehouse that contained a Spice Manufacturing Facility with the building being evacuated and light smoke showing. Upon further investigation, a working fire was found in one of the spice grinders with-in the building. Due to an extensive operation, additional units were requested to assist along with large capacity fan units. This brought units from stations 5 (Halethorpe-BCoFD), 2 (Ellicott City), 7 (Banneker), 21 (Harmans-Dorsey-AACoFD), Assistant Chiefs 5 & 1 (Shift Commander), FAN-27 (Maryland City-AACoFD), and Air Boat-928 (Carroll Manor-Frederick Co DFRS) to assist.
No injuries were reported and command was held by BC-1 (Utz).
Courtesy Howard County DFRS
Photo Courtesy Patrick M. Shoop, Jr.
Photos
House Fire in Fruitland
Story and Photos Courtesy Sgt. Edward C. Evans, NRP, Salisbury FD
On May 8, 2025, just after 1630 hrs, Salisbury was alerted for a working house fire in Fruitland.
Units arrived to find a two-story, single-family home with heavy smoke showing. Crews threw a ladder to retrieve one resident stranded on the roof. Additional crews stretched attacklines to extinguish the fire.
Truck 1 performed a primary search of the residence. All occupants made it out safely.
Salisbury
MVA on Salisbury Bypass
Story and Photo Courtesy
Sgt. Edward C. Evans, NRP, Salisbury FD
On March 16, 2025, Shortly after midnight, Salisbury was alerted for a MVC on the Salisbury Bypass in the area of Snow Hill Road.
Units arrived to find a two-vehicle MVC that was on the exit ramp. Crews investigated and found no entrapment.
One patient was transported to a local trauma center. Scene was turned over to WCSO and State Highway. 21B had command of the incident.
Truck Fire on Pathfinder Ct.
Story and Photo Courtesy
Sgt. Edward C. Evans, NRP, Salisbury FD
On March 31, 2025, Salisbury was alerted for a trash truck on fire in the 28000 block of Pathfinder Court.
Units arrived to find a well involved trash truck. AC-1 established command and requested Truck 2 to respond as well. Crew quickly extinguished the fire in the passenger compartment. Truck 2 set up a master stream to extinguish the fire in the rear of the truck.
A tanker from Hebron Fire Department was requested as well. Emergency Management and HazMat 1 also requested to contain runoff from the incident.
There were no injuries reported, AC-1 had command of the incident.
Building Fire on Camden Avenue
Story and Photo Courtesy
Sgt. Edward C. Evans, NRP, Salisbury FD
On March 22, 2025, just after 2300 hrs, Salisbury and surrounding stations was alerted for a building fire in the 500 block of Camden Avenue.
Units arrived to find an apartment building with smoke showing. Crews performed a 360 and found a working fire in the basement. Additional crews performed forcible entry and primary searches.
Crews found that fire had extended into the wall to the first and second floor and extinguished the same.
There were no civilian or firefighter injuries reported. The cause of the fire is being investigated by the City Fire Marshal. AC-1 had command of the incident.
House Fire on Martin Street
Story and Photo Courtesy
Sgt. Edward C. Evans, NRP, Salisbury FD
On March 28, 2025, at 0200 hrs, Salisbury along with surrounding stations were alerted to the 300 block of Martin Street for a house fire.
Units arrived to find a 1.5 story residential with smoke showing. Crews performed a primary search that proved negative. Additional crews extinguished the fire located in the kitchen.
The cause of the fire is being investigated by the City Fire Marshal. There were no civilian or firefighter injuries reported. AC-1 had command of the incident.
Southern Maryland News
Calvert – Charles – St. Mary’s
Fatal House Fire in Faulkner
On April 17, 2025, at 0615 hrs, the Bel Alton and surrounding stations were dispatched to the 9600 block of Brunswick Road in Faulkner for a structure fire.
Units arrived to find a fully involved two-story house and received reports that the homeowners were not accounted for. Crews encountered severe hoarding conditions inside the home during suppression efforts.
Crews found the deceased owners of the home on the second floor. A tenant who resided on the first level of the home was able to escape uninjured. The structure’s damage is estimated to be $175,000.00, and the structure’s contents are estimated to be $75,000.00. Smoke alarms were found in the home, but it is unknown if they were working.
The two deceased men have been transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore to determine the cause of death.
The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Photos Courtesy MSFMO
Southern Maryland
MVA in Hughesville
On May 11, 2025, at 0952 hrs, Hughesville was dispatched to the intersection of Leonardtown Road at Gallant Green Road in Hughesville, for a serious motor vehicle collision with reports of entrapment, fire, rollover and ejection.
Units arrived to confirm a two vehicle collision with one SUV in the roadway and one sedan off the roadway and on its side with no entrapment or fire. U.S. Park Police Helicopter Eagle 1 was requested to land nearby for a 23-year-old male suffering serious injuries.
The patient was flown to the University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center.
A second patient, a 56-year-old male was evaluated for lower-body injuries and signed care refusal forms on scene.
Police are investigating the motor vehicle collision.
by Hughesville VFD and RS
MVA in Great Mills
On May 20, 2025, at approximately 1408 hrs, Bay District and surrounding stations were dispatched to Point Lookout Road and Great Mills Road in Great Mills, for a serious motor vehicle collision with one overturned and one possibly trapped.
Crews arrived to find a single vehicle in the roadway and on its roof with no entrapment. The single occupant was found to be conscious and alert, however, a helicopter was requested to land nearby a short time later due to their injuries.
Maryland State Police Helicopter Trooper 7 landed nearby and transported the patient to an area trauma center. Police are investigating the single vehicle collision.
by Bay District VFD
Shed Fire in Huntingtown
On May 20, 2025, Huntingtown and surrounding stations were alerted for a large detached shed fire in the 4000 block of Pinewood Terrace.
Units arrived to find a shed on fire. Crews stretched attacklines and quickly extinguished the fire. Crews then assisted with opening up and checking for hotspots. There were no injuries reported.
Photo by Dunkirk VFD
Photo
Photo
Photo Courtesy Huntingtown VFD
Lancaster County Lancaster County News
Dwelling Fire in West Cocalico Twp.
On April 28, 2025, just before 1749 hrs, Adamstown and surrounding stations were dispatched to Kline Road in West Cocalico Township for a reported building fire with possible entrapment.
Upon arrival of Chief 13 (Hilton) reported negative entrapment and a working fire. Crews arrived and took roof operations and secondary search.
No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
Submitted by Thomas Amico
Photos Courtesy Adamstown FC
2 Alarm Dwelling Fire in Ephrata
On May 4, 2025, just before 2230 hrs, LCWC dispatched West Earl and surrounding stations to the 300 block of Millway Road in West Earl Township for a reported dwelling fire.
Units arrived and reported heavy fire visible and requested a second alarm. Once a water supply was established from a nearby pond, crews put several master streams in service in a defensive attack to put out the bulk of the fire. Part of the structure collapsed and high expansion foam was used on the building’s interior.
There were no civilian or firefighter injuries reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the MSFMO.
Photos Courtesy West Earl Fire Station 29
Prince George’s County News
Townhouse
Fire in Upper Marlboro
On May 2, 2025, at 14:03 hrs, PGFD units were dispatched to the 10900 block Henry Darnell Court, in Upper Marlboro.
Units arrived to find a 3-story middle-of-the-row townhouse with well-advanced fire conditions and extension to neighboring units. Crews stretched attacklines and were able to quickly extinguish the fire.
No injuries were reported and the cause is under investigation.
Photo Courtesy PGFD
Passing of Former Fire Chief
Structure
Fire in Fort Washington
On April 20, 2025, at 0818 hrs, PGFD units were dispatched to the 8300 block of Indian Head Highway in Ft. Washington.
Units arrived to find a 3-story multi-family dwelling with fire showing from the 3rd floor. Crews extinguished the fire quickly. Crews performed searches which proved negative.
No injuries were reported and the cause is under investigation.
Benjamin M. Barksdale, Jr.
It is with profound sadness that the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department announces the passing of former Fire Chief, Benjamin M. Barksdale, Jr.
Chief Barksdale served our community and this department with distinction for eight years, holding positions of Deputy Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, and was appointed as Prince George’s County’s 12th Fire Chief on June 6, 2017.
As we grieve this tremendous loss, let us also celebrate the life of a remarkable leader who dedicated himself to protecting our community. We will continue to carry forward Chief Barksdale’s legacy through our commitment to service and excellence.
Please join the PGFD in keeping Chief Barksdale’s family and friends in your thoughts and prayers.
Photo Courtesy PGFD
Photo Courtesy PGFD
PG County News
Townhouse Fire in Bladensburg
Story and Photos Courtesy Bladensburg VFD
On May 3, 2025, Bladensburg and surrounding stations were dispatched for a reported townhouse fire on the Henry Darnall Court, in Bladensburg.
Units arrived to find heavy fire showing from the rear and the working fire dispatch was sounded. Upon arrival command directed the crew to the top floor for searches and to open up for engine companies. All searches proved negative and Chief 9 was assigned as the division supervisor.
Crews had well advanced fire conditions as well as holes in the floors and collapse of the original fire unit with extensive overhaul to be done requiring the fire task force.
No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
PG County
Propane Explosion in Laurel
On May 10, 2025, around 0800 hrs, PGFD units were dispatched to 4th and Main Streets, in Laurel for an explosion.
Units arrived to find vendors setting up for a Festival. One vendors propane tanks had exploded creating a huge fire. Crews stretched attackline and were able to extinguish the fire.
The City of Laurel canceled the parade but eventually let the festival begin at around 1100 hrs.
One person was hospitalized with serious but non-life-threatening burns. No other injuries in relation to the explosion were reported.
The cause is under investigation.
Dwelling Fire in Croom
On May 17, 2025, PGFD units were dispatched to the 9500 block of Croom Road for multiple callers reporting a house on fire.
Units arrived to find fire throughout and extinguished the same. Crews established RIT and supported the water supply dump site and assisted with overhaul.
There were no civilian or firefighter injuries reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Photos Courtesy PGFD
Photos Courtesy Paul Hawkins
Delaware Apparatus
Chester County News
Vehicle Fire in West Caln Township
On May 1, 2025, at 1134 hrs, Sadsburyville and surrounding stations were alerted to a vehicle fire at an industrial facility located on the 500 block of Independence Way, in West Caln Township.
Assistant 31 (Reynolds) arrived and reported a large front end loader with heavy fire and within close proximity to a building with possible extension. Crews assisted with the extension areas of fire surrounding the front end loader.
Command called for the Fire Marshall to be dispatched.
Dumpster Fire in Goshen
On April 19, 2025, Goshen was dispatched to the Golf Club apartments for a report of a dumpster fire.
Units arrived to find a dumpster well involved. Crews pulled a handline and knocked down the bulk of the fire. Due to the large size and fullness of the dumpster, firefighters established a supplyline from the hydrant and filled the dumpster with water to make sure the fire was completely extinguished.
Photo Courtesy Goshen Fire Company
House Fire in Tredyffin Twp.
On May 3, 2025, at 0933 hrs, Berwyn and surrounding stations were dispatched to the 400 block of Red Coat Lane in Tredyffrin Township for a house fire.
Units arrived to encounter a fire in the basement of a two-story single family home. The lone occupant in the home at the time of the fire was able to safely evacuate. Crews were able to quickly extinguish the fire. The fire was investigated by the Chester County Fire Marshals Office and was ruled accidental in nature.
Photo Courtesy Sadsburyville FC
Photo Courtesy Berwyn FC
Chester County News
2 Alarm Commercial Building Fire in Spring City
Story and Photos Courtesy Liberty FC
On April 27, 2025, at about 1422 hrs, Liberty and surrounding stations were dispatched to the block of Riverside Drive for a commercial building fire. The initial report was that the caller reported seeing smoke from inside the siding of a large 30 unit storage facility.
Units arrived to find fire visible through the roof. Engine 63 stopped at the hydrant located at the intersection of East Bridge Street and Riverside drive. Chief 63 requested the working fire dispatch followed very quickly with a second alarm.
Additional units arrived and deployed a Blitz Fire and prepared to go into master stream operations. Crews laid 800’ of supplyline to begin an attack on the fire. Crews worked aggressively and were able to stop the fire from spreading despite the windy conditions.
No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
2025 NFFF Memorial Weekend
Members of Baltimore County Fire Department participated in the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation 2025 Memorial Weekend.
Baltimore County Fire Department Station 13 2024 Ford F250 Pick-up/Leer Cap
Photos Courtesy BCoFD
Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III
Baltimore County FD News
Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III
Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III
Westview
Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III
Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III
Photo Courtesy Howard Meile,
Photo Courtesy Howard Meile,
Baltimore County FD News
Photo
Photo
Apparatus
Photo Courtesy Dennis C. Sharpe
Photo Courtesy Mike Sanders
West Virginia Apparatus
Keyser Fire Department
Station 1
Mineral County,
WV
Spartan Gladiator Evolution/H&W
of 5” supply line
of 3” supply line
This engine was purchased from Command Fire Apparatus in Lancaster, PA. This unit is replacing a 1999 American LaFrance Eagle/KME.
Station 2
County,
This replaced Wiley Ford’s 1993 HME/4-Guys 1250/1000 pumper, which was donated to Petersburg, WV in Grant County.
Photo Courtesy Mike Sanders ENGINE
Photo Courtesy Mike Sanders
West Virginia Apparatus
Company
Photo Courtesy Mike Sanders
Photo Courtesy Mike Sanders
National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week 2025
Every April, National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week honors the telecommunications professionals who so often serve as the first point of contact for those in need of emergency services.
Maryland’s statewide EMS system’s communications hub is composed of two integrated components – Systems Communications (SYSCOM) and the Emergency Medical Resource Center (EMRC). Both EMRC and SYSCOM function 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
This year (April 13-19, 2025), MIEMSS salutes EMRC/SYSCOM and all emergency dispatch personnel across Maryland and around the nation for their critical role in saving lives and keeping our communities safe. Click the image above to watch a short video tribute to our public safety telecommunicators, or view it online at https://www.youtube.com/embed/ GCsdn2M37FY.
Pediatric Vehicular Heatstroke Prevention
Pediatric vehicular heatstroke is the leading cause of non-crash, vehicle-related deaths for children 14 and younger. Since 1998, when safety advocates began tracking such data, hot-car deaths have killed more than 1,000 children. In the U.S., 39 children died due to vehicular heatstroke in 2024 – tragically, each death was preventable.
The three main scenarios in which heatstroke occurs are:
• Children are forgotten in vehicles by caregivers.
• Children gain access to unlocked vehicles and become trapped inside.
• Children are knowingly left in vehicles by caregivers.
The biggest risk factor in the majority of cases of forgotten children is a change in routine. Before leaving a vehicle, stop, look for a child, and lock the car doors. It only takes a second. It is also critical that all parents, caregivers, and drivers understand that children should never be left alone in a vehicle, not even for a minute.
As a reminder that you have a child in the back seat, keep an item in the back, like a toy. Then, put the toy up front with you when your child is in the car seat to serve as a reminder. Or, put your purse or work bag in the back seat with the child.
If you see a child in distress in a vehicle, act quickly and call 9-1-1 to summon help.
May 1 is National Heatstroke Awareness Day, when many injury prevention organizations and federal agencies alert the public to the risk of heatstroke to children alone in a vehicle. Consider borrowing one of the free outdoor temperature displays for your community event (see box at left) or procuring free posters and handouts from MIEMSS (email cps@miemss.org). For more information on pediatric vehicular heatstroke, visit www.trafficsafetymarketing.gov/safety-topics/child-safety/vehicular-heatstroke-prevention or watch this YouTube video on “Maryland EMS”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yCdI69S2zvw&t=10s.
MSPAC Marks 55th Anniversary of First Medevac Mission
On March 19, 1970, Maryland State Police (MSP) completed its first medevac mission. Driven by Dr. R Adams Cowley’s pioneering work in the field of trauma medicine, Governor Marvin Mandel established the Maryland EMS system – the first statewide organized EMS system in the nation – by Executive Order three years later.
“Congratulations to the Maryland State Police Aviation Command, and all who have made contributions and sacrifices over the past 55 years to provide preeminent air-medical services to the people of Maryland,” said State EMS Board Chair Clay B. Stamp.
MIEMSS Executive Director Dr. Ted Delbridge called the agency’s partnership with MSP Aviation Command “invaluable.”
“As we acknowledge the 55th anniversary of the first medevac mission by the Maryland State Police, we are reminded of the crucial role the MSP Aviation Command plays to deliver state-of-the-art emergency medical services throughout our state,” said Dr. Delbridge.
MIEMSS is proud to partner with MSPAC in serving the state’s most critically injured patients in their hour of greatest need. Learn more about Maryland medevac history at https://tinyurl.com/MarylandMedevacHistory.
