MERRY CHRISTMAS Distributed in Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia
Vol. 40, No. 6
November/ December 2025
2 Alarm Apartment Fire in Laurel Story on Pages 22 Photo Courtesy Mike Hugg Media
4 Alarm Building Fire in Remington Story on Pages 52 Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III
Remember Those Who Made The Supreme Sacrifice on 9-11-01
2 – November/December 2025
November/December 2025 – ??
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INDEX November/December 2025 County News Baltimore............................................................. Page 30 Chester.................................................................. Page 46 Howard................................................................. Page 36
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4 – November/December 2025
St. Mary’s County Government Installs Publicly Accessible AED Cabinets at County Facilities St. Mary’s County Government (SMCG) has announced a new public safety initiative to improve access to automated external defibrillators (AEDs) at SMCG parks and facilities. The St. Mary’s County Department of Emergency Services has partnered with Recreation & Parks, Aging & Human Services, and Public Works & Transportation to install 13 secure AED cabinets across 12 county parks, as well as the Garvey Senior Activity Center. This initiative comes as part of a broader effort to enhance the “chain of survival” for victims of sudden cardiac arrest, one of the leading causes of unexpected death in the United States. According to the American Heart Association, more than 356,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur each year, and nearly 90% are fatal. Local data from the Cardiac Arrest Registry to Enhance Survival (CARES) shows that the second most frequent location for these events is public spaces, including sports fields and recreation areas. “Citizens are often the first to respond in a cardiac emergency,” said Jen Utz, Director of the St. Mary’s County DES. “This program empowers our community to take immediate action when seconds matter most and emergency responders are on the way.” The new AED cabinets are designed to provide 24/7 access to lifesaving equipment. In the event of a cardiac emergency, residents should always call 9-1-1. The 9-1-1 dispatcher will provide a secure access code to unlock the cabinet, allowing bystanders to retrieve and use the AED before emergency responders arrive. Early defibrillation has been shown to increase survival rates by 50%–75% when an AED is available on-site. St. Mary’s County EMS responds to an average of 217 cardiac arrest calls each year, and the enhanced accessibility of AEDs at these locations is expected to improve outcomes countywide. The initiative replaces a previous model where AEDs were secured inside staffed park offices, limiting access to operating hours. Now, devices are available at any time, bridging the critical minutes before EMS arrival, which can average 8–10 minutes, depending on location and call volume.
“Our parks and recreation spaces welcome thousands of residents and visitors each week, and safety is always our top priority,” said Ray Bivens, Director of St. Mary’s County Recreation & Parks. “Publicly accessible AEDs at our parks ensure that lifesaving tools are available when they’re needed most in the event of a cardiac emergency.” For more information about the St. Mary’s County AED initiative or CPR training opportunities, contact the Department of Emergency Services at emergencyservices@stmaryscountymd.gov.
Showalter, Scheulen Retire From State EMS Board
From left: Major Michael Tagliaferri (Maryland State Police Aviation Command); Dr. Ted Delbridge (MIEMSS Executive Director; Jeff Hobbs (Emergency Medical Services Nurse); Dr. Thomas Scalea (University of Maryland Baltimore Designee); Eric Smothers (State EMS Advisory Council Chairman); Sally Showalter; Clay B. Stamp (State EMS Board Chairman); James Scheulen; Fire Chief Trisha Wolford (Career Firefighter); Yonnia Waggoner (Public at Large <175,000); Stephan Cox (Volunteer Firefighter); Michael Cox (Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute); and Dr. Kristie Snedeker (R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center)
The State EMS Board honored two retiring members for their longtime service at its October 14, 2025, meeting in Annapolis. Sally Showalter, RN, former head nurse at Calvert Memorial Hospital (now CalvertHealth, of which she is a third-generation board member), joined the State EMS Board in 2005, representing the general public in a county of less than 175,000. James Scheulen, PA, MBA, chief administrative officer for emergency medicine and capacity management for Johns Hopkins Medicine and president of Johns Hopkins Emergency Medical Services, joined the State EMS Board in 2018, representing hospital administrators. State EMS Board Chairman Clay B. Stamp praised Showalter and Scheulen for their commitment to serving their fellow Marylanders and the EMS community. The EMS Board also marked the addition of several new members, including: Jeff Hobbs, BSN, RN, Trauma Program Manager, UPMC Western Maryland (Emergency Services Nurse); Yonnia Waggoner, MSN, RN, Director of Emergency Services, Calvert Health Medical Center (General Public in a County of Less Than 175,00); Trisha Wolford, NRP, Fire Chief, Anne Arundel County Fire Department (Career Firefighter); and Meg Sullivan, MD, MPH, Deputy Secretary of Public Health Services (Secretary of Health Designee). The 11-member, Governor-appointed State EMS Board governs the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS), the independent, executive-level agency responsible for the coordination of all emergency medical services in the State of Maryland. Learn more about the Maryland EMS system and its leadership at https://miemss.org/home/MIEMSS/Leadership.
November/December 2025 – 5
Western
6 – November/December 2025
Maryland News
Washington – Allegany – Garrett
Three-Alarm Fatal House Fire in Corriganville On September 26, 2025, at 1153 hrs, Corriganville and surrounding departments were alerted to the 11600 block of Proenty Road NW in Corriganville after a 911 caller reported a house fire with possible entrapment. Units arrived and discovered heavy fire conditions throughout the two-story home. After the fire was extinguished, firefighters discovered the body of an adult victim inside. The victim was preliminarily identified as a 69-year-old female occupant of the home. Her body was transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore, where the cause of death will be determined. The origin and cause of the fire remains under investigation. Photos Courtesy MSFMO
Fatal House Fire in Hagerstown On November 11, 2025, at 1112 hrs, fLongmeadow and surrounding stations responded to the 300 block of Chimneystone Court following a report of a house fire. Deputy State Fire Marshals determined the fire originated in the kitchen area. No working smoke alarms were found in the home. Accelerant Detection K9 Quinn responded to assist investigators. Firefighters later located the victim inside the home. No additional injuries were reported. Photos Courtesy Longmeadow VFC
November/December 2025 – 7
Western MD News
ENGINE 2
Cumberland
2025 Pierce Saber Pumper Cummins L9 – 450 hp Diesel 1500 gpm Pump – 750 gallon Tank
Fire Department Station 2 Allegany County
Atlantic Emergency Solutions, Inc. Photo Courtesy Pierce Manufacturing
RESCUE 35
Hagerstown Regional Airport Station 35 Washington County
2004 Spartan Crimson Previously served Penfield, PA in Clearfield County as Rescue 41. Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III
8 – November/December 2025
Western MD News
Western Maryland Gets Accelerant Detection K9 Meet K9 Quinn, who just graduated from the ATF National Canine Training Center with his handler, S/DSFM Adam Rounds. Senior Deputy Rounds and Quinn join one of only 77 certified ATFtrained accelerant detection teams in the United States and become part of the country’s largest partnership of ATF-trained canines, operated by the Office of the State Fire Marshal. “Quinn’s placement in Western Maryland is a significant step forward in strengthening our statewide investigative capabilities,” said Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray. Photos Courtesy MSFMO
Fatal House Fire in Clear Springs
On November 18, 2025, just after 0430 hours, Washington Co. Emergency Communications Center received multiple calls for a reported house on fire in the 13800 block of National Pike. Units arrived to find heavy fire conditions throughout a single story residential home. Crews began fire extinguishment and search for civilians inside the dwelling. Crews found three deceased residents inside the home. MSFMO has the cause of the fire under investigation. Photo Courtesy Clear Springs VFC
November/December 2025 – 9
10 – November/December 2025
Anne Arundel County Fire Department “Committed To Your Safety”
Trisha Wolford - Fire Chief 410-222-8305 The Nations Premier Combination Fire Service
Dwelling Fire in Woodland Beach Story and Photos Courtesy Mike Hugg Media On November 14, 2025, at approximately 1:36 p.m., firefighters from the Annapolis Fire Department, Anne Arundel County Fire Department, and the U.S. Naval Academy Fire Department responded to the unit block of Poplar Point Road for a reported chimney fire. Upon arrival, crews found a one and a half story, Type V single-family home with fire showing from the chimney and smoke coming from the eaves. A Working Fire Dispatch was requested, bringing in additional firefighters and resources to help contain the fire. Firefighters made entry and located fire around the first-floor chimney and in the attic, initiating an aggressive interior attack. Command requested two additional engines and two additional trucks for support. Crews opened the ceilings, walls, and roof around the chimney to chase hot spots and ensure the fire was fully extinguished. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Anne Arundel County Fire and Explosives Investigation Unit.
Motor Vehicle Fire in Woodland Beach Story and Photos Courtesy Mike Hugg Media On October 06, 2025, at approximately 0703 hrs, firefighters from the Anne Arundel County Fire Department and Police Officers from Anne Arundel County Police Department responded to a report of a vehicle fire. Firefighters arrived to find a single vehicle with fire showing from the engine compartment and quickly began extinguishing the flames. The fire was extinguished, and units began cleanup operations before returning to service.
November/December 2025 – 11
Northeast
12 – November/December 2025
Maryland News Cecil – Harford
2 Alarm Building Fire in Elkton On November 6, 2025, at around 0140 hrs, Singerly and surrounding companies were alerted to Unwined on the Water in the 200 Plum Point Road, for a reported building fire. Troopers with Maryland State Police North East Barrack arrived and reported heavy fire throughout the building. The fire was brought under control in under two hours, and an excavator responded to assist with debris removal. The building collapsed and is considered a complete loss. No injuries have been reported. MSFMO has the cause of the fire under investigating. Photos Courtesy MSFMO
November/December 2025 – 13
Northeast MD News
ENGINE 8
Community Fire Company of Rising Sun
2024 Pierce Enforcer Engine 1500 gpm Pump – 1000 gallon Tank 30 gallon Foam Cell Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III
Station 8 Cecil County
North East Fire Company Station 4 2024 Dodge 5500/Life Line Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III
MEDIC 491
Perryville
Volunteer Fire Dept. Station 6 2023 Ford Fe50/ built by Fire Company CET PP/200 Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III
BRUSH 6
14 – November/December 2025
Annapolis Fire Department Douglas Remaley Fire Chief
Joe Pilat President, Local 1926
House Fire in Annapolis On September 22, 2025, at approximately 1900 hrs, Annapolis was dispatched to the unit block of Sherwood Road for a reported structure fire. Upon arrival, fire crews found heavy fire showing from the garage with extension into the second floor of the residence. Crews initiated a swift, aggressive attack and brought the fire under control in under 30 minutes. Their rapid actions prevented further spread into the remainder of the second floor. The residence was equipped with working smoke alarms. No one was home at the time of the incident, and no injuries were reported among civilians or fire personnel. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Annapolis Fire & Explosive Services Unit. Estimated damages are approximately $100,000. Photos Courtesy Annapolis FD
Fire and Explosives Services Unit – K9 Bear We are excited to introduce you to our newest member of the Annapolis Fire Department , K9 Bear! He is part of our Fire and Explosives Services Unit. Investigator/Bomb Technician Matthew Montgomery recently returned from training with his partner, Bear. He is a 1-year-old and 10-month-old Belgian Malinois and trained in explosive detection. Investigator Montgomery and K-9 Bear completed extensive training with Southern Coast K9 in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. K9 Bear is looking forward to keeping The City Of Annapolis and the surrounding jurisdictions safe! Photo Courtesy Annapolis FD
November/December 2025 – 15
16 – November/December 2025
Lancaster County News
Submitted by Thomas Amico
MVA in Strasburg Township Story and Photos Courtesy Thomas Amico On October 3, 2025, at 16:00 hrs, Refton and surrounding stations were dispatched by Lancaster County-Wide Communications for a commercial vehicle accident on the Beaver Valley Pike at North Old Road in Strasburg Township. Units arrived to find an overturned box truck with the driver trapped. Crews cut the windshield and used a backboard to help slide the subject out through the windshield.
Barn Fire in Strasburg Twp. On November 5, 2025, Hand-in-Hand and surrounding stations were dispatched on a second-alarm barn fire in the 600 block of May Post Office Road in Strasburg Township. Units arrived to find a barn on fire. Engine 41 established a secondary fill site at Little Beaver Road and May Post Office Road, filling 8 tankers. Tanker 41 supplied the scene with 3 loads of water (12,000 gallons), and the crew assisted with fire suppression by manning a handline. Utility 41-1 assisted Engine 41 with setting up the fill site, and afterwards the crew reported to manpower staging. Photos Courtesy Hand-in-Hand FC
November/December 2025 – 17
Lancaster Co. News
Two Alarm Barn Fire in Manheim On October 4, 2025, Just after 1500 hrs, LECC dispatched Penryn and surrounding stations were dispatched to the 1600 block of North Penryn Road for a reported structure fire. Units arrived and reported heavy smoke showing from a 40’ x 80’ barn. Crews initially advanced hand lines into the structure but were forced to go defensive before a second alarm and additional tankers were called. Eventually, heavy machinery was used to tear apart the building and extinguish the fire. No injurries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation. Photos Courtesy Penryn FC No. 1
18 – November/December 2025
Lancaster Co. News
Outbuilding Fire in Earl Township
On November 14, 2025, at 1330 hrs, Garden Spot and surrounding stations were dispatched for a reported outbuilding fire on N. Railroad Avenue in Earl Township. Command officers arrived and found an outdoor waste oil fired wood furnace and covering on fire. A nearby shed and the house were both close by and at risk of igniting. Engine companies arrived and stretched multiple lines to darken down the bulk of the fire, cool waste oil tanks and put protection lines on the nearby structures which were both saved. Photos Courtesy Garden Spot FR
MVC with Entrapment in Earl Township On November 18, 2025, shortly before 0800 hrs, Garden Spot and EMS were dispatched to the intersection of Peters Road & Shirk Road for an injury crash involving a commercial vehicle. Upon response, units were advised by the 911 center they were upgrading the assignment to entrapment after receiving reports of at least one subject possibly trapped. Assistant Chief 31 arrived and confirmed one person unable to self extricate from a pickup truck. Crews worked on incident stabilization and a driver side door removal. Photo Courtesy Garden Spot FR
Vehicle into Structure in Goodville On November 17, 2025, Weaverland Valley and EMS were dispatched to Main Street in Goodville for a crash with possible entrapment and one vehicle reported into a structure. Units arrived and confirmed no entrapment in either vehicle and one pickup into a house. Crews worked on structural shoring. A temporary header was constructed and installed. A grip hoist was used in conjunction with the tow company to move the vehicle as needed during removal. A replacement corner post with bracing was then installed before removing the header. Photo Courtesy Garden Spot FR
November/December 2025 – 19
20 – November/December 2025
Lancaster Co. News
2 Alarm House Fire in Earl Township On November 23, 2025, shortly after 2200 hrs, Garden Spot and surrounding stations were dispatched to Bergman Road in Earl Township for a reported house fire. Deputy 44 (Intercourse) arrived and confirmed an outside/in fire with the backside of the home well involved, along with several vehicles on fire. Command 39 requested the 2nd alarm for manpower and water supply immediately. Crew split for ladders/vertical vent and interior search while additional crews advanced lines to the interior for fire attack. Crews encountered several challenges in zero visibility including an open spiral staircase and an elevator shaft. Photos Courtesy Garden Spot FR
MVC in Lancaster On November 20, 2025, at 0658 hrs, Lancaster Township and surrounding stations were dispatched for a vehicle accident with entrapment at New Danville Pike and Brenneman Road, in Lancaster. Crews completed a “door pop” and extricated the victims. All parties had non-life-threatening injuries. Photo Courtesy Lancaster Township FD
November/December 2025 – 21
Prince George’s County News
Townhouse Fire in District Heights On September 28, 2025, Kentland was dispatched for a reported townhouse fire. Units arrived to find fire in the breezeway between two units and started the working fire dispatch. Crews stretched attacklines and quickly extinguished the fire. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation. Photo by Kentland VFD
House Fire in Bowie On October 3, 2025, at 1731 hrs, PGFD units were dispatched to the 12400 block of Starlight Lane in Bowie. Units arrived to find a 2-story single-family home with fire showing. Crews make quick work of this fire. One victim was transported with serious but not life threatening injuries to the nearest hospital. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Photo by PGCo Fire/EMS Dept.
2 Alarm Warehouse Fire in Bladensburg
On October 7, 2025, at 2000 hrs, Hyattsville and surrounding stations were alerted to respond for a working fire in an industrial park in the 5200 Block of Lawrence Place in Bladensburg. Units arrived to find heavy fire showing from the outside of two warehouses involving several stacks of pallets and tractor trailers. Crews made entry into the exposure warehouses to check conditions inside. Around this time propane tanks that were involved began exploding and an evacuation order was called. Ladder pipe operations were conducted, and a 2nd alarm was sounded. Crews were eventually able to advance and mop up once the majority of the fire was knocked. Photo by Hyattsville VFD
22 – November/December 2025
PG County News
2 Alarm Apartment Fire in Laurel Story and Photos Courtesy Mike Hugg Media On October 15, 2025, at approximately 11:28 p.m., firefighters from the Prince George’s County Fire Department, Anne Arundel County Fire Department, Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service, and Howard County Fire Rescue Services responded to the 8800 block of Hawthorne Lane after multiple callers reported an apartment fire. Firefighters arrived to find a three-story garden-style apartment with fire showing from the balcony. They requested the Working Fire Dispatch (WFD), prompting additional units from Anne Arundel County Fire Department and Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service to assist. Due to heavy fire showing from the roof and attic, command requested a Fire Task Force, bringing in additional personnel and resources to the scene. The fire eventually escalated to a second alarm. Firefighters from each department worked strategically together to control and contain the blaze, preventing further extension and damage to neighboring apartments. Multiple residents were displaced; however, no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Prince George’s County Fire Investigation Division.
November/December 2025 – 23
24 – November/December 2025
William R. Frampton, Chief Edward C. Evans, NRP – PIO www.salisburyfd.com
House Fire in Salisbury
Story and Photos by Sergeant Edward C. Evans, NRP On October 13, 2025, just after 1730 hrs, Salisbury and surrounding stations were alerted for a house fire. While en-route, a large column of smoke visible in the area. Central advised that one person could be possibly trapped in the structure. First arriving units found an attached garage fully involved that had extended inside the home. Crews began extinguishing the bulk of the fire in the garage with a master stream and handline. Additional crews performed a search that was negative. Engine 1 placed additional lines in service to extinguish the fire inside the home. Shortly afterward, explosions from the garage along with a roof collapse were noted. Crews were pulled from the structure and defensive operations began. There was no civilian or firefighter injuries reported. MSFMO has the cause of the fire under investigation. Assistant Chief 1 had the command.
House Fire on Pine Way
Story and Photos by Sergeant Edward C. Evans, NRP On September 18, 2025, around 1030 hrs, Salisbury and surrounding stations were alerted for a house fire in the 300 block of Pine Way. AC-2 would arrived to find a one-story residence with smoke showing. Occupants notified command that units would have to utilize the charlie side of the structure as the front entrance was blocked because of hoarding conditions. Crews placed a hose line in service. They found a bed room on fire and quickly extinguished the same. Truck 2 would arrived and perform searches and ventilation. There were no civilian or firefighter injuries reported. MSFMO has the cause of the fire under investigation. Assistant Chief 2 had command of the incident.
November/December 2025 – 25
Salisbury FD News
MVC with Entrapment on Snow Hill Road Story and Photos by Sergeant Edward C. Evans, NRP On November 7, 2025, shortly after 1330 hrs, Salisbury was alerted for a MVC with injuries in the area of Snow Hill Road and Nassawango Road. While units were responding, Central advised this involved a trash truck overturned, unknown on entrapment. Units arrived to find a two-vehicle MVC with one person still trapped. Crew began preparing for the extrication and two additional ambulances were requested. One patient was flown by MSP Trooper 6 and another patient by DSP Trooper 2. A third patient was transported by ground to the local trauma center. Assistant Chief 1 has command of the incident. Maryland State Police has the cause of the accident under investigation.
Truck Fire on Salisbury Bypass Story and Photos by Sergeant Edward C. Evans, NRP On September 19, 2025, just after 1100 hrs, Salisbury was alerted for a vehicle fire on the Salisbury Bypass in the area of Mt. Hermon Road. Central would advise of a tractor-trailer on fire. Units arrived to find fire in the engine and passenger compartment. Crews worked to extinguish the fire. Emergency Management and Hazmat-1 pumped-off of the saddle tanks. There was no injuries reported from the incident. Maryland State Police incident under investigation. Assistant Chief-1 had the command.
26 – November/December 2025
November/December 2025 – 27
30 – November/December 2025
127th Recruit Class On October 31, 2025 – Congratulations to the 127th Recruit Class on successfully graduating and officially joining the ranks of the BCoFD. Your dedication and commitment to service truly exemplify your motto, “All grit, no quit.” We welcome you to the BCoFD family and look forward to your contributions. Photos Courtesy BCoFD
Baltimore County Fire Department
Garrison Station 19
2023 Freightliner M2 106/2025 Wheeled Coach Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III
MEDIC 119
November/December 2025 – 31
Baltimore County FD News
RESCUE ENGINE 351
Arbutus
2025 Pierce Saber Pumper Cummins L9 – 450 hp Diesel 1500 gpm Pump – 750 gallon Tank
Volunteer Fire Department Station 35
Atlantic Emergency Solutions, Inc. Photo Courtesy Pierce Manufacturing
ENGINE 392
Cockeysville Volunteer Fire Company Station 39
2025 Pierce Saber 1500 gpm Pump – 750 gallon Tank It replaced a 2007 American LaFrance Eagle that was sold to the West End Fire Co. # 3 in Schuylkill County, PA. Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III
32 – November/December 2025
Baltimore County FD News
ENGINE 19
Baltimore County Fire Department
2025 Pierce Pierce Enforcer Engine 1500 gpm Pump – 1000 gallon Tank Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III
Garrison
ENGINE 60
Baltimore County Fire Department
Parkton
2025 Pierce Pierce Enforcer Engine 1500 gpm Pump – 1000 gallon Tank Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III
November/December 2025 – 33
34 – November/December 2025
Baltimore County FD News
ENGINE 16
Baltimore County Fire Department
2025 Pierce Pierce Enforcer Engine 1500 gpm Pump – 1000 gallon Tank Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III
Golden Ring
Baltimore County Fire Department
Catonsville Station 4
2023 Freightliner M2 106/2025 Wheeled Coach Catonsville M104 is running out of Station 3 in Woodlawn, as there is not enough room at the Catonsville Station. Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III MEDIC 104
Baltimore County Fire Department
Hillendale Station 11
2023 Freightliner M2 106/2025 Wheeled Coach Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III
MEDIC 111
November/December 2025 – 35
Baltimore County FD News
CRASH 175
MD Air National Guard Middle River
2025 Oshkosh Global Striker T-1500 1950 gpm Pump – 1500 gallon Tank 210 Foam – 450 # PKP Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III
36 – November/December 2025
Howard County Station, Apparatus & Fire News
Fire Chief Louis Winston Submitted by Assistant Chief Pat LePore, Howard County DFRS
2-Alarm House Fire in Long Reach On October 25, 2025, a Box Alarm was sounded alerting stations 9 (Long Reach), 10 (Rivers Park), 7 (Banneker), 14 (Merriweather), 2 (Ellicott City), 12 (Waterloo), BC-1, BC-2, Safety-1, and EMS-2 for a reported chimney fire in the 9100 block of Brunners Run Court in Long Reach. Units arrived to find heavy fire showing from the roof and requested the Working Fire Dispatch. As units were stretching attacklines and completing a 360-report, a large portion of the chimney collapsed to the ground prompting a request for the second alarm as well as a quick PAR Check. Additional units from stations 6 (Savage), 11 (Scaggsville), 29 (Jessup-AACoFD), 5 (Fifth District-Clarksville), 715 (Burtonsville-MoCoFR), 8 (Bethany), AC-1 (Shift Commander), Command-17, FGSU-17, Fire Chief, and a host of support staff responded to assist. The fire was brought under control with-in 30 minutes and there were no reported injuries. The fire is under investigation by Howard County FI’s. The scene was commanded by BC-1 (K. Mayne). Photo Courtesy Howard County DFRS
House Trailer Fire in Elkridge On October 25, 2025, a Box Alarm was sounded alerting stations 1 (Elkridge), 12 (Waterloo), 9 (Long Reach), 5 (Halethorpe-BCoFD), 6 (Savage), 21 (Harmans-Dorsey-AACoFD), BC-1, BC-2, Safety-1, and EMS-2 for a reported house trailer on fire in the 6600 block of Washington Blvd. Units arrived to find a working fire under the trailer with extension into the residence. The fire was quickly brought under control and there were no reported injuries. The cause and origin is under investigation by Howard County Fire Investigators. Photo Courtesy Howard County DFRS
Townhouse Fire in Emerson On September 21, 2025, a Box Alarm was sounded alerting stations 6 (Savage), 10 (Rivers Park), 11 (Scaggsville), 14 (Merriweather), 12 (Waterloo), 7 (Banneker), 29 (Jessup-AACoFD), Safety-1, EMS-1, BC-1, and BC-2 for a reported townhouse fire in the 9800 block of Garden Ranges. Units arrived to find an end-unit townhouse with heavy fire showing from the first-floor garage with vertical extension up the entire front of the structure. A working fire dispatch was sounded alerting stations 2 (Ellicott City), 7 (Banneker), 9 (Long Reach), 849 (Laurel Rescue Squad-PGFD), AC5, FGSU-17, and support staff to assist. The fire was quickly brought under control with-in 20 minutes. There was one minor firefighter injury and the cause is under investigation by Howard County FI’s at this time. The scene was commanded by BC-1 (K. Koons). Photo Courtesy Howard County DFRS
November/December 2025 – 37
38 – November/December 2025
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HCDFRS News
Townhouse Fire in North Laurel
On October 24, 2025, a Box Alarm was sounded alerting stations 6 (Savage), 11 (Scaggsville), 27 (Maryland City-AACoFD), 849 (Laurel Rescue Squad-PGFD), 810 (Laurel-PGFD), 10 (Rivers Park), BC-1, BC-2, Safety-1, and EMS-1 for a reported townhouse fire in the 9700 block of Whiskey Run in North Laurel. Units arrived to find a working basement fire in a 2-story townhouse. A working fire dispatch was sounded bringing additional units from stations 10 (Rivers Park), 7 (Banneker), 810 (Laurel-PGFD), 12 (Waterloo), 716 (Silver Spring-MoCoFR), AC-1(Shift Commander), and support staff to assist. Crews stretched several handlines and opened up the structure, and all searches were negative. The fire was brought under control with-in 15 minutes and the cause is under investigation at this time. Command was held by BC-1 (W. Porter). Photo Courtesy Howard County DFRS
Retirement and Promotions in DFRS Recently, Fire Chief Louis Winston announced the following promotions with-in DFRS: • Assistant Chief to Deputy Chief – Jermey Clancy • Battalion Chief to Assistant Chief – R. Shawn Utz • Captain to Battalion Chief – John Zour • Lieutenants to Captain – Jeff Carl & Christopher Harvey • Firefighters to Lieutenant – Kaitlin Kent, Patrick Livesay, Abbie Perkins, & Joseph Marks. • Firefighters to Heavy Vehicle Operators (Driver) – Justin Folliard, Nelly Molina, Gregory Pearlstein, & Justin Simpson. Recently, the following members have retired from DFRS: Firefighter Michael Shinsky (Engine-5B, 20 years) – Firefighter Shinsky was a member of Trainee Class # 21. He worked at several stations throughout the County to include several stints at Engine-6 (Savage) and Engine-5 (Clarksville). Always known for his quiet demeanor but as a solid and dependable firefighter. Firefighter/Paramedic Troy Snodgrass (Engine-5C, 20 years) – Firefighter/Paramedic Snodgrass was also a member of Trainee Class # 21. He performed his whole career as a paramedic with a long stance at Engine-7 (Banneker). He also assisted the Bureau of Logistics with severing on the Ambulance Design Committee for several years. We would like to wish those recently promoted congratulations and good luck in your new positions and to those who recently retired a long and healthy retirement!! Photos Courtesy Howard County DFRS
House Fire in Columbia
On November 2, 2025, at approximately 1430 hrs, HCDFRS units were dispatched to the 9500 block of Ridgeview Drive in Columbia for a reported house fire. First arriving units found a chimney fire that extended into the house. The fire was quickly brought under control and searches were negative. There were no firefighter or civilian injuries reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Photo Courtesy Howard County DFRS
November/December 2025 – 39
40 – November/December 2025
Southern
Maryland News Calvert – Charles – St. Mary’s Apartment Complex Fire in Chesapeake Beach On November 17, 2025, at approximately 0636 hrs, Chesapeake Beach and surrounding stations responded to the 3900 block of Gordon Stinnett Avenue following reports of a fire. Firefighters observed flames throughout the courtyard area, which eventually spread into the attic and through the roof. The fire destroyed 14 apartments and displaced approximately 25 occupants. All occupants were accounted for, and one was transported to the hospital for treatment. The fire also caused an estimated $250,000 in content damage. Deputy State Fire Marshals determined the fire originated on a first-level balcony in the courtyard area. The preliminary investigation indicates no evidence of a criminal act. High winds and the fire’s exterior location contributed to its rapid spread and damage. Photos by MSFMO
November/December 2025 – 41
Southern Maryland News
2 Alarm Dwelling Fire in Owings On October 25, 2025, at 1534 hrs, Prince Frederick and surrounding stations were dispatched for a reported house fire to the 3000 block of Morris Court in Owings. Units arrived to find heavy fire showing from the roof of a 2-story, single family home. Crews stretched attacklines to begin and aggressive attack on the fire. An initial offensive attack was attempted, but due to rapid fire spread and structural compromise, all interior firefighters were safely evacuated, and operations transitioned to a defensive attack. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation. Photos Courtesy Prince Frederick VFD
House Fire in Great Mills
On November 16, 2025, at 1107 hrs, Bay District and surrounding stations were dispatched to the 21000 block of Chancellors Run Road for a reported house fire. Chief 6 (Windsor) arrived to find a two-story single-family home heavily involved in fire. Chief 6 declared the fire a defensive operation. Crews began exterior suppression efforts. Chief 7A (Brady) assumed command of the incident. Multiple handlines were deployed to fight the fire, which had extended rapidly to both floors, the attic, and roof structure. Two adult residents were unharmed but displaced by the incident. One firefighter sustained an ankle injury during operations but declined transport after evaluation by EMS. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Photos Courtesy Bay District VFD
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Southern Maryland News
House Fire in St. Leonard On November 22, 2025, at approximately 0550 hrs, St. Leonard and surrounding stations were alerted for a reported house fire on Delight Court in St. Leonard. Units arrived to find heavy fire showing from all sides of a two-story single-family home. With the structure already too far gone for interior operations, command immediately transitioned to a defensive attack. Assistant Chief Vanessa DeVries assumed Incident Command operations, Safety Officer Marc Richman was assigned as the Team Leader for the Attack group and FF Jack Green was initially assigned to assist Captain Bill Terry with Operations. Due to the rural location and lack of hydrants, a large-scale water supply operation was established using the Jefferson Patterson Park (JPP) fill site. A working fire dispatch brought nearly every available tanker in Calvert County to the scene along with St. Mary’s Tanker 74 for mutual aid. St. Mary’s Engine 71 was at the fill site at JPP. Chief 6B (Huntingtown VFD) assumed the Water Supply Operation Command. The homeowners and their dog were able to escape unharmed through the basement after the primary exit at the front door became fully blocked by fire. The fire is believed to have originated from the chimney area, though the exact cause remains under investigation. Photos Courtesy St. Leonard VFD
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Register for Staff and Command 2026 Join fellow fire leaders from across the country at Staff and Command, March 1-6, 2026, in Annapolis, MD. For five days, the nation’s top emergency services experts will address current and emerging issues facing first responder leadership. Speaker topics of focus will include: • Fire Dynamics on the Fireground • Lithium-Ion Batteries/Electric Vehicles • Flawed Situational Awareness: The Stealth Killer of First Responders • Leveraging Intelligence to Improve Fire/EMS: Preparedness, Operations, and Safety • Public Information: Tell Your Story or Someone Else Will • Cancer in the Fire Service • Culture Change Following Tragedy: In Honor of the Charleston 9 • Firehouse Law for Fire Service Leaders For more information and to register, log on to: www.mfri.org/sac.
Vehicle Extrication Training at MFRI First responders from Prince George’s County Fire and EMS trained in vehicle extrication using the Jaws of Life, spreaders, and cutters to practice rescue methods for vehicle entrapment.
Maryland Weekend at the National Fire Academy Join fellow first responders throughout the state for Maryland Weekend at the National Fire Academy. Held in Emmitsburg, MD, February 21–22, 2026, Maryland Weekend enables attendees to expand their skills and network with other fire-service professionals. Featured courses include: - Command and Control for the Company Officer - Executive Skills Series: Exercising Leadership Ethically - Emergency Response to Terrorism: Strategic Considerations - Leadership in Supervision: Creating Environments for Professional Growth - New Fire Chief: Challenging Issues - Fire Investigation: Fire as a Weapon For questions or further details, contact Todd Dyche: tdyche@umd. edu or call 301-226-7320.
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Chester County News
Mobile Home Fire in West Caln Township On October 11, 2025, at 1800 hrs, Honey Brook and surrounding stations were dispatched to the area of Compass Road and Michael Road in West Caln Township for a reported house fire. Chief and Deputy 33 arrived and reported fire throughout a single wide mobile home, requested the working fire dispatch, and established command. Crews stretched two lines, and initiated fire attack. Additional crews began assisting with suppression efforts. One patient was transported to a local area hospital. Chief 33 held the Compass Road Command, while Deputy 33 had Operations for the incident. Photos Courtesy Honey Brook FC
Dwelling Fire in West Caln Township On October 11, 2025 ,at 16:20 hrs, Honey Brook and surrounding stations were dispatched for a reported dwelling fire in the 800 block of Cedar Knoll Road in West Caln Township. Deputy 35 arrived and reported the homeowner had the green line in service, and the fire appeared to be knocked. Crews began opening up, checked for extension, and conducted some overhaul before being cleared. Chief 35 held the Cedar Knoll Command. No injuries were reported. Photo Courtesy Honey Brook FC
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Chester County News
Barn Fire in East Fallowfield Twp. On September 27, 2025, Modena and surrounding stations were dispatched to the 3000 block of Doe Run Church Road in East Fallowfield Township for a barn fire. Units arrived and confirmed the report and Deputy 37 (Reason) requested a “Working Fire Dispatch” and 1st Alarm Tanker Task Force. Assistant 37 (Bryant) arrived and assumed the (Doe Run Church Command). Due to the progression of the fire it was decided that suppression of the fire would be a defensive attack (from the exterior) using master stream operations and a collapse zone was established. Assistant 37 (Bryant) requested a fill site be setup at a hydrant in the area of the Chester County Public Safety Training Center for the tankers. Due to the distance of the fill site from the fire and the fact they were using master stream operations a 2nd alarm tanker task force was requested. Command reported that 11 horses were able to be accounted for at the time that the fire was placed under control. Photos Courtesy Keystone Valley FD
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Baltimore City
2 Alarm Fatal Rowhome Fire in SW Baltimore
On September 20, 2025, at 0150 hrs, BCFD was alerted to the 1900 block of Wilhelm Street for a reported vacant rowhome fire. Units arrived with fire showing from both floors with extension going left and right with that a 2nd Alarm was called for. Crews began an inside attack with a couple of handlines to the front and rear. After the fire was put out, a K-9 unit searched the homes and discovered an unidentified victim, deceased. Arson, FIB, and homicide detectives are investigating the cause of fire. Photos Courtesy Rusty Brown
Vacant Rowhome Fire in West Baltimore Story and Photos Courtesy Mike Hugg Media
On October 22, 2025, at approximately 1025 hrs, firefighters from the BCFD responded to the 600 block of S. Payson Street for a reported dwelling fire. Upon arrival, firefighters found a two-story, end of group, vacant (“Code X-Ray”) dwelling with fire showing through the roof. Due to the condition of the building and the extent of the fire, firefighters initiated an exterior attack and began operating with ladder pipes and portable ground monitors until conditions improved. Once conditions were deemed safer, firefighters began efforts to gain access to the building to conduct an interior attack. No injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Baltimore City Fire Department’s Fire Investigation Bureau.
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Baltimore City FD News
2 Alarm House Fire in Northeast Baltimore On October 16, 2025, at 0945 hrs, BCFD was dispatched for a reported house fire in the 5400 block of Summerfield Avenue. Units arrived with an older wooden 2 story occupied home 100% involved immediately the working fire assignment was upgraded to a 2nd Alarm, with this being a offensive attack only. There were no injuries reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation. Photos Courtesy Rusty Brown
2 Alarm Vacant Rowhome Fire in NW Baltimore On September 30, 2025, at 0144 hrs, BCFD was dispatched to Chelsea Terrace and Fairview Avenue for a vacant rowhome fire. Units arrived to find heavy fire showing throughout this code X end of the group home. With no interior fight crews started an exterior attack only. Command asked for an upgrade to a 2nd Alarm. No firefighters were injured and the cause of the fire is under investigation. Photo Courtesy Rusty Brown
2 Alarm Rowhome Fire in NW Baltimore On November 2, 2025, around 1130 hrs, BCFD is dispatched to the 1300 block of West Lanvale Street for a reported rowhome on fire. Units arrived with heavy smoke and fire showing throughout this end of the group home and extending to the home next door. A 2nd alarm was called in to assist in this outside fight. Crews stretched a few handlines, set up a mini-gun, ladder pipe and Tower 1 to begin the exterior attack on the fire. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation. Photo Courtesy Rusty Brown
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52 – November/December 2025
Baltimore City FD News
4 Alarm Building Fire in Remington Story and Photos Courtesy Howard Meile, III
On the afternoon of Friday, November 7th Fire Communications started receiving calls reporting a fire somewhere in the Remington neighborhood of north central Baltimore. Around 1318 hours Fire Box 13-23 was dispatched to Hampden Avenue and 23rd Street. Several different locations were given reporting a fire with a person trapped. At 1322 Engine 13 was first to arrive and reported a commercial warehouse with heavy fire in the rear yard next to the building. While advancing lines to the rear several propane tanks were heard exploding. Several minutes later Battalion Chief 2 arrived and took command and reported that he had a 50’ X 500’ 2-story block warehouse that looked to be in good condition and had smoke pushing out of all sides. With 30 mph gusting winds present, the fire was pushed into a large garage door opening and spread to the interior. Companies entered into the first floor and reported heavy smoke conditions with fire above them on the second floor. At 1332 Command asked for a HazMat task force because of unknown materials inside along with a working fire assignment and a second alarm. As units were arriving they were told to start establishing a heavy water supply and set up ladder pipes around the building. At 1342, with fire conditions deteriorating, all interior units were told to evacuate and begin exterior operations only and to establish a collapse zone around the building. This 75-year old building is in a dead-end area and sits behind a row of 18 houses that front on the 400 block of West 23rd Street separated only by an 8’ alley and their back yards. With the fire intensifying and heavy wind gusts blowing, heavy black smoke along with flames 50-100 feet in the air, Battalion Chief 6 on that side of the building, made the decision to evacuate all of the residents of those houses. And to start getting crews on the rooftops and inside of the homes to keep the fire from spreading to the rear of the houses on that side of the street. At 1400 hours a third alarm was struck out and companies continued to find hydrants to supplement the water supply and set up more ladder pipes where they could. Baltimore Police, and the Office of Emergency Management, along with the Department of Housing and Community Development began evacuating the people from the block and sending them to the nearby Church of the Guardian Angel on 27th street. BGE also responded and shut down the power and gas to the neighborhood. Companies continued to battle the blaze which now took over the entire roof along with solar panels mounted to it. The thick heavy black smoke was visible throughout all parts of the city. Seven minutes later, as the fire moved along the top floor and roof of the block-long building a 4th alarm was struck out bringing additional manpower to the scene. At 1447 a special call for four more engine companies was requested. Companies continued the fire fight well into the evening. The fire was contained around 1730 hours and units remained on the scene well into the following day. The building housed two separate businesses. On the first floor is “Studio on Sisson”, a high-end custom cabinetry shop, listed as 2230 Hampden Avenue. And occupying the second floor “Big Ideas Marketing”, a distributor of novelty toys and candy supplies listed as 2235 Sisson Street. Chief James Wallace, in a news conference praised his department stating that his members “100% saved the homes on this block.” They put themselves in between the fire and the houses working around energized power lines and heavy fire and smoke conditions with zero visibility. They were on the rooftops and inside the homes battling the blaze. The American Red Cross assisted about 25 families that were evacuated with food and shelter and necessities. The families on the opposite side of the street were allowed back into their homes when the power was restored and the occupants in the affected houses went back when the situation was deemed safe to return. No one was injured. Approximately 175 firefighters with 65 pieces of apparatus operated on the scene. Fire Investigation will be working in the following days to determine the exact cause of the fire. It is speculated that a forklift was involved with a propane tank that exploded outside in the rear yard of the business.
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Baltimore City FD News
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Harford County Pediatric EMS Champion in Action In September 2025, Harford County Pediatric EMS Champion Chrystie Dillon, NRP, CSPT, led an evening drill at Level Volunteer Fire Department. Combining her Pediatric Training and Child Passenger Safety Technician training, Chrystie focused on high-priority clinical situations in Pediatrics. First up was the safe transport of children in ambulances. “Children are not small adults” – so goes the mantra of EMS for Children (EMSC). Rather, they come in all different sizes and need equipment that is specific to their development, including ambulance cots/stretchers. In this case, the training focused on use of the Pedi–Mate or a car seat, including securing the device to the stretcher according to manufacturer’s directions, then securing the child to the device, and ensuring that the correct straps are in the correct places (and tightened to the correct extent) – in other words, the “Right Care When It Counts.” Most importantly, a child should
never ride on a stretcher in an adult’s lap; arms are not a substitute for correct restraints. The drill also focused on pediatric infant and child high-performance CPR, a skill that, while used infrequently, is essential for achieving return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) for infants and children. Using QCPR manikins from the EMSC State Partnership grant program, instructors and participants receive real-time feedback on compression depth and recoil, compression rate (120 per minute), and hand positioning, as well as quality and depth of ventilation. High-quality CPR delivery – for infants, children, and adults – is best achieved through quarterly hands-on skill practice. Chrystie also included information on special populations, medication calculation using the county’s Handtevy app, and pediatric assessment. Congratulations to Harford County, Level VFD, and Chrystie Dillion for a successful evening of skills, simulations, and smiles.
Melville Appointed Jurisdictional Medical Director for St. Mary’s County EMS The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County have announced the appointment of Kraig Melville, MD, BMSc, FACEP, FAAEM, as Jurisdictional M1edical Director for St. Mary’s County, effective October 27, 2025. The Jurisdictional Medical Director provides medical oversight for the County’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Operational Program, ensuring the highest standards of patient care, safety, and clinical quality. In his new role, Dr. Melville will advise on EMS protocols, training, operations, and quality improvement initiatives across the county’s emergency response system. “On behalf of the Commissioners, I would like to welcome Dr. Melville as our new Jurisdictional Medical Director,” said Commissioner President
Randy Guy. “His extensive experience will further strengthen local emergency medical services and support the dedicated EMS professionals who serve on the front lines every day.” Dr. Melville trained in Emergency Medicine at the University of Cincinnati. He has practiced as an Emergency Medicine physician for more than three decades and chaired two emergency departments. His professional interests span EMS, cardiology, toxicology, and pediatrics. Over the course of his career, Dr. Melville has authored several professional publications and demonstrated a commitment to improving patient outcomes through clinician training. “I’m honored to join this talented group of EMS professionals,” said Dr. Melville. “Together, we’ll continue advancing emergency care and making a real difference for the people of St. Mary’s County.” Dr. Melville resides in Anne Arundel County with his wife, also an Emergency Medicine physician, along with their two daughters, two dogs, and four cats. In his free time, he enjoys hiking, fishing, exploring National Parks, and watching football.
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