Fire News Maryland 3-2026

In this issue...

Fire

at

the Speedway Pumps

Kanawha County Station 3 Malden was dispatched to Speedway gas station on Campbells for a vehicle fire at the gas pumps. See story on page 4

Cross Lanes Fire Does

Extensive Harm to Home

Fire departments from Kanawha and Putnam counties responded to a residential house fire.

See story on page 8

Baltimore City 3-Alarmer

Baltimore City firefighters operated at a three-alarm blaze in a row of buildings on Pennsylvania Avenue.

See story on page 11

Assisted Living Facility Fire in Poca

Putnam and Kanawha county fire departments responded to an unoccupied mobile home fire.

See story on page 20

Trailer Fire on Norway Road

The Monongah Volunteer Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire.

See story on page 21

Nutter Fork Assists at Salem House Fire

Nutter Fort Fire Department Tanker 7 supplied water to units on scene.

See story on page 22

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Focus of the Month

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page 28

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page 29

Fire at the Speedway Pumps

On December 9, 2025 at 1015 hours Kanawha County Station 3 Malden was dispatched to Speedway gas station on Campbells for a vehicle fire at the gas pumps. While en route Portable 32 advised Metro 911 to add Station 4 to the call. Crews arrived to a working fire and worked for about 20 minutes to knock it down. Hutch’s Wrecker was contacted to tow the vehicle and crews cleared in about an hour. Unit’s that responded were Malden Rescue Engine 33, Squad 3, Rand Engine 42, KCSD 73 and Hutch’s Wrecker.

- Fire News photo by AC Bradley ‘Sparky’ Scott, Malden VFD

Arson Strikes Same Home Twice in Hurlock

Deputy State Fire Marshals were requested to a Jones Village Road address in Hurlock on December 28, 2025 at 2206 hours to investigate the cause of a small fire within the home. The Hurlock VFD had initially responded to that location with 15 firefighters after a neighbor observed the fire and called the fire department. The one-alarm fire was brought under control within five minutes within the unoccupied, two-story, wood frame home. The fire caused $200 in damages to the contents of the home and another $2500 to the structure itself. There was a smoke alarm in the home but it did not activate. Investigators remained on scene and found multiple points of origin throughout the house with the assistance of an accelerant detection canine. The cause of this fire was determined to be incendiary (arson). Investigators cleared the scene at 0200. On December 29, 2025 at 0420 after Deputy State Fire Marshals had cleared the scene, the Hurlock VFD was alerted for another fire at the same address. This fire was also discovered and called in by a neighbor. Firefighters arrived to find the home fully engulfed in flames. It took 15 minutes and 25 firefighters to extinguish the one-alarm blaze. Deputy State Fire Marshals were requested back to the scene where they determined the fire was started in the kitchen of the home. This fire completely destroyed the house. The cause of this fire was also determined to be arson.

- Photo courtesy Maryland State Fire Marshal

Fatal Fire Investigation Underway in Taneytown

A joint investigation is underway between the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office following a fatal house fire in Taneytown yesterday evening. At around 1615 hours on December 12, 2025, Taneytown VFC responded to Francis Scott Key Highway for an initial report of a carbon monoxide-related incident. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered a fire that had self-extinguished inside the residence. The Office of the State Fire Marshal was requested to investigate. The homeowner was found deceased in a first-floor bedroom. A dog was also located deceased in the same bedroom, while a cat was found deceased in the dining room, and several pet birds were discovered deceased in the basement. The victim was transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner and preliminary findings suggest smoke inhalation as a contributing factor. Deputy State Fire Marshals determined the fire originated in the unfinished basement. While the cause of the fire remains under investigation, Deputy State Fire Marshals are focusing on accidental causes. Due to extensive soot and smoke throughout the first floor and cold temperatures in the basement, investigators believe the fire may have occurred overnight. A joint investigation between the Office of the State Fire Marshal and local law enforcement is standard procedure in incidents involving fatal fires. The investigation continues. - Photo courtesy Maryland State Fire Marshal

MVA

responded to a vehicle fire on Interstate-695 near Harford Road on January 19, 2026.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos

1 Run, 2 Calls

On January 9, 2026 at 0435 hours Kanawha Counties Stations 3 Malden, Station 4 Rand and Station 5 Belle were dispatched to 5000 Campbells Creek Drive Lot 7 in Area 3 for a structure fire. While units were en route Metro Communications advised they were receiving calls of a second structure in Area 4. The crews from Rand and Belle diverted to that scene for the working fire. Malden Engine 32 arrived at the Campbells Creek scene where there was a trailer fire and were advised to start fire supression. Station 15 Marmet were called to assist. Crews worked about 90 minutes to contain the fire. The Red Cross was called to the scene to assist the displaced residents.

- Fire News photo by AC Bradley ‘Sparky’ Scott, Malden VFD

Residential Fire on Creek Side Dr.

On February 7, 2026 at 1905 hours, Kanawha County Station 15 Marmet was dispatched to a unknown type fire in the area of Route 94 and Creek Side Drive. Shortly after dispatch, Metro Communications advised they were receiving calls of a house fire with possible entrapment. Station 15 requested Station 3 Malden and Station 14 Chesapeake be added to the call. Units arrived to a heavily involved house fire. Crews worked in bitter cold temperatures for several hours to extinguish the blaze and locate the victim. Units cleared the scene around 030 hours. Units that responded were Marmet Engine 151, Utility 150, Malden Engine 31, Chesapeake Tanker 144, Squad 14, Utility 141 and142, KCEAA 511,590 and 181, KCOEM 990 and 991, KCSD 92, WVSP 585, and WVSFMO 17.

- Fire News photo by AC Bradley ‘Sparky’ Scott, Malden VFD

Quick Knockdown on West Baltimore Dwelling Fire

On November 29, 2025 at 1500 hours, Baltimore Box Alarm 8-11 toned sending engines, trucks, Rescue 1, Battalion Chiefs 3 and 6, and Safety Officer 4 to North Gilmore Street for a reported dwelling fire with persons trapped. Engine 8 arrived to a threestory, middle-of-the-row structure, with smoke showing, and began making an interior attack. Air Flex 1 and Medic 17 dispatched.

Battalion Chief 3 assumed command, reporting smoke showing all three floors. One line stretched from Engine 8 knocked down a fire involving the first-floor front. There was no extension and all searches were negative. The fire was placed under control at 1509 hours.

- Fire News photos by Jason Coleman-Cobb

House Fire in Romines Mills

At 1136 hours on Thursday February 5, 2026, Companies 7, 12 (Stonewood VFD), Engines 11 (Anmoore VFD), and 31 (Lost Creek VFD) along with Anmoore EMS were alerted for a structure fire in the 9200 block of Buckhannon Pike in Romines Mills. HCES 671 was in the area and responded to arrive on scene confirming a working fire on the first floor of a three-story single-family brick dwelling. They also advised a parked vehicle displaying a handicapped placard out front thus indicating possible entrapment. An elderly disabled occupant was determined to be home in his secondfloor bedroom. Engine 122 placed a 1 3/4” cross lay in service to make entry through a D side door for an interior attack while Truck 7 assumed search and rescue throwing a ground ladder to the second floor A/D corner to initiate VEIS. Truck 7 picked up 122’s fourinch LDH for water supply and set up their aerial device to the sec-

ond floor. Ladder 521 arrived on scene and immediately assisted with search and rescue efforts as well as supplying their tank water. Company 12 and 7 personnel located an unresponsive patient in bed and began removing the victim via a second-floor ground ladder. The victim was removed from the structure and into the hands of Anmoore Medic 15 in 12 minutes of arrival. HCES Medic 604 also responded to assist Anmoore EMS. A secondary search was performed as it was reported that another individual was possibly staying in the basement of the residence. Basement access was made on the C side with all remaining searches proving negative. The fire was contained to the living room area of the home. The patient was transported via aeromedical to the West Penn Burn Center in Pittsburgh. - Photos courtesy of Nutter Fort FD

Cross Lanes Fire Does Extensive Harm to Home

Fire departments from Kanawha and Putnam counties responded to a residential house fire on Dover Drive in Cross Lanes recently. The blaze, which officials believe started between the first and second floors, did extensive fire, smoke and water damage. All family members escaped without harm along with the family cat. The

cause is unknown at this time. Fire departments responding included Nitro, Poca, Institute, Bancroft, Tyler Mountain along with the Kanawha County Ambulance Service and Kanawha County Emergency Management. - Photos courtesy of Nitro FD

Nitro Holds Ice Rescue Training

Members of Nitro Fire Department B Shift conducted ice rescue training at Ridenour Lake. The firefighters used special ice rescue suits to keep warm and afloat to make the simulated rescues.

- Photos courtesy of Nitro FD

Vacant Trailer Burns in Area 3 Parsonsburg Blaze Claims 2 Lives; 1 FF Hospitalized

A team of investigators from the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Maryland State Police are investigating the cause of a fire that claimed the lives of two people in

On January 18, 2026 at 0:52 hours, Kanawha Counties Station 3 Malden, Station 4 Rand, and Station 5 Belle were dispatched to Clover Drive in Area 3 for a structure fire. Crews arrived to a single-wide trailer well off. Crews worked for 90 minutes to contain the blaze. It was determined that the trailer had been vacant for some time. There were no injuries reported and crews cleared the scene. Units that responded were Malden Engine 32, Rescue Engine 33, Utility 3, Rand Engine 42, Utility 4, Belle Engine 52, KCEAA 155, 511.

- Fire News photo by AC Bradley ‘Sparky’ Scott, Malden VFD

Parsonsburg early on February 1, 2026, and sent an off-duty firefighter to the hospital. A passerby called 911 just before 0240 hours when he observed smoke and flames coming from a home on Old Ocean City Road. He knocked on the front door and windows to wake the owners. Around the same time, an off-duty Ocean City Fire Department firefighter, who is also a volunteer with the Parsonsburg Volunteer Fire Company, arrived at the scene. The member kicked in the rear door of the home in hopes of locating someone and discovered a victim. He attempted to remove the victim, but was overcome by heavy smoke and had to exit the home. Maryland State Police Aviation Command later flew him to a Baltimore area hospital, where he was reported to be in stable condition. Firefighters with the Parsonsburg VFC and surrounding departments arrived and quickly upgraded the incident to two alarms. The fire quickly spread throughout the two-story home, as sections of the home collapsed. It took around 100 firefighters nearly two hours to bring the fire under control. Firefighters later located the remains of two victims inside.

- Fire News photo by Wayne Barrall & Maryland State Fire Marshal

Baltimore City 3-Alarmer

Baltimore City firefighters operated at a three-alarm blaze in a row of buildings on Pennsylvania Avenue, on December 30, 2025. The original fire building was vacant but the blaze quickly spread to adjoining exposures. There was an interior collapse on the original fire building. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos

Training Kanawha Auto Extrication Training

Kanawha County Emergency Ambulance Authority along with Kanawha County Emergency Management and the Nitro Fire Department conducted a hands-on training session in auto extrication. The class was for KCEAA’s current EMT class. The collaborative training class was held at Abbott’s Towing in Nitro.

- Photo courtesy of Nitro FD

Promotion Ceremony for Deputy Chief Eric Bowers

He was presented with a cap badge and helmet shield representing his new rank as Deputy. Chief Bowers leads our IT Division. Congratulations from DC’s Bravest

- Photos courtesy of DC Fire & EMS

Looking Back

1904

January 1904, the message from Baltimore’s Fire Chief was clear: “Desperate fire here. Must have help at once!” The Great Fire of Baltimore was raging, and DC’s Bravest answered the call, sending

accompanied by

-

Cover Story

Kitchen Fire Guts First Floor of Baltimore Dwelling

On November 29, 2025, Baltimore Box Alarm T 5-23 toned at 1236 hours, sending Baltimore Crews to East 32nd Street for a reported dwelling fire. Responding companies had a visible smoke column en route. Engine 42 arrived to fire showing from the front and rear of two story, occupied, middle-of-the-row, dwelling. Engine 31 reported that fire was showing from the first and second floors and there was an active power line down. One injured occupant was transported by medics and command requested two additional medics to the scene along with Air Flex 2. Multiple lines were placed in service and truck companies opened up the roof line in the rear. Companies had a kitchen fire that extended throughout the first floor and second floor rear. Rescue 1 was picked up from a dwelling fire in southeast Baltimore and added to the box to assist with a partially collapsed porch roof. The fire was placed under control at 1315 hours.

- Fire News photos by Jason Coleman-Cobb

Sykesville Man Charged After Setting Fire, Destroying Home

Deputy State Fire Marshals have charged a Sykesville man after he intentionally set fire to his home, destroying the residence and prompting a multi-department response. Just after 0800 hours on November 26, 2025, Carroll County Sheriff’s deputies and the Maryland State Police were initially dispatched to a home in the 500 block of Sherry Drive for a reported domestic-related incident. While en route, deputies received information that the male homeowner was preparing to set the house on fire, and the fire department was dispatched. As deputies approached the scene, they observed a large column of black smoke rising from the home. When Carroll County Sheriff's deputies arrived, the residence was

engulfed in flames. The 39-year-old homeowner, was standing outside and told them that he had intentionally set the fire. He was detained at the scene and later transported to a local hospital for treatment of minor injuries. Firefighters from Carroll County Fire and EMS, Gamber & Community Fire Company, and several additional departments worked together to bring the fire under control. The man was charged with first-degree arson, first- and seconddegree malicious burning, reckless endangerment, and arson threat. He was transported to the Carroll County Detention Center, where he was held pending a bond hearing.

- Photos courtesy of Maryland State Fire Marshal & Gamber VFD

Single-Wide Trailer Fire

On January 18 2026 at 1720 hours, Kanawha Counties Station 3 Malden, Station and Station Belle, were dispatched for a structure on Kanawha Boulevard in Area 3. Crews arrived to a single-wide trailer, with fire showing from the A side. Crews made an aggressive interior attack and contained the blaze to the middle of the trailer. The fire was considered accidental in nature. There were no injuries reported. Units that responded were Malden Engine 32, Rescue Engine 33, Utility 3, Rand Engines 42,43, Utility 4, Belle Engine 52, Utility 57, KCEAA 65, KCOEM 991. -

Fire News photos by AC Bradley ‘Sparky’ Scott, Malden VFD

Training Members of DC’s Bravest Engine 29 and Truck 5 in Palisades Drill

Members of DC’s Bravest Engine 29 and Truck 5 in Palisades drill on the pumping capabilities of the brush UTV located in their quarters. There is also an EMS UTV located there, both of which can navigate along the canal and Capitol Crescent Trail. - Photos courtesy of DC Fire & EMS

Pre-Planning at National Monuments

Members from DCs Bravest are pre-planning at national monuments. These drills ensure that our members know the building hazards and layout before an emergency occurs. Everyday is a training day. - Photos courtesy of DC Fire & EMS

Assisted Living Facility Fire in Poca

Putnam and Kanawha county fire departments responded to an unoccupied mobile home fire at Wayside Place in Poca. The call came in around 1130 hours. The first arriving unit from Poca VFD found a working structure fire and went on the offense with a single line to knock down the blaze. Arriving soon after was a crew and engine from Nitro providing a water source and manpower inside the dwelling. The fire was quickly brought under control. It is thought that the fire was caused by a crew remodeling the interior, using a portable propane heater, which caught some of the trailer’s contents on fire. The dwelling received extensive fire, smoke and water damage. No injuries were reported. Other departments providing mutual aid came from Bancroft and Eleanor.

- Photo courtesy Nitro FD

MOTLEY CREW

Working Fire for Kentland Engine and Truck 33

Before the snow set in, Engine 331 and Kentland Truck 33 responded to a working attic fire in Co. 48’s area. While clearing a separate 46 box, Engine 331 and Truck 33 were alerted to respond for a house with smoke coming from the roof. First arriving companies found a working fire and Truck 33 served as the fire-floor supervisor. The truck split crews and the Driver/OVM went to the roof to ventilate. Truck 33 remained on scene to complete overhaul before returning to service.

- Photo courtesy of Kentland VFD

Busy Night for West Side VFD

On January 2, 2026 at 2134 hours, West Side Volunteer Fire Department responded to Poca for a structure fire in Putnam County to provide Poca Community Volunteer Fire Department manpower as requested. At 2343, West Side also responded to an MVA reported at Coal River Road and Browns Creek. One person was being transported by Kanawha County Ambulance. The striking vehicle fled the scene and was reported to be on fire at Indian Head and Coal River Road. All occupants were out of the vehicle upon arrival. - Photo courtesy of West Side VFD

Trailer Fire on Norway Road

On February 12, 2026, the Monongah Volunteer Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 500 block of Norway Road. Upon arrival, crews encountered a working fire involving a residential trailer with visible smoke and fire conditions. Firefighters quickly initiated fire suppression efforts while conducting a primary search of the residence. Four animals were successfully located and removed. One occupant was evaluated on scene and subsequently transported to a local hospital for treatment of smoke inhalation. The fire was brought under control in a timely manner. The cause of the fire was under investigation. Mutual aid came from Valley VFD, Winfield VFD, Barrackville VFD, Nutter Fort VFD, Worthington VFD, Spelter VFD, Marion County Rescue Squad. - Photo courtesy of Monongah VFD

Jeep Off I-77 Bridge

On December 30, 2025 at 0814 hours, Kanawha counties Station 40 Charleston and Station 3 Malden were dispatched to Interstate 77 for an MVA over a bridge. Crews arrived and found a Jeep that came off of I-77 and landed below next to Kanawha Boulevard. With the driver heavily entrapped and a fire in the engine compartment crews quickly extinguished the fire and went to work extricating the driver. The driver was extricated in about 25 minutes and was transported to CAMA General Division Priority 1. Units that responded were Malden Rescue Engine 33, Squad 3, Utility 3, CFD Engine 454, Rescue 482, Truck 461, Medic 431, 437, AC408, AC450, Safety420, KCSD 39, 47, 86, 95, CPD 108 and Hutch’s Wrecker.

- Fire News photo by AC Bradley ‘Sparky’ Scott, Malden VFD

St. Albans Does Elevator Rescue

The Saint Albans Fire Department was dispatched for an elevator rescue at Riverview Towers. One occupant was trapped in an elevator on the 10th floor. - Photo courtesy of St. Albans FR

Nutter Fork Assists at Salem House Fire

Nutter Fort, West Virginia, Blaze

At 2033 hours on Monday March 2nd, Company 8 (Reynoldsville VFD), Engines 71, 91 (Salem VFD), and 111 (Spelter VFD) along with HCES were alerted for a Structure Fire on Firebird Lane off of Phoenix Hollow Road in Reynoldsville. Engine 72 staffed with 4 personnel responded in under 3 minutes with Tanker 7 staffed with an additional 2 personnel following. Engine 81 arrived on scene with a Working Fire to find a large detached garage fully involved with a nearby residence as an exposure. Engine 72 arrived as 3rd due engine and along with 81 placed (2) 1 3/4” cross lays in service

for fire suppression. The garage consisted of 2 vehicles, ATVs, and other items. Engines 93, 112, as well as Tankers 7 and 11 supplied units on scene with water and additional manpower with the tankers supplying several loads of water each. After extensive overhaul and clean up, units returned home just after 2300 hours. Mt. Clare VFD Engine 52 transferred to Co. 8 for the duration of the incident. Anmoore EMS Medic 17 was on scene for standby with no injuries reported. -Photos courtesy of Nutter Fort FD

NFFF Fire Hero Family Tree Lighting

On December 6, 2025, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) hosted its annual Fire Hero Family Tree Lighting at the National Emergency Training Center in Emmitsburg, Maryland. The evening began with a wreath laying ceremony at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial after which four bronze plaques were unveiled adding the names of more than 100 members of the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) who died in the line-of-duty from WTC/9-11 response illness and injury. The

more than 250 attendees then walked to the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Chapel. The Chapel, more than 150 years old, is the second oldest building on the campus that is the home of the US Fire Administration, National Fire Academy, and FEMA’s National Disaster and Emergency Management University. At the front of the Chapel, in the first row, a firefighter’s helmet and turnout coat were prominently displayed to honor the fallen and as a reminder of their sacrifice and that

they were at the event in spirit. NFFF Chief Executive Officer Victor Stagnaro and Acting US Fire Administrator Donna Black welcomed attendees and spoke about the significance of the evening after which Fire Hero families in attendance added ornaments to a number of Christmas trees in the Chapel to honor their loved ones. The ornaments joined hundreds of others that were sent in by Fire Hero families from around the nation. - Submitted by Kelly Gabliks

Girl Scouts Donate Build a Bears

Thank you to Girl Scout Troop 34847 from Elkview for the generous donation of “Build A Bears.” These bears will be given to children who have experienced a home fire or other tragedy. - Photo courtesy of Charleston FD

It’s Always Community Outreach

DC’s Bravest Engine 2 from the Chinatown firehouse teamed up with our community outreach team at the DC Superior Court. The engine crew provided blood pressure testing and the outreach team set up and managed a community information table. - Photos courtesy of DV Fire & EMS

Vigilant Hose Raising $$ for a New Engine

It was a full house in Emmitsburg at Vigilant Hose Company’s annual New Year’s Eve bingo night. Vigilant Hose, whose service area includes the National Fire Academy and the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial, is working hard to raise funds for a new engine. - Fire News photos courtesy of Vigilant Hose Company

Emmitsburg’s VHC Auxiliary Goes All Out for the Community and It’s First Responders

Joined by many dignitaries and special guests, on January 10, 2026, the Vigilant Hose Company (VHC) of Emmitsburg in Frederick County held its 142nd Anniversary Annual Awards and Recognition Banquet. The very special occasion celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the VHC’s amazing Auxiliary Members.

FINANCIAL DONATIONS

They in turn graciously donated a $100,000 check to the department to help cover costs of emergency equipment and apparatus. As well as projects that improve the quality of life in greater Emmitsburg. The VHC is fortunate to have one of the most active auxiliaries in the region. Made up of over 70 women and men who work tirelessly year-round, the Auxiliary helps the department accomplish a myriad of initiatives in support of the department’s fire and life safety responsibilities.

In the weeks leading up to the Banquet, the Auxiliary also provided a $25,000 check towards an electronic message board which is installed in front of the VHC Activities Building.The total Fire and EMS calls for 2025 were 1,912 – the total unit responses were well over 3,000 to respond to emergency scenes in the 5-county/2-state region.

AWARDS

Recognized were top responders including Fire-Police and active administrative personnel along with Chief’s and President’s Awards,

EX-CHIEF BOB KUTCH JOINS KONSTANT DESIGN

After 30+ years of sales and service experience, to continue providing the Fire Service with the quality of products and attention you need and expect, I have made the decision to join the Konstant Design team as of January 1, 2026.

Konstant Design is known for excellent service and attention to detail in the custom apparel design and manufacturing industry. Whether your department is celebrating a wet down for a new vehicle, hosting a local or regional parade or honoring a fallen brother or sister, we stand ready to work with you to design a top quality garment.

I look forward to continuing my many valued, existing relationships and to bringing new customers on board as we move forward together to honor the service of our brother and sister firefighters.

Konstant Design –Premium Apparel. Bold Designs. Built to Perform.

Member of the Year Award, Life Member and Hall of Fame Inductees, and the Frederick County career staff assigned to Station 6, Length of Service (LOSAP) and the individual completing the most hours of formal training for the year.

Special acknowledgment of the Auxiliary came from Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater. Other speakers included Frederick County Fire/Rescue Chief Tom Coe and Maryland House of Delegates Members, Will Valentine and William Wivell, along with Frederick County Volunteer Fire/Rescue Association President Jeff Scire and Maryland State Firefighter’s Association President Charlie Simpson and a number of area business leaders.

Newly inducted members of the VHC Hall of Fame: Jim Hobbs, Sr, Steve Orndorff and Randy Myers.

As the 50th Year, charter members we honored included Shirley Little, Wanda Myers and Polly Kittinger. Auxiliary President Patty Kuykendall delivered a recap of 2025.

Banquet Emcee Brian “Mo” MoKricky, a well-known former local radio personality complimented how fortunate Emmitsburg were to have an organization with the caliber dedication of the men and women of the VHC.

Following the formal Program, music was provided by the band, “First Class” which has provided music and entertainment for over 20 years.

“2025: The Year in Review” video which showcased the extensive and varied activities of the organization including non-emergency community support projects as well as emergency responses of all kinds.

- Photos courtesy of the Vigilant Hose Company

KAREN EMORY APPOINTED PRESIDENT OF FEMSA

The Fire and Emergency Manufacturers and Services Association (FEMSA) is pleased to announce that Karen Emory has officially assumed the role of President of the association. Emory, who has been an active and highly engaged member of the FEMSA Board of Directors since 2018, brings extensive experience, proven leadership, and a deep commitment to advancing the fire and emergency services industry.

Throughout her tenure on the Board, Emory has served in several key leadership capacities, including Vice President and Secretary/Treasurer. She has also been a longtime and dedicated member of the FEMSA Nominating Committee, contributing significantly to board development and organizational governance.

Emory currently serves as Vice President of Hi‑Tech Fire & Safety, Inc., a leading provider of high‑quality fire, EMS, and rescue equipment. The company is recognized for delivering top-tier solutions such as structural firefighting gear, extrication tools, and advanced air purification systems—resources vital to supporting first responders in their critical missions.

“I am honored to step into the role of President and continue working alongside our exceptional members and partners,” Emory said. “FEMSA plays a vital role in elevating the emergency services community, and I look forward to strengthening our collective impact in the years ahead.”

FEMSA congratulates Karen Emory on her new leadership role and looks forward to the expertise, energy, and vision she will bring as President.

REMEMBER FALLEN FIREFIGHTERS, ONE BELL AT TIME

Each year, the sound of bells carries across the country in a powerful act of remembrance.

Bells Across America for Fallen Firefighters is a moving nationwide tribute honoring America’s firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice. Fire departments, places of worship, carillonneurs, and community organizations unite to ring bells in their memory—ensuring they are never forgotten.

This tribute takes place during National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, when the nation pauses to honor those who died in the line of duty. By ringing bells on the weekend of May 2–3, 2026, you send a clear message to Fire Hero Families: your loved one’s service and sacrifice will always be remembered.

Whether you toll a single bell at your station, host a public ceremony, or invite your entire community to participate, your involvement matters.

Add your bell to the national chorus of remembrance.

VHC’s 142nd Annual Banquet and Awards Program

On January 10, 2026, members, friends and local dignitaries gathered to celebrate the 142nd Annual Banquet and Awards Program of the Vigilant Hose Company (VHC) in Emmitsburg. This evening was extra special as it recognized the 50th anniversary of the VHC Auxiliary. Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater, and Delegates Valentine and Wivell from the Maryland House of Delegates, presented proclamations recognizing the 50th Anniversary of the VHC Auxiliary to Auxiliary President Patty Kuykendall Jim Hobbs, Sr., Steve Orndorff and Randy Myers were

inducted into the VHC Hall of Fame, the fire company’s highest honor recognizing those VHC and community members whose contributions, time and effort help drive the organization's success. Wayne Powell was recognized as VHC’s Member of the Year. In 2026, VHC responded to 1,912 calls for service of which 1,410 were EMS related. VHC serves the Town of Emmitsburg and surrounding areas, which includes the National Fire Academy, National Fallen Firefighters Memorial, and Mount Saint Mary’s University. - Photos courtesy of Vigilant Hose Company

Meadowbrook Drive Area House Fire

On December 12, 2025, Kanawha counties Stations 2 Pinch and Station 3 Malden were dispatched to Meadowbrook Drive in Area 2 for a house fire. While en route Pinch Engine 21 requested Station 27 WVANG be added to the call. Crews arrived to a working fire and made a quick aggressive interior attack and knocked down the fire. Crews were on scene for about 90 minutes and there were no injuries reported; crews saved a dog. Units that responded were Pinch Engines 21 and 22, Squad 2, Utility 25, Malden Engine 32, Utility 3, WVANG Engine 274, KCEAA 190, KCOEM 990.

- Fire News photo by AC Bradley ‘Sparky’ Scott, Malden VFD

West Side Handles Trailer Fire

The West Side Volunteer Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire off of Fairview Drive. Engine 226 arrived to a singlewide trailer with rough 70-percent involvement of fire. The crew stretched a 1 -3/4 inch handline and forced the front door to make entry. Tanker 223, Rescue 222 and Utility 227 responded from Station 22. There were no injuries reported. Automatic aid support came from Jefferson VFD and West Side VFD 2 Station 21.

- Photo courtesy of West Side VFD

Nutter Fork Assists at Salem House Fire

Nutter Fort Fire Department Tanker 7 staffed with two personnel assisted Salem, Smithburg and West Union VFDs along with DCAA with this structure fire on Crimson Church Road off of Long Run Road in Salem. Tanker 7 supplied water to units on scene as well as assisted with fire suppression and overhaul.

- Photo courtesy of Nutter Fort FD

Kitchen Fire on Wheeling Island

Wheeling Fire Department’s B Platoon units responded to a structure fire in the 500 block of South Penn Street on Wheeling Island. Firefighters were able to contain the fire to the kitchen area, which sustained significant damage. One person was transported to West Penn Hospital in Pittsburgh for medical treatment. Units responding included Duty Chief, Engine Co. 2, 4, and 5; Ladder 1; Rescue 1; and Squad 3.

- Photos courtesy of Wheeling FD