CALIFORNIA, Md. — Firefighters at Bay District Volunteer Fire Department quickly contained a fire early Monday morning after smoke was detected inside the firehouse and an exterior fire was found on a parked fire apparatus, officials said.
The incident occurred in the early morning hours of Dec. 22, 2025, when members of Station 9 noticed the smell of smoke inside the building. Firefighters investigating the source discovered an active fire on the exterior of Tower 9, which was parked inside the station.
Crews immediately deployed hose lines and brought the fire under control before it could spread. After extinguishing the flames, firefighters inspected the apparatus and ventilated the building to ensure no lingering hazards remained.
Preliminary findings indicate the fire originated from the shoreline plug, a device used to keep the apparatus battery charged while parked. Officials believe an electrical short in the plug or its connection caused the fire. The damage was described as minor, though one of the tower’s tires was affected. Further inspection and investigation are ongoing.
Fire department officials noted that similar incidents have occurred in the past, citing a 2001 fire at the Ridge Volunteer Rescue Squad that was traced to an electrical issue involving battery charging equipment.
The department emphasized the importance of regularly inspecting onboard battery charging systems, including shoreline connections, cords and chargers, to prevent electrical fires. Fire officials also urged anyone using onboard chargers to watch for signs of wear, overheating or smoke and to replace damaged components immediately.
Watch the video below:
Got a tip or photo? Text us at 888-871-NEWS (6397) or email news@thebaynet.com.
Join The BayNet Membership for exclusive perks and zero ads.
Don’t miss a story—sign up for our newsletter!
