On Saturday, July 23, 2011, at approximately 4:30 am, the North Beach Volunteer Fire and Rescue Squad (Co.1) along with Dunkirk (Co. 5), Huntingtown (Co. 6), Prince Frederick (Co. 2), Deale and Harwood companies from Anne Arundel County were all on the scene for this call.

 

As Deputy Chief 1B arrived on the scene at 3842 6th Street, he reported a fully involved house fire with house on “B” side of structure being at risk as well.  The Engine from North Beach laid dual lines from the hydrant to the fire scene and the Tower from North Beach also set up for high water attach.

 

As Chief 1 took command on his arrival, he situated the units arriving at different areas to get the most out of the supply of water.  There were occupants at both homes who had gotten out at the time of arrival of the fire units.

 

Once the fire was under control, they needed to wait on the Fire Marshal’s arrival to do his investigation.  After that was completed, final overhaul and soaking of the structure were done.

 

The Red Cross was on the scene as well to assist both the home owners if needed.  There were two individuals in the structure that burned and one individual in the home next door.  One of the individuals was transported to Calvert Memorial Hospital for burns and smoke inhalation.  The power company was also on the scene to turn the power off going to the home.  Animal Control was there to take care of the family dog until other arrangements could be made.

 

After two hours and forty-five minutes later, the last remaining units on the scene started cleaning up and going in service with the temp temperature of 80 degrees at 4:30 am and the humidity extremely high.  During this fire situation, other fire companies within Calvert, Charles and PG County handled filling in for those companies from Calvert County stations that were handling the fire in North Beach. 

 

UPDATE: Statement from MD State Fire Marshal:

The accidental fire began on the rear porch as a result of an improperly
discarded cigarette. The fire caused extensive damage to the residence. One person was transported with non
life threatening burn injuries to the Washington Hospital Center where he is being treated. The home occupant
was displaced and is being assisted by the Red Cross. Animal Control came to the home to take custody of a
dog until proper arrangements could be made for alternate housing. There was approximately $150,000 damage to the house.