Fire Protection, Emergency Medical Services and Emergency Rescue

What's Going On

News About the Fire Department
News releases regarding recent fires, rescues and Fire Department activities are posted in the "News Archive."

Backyard Fireworks Displays Are Not Legal--Only Ground-Based, Hand-Held Sparklers Allowed
Fireworks are illegal unless they are part of a public display for which a permit has been granted by the Fire Marshal.  The best way to enjoy fireworks is by attending a legal fireworks display.  A schedule of legal fireworks displays is available as well as safety tips.

"Burning Issues" Cable TV Program

Photo of the Week

State Fire Marshal William Barnard speaks about the dangers of illegal fireworks at Baltimore County's Oregon Ridge Park.

The Fire Department's cable television program, Burning Issues, airs on Channel 25, BCTV. Watch segments from the current edition online. A copy of the entire BCTV programming schedule also is available.

Tropical Weather Program Coming to North Point-Edgemere
The Baltimore County Office of Emergency Management will sponsor a National Weather Service Tropical Weather program on July 9, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at the Northpoint-Edgemere VFC, 7500 North Point Road, 21219. The program, open to the public, offers an overview of tropical weather threats to our area including storm surge, inland flooding, wind and tornadoes. Register by calling 410-887-5996, or by emailing tbrush@baltimorecountymd.gov.

Information About Swine Flu
The federal Centers For Disease Control provides up-to-the-minute reports on the swine flu outbreak. Visit the "Swine Flu and You" section for answers to common questions about swine flu.

If You Rent, Buy Renter's Insurance
Emergency managers find that few victims of apartment fires have renter's insurance. If you rent, your belongings are not covered unless you are covered by a renter's insurance policy. The Maryland Insurance Administration and National Association of Insurance Commissioners provide valuable information on this topic.

Emergency Notifications On Cable TV
During severe storms and other emergencies, emergency management officials will post notifications about safety information, shelters, evacuations and county closings on BCTV Channel 25 on your cable dial. The notifications will air repeatedly for the duration of the event.

Build A Home Fire Escape Plan
Every family should design an escape plan in case of fire, including a plan for escaping second-story fires. Features Capt. Thomas Kimbel, Station 6-D. Watch video

Cooking Fires Are #1 Cause of Home Fires
Especially during the holiday season, when stoves are especially busy, take steps to avoid cooking fires. Watch video.

Avoid CO Poisoning: Use Generators Safely
Portable generators are a popular source of temporary power during weather-related power outages. But they emit deadly carbon monoxide gas and MUST be used properly.

Prepare For Your Pets During An Emergency
Pet owners need to plan how to take care of their animals during an emergency. This five-minute video shows you how to prepare a pet emergency kit and explains the role of the Baltimore County Division of Animal Control during emergencies. Watch Video.

Firefighting At Sparrows Point
This six-minute video discusses the Fire Department's shared history with the Sparrows Point steelmaking plant. Watch Video.

New Parkton Fire Station Will Enhance Fire Protection In North County
Baltimore County elected and fire officials broke ground March 4, 2008 for a new career fire station in Parkton. Make sure you watch the four minute video of the history of Station 60.

2007 Year In Review
Baltimore County Fire Department 2007 Year In Review (PDF) is a look back at accomplishments, Fire Service events, noteworthy incidents, retirements and farewells.

2006 Year In Review
Baltimore County Fire Department 2006 Year In Review (PDF) is a 79-page,
color document recounting accomplishments, events, major incidents, retirements and farewells during calendar year 2006.

"Working With People With Disabilities" DVD Available
"Working With People With Disabilities," a 26-minute training DVD produced by the Baltimore County Fire Department, is available, free of charge, for training purposes.

Crowd Manager Training
The Baltimore County Fire Marshal's Office offers a seminar to prepare individuals to work as crowd managers at nightclubs, bars, restaurants and other places of assembly. This training is now required by law for establishments that handle at least 50 occupants!

Are You Ready For An Emergency?
Many households don't have the basic supplies that will help them through the first 72 hours after an emergency. Learn how you can prepare.

Fact Sheets, Safety Brochures Available
Check out our archive of printable fact sheets and brochures and coloring sheets.

(Need PDF help?)

Revised July 1, 2009