On January 27, 2005 at 9:13 a.m. Charles County Fire Communications dispatched a house fire assignment for 12224 Dr. Edelen Road. Engine 23 responded immediately with a crew of five. While enroute to the scene, Engine 23 could see a column of smoke coming from the area of the dispatch. At Engine 23’s request, Charles County Communications added additional tankers to the call, due to the cold weather and static water sources (ponds) being frozen. Engine 23 arrived on the scene minutes later finding a single family 2 story home with heavy fire showing.

Engine 23 set up defensive operations, due to the lack of structural integrity, placing both 1 3/4 inch crosslays into service . Truck 1 arrived and assisted with the handlines until a water supply could be established. Truck 1 set up and used its elevated master stream for a few minutes, knocking down the bulk of the fire. Crews then switched back to the handlines to finish extinguishment and overhaul.

Crews worked for approximately 2 1/2 hours to completely extinguish the fire. Lieutenant Scott Hutchinson had the command.

The Maryland State Fire Marshal’s office is investigating the cause of the fire. The American Red Cross is assisting the family.

Thanks to the Prince Frederick Volunteers for filling in with an engine and Baden for filling in with their tanker during this fire.