News

On the morning of September 21, Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department units were dispatched for a report of a strange odor inside a residence. The caller reported the odor had been present for about 30 minutes and seemed to be coming from vents or the attic. When a closet door was opened, the smell intensified and was described as similar to burning plastic.

Crews from Engine 1101 and Engine 1102 arrived and investigated. Nothing was immediately visible from the exterior, but interior crews located a failed light ballast in a closet. The ballast had overheated and caused a small fire, which fortunately had burned itself out before it could spread. Firefighters ensured there was no further hazard and the scene was declared safe. No injuries were reported.

This incident serves as an important reminder: if you smell smoke, burning plastic, or any unusual odor in your home, call 9-1-1 right away. Do not call the fire station directly—using 9-1-1 ensures trained dispatchers can send the closest available resources immediately. Quick reporting allows OPVFD crews to investigate hazards before they escalate.