News

At approximately 1:14pm on Tuesday June 4, 2022, the Ocean Pines Vol. Fire Department was alerted to respond to an outside fire. Upon their arrival, our volunteer and career crews found a small mulch fire in the center median in the area of 438 Ocean Parkway. The fire was quickly extinguished utilizing the department's forestry tools.

After thoroughly wetting the area, units returned to service.

While the cause of this fire is not known at the time of this post, there are many things to consider when it comes to safety regarding mulch fires and smoking.

• If you smoke, remember to properly dispose of all smoking materials.
• Always use appropriate receptacles for disposing of smoking materials and matches.
• Do not discard cigarettes in mulch or potted plants.
• Use ashtrays that won't burn or catch fire and that are deep enough to contain butts. Wet butts down before throwing out.
• Many building fires started by smoking begin on decks, porches, and exterior stairways.
• Be smart in your choice of containers for butts. Consider using metal cans with sand for outdoor disposal.
• Never throw lit smoking materials out of a car window. It is a fire risk and it is illegal to do so.