News

Saturday, March 23rd, 2024, was a busy day for your first responders in Ocean Pines.

At approximately 9:39 am, the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched to a reported house fire on Driftwood Lane. Responding units were advised that the homeowner smelled something electrical burning and could see smoke coming from his floor.

Upon arrival, Chief Widgeon established command and advised of nothing evident after completing a 360-degree assessment of the house. Firefighters confirmed no active smoke or fire in the residence and isolated the issue to an electrical outlet in the vicinity of where the smoke and odor originated. Power was secured to the outlet, and the homeowners were advised to contact an electrician. Thank you to the Berlin, Showell, and Bishopville Volunteer Fire Departments for their assistance.

At approximately 2:48 pm, the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched to a second reported house fire on Nottingham Lane. Responding units were advised that the homeowner reported a kitchen fire from the oven; all human occupants evacuated, but several pets remained in the home.

Upon arrival, Assistant Chief Grunewaled established command and advised of smoke showing from the rear of the home after completing a 360-degree assessment of the house. The crew from Engine 1102 quickly stretched a line to the front door and were met with thick smoke causing little to no visibility as they advanced to locate the fire. Thanks to a quick response and an aggressive attack on the fire, the bulk of the fire was contained to the double stove and the built-in cabinetry that encapsulated the appliance. The rest of the first floor sustained some heat and significant smoke damage. Additional firefighters were able to rescue several pets and reunite them with their owners.

Unfortunately, two injuries did occur while on the scene: One firefighter suffered an ankle injury and was transported to Atlantic General Hospital for further evaluation. At this time, we are happy to report the firefighter was released from the hospital and should make a full recovery. There was also an injury to one of the juvenile residents of the home, and they were transported to Tidal Health in Salisbury for further evaluation and treatment.

Thank you to the Berlin, Showell, Bishopville, and Selbyville Volunteer Fire Departments for their assistance, as well as the Worcester County Crisis Response Team, Choptank Electric, Ocean Pines Police, and the Worcester County Fire Marshal's Office.