At approximately 10:14 a.m. on January 15, the St. Mary's County Emergency Communications Center began receiving multiple 911 calls reporting a vehicle on fire near the Dyson Building Center in Great Mills. Early reports suggested the possibility of an individual still inside the vehicle.

An initial assignment was dispatched, including Squad 6 from the Second District Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad, along with an ambulance and medic unit. Due to the nature of the call, the county duty chief upgraded the response to include an engine company. Rescue Engine 92 from the California station was added to the call.

Rescue Engine 92, along with Chief 3B (S. Vanness), arrived on scene to find a passenger vehicle fully involved in flames. Upon investigation, the vehicle was confirmed to be unoccupied, despite the initial reports of a possible person inside.

Squad 3 from the Lexington Park station was later added to the assignment as operations progressed but was soon placed back in service. Rescue Engine 92 successfully extinguished the fire and returned to service shortly thereafter.

While units were engaged with the vehicle fire, a separate structure fire was dispatched in the Leonardtown area, prompting the deployment of additional apparatus from across the county. Fire and EMS crews demonstrated exceptional coordination and professionalism in managing simultaneous incidents.

Fire Safety Reminder: Vehicle fires can escalate rapidly. If you see or smell smoke while driving, pull over safely, turn off the engine, and move away from the vehicle. Always call 911 immediately.

For updates and safety tips, follow your local fire department's social media channels or consider supporting your volunteer fire and rescue departments through donations or volunteering.