On Wednesday afternoon at approximately 2:30 p.m., emergency responders were dispatched to Slater Lane, off Poplar Hill Road, for reports of smoke in the area. Upon arrival, it was determined that the incident was a significant brush fire, prompting requests for additional support.
Chief 3A led the command as the fire quickly spread, encompassing approximately 4-5 acres. Every available brush truck from fire stations across Charles County was called to the scene, along with support units from St. Mary’s and Calvert counties. Maryland Forestry Service and Maryland State Police (MSP) Trooper 2 were also summoned to provide aerial reconnaissance and assistance.
Crews from units E-14, B-1, and Tanker 1, along with other teams, worked tirelessly to contain the blaze while maintaining staff at the station for additional emergency calls. By 5 p.m., the fire was reported to be surrounded by a fire line, but officials confirmed it would continue burning for an extended period. Forestry teams and numerous fire department units remained on-site through the night to monitor and manage the situation.
Ongoing Fire Response and Resources
Shortly after the initial response, fire and water supply task forces were activated to support the large-scale operation. Units operating at the scene included Brush 1, Brush 2, Brush 5, Brush 5A, Brush 7, Brush 9, Utility 2, UTV 2, Engine 23, Engine 52, Engine 11, Engine/Tanker 14, Tanker 2, Tanker 5, Jeep 1, Jeep 7, UTV 1002, Engine/Tanker 51, Engine/Tanker 74, and various command chiefs including Chief 5, Chief 5B, and Chief 5C.
Maryland State Police Trooper 7 conducted an aerial assessment, confirming the fire’s containment within the operational perimeter. However, hotspots remained active, posing a risk of continued flare-ups.
By late evening, the scene was turned over to the Maryland Forestry Service to oversee overnight operations. At 1:30 a.m., units reported that while the fire was contained, pockets of smoldering vegetation persisted deep in the wooded area. Fire crews refilled equipment and returned to their quarters as the situation stabilized.
Statewide Burn Ban Reminder
The incident occurred amid extremely dry conditions that have contributed to an above-average number of wildfires across Maryland. Residents are urged to adhere to the current statewide burn ban, which remains in effect until further notice to mitigate the risk of additional wildfires.
As a precaution, authorities advise residents to expect lingering smoke in the area through Thursday and to remain vigilant as forestry teams continue their efforts to fully extinguish the fire.
For ongoing updates and safety information, please stay tuned to local advisories and emergency response bulletins.
