Annapolis, Md. — Maryland’s wildfire season is underway, and the Department of Natural Resources is urging residents across the state, including in Southern Maryland, to take precautions to prevent fires that can threaten lives, property and natural resources.
“Wildfire occurrence is highest in the spring when forest fuels are the driest and weather conditions can quickly spread fires,” said Chris Robertson, Maryland Forest Service State Fire Supervisor. “Ideal conditions for wildfires are warm days with dry forest fuels, low relative humidity, and gusty winds.”
Debris burning or outdoor burning by people accounts for 36 percent of wildfires in Maryland, according to Maryland Forest Service data. Other human-related causes include arson, children playing with fire and equipment use. Lightning is the only natural ignition source but accounts for less than 5 percent of fire starts.
The Maryland Forest Service responds to an average of 150 wildfires each year that burn approximately 3,600 acres of forest, brush and grasses. More detailed statistics are available in the department’s annual wildfire reports.
Southern Maryland counties, including Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s, feature wooded areas, rural properties and wildland-urban interfaces along the Chesapeake Bay and Patuxent River that can be vulnerable during dry, windy spring conditions. Recent elevated fire danger days in the region, with low humidity and gusty winds, have prompted local fire officials to stress caution.
One of the most effective prevention steps is to avoid burning debris such as leaves, sticks and branches. Safer, environmentally friendly alternatives include composting or mulching yard waste and using larger brush or trees for firewood.
If outdoor burning is necessary, it must occur only on low fire danger days and comply with all state and local regulations. Department of Natural Resources open air burning rules apply in all counties to activities in or within 200 feet of woodland, or adjacent to areas where flammable materials could carry fire to woodland. The rules do not apply inside incorporated town limits.
Requirements for open air burning include a natural or constructed fire break at least 10 feet wide completely around the material, free of flammable items; adequate personnel and equipment to prevent escape; at least one responsible person remaining on site until the last spark is out; and burning only between 4 p.m. and midnight, unless the ground is snow-covered.
Residents should check with their local health department for any additional regulations or permit requirements before burning. More information on open air burning is available on the DNR website at dnr.maryland.gov.
The Maryland Forest Service works with local volunteer fire departments throughout Southern Maryland to respond quickly when wildfires occur. Recent structure fire responses in Prince Frederick and other areas demonstrate the readiness of companies such as Prince Frederick, Huntingtown, St. Leonard and Mechanicsville volunteer fire departments, which often assist in wildland incidents as well.
DNR also conducts prescribed burns in controlled settings, such as recent operations on the lower Eastern Shore, to reduce fuel loads and improve habitat while minimizing wildfire risk.
Residents in Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s counties can help protect local forests and communities by practicing safe burning habits, especially during the peak spring season. Checking current fire danger ratings through local weather forecasts and DNR resources helps ensure burning occurs only under safe conditions.
Maryland’s forests cover millions of acres and provide important economic, recreational and ecological benefits to Southern Maryland. Preventing human-caused wildfires preserves these resources for future generations while reducing the burden on volunteer firefighters who balance wildland and structure calls.
The Department of Natural Resources continues to monitor conditions and coordinate with the National Weather Service for fire weather outlooks. Residents are encouraged to report wildfires immediately to local emergency services.
