CALLING ALL CLINICIANS, EMTS, PARAMEDICS, NURSES, AND FIRST RESPONDERS!

MAY 16–17, 2026

University System of Maryland – Southern Maryland Campus – Building 3

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Fire officials are urging residents to use extra caution today as elevated fire danger conditions impact our region through early this evening.... (Full Story & Photos)

On Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at approximately 5:13 p.m., Bay District Volunteer Fire Department Fire Chief Turner came upon a serious motor vehicle collision involving a vehicle that was on fire with the driver still trapped inside.

Chief Turner immediately notified emergency communications and began assisting at the scene. Using a fire extinguisher from his command unit, he worked to hold back the ... (Full Story & Photos)

The Dunkirk Volunteer Fire Department recently recognized Past President SMVFA Randy Smith for an extraordinary milestone: 50 years of dedicated service to the department and the community.

During a recent business meeting, Smith was presented with an award by President Dave Stream and Fire Chief Eddie Catterton in honor of his five decades of commitment, leadership, and service. Surrounded by fellow ... (Full Story & Photos)

The Southern Maryland Volunteer Firemen’s Association is reminding residents that many of the most common fire dangers are also among the most preventable. From unattended cooking and overloaded outlets to space heaters and lithium-ion batteries, fire officials say simple safety steps can make a major difference in protecting lives and property.

Each year, fire departments across the country respond ... (Full Story & Photos)

In the wake of a recent residential fire that tragically resulted in a fatality, the Southern Maryland Volunteer Firemen's Association (SMVFA) would like to remind residents of the serious dangers associated with hoarding conditions inside the home.

Hoarding situations, where excessive amounts of belongings accumulate over time, can significantly increase the risk and severity of a fire. Large quantities ... (Full Story & Photos)

Approximately 11,000 3-Pack Smoke Detector Fire Alarms have been recalled following concerns that the devices may fail to sound in a timely manner during a fire emergency.

According to the recall notice issued on February 12, 2026, the alarms may have their sensing threshold set too high. If this occurs, the alarm might not activate quickly enough to warn occupants of smoke or fire conditions, posing ... (Full Story & Photos)

As the nation gathers to remember fallen heroes, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) invites communities across the country to participate in Bells Across America for Fallen Firefighters on May 2–3, 2026. This powerful tribute takes place during the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, culminating in a nationwide moment of remembrance on Sunday, May 3.... (Full Story & Photos)

The Mechanicsville Volunteer Fire Department and Auxiliary held their 92nd installation of officers banquet on Saturday, January 17, 2026, where we recognized the accomplishments of the members and the department. Each year the banquet is dedicated to the deceased members of our department. The past years (2025) departed members were: Joseph "Eddie" Copsey, Amy M. Copsey (Aux), Lydia Dixon (Aux), ... (Full Story & Photos)

Cardiovascular events were once again the leading cause of on-duty firefighter fatalities in 2025, highlighting an urgent and ongoing health concern within the fire service.

Of the 76 firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty last year, half died from cardiac-related events such as heart attacks and cardiac arrest. These incidents were most often linked to stress and overexertion during ... (Full Story & Photos)