The Southern Maryland Volunteer Firemen’s Association is encouraging residents across the region to remain aware of wildfire risks and to practice safe outdoor burning habits following the release of the Maryland Forest Service’s 2025 Annual Wildland Fire Report.

The report, prepared by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Forest Service Wildland Fire Program, documented 172 wildfires across ... (Full Story & Photos)

The Southern Maryland Volunteer Firemen’s Association joins emergency services organizations across the nation in recognizing National EMS Week, May 17–23, 2026, and honoring the emergency medical services clinicians who provide lifesaving care throughout our communities.

This year’s national EMS Week theme, “Improving Outcomes, Together,” highlights the importance of teamwork among EMS providers, ... (Full Story & Photos)

On Saturday and Sunday, April 25 and 26, 2026, the Southern Maryland Volunteer Firemen’s Association (SMVFA) proudly held its 79th Annual Convention, including the election of officers, parade, and awards ceremony. This year’s event was hosted by the Solomons Volunteer Rescue Squad and Fire Department (SVRSFD), marking a special occasion as one of their own—a Past Fire Chief and Past President—was ... (Full Story & Photos)

A March 25, 2026 press release, written and distributed by the Bay District Volunteer Fire Department, highlights the growing dangers of hoarding conditions in St. Mary’s County, noting several recent fires where excessive clutter significantly hindered emergency response efforts and, in some cases, contributed to fatal outcomes. The document explains that hoarding is a recognized mental health condition ... (Full Story & Photos)

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

MAY 16–17, 2026

University System of Maryland – Southern Maryland Campus – Building 3

... (Full Story & Photos)

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)