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)

On Saturday, the Hollywood Volunteer Fire Department (HVFD) hosted its Annual Installation of Officers and Awards Banquet, recognizing the dedication, achievements, and outstanding service of its members over the past year.... (Full Story & Photos)

The Southern Maryland Volunteer Firemen’s Association regrets with deep sorrow to announce the passing of Past President George F. Hayden. George was a Past Chief and President of the Bel Alton Volunteer Fire Department and was also a Charter member, Past President and Past Fire Chief of the Newburg Volunteer Rescue Squad and Fire Department. George served in many roles within the SMVFA, his county ... (Full Story & Photos)

The fire service paid a heavy price in 2025. To date, 76 firefighters across the United States have died in the line of duty. Each number represents a life of service, a family forever changed, and a firehouse left quieter than it should be.

While every line-of-duty death is unique, looking at the causes tells a hard truth: many of the same dangers continue to follow us year after year.

🔥 Occupational ... (Full Story & Photos)

As the holiday season fills Southern Maryland with lights, joy, and cherished traditions, the Southern Maryland Volunteer Firemen’s Association (SMVFA) and its member companies extend warm wishes for a Merry Christmas and a safe, healthy New Year to all residents across Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s counties.

While this time of year brings well-deserved celebrations, it also brings increased risks ... (Full Story & Photos)

During the Southern Maryland Volunteer Firemen’s Association (SMVFA) dinner and meeting on November 24, held at the Huntingtown Volunteer Fire Department, Terri Van Asdlen was officially promoted to the rank of Sergeant in the SMVFA Honor Guard.

Terri received her promotion in front of fellow members, and leadership, with SMVFA Honor Guard Commander Steve Winkler presenting the new rank. Her promotion ... (Full Story & Photos)

As Daylight Saving Time ends this Sunday, November 2, the Bay District Volunteer Fire Department urges all residents to do more than just turn back their clocks-take a few extra minutes to check and replace the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors.

“Working smoke and CO alarms are the first and best defense in a fire or gas emergency,” said Fire Chief Jason Turner of ... (Full Story & Photos)

The Southern Maryland Volunteer Firemen’s Association (SMVFA) has officially launched its observance of Fire Prevention Week™ 2025, which began Sunday, October 5 and runs through Saturday, October 11. This year’s theme, “Charge into Fire Safety™,” focuses on raising awareness about the safe use of lithium-ion batteries, which power many of the devices we rely on every day.

From phones and tablets ... (Full Story & Photos)

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Past President Luther A. Della, Jr. on Sunday, September 14, 2025.

President Della faithfully served the citizens of Charles County and the greater Southern Maryland fire service community since 1962, dedicating himself in numerous capacities. Most notably, he served as President of LaPlata Volunteer Fire Department for 18 years. His leadership, commitment, ... (Full Story & Photos)

Announcement: Passing of Past Fire Chief Dan Stevens

The Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Past Fire Chief Dan Stevens on Sunday, September 7, 2025.

Chief Stevens faithfully served the citizens of Charles County since 1975, dedicating his life to the fire service in many roles within our department, the county, and across the State of Maryland. Most ... (Full Story & Photos)