Maryland Brush Fire Now at Five Alarms

March 16, 2006
The remote area is difficult to reach.

More than 100 firefighters throughout Anne Arundel County have responded to a brush fire in the Millersville area that has gone to as many as seven alarms.

WBAL-TV 11 News reporter Lowell Melser reported more than 100 firefighters and 45 cadets have responded to the fire, which covers more than 80 acres in the Severn Run Natural Environment Area.

Authorities told 11 News at 5 p.m. that the fire is only partially contained. SkyTeam 11 reported the fire remains about a half mile from any homes. No residences in the area have been evacuated.

The first call came in after 8 a.m. Thursday and quickly went to five alarms. Authorities shut down Grover Road, where they set up a staging area, and Brightview Drive as crews battle the fire.

"This was difficult to access. It's very deep into the woods, which means it's much more difficult to bring hoses with you, which is very crucial to put out a brush fire," Anne Arundel County fire Lt. Paul Supko said. "It's just a real hard day is what it is."

SkyTeam 11 reported at 5 p.m. that crews at the fire contained behind a stream before it jumped that fire line. Officials said, because of shifty winds in the area, it's hard to gauge where fire may be headed.

WBAL-TV 11 News reported authorities suspect the fire began as a campfire set by a homeless person living in the woods, but the cause remains under investigation. Authorities have not yet made any arrests.

Among the fire equipment at the scene includes as many as 21 engine trucks, two tankers, two bulldozers and 12 brush units. Authorities said crews have so far used more than 3,500 feet of hose.

Stay with TheWBALChannel.com and WBAL-TV 11 News for the latest news updates.

Copyright 2006 by TheWBALChannel.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Voice Your Opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Firehouse, create an account today!