Maryland State Fire Marshal
News Release Martin O’Malley Governor
William E. Barnard State Fire Marshal
RESIDENTIAL FIRE SPRINKLER ACTIVATION EXTINGUISHES FIRE CALVERT COUNTY, MD (February 17, 2011) – The Office of the State Fire Marshal was made aware of a fire that occurred on Thursday, February 10, 2011 at 4020 Seagate Square in Chesapeake Beach which was controlled and extinguished by the residential fire sprinkler system. North Beach Volunteer Fire Department was notified of the fire at 3:34 p.m. and responded to the scene. Upon arrival, firefighters entered the three-story center unit townhouse and located evidence of a small fire that had been extinguished by the fire sprinkler system in a third floor bedroom next to a large birdcage. It was determined the large domestic bird inside the cage was able to access and chew on an extension cord causing it to ignite nearby combustibles. Two occupants were at home at the time of the fire and did not receive smoke inhalation or burn injuries because of the fast acting fire sprinkler system. The bird and dogs in the townhouse, although somewhat stressed, did not receive any injuries either. Assistant Chief Orville Thrasher of the North Beach Fire Department commented on the incident, “The activation of the fire sprinkler system eliminated 90% of the risk associated with fire to the occupants and firefighters by extinguishing the fire in its incipient stage”. State Fire Marshal William E. Barnard stated, “This is yet another example of the positive impact residential fire sprinklers have on Marylanders. The quick response of a fire sprinkler system undoubtedly continues to save lives, prevent injuries and preserve property, valuables and pets alike.” The Office of the State Fire Marshal is an agency of state government dedicated to helping protect Marylanders from fire and explosions through a comprehensive program of education, inspection and investigation. For fire safety tips please contact the Office of the State Fire Marshal at 1-800-525-3124 or log on our website at: www.firemarshal.state.md.us Media contact: Bruce D. Bouch, Deputy State Fire Marshal; 443-324-6876 1201 Reisterstown Road, Pikesville, MD 21208