Gamber units were alerted for a routine service call (non-emergency) Tuesday evening at 5:47 pm. Engine 134 prepared to respond but was waiting for an officer to complete the crew. Paramedic 139 was also preparing to respond and accompany the engine on the service call. A citizen pulled up in her car and reported to the ambulance crew that there was a large fire back on Niner Rd. The ambulance crew took a quick look but didn't see anything. At further insistence by the citizen, the ambulance responded back Niner Rd and reported a working house fire. Engine 134 responded immediately with a driver and firefighter and a probationary firefighter.

Engine 134 arrived on the scene and reported a fully involved two-story farm house right across the road from the carnival grounds. A rapid intervention dispatch and tanker task force were requested by firefighter Baker who assumed initial command. First responding units obtained a quick knock down of the fire as additional units arrived. The main water source for the incident was established at the fire company carnival grounds underground tank. Captain 13 Hastings arrived and assumed command of the incident. Approximately 50 firefighters from multiple departments assisted with the remainder of the incident, extinguishing hot spots, checking for extension, overhaul, and cleanup. The house was not occupied and had been undergoing renovations. BGE was contacted to disconnect the electric service.

Upperco from Baltimore County filled in the Gamber station. Units cleared after approximately 2 1/2 hours.

The Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal is investigating.

Photos by Michael Jordan unless otherwise indicated.