Huge Woods Fire Challenges Firefighters
 
By Public Information Officer Clay Myers
April 5, 2023
 

Gamber & Community Fire Co. was alerted to assist Baltimore County Fire Department with a brush and woods fire at 3:15 pm on Tuesday, April 4, 2023. The fire was located in the Soldiers Delight Natural Environmental Area located off of Deer Park Road in Baltimore County.

The fire grew rapidly to at least eight alarms as crews called for more equipment and manpower. Since this is a remote area, there was no public water supply source such as fire hydrants so tanker shuttles were established.

Gamber responded with Engines 131 and 134, Engine/Tanker 133, and Brush 136. Engine/Tanker 133's portable folding tank was set up to provide a source of water. Gamber units were under the supervision of Chief Chad Hastings and Assistant Chief Charlie Green.

A Blackhawk helicopter from the Maryland National Guard assisted with water drops. A second smaller helicopter also assisted. Both units picked up water from the nearby Liberty Reservoir.

Gamber crews worked all evening and into the night. Engine/Tanker 133 hauled 15,000 gal of water. The last Gamber unit cleared the scene at approximately 10:00 pm

Howard County Engine 131 from the Glenwood Station (career) filled in at the Gamber station all evening.

As of 7:48 am Wednesday morning, Gamber was again alerted to send a brush truck to the scene of the fire in Soldiers Delight. This story will be updated.

 
Units: Engines 131 and 134, Engine Tanker 133, Brush 136