Working Fire and EMS Task Force Brings Fire/EMS to Nursing and Rehabilitation Center

At 4:10 AM this morning, staff at the Green Acres Nursing and Rehabilitation Center notified the 911 center of a fire reported in the rear of the building and on the roof. This prompted an immediate response by Charles County Fire and EMS Departments. La Plata Engine 12 arrived within minutes and confirmed an active fire and smoke at the roof line. Crews advanced an attack line to the second floor and attic area.

Waldorf Tower 3, Truck #11, Squad 10, Chief 2 (assigned Division C), and St. Mary's Squad 2 arrived and assisted in moving residents and staff away from any danger from the fire and smoke. As more units arrived, Command Battalion Chief 1B (Godwin) assigned teams to help senior residents either shelter in place or move to the front foyer of the building.

Command requested a precautionary second alarm to stage at the Clark Senior Center to be used as needed. Also, a "EMS Task Force" was requested to assist with evaluating the 31 residents on the fire floor. The fire was extinguished within 12 minutes of arrival. EMS units evaluated 31 residents of the facility, with one individual transported to the local hospital for a non-life-threatening evaluation.

No residents or staff were ever in danger, and quick coordination on scene prevented any further injuries. The Fire Marshal's Office is conducting an investigation into the cause of the incident.

SMECO and the Charles County Health Department were requested and responded to the scene. The La Plata Police Department and Charles County Sheriff's Office also assisted during the incident.