Small Basement Fire In Indian Head Quickly Contained; No Injuries

Photo credit – Charles County Volunteer Fire and Emergency Medical Services

INDIAN HEAD, Md. — A working fire alert drew multiple companies to a residence in the 5800 block of Oak Forest Court late Wednesday morning, where a small basement fire was contained within minutes and no injuries were reported.

Dispatchers received the call at 11:32 a.m., Oct. 22, for smoke in the basement after a reported “pop.” Initial units arrived to a two-story home with a walkout basement and light smoke showing on Side C. Command completed a 360 and briefly upgraded to a working fire as additional crews staged on Side A.

Crews on scene reported the fire originated in a fish tank in the basement and was out within minutes. Primary searches were negative on all floors and all occupants evacuated. EMS evaluated an adult female and a toddler as a precaution; an adult male initially reported in the basement was found outside. No injuries were reported.

With conditions stable, most of the working assignment was released at about 11:53 a.m. The fire marshal was not requested. The Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative continued to the scene at command’s request.

Firefighters later metered the structure, reporting normal oxygen levels and no hazardous readings, and secured power to the affected basement area. Units cleared shortly after noon.