Firefighters Burn Down House at HCC

Photos by Sgt. Will Price and Ashley Stansfield, Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company.

Firefighters had a “hot but productive day” near Harford Community College, where they burned down an acquired structure on Saturday, according to Rich Gardiner of the Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company.

Flames and heavy smoke could be seen surrounding the campus as temperatures soared in the high 80s.

Despite the sweltering heat, Bel Air and Level firefighters donned their gear to practice their skills, according to Gardiner, who said they acquired the Thomas Run Road building to use for training purposes.

After conducting various drills, they let the whole structure burn.

“This type of training helps firefighters develop their skills in a safe but realistic environment,” Gardiner explained.

“If there is anyone who is planning to raze a home, consider donating it to your local [volunteer fire company] for training,” he added. “In the end, you help others hone skills and your demo costs are much cheaper.”

Previous report

No need to call 911 if you see flames on Thomas Run Road Saturday morning. The Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company is holding a controlled fire training event at Harford Community College.

Crews will be conducting various training exercises involving a home near the campus, and smoke will be visible from “a good distance,” according to Rich Gardiner of the Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company.

“Please try to avoid the Thomas Run Road area near HCC today,” Gardiner said.

Training was slated to begin at 8 a.m. and just before 9 a.m., the fire company shared a pictured of flames and smoke coming from the house.