On Friday, January 2, 2026, the Chestertown Volunteer Fire Company, along with several mutual aid companies, was dispatched to a reported structure fire in the 200 block of Birch Run Road. The incident occurred in the Mile Tree Village area of Chestertown, near Byford Heights.

Squad 6 responded after the initial 9-1-1 hang-up was upgraded when the homeowner reported smoke throughout the residence. Upon arrival, crews found a one-story single-family home with moderate smoke conditions coming from the garage.

Squad 6 deployed a 1¾” handline to the garage, where crews located a smoldering fire within the walls and ceiling. Using a thermal imaging camera, firefighters were able to isolate the fire to the garage area. Crews from Chestertown and Church Hill worked together to check for extension, which required pulling ceiling material, insulation, and contents to ensure the fire had not spread. Once this process was completed, Church Hill crews performed ventilation of the structure.

The response was later scaled back to Chestertown VFC, Church Hill VFC, Kent and Queen Anne’s Rescue Squad, and Kent County EMS. The Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office was notified but ultimately not needed, as the cause of the fire was determined to be a malfunctioning battery on a vacuum cleaner.

One civilian was evaluated for moderate smoke inhalation and declined treatment and transport. No injuries to fire department personnel were reported.

Safety Reminder:
Lithium-ion batteries are commonly found in household devices such as vacuums, power tools, and electronics. While generally safe, these batteries should always be charged using the manufacturer’s recommended charger and replacement batteries designed specifically for the device. Avoid overcharging, charging on combustible surfaces, or using damaged batteries. If a battery becomes hot, emits an odor, or shows signs of swelling, discontinue use immediately and move it to a safe location if possible.

Companies Responding:

Chestertown VFC

Kennedyville VFC

Church Hill VFC

Crumpton VFC

Kent and Queen Anne’s Rescue Squad

Kent County EMS