A townhouse fire in Chevy Chase displaced multiple families but caused no injuries, highlighting the crucial coordination of emergency services during snowstorms.
MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. — More than 75 firefighters worked Sunday’s fire at a townhome off Hillandale Road in Chevy Chase.
Montgomery County Fire Officials say it started in the attic around 6:45 Sunday evening. They’re looking into whether the fireplace is to blame.
“Pretty significant smoke coming from the attic. Quite a big fire up there,” said Pete Piringer, Montgomery County Fire and Rescue.
No injuries were reported, but several families are displaced.
“When that call came in we heard it in real time,” said Chuck Magee, Division Chief – Risk Reduction and Resiliency with the Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security.
Chuck Magee with the Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security in Montgomery County says multiple county agencies are working together to monitor these types of emergencies during the snowstorm and deploy resources if needed. For example, coordinating snow plows to help fire and police get to these 911 calls. Magee says he doesn’t believe the plows were necessary in Sunday’s fire call.
“This about what resources we could send to support that mission and do it safely,” said Magee.
He says it’s around the clock work that’s always helped if you stay home a little longer.
“If you’re not on the road, we can clear the roads and get it done faster. It’s our goal.” said Magee.
“Not on the road and we can clear the roads and get it done faster is our goal,” said Magee.
Although Montgomery County Government Offices will be closed Monday, you are reminded that 911 and 311 services are still available
You’re also encouraged to visit https://montgomerycountymd.gov/snow/ where you could find the latest information on the street snow plow status in your area.