Fire and Rescue Services

We are a combination system of nearly 900 career and volunteer providers operating from 14 stations across Howard County. The department is located between Baltimore City and the District of Columbia and provides and receives automatic aid to and from our surrounding partners in Prince George's, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Montgomery and Frederick counties. The department is statutorily responsible for the administration of the affairs for the county in fire suppression and prevention, fire training, arson investigation, rescue services and emergency medical services.

2201 Warwick Way
Marriottsville, MD 21104
United States

410-313-6000

Call Us

Always call 911 in an emergency

General Questions and Feedback

410-313-6000

Community Outreach and Event Requests

410-313-2016

About Us

The department is statutorily responsible for administering the affairs of the county in fire suppression and prevention, fire training, arson investigation, rescue services and emergency medical services. The Office of Emergency Management Command within the Department of Fire & Rescue Services has the lead responsibility for county-wide emergency management planning, preparedness and response.

Every station has at least one engine and one paramedic unit assigned. Many of our stations also house vehicles such as ladder trucks, heavy duty rescue squads, brush trucks, foam and dry chemical units and water tankers. Career personnel work on a three-shift, 24-hour rotating schedule, but may be required to work a 12-hour peak load or 40-hour daywork schedule. Our mission is to maintain a safe environment and high quality of life in Howard County by educating, protecting and serving our citizens, members and visitors.

Quick Links and Resources

Can't find what you're looking for? Please call us at 410-313-6000 during normal business hours and we'll be happy to assist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How can I get a patch or sticker?

Due to Homeland Security constraints, we do not send patches or stickers.

How do I submit feedback?

You can submit feedback via email at HCDFRSfeedback@howardcountymd.gov. We’ll direct your message to the appropriate party in the department. If you’d like to send a written letter, please address your letter using the following address: Public Information Office, 2201 Warwick Way, Marriottsville, MD 21104. You can also call us at 410-313-6000.

Do you accept expired or used fire extinguishers?

Fire extinguishers are considered compressed gas tanks, and Howard County residents can recycle fire extinguishers at the Alpha Ridge Landfill’s Residents’ Convenience Center. Fire stations cannot accept spent, used, or expired fire extinguishers.

I'm having a recreational fire, what is permitted?

As of June 14, 2016, you are no longer required to apply online for a recreational burning permit. However, you MUST read and follow ALL the guidelines pertaining to open fires.

Read Open Fire Guidelines

Can I tour a fire station?

Yes, please reach out to the nearest fire station via phone to speak to the station officer.

Howard County Fire Station Addresses and Phone Numbers

How many fire stations are there in Howard County?

There are currently 14 stations in Howard County.

Why do you send so many vehicles to an emergency?

Firefighters have specialized roles for each call. It is necessary to have enough firefighters on scene to cover all aspects of an evolving incident.

Fire Department Leadership

Louis Winston

Fire Chief

About

Howard County Executive Calvin Ball named Louis Winston Chief of the Department of Fire and Rescue Services (HCDFRS) on September 7, 2021. Chief Winston joined the Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services on February 12, 1990, and served under seven fire chiefs and six county executives. He served three decades in the Department, rising to the rank of Deputy Chief prior to his retirement in January 2020.

As a servant leader, Chief Winston recognizes the importance of the growth and well-being of people and communities. He leads the Department with open, honest, and transparent collaborative leadership that embraces the diversity and inclusion of Howard County to help maintain safe and engaged communities. Understanding the importance of both external and internal customer services, Chief Winston continues to focus the Department on providing high quality diverse services that promote life safety and the well-being of its members.

A graduate of Loyola Blakefield, Winston holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Homeland Security from the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC). He is also a graduate of Leadership Howard County’s Premier Class of 2015 and the Carl Holmes Executive Development Institute 2015.

A member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Winston is a past recipient of the Howard County Government’s Mentorship Award, Baltimore County Recreation and Parks’ Shining Star Award and Turner Station Community Service Award.

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