Randallstown, January 10, 2026
Baltimore County officials are urging residents to prioritize fire safety following a tragic house fire in Randallstown that resulted in the death of a 67-year-old man. This incident underscores an alarming rise in fire-related fatalities and prompts officials to promote essential safety guidelines such as cooking supervision, proper disposal of smoking materials, and regular smoke alarm tests. Community members are encouraged to take proactive measures to avoid further tragedies and can access resources like free smoke alarm installations through the 311 Call Center.
Baltimore County Residents Urged to Prioritize Fire Safety
In light of a tragic house fire in Randallstown that claimed the life of a 67-year-old man, Baltimore County officials are emphasizing the importance of fire safety measures to avert future disasters. This call to action follows a pattern of increased fire-related incidents within the community, highlighting the critical need for enhanced awareness and preventive strategies.
Recent Fatal Fire in Randallstown
On December 29, 2025, a house fire erupted on Cherrybrook Road in Randallstown, Maryland. Firefighters responded promptly around 10:14 p.m., finding the first floor of the residence engulfed in flames. The victim, Herbert B. Thomas Jr., was discovered deceased alongside his two dogs, underscoring the devastating impact of negligence in fire safety. Investigations revealed that the fire was accidental, stemming from unattended cooking. This incident marked the fourth fire-related death in Baltimore County for 2025.
Fire Safety Recommendations
In response to this tragedy, county officials are urging residents to follow essential fire safety guidelines, including:
- Stay Present While Cooking: Always remain in the kitchen while using the stovetop. If you must step away, take a cooking utensil or towel to remind you to return promptly.
- Properly Extinguish Smoking Materials: Use non-combustible ashtrays or containers filled with water to safely discard cigarette butts and matches.
- Maintain Heating Equipment: Exercise caution with space heaters and wood stoves to ensure they are away from combustible materials and turned off when not in use.
- Regularly Inspect Electrical Wiring: Look for old, cracked, or frayed wiring, particularly in older homes, to prevent potential fire hazards.
- Install and Test Smoke Alarms: Ensure smoke alarms are installed on every level of your home and test them monthly to confirm functionality.
Additional Resources
Baltimore residents seeking further assistance can connect with the 311 Call Center to request free smoke alarm installation. This initiative aims to bolster home fire safety and reduce fatalities due to residential fires, particularly in homes lacking functional smoke alarms.
Background Context
Recent statistics highlight a concerning trend, with Maryland recording 15 fire-related deaths in 2023 across 13 incidents, a slight increase from previous years. Baltimore County was significantly affected, accounting for 11 of those deaths in 10 fires, marking it as the county with the highest number of fire fatalities that year. These figures underline the pressing need for heightened fire safety awareness and proactive measures within the community.
Weather Advisory
It’s essential for residents to stay informed about current weather conditions, as adverse weather can exacerbate fire risks. For the latest updates and safety tips, residents are encouraged to refer to local weather services and official advisories.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What caused the recent house fire in Randallstown?
The fire was accidental, caused by unattended cooking.
How can I request a free smoke alarm installation in Baltimore?
Baltimore residents can contact the 311 Call Center to request a free smoke alarm installation.
What are the key fire safety recommendations for residents?
Key recommendations include staying present while cooking, properly extinguishing smoking materials, maintaining heating equipment, regularly inspecting electrical wiring, and installing and testing smoke alarms.
How many fire-related deaths were reported in Maryland in 2023?
Maryland reported 15 fire-related deaths across 13 incidents in 2023.
Which county had the highest number of fire fatalities in 2023?
Baltimore County had the highest number of fire fatalities in 2023, with 11 deaths in 10 fires.
Key Features of Fire Safety Recommendations
| Recommendation | Description |
|---|---|
| Stay Present While Cooking | Remain in the kitchen when using the stovetop to prevent unattended cooking fires. |
| Properly Extinguish Smoking Materials | Use non-combustible ashtrays or containers with water to safely dispose of cigarette butts and matches. |
| Maintain Heating Equipment | Ensure space heaters and wood stoves are placed away from combustible materials and turned off when not in use. |
| Regularly Inspect Electrical Wiring | Check for old, cracked, or frayed wiring, especially in older homes, to prevent potential fire hazards. |
| Install and Test Smoke Alarms | Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and test them monthly to ensure they are functioning correctly. |
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