Small Fire at the Harford County Detention Center

(Harford County, MD – April 10, 2009) – At approximately 8:45am on Friday April 10, 2009, the Bel Air Volunteer Fire Department responded to a fire in the kitchen of the Harford County Detention Center. The fire was contained by 9:00am and firefighters cleared the scene not later than 9:20am.

To maintain the security of the perimeter throughout the incident, the Detention Center was placed on lockdown until 10am. Twelve inmates working KP in the kitchen area were moved and secured in another section of the facility, but no one, staff or inmates, were evacuated outside of the building. There were no injuries. Normal operations of the Harford County Detention Center have since resumed.

Sheriff L. Jesse Bane commended his staff members (Correctional Officers, Law Enforcement and Civilians) involved in the incident for the professionalism of their actions and efficiency in handling the situation. Their training was evident as the emergency operation plan was put into place without delay and in a skilled manner.