About Us
An ISO Class 1 Fire Department Proudly Protecting Maryland’s Historic Capital City
Department History
The Annapolis Fire Department has a proud and rich tradition of protecting Maryland's Historic State Capital. Incorporated in 1708, Annapolis is approximately 7.6 square miles and is home to 38,400 residents and the United States Naval Academy. In colonial times firefighting and the prevention of fire was every citizen's duty. Households were required to have a ladder that could reach its roof, a "swab" twelve to fourteen feet long, and two leather buckets kept near the door.
The first organized volunteer fire department in Annapolis was formed on February 25, 1839 when the Maryland General Assembly authorized the formation of the Independent Fire Company which operated until it was disbanded (1861-1865) during the Civil War. The Company was reformed in 1884 as the Independent Fire Company Number 2. The second fire company, Rescue Hose Company Number 1 organized in 1879 and the third, Water Witch Hook and Ladder Company was formed in 1885. Meanwhile on the outskirts of town the Eastport Volunteer Fire Company formed in 1886 and in 1911, the West Annapolis Fire and Improvement Company was established on the west side of the City. The West Annapolis Volunteer Fire Department would eventually relocate to the Anne Arundel County Fire Department in 1973. In 1986, the Rescue Hose, Independent and Water Witch Hook and Ladder stations were combined in the newly constructed Taylor Avenue Fire Station.
The Department Today
Our 136 personnel Department operates three stations (Eastport, Forest Drive, Taylor Avenue) and shares the Anne Arundel County Annapolis Neck station; operating three engine companies, one rescue squad, two truck companies, four transport paramedic units and one 36 foot Fire Boat.
The Department operates a Hazardous Materials Unit, Bomb Squad and Fire and Explosive Investigation services. The Fire Marshal's Office provides public education and fire safety inspections.
I hope that you enjoy your visit to our website. I am honored to serve as the 6th career Chief of the Annapolis Fire Department and I extend you an invitation to come back and visit our website often.
Douglas M. Remaley, Fire Chief