In a groundbreaking move to enhance emergency response in rural areas, the St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Public Works & Transportation (DPW&T) recently unveiled its first 30,000-gallon firefighting water tank on March 6, 2025. The tank, located in the Porto Bello Subdivision in Callaway, signifies the beginning of a transformative multiyear capital project aimed at mitigating fire risks and bolstering safety across the county.
The installation of this massive water storage tank comes as a response to a critical need in isolated regions where access to water for firefighting purposes is severely limited. Measuring 10 feet wide by 54 feet long, this tank has the capacity to support fire suppression efforts during emergencies, providing a vital resource for first responders in areas lacking public water service. The strategic placement of these tanks in collaboration with local fire departments is a proactive approach to reducing response times and ensuring the safety of residents in these underserved communities.
Addressing a Critical Need for Rural Firefighting
St. Mary’s County, with its vast expanse of 357 square miles and a population of approximately 113,000, encompasses many rural areas that heavily rely on volunteer fire departments for emergency services. The absence of municipal water infrastructure in these regions has long been a challenge during fire incidents, hampering the effectiveness of firefighting efforts. By introducing these water tanks and dry hydrants, firefighters now have the advantage of accessing water quickly and efficiently, without having to depend on distant water sources like ponds or rivers.
Jennifer Utz, Director of the St. Mary’s County Department of Emergency Services, expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts between the county and the fire departments, emphasizing the critical role these water tanks and hydrants play in ensuring the safety and well-being of residents. The county’s commitment to supporting emergency responders and providing the necessary resources underscores its dedication to enhancing public safety.
Strategic Planning and Community Involvement
As part of the ongoing project, DPW&T is meticulously coordinating logistics for the installation of additional water tanks at strategic locations, with the Ridge Firehouse’s carnival grounds slated for the next installation. By carefully selecting sites based on accessibility and property agreements, the county aims to optimize the effectiveness of these firefighting resources while minimizing disruptions to residents. The funding for this initiative is sourced from the county’s capital improvement budget, reflecting a significant investment in bolstering emergency response capabilities.
Building on the county’s long-standing support for its volunteer fire departments, the introduction of these water tanks aligns with industry trends highlighted by the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute. Rural water supply solutions, such as the installation of these tanks, are increasingly recognized as essential in areas lacking traditional hydrant systems. By strategically placing these tanks, St. Mary’s County is taking proactive steps to safeguard homes and woodlands in remote areas, where response times are often compromised by geographical challenges.
As the project progresses and more tanks are installed, officials anticipate a tangible improvement in firefighting capabilities, offering reassurance to residents and first responders alike. The collective effort to fortify emergency response infrastructure underscores the county’s unwavering commitment to public safety and community resilience, setting a precedent for proactive disaster preparedness and response strategies.
David M. Higgins II is an award-winning journalist passionate about uncovering the truth and telling compelling stories. Born in Baltimore and raised in Southern Maryland, he has lived in several East Coast states, covering a wide range of topics from local news to national events. With a keen eye for detail and a dedication to ethical journalism, David strives to inform, engage, and inspire readers through his work.
