WHITEFORD, MD – An Amazon delivery driver is being hailed as a hero after pulling an 84-year-old woman to safety during a house fire in Harford County this week.
According to the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office, the woman was home alone in the basement of her Whiteford residence when her dog began barking, alerting her to the fire. As she tried to escape, an Amazon driver who was making deliveries in the area saw her struggling and helped her get out of the burning home.
Fire crews from the Whiteford Volunteer Fire Company, the Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company, and the Delta-Cardiff Volunteer Fire Company responded to the scene. All occupants, including the woman’s dog and two cats, escaped unharmed.
Investigators link blaze to wood stove ashes
Deputy State Fire Marshals from the Northeast Region determined that the fire started after improperly discarded wood stove ashes ignited nearby combustibles. Officials said the incident serves as a reminder of how easily fires can start from hot ashes that may appear cool.
Authorities advise residents to always place ashes in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid, soak them with water, and store them outside at least ten feet away from any structure. Ashes should never be disposed of on decks, in garages, or near anything that can burn.
- Amazon driver helped 84-year-old woman escape burning home
- Dog and two cats also made it out safely
- Fire traced to improperly discarded wood stove ashes
The Office of the State Fire Marshal shared photos from the scene and additional fire safety guidance, available here.
