Hurlock, MD - A structure fire took place on Sunday, February 25, 2024, in the 7000 block of Beulah Road, Hurlock, in Dorchester County, Maryland.  The fire broke out at approximately 8:30 P.M. in a dilapidated shed.

The Hurlock Volunteer Fire Department was the primary responder to the incident. A total of 20 firefighters were needed to battle the blaze, with one alarm raised. Firefighters were able to take control of the situation within 30 minutes of the call.

The estimated property damage of the shed was around $1,000. 

The fire was first discovered by the property tenant, with the exterior of the shed identified as the area of origin.

The preliminary investigation into the cause of the fire suggests it was accidental. The fire started due to a juvenile playing with a camping/survival fire starting compound. 

After being alerted by the juvenile, the guardian took immediate action to extinguish the fire. Despite these efforts, the fire rekindled after about an hour, igniting the brush surrounding the shed and enveloping the whole structure. 

The owner of the shed confirmed that the shed was dilapidated at the time of the incident, and was not used by the owner nor by the tenant. 

Following this information, they requested no further action from law enforcement.

This incident serves as a timely reminder about the importance of fire safety, particularly when children are involved. It underscores the need for constant vigilance, appropriate fire safety measures, and fast and effective responses when such unfortunate incidents occur.