October 21st, 2025
Fire Safety Month: We were thrilled to meet Deputy State Fire Marshal Oliver Alkire and K9 Blondie
Deputy State Fire Marshal Oliver Alkire joined Rob Chirnside on Cecil TV along with his arson detection dog, K-9 Blondie, one of only about 70 accelerant detection canines in the U.S. Alkire explained that Blondie helps investigators detect trace amounts of flammable liquids—like gasoline or lighter fluid—at fire scenes to determine whether a blaze was intentionally set. The Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office investigates around 1,100–1,200 fires each year, and roughly 15–30% are deemed arson.
The discussion centered on Fire Prevention Month and this year’s national focus on lithium-ion battery safety. Alkire emphasized that these batteries—found in everything from power tools to electric mowers—have been linked to a growing number of fires. He advised the public to:
* Buy only UL-listed batteries and chargers to ensure safety certification.
* Avoid overcharging by unplugging devices once fully charged.
* Charge batteries away from living areas when possible.
* Dispose of damaged or expired batteries properly at recycling centers or home improvement stores, not in household trash.
Alkire also reviewed other major fire hazards:
* The leading cause of home fires is unattended cooking.
* Discarded fireplace ashes can ignite fires if not fully cooled.
* Working smoke alarms are critical; every level and bedroom should have one. Most modern alarms have 10-year lithium batteries, eliminating the need for annual replacements.
He promoted Maryland’s “Get Alarm Maryland” initiative, which helps residents obtain and install free smoke alarms through local fire departments.
Alkire closed with a reminder: “If you have a fire—get out, stay out, and call 911.”
