On Wednesday, February 28, 2024, at 11:18 pm, the Chestertown Volunteer Fire Company, along with mutual aid companies, was dispatched to the 10700 block of Millbrook Drive for a tree into a house. Strong winds had brought the tree down. This is in the Chesapeake Landing community, which is near the intersection of Fairlee Road (Maryland 298) and Buck Neck Road. The 9-1-1 caller reported no injuries.
First arriving confirmed no injuries / entrapment and found that a large evergreen tree had partially uprooted, then broke near the ground, before crashing into the roof. Limbs from the tree had pierced the roof in two places and were intruding into the living space. (Thankfully, there was no one on the second floor when this occurred.) Limbs from the tree also broke a roof skylight. Electric service to the second floor was secured at the home’s circuit panel, and the county building inspector was requested.
By telephone, the building inspector advised because the roof was compromised, and with an unsecured tree laying on the home, the dwelling would be uninhabitable, at least until the tree could be removed and roof repairs completed. The family did not require assistance. They relocated to their recreational vehicle in the driveway.
Firefighters covered the broken skylight with plastic sheeting to protect the house interior temperature, and to prevent animals (squirrels) from entering. It’s fortunate the rain had ended, and none was expected overnight. Fifteen emergency personnel operated at this incident for approximately 90 minutes. There were no injuries to emergency personnel.
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Companies and agencies dispatched / on-scene.
Chestertown VFC (on-scene)
Rock Hall VFC
Kennedyville VFC
Betterton VFC (on-scene)
Galena VFC
Crumpton VFC
Kent & Queen Annes Rescue Squad (on-scene)
Kent County EMS (on-scene)
DESOPS
Kent County Sheriffs Office
