ANNAPOLIS, MD — This morning, Governor Wes Moore visited the Baltimore City Fire Academy to participate in Fire Ops 101. The event, hosted by the Baltimore City Fire Department, presents an up-close-and-personal, hands-on opportunity to learn more about the work of firefighters and first responders, including emergency response protocol, firefighting scenarios, vehicle extrication, and medical emergencies.
“First responders serve as a resource for communities, demonstrating bravery and dedication. Firefighters are often the first interaction families have in an emergency, providing a support system and sense of comfort to all,”
said Gov. Moore. “During times of duress and panic, families put an immense amount of trust into our firefighters and first responders. They are a shining example of strength and dependability for Marylanders.”
Support for Maryland’s first responders is of highest priority for the Moore-Miller administration. In his FY24 budget, Governor Moore allocated $39.4 million in salary adjustments for registered nurses, emergency response technicians, and certain educator positions. The FY24 budget also includes grants for fire, rescue and ambulance equipment and capital renovations and funding for the Maryland State Firemen’s Association Widows and Orphans Fund. Governor Moore also signed the Discounts for Law Enforcement Officers and First Responders bill into law, which provides all first responders and emergency personnel with discounts to visit Maryland’s state parks.In February, Governor Moored visited the Deep Creek Fire Company during his first official tour in Mountain Maryland to mark the station’s more than 50 years of service to the community. In May, Governor Moore proclaimed Fallen Heroes Day to honor those who have sacrificed their lives to protect Maryland citizens. And In July, Governor Moore announced the allocation of Waterway Improvement Funds to provide equipment and emergency vessels for first responders. After a severe statewide storm in August, Governor Moore
surveyed storm damage in Carroll County, offering thanks to first responders both in support of disaster relief and emergency response after fallen live lines posed a potential electrocution hazard, trapping 33 adults and 14 children inside their vehicles on the highway for hours. Thanks to the diligence of first responders, no serious injuries were reported.