Harford Co DES is responsible for Harford County 911 and Emergency Management. Please note, this page is not continuously monitored. For emergencies, dial 911.
Ten pieces of equipment & numerous personnel from Harford Dept. of Emergency Services & Harford Volunteer Fire & EMS Association are filling in in Baltimore City today during the funeral of BCFD Capt. Dillon J. Rinaldo, who died Oct. 25 from injuries suffered Oct. 19.
We offer our sincere condolences to the Aberdeen Fire Department on the loss of their member Judy Hinch. Her contributions to the public safety community were many and she leaves behind a lasting legacy of kindness, compassion and service.
#AFD
We have had reports of trees falling on homes. Anyone concerned about a tree that has fallen on their house, call 911. Someone from the local fire department or county will examine the damage to determine if a building inspector is needed. Please don’t assume it’s safe.
Congratulations to Rhonda Hinch and Brad Reid for reaching 30 years of service with our 911 center. Thanks for your hard work and dedication. How about another 30?
Stay in & stay warm! We do have accidents due to road conditions. Some roads up north still have a lot of snow on them. It is supposed to changeover to sleet soon. If you have to be out, please use caution. If you don't have to be out, enjoy the snow day! Thanks and be safe.
Today's Fun Fact: The fastest way to reduce the stress of a Public Safety Dispatcher? A visit from these five little guys! Thanks to Radio Shop Supervisor Seth R. and his wonderful wife Michele for stopping by for a little puppy therapy.
Best day ever.
Happy Birthday 9-1-1! Today marks the 50th anniversary of the first 9-1-1 call being placed in the United States. Governor Hogan has proclaimed February 16, 2018 as Maryland Emergency Number Day in recognition of the great work that all 9-1-1 professionals provide every day.
Thank you to all of our amazing 911 dispatchers and call takers. They are the public’s first point of contact during an emergency and are tasked with obtaining information in a calm and timely manner. We appreciate you today and every day!
Tom Miller, one of our HazMat Crew Chiefs and Training Officers, participated in the Baltimore 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb at M&T Bank Stadium on October 13th. The climb is a way to honor and remember the FDNY firefighters who selflessly gave their lives so that others might live.
"I love working in 911 because I love being the person to help keep our first responders safe so they can come home to their loved ones at night. I love being the voice that helps to calm a sick or scared person and get them the help they need." Thanks for all you do Brittney!
The NWS has issued a Winter Storm Watch from Sunday am through late Sunday pm. Snow is predicted which may cause hazardous road conditions. Take time to prepare for the upcoming winter storm and keep an eye on the forecast. Thanks and be safe.
Eddie the Elf arrived in our 911 dispatch center a little over a week ago. He's a handful but he is ready to go on the phones and hoping you will stay off the roads tomorrow if we do have snow! Thanks and be safe!
Spencer Coogle & his daughter, Riannon, visited to meet the 911 dispatchers & paramedics who were instrumental in successfully resuscitating him along with 1st Responders from Bel Air VFC & deputies from the HCSO after he suffered a sudden cardiac arrest. Way to go team!
The Humane Society Director Jen Swanson presented DES Director Eddie Hopkins and staff with Wag'N O2 Fur Life pet oxygen masks. The goal of this initiative is to help first responders save animals lives after structural fires. "Because the pet's life they save may be your own."
Winter Weather Advisory
The NWS has placed Harford County under a Winter Weather Advisory for 1 to 3 inches of snow this afternoon/evening. The advisory is in effect from 1:00 PM until 7:00 PM.
Thanks and be safe!
Congratulations to four members of our Special Operations Team that recently completed their Swift Water Technician certification. Pictured are Ray Ryan, Joe Burrs, Mike Brunicke, Rick Brooks and Instructor Brandon Watkins. Job well done and be safe.
The Emergency Operations Center is partially activated due to the situation in in Perryman, which remains fluid at this time. Citizens should continue to avoid the area. The Harford County Information Hotline in the EOC (410-838-5800) has been activated for family & loved ones
Last week, members of our Hazmat Team along with the APG FD and BWI FD did training at the mini-golf course at The Artic Circle. This annual training allows Hazmat personnel to work on dexterity, mobility, and visual acuity while wearing breathing apparatus and Hazmat suits.
Five year old Matthew, who helped his mom on 911 earlier this month, came to visit Maria B. who helped him that day. She and Director Hopkins presented Matthew with a Certificate of Excellence for his bravery when his mom needed help several weeks ago. Way to go Matthew!
Happy National Public Safety Telecommunicator Week (NPSTW) To all of our 911 Dispatchers here at Harford County DES and our dispatch partners Aberdeen Police Department, APG, Bel Air Police Department and Havre de Grace Police Department, we want to say THANK YOU for all you do!
If you do not need to be on the road today, please stay home. Road conditions are beginning to deteriorate in some areas and our 911 call volume is increasing due to vehicle accidents. Thanks and be safe!
Many thanks to the Harford County Sheriff's Office for hosting a successful National Night Out. We had a great time meeting so many members of our community and spending time with our local law enforcement, community partners, and first responders.
Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Harford County DES. We are especially thankful for our 911 dispatchers, emergency responders & everyone working today. Due to the high winds, there are some minor reports of trees and wires down so be careful when traveling. Thanks & be safe.
Don’t forget your furry friends & bring pets inside during winter storms. If they can't come inside, make sure they have access to a warm shelter, food & water. If it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your pets, so keep your pets inside. Thanks and be safe!
Earlier today, members of Harford Dept. of Emergency Services special operations team helped members of Level Vol. Fire Co free a horse caught in a wire fence. They calmed the horse, protected it while they cut the wire and helped it back on its feet, then gave it water and feed.
This week we recognize our
#Harford
911 Dispatchers and Call Takers. Happy National Public Safety Telecommunicator’s Week and thank you for what you do.
Ryley the therapy dog made his final visit last week to the Harford County 911 Center. The 13-year-old chocolate lab mix is retiring and evening and night shift staff got their final hugs and snuggles. They gave Ryley a blanket, frame, toys & treats. Happy retirement, Ryley!
The NWS is expecting heavy snow during the day on Thurs & it may transition to sleet/freezing rain Thurs night. There may be hazardous road conditions and power outages. Plan accordingly and do not park vehicles on the street to allow access for our snow plows. Thanks & be safe.
The Edgewood High School Criminal Justice Club was here this week for a tour of our Emergency Operations Center and 911 Center. Dispatcher Jane Davis from our Public Education Team gave them a tour and discussed 911 daily operations with them.
Thank a first responder today! They deserve appreciation every day but this day has been set aside to thank and honor all first responders that respond during times of crisis or disaster and often put their life on the line to protect and help people in need. Thanks and be safe.
Harford County Government and Emergency Services placed another county medic unit into full-time operation Tuesday. It will be staffed by career EMS providers & stationed at
@SusquehannaHose
#3
, downtown Havre de Grace. Another county unit is at HdG Ambulance Corps on Level Rd.
Harford is activating its Emergency Operations Center today at 2 p.m. to monitor forecasted severe storms. Winds 60-70 mph are predicted; potential for tornadoes. Most severe weather is expected 4-8 p.m. Charge electronic devices, secure outside items. Updates will be provided.
Last night, Mrs. Michelle Williamson and Mrs. Lisa Temby from Deerfield ES delivered the Blizzard Packs to our dispatchers. Each of these packs has a special message in it from a student and snacks and supplies to help make it through a weather event. Thank you
#TeamDeerfield
Thanks for the visit today Kingsville 48 Cadets. We hope you enjoyed your visit and learned a lot about how our 911 Center operates. It was impressive to see such a large group of future volunteers and first responders. Good luck to you all. Thanks and be safe.
Public Safety Shift Supervisor Jennifer Webster rode in the 2019 Police Unity Tour. They ride over 245 miles to raise awareness of Law Enforcement Officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty and to raise funds for the National Law Enforcement Officer’s Memorial Fund.
Happy Halloween from your friends at 911! The rain can't dampen these spirits! Remember during these weather conditions, "Turn Around Don't Drown!" Thanks and be safe!
#HappyHalloween2019
Pets are also at risk for hypothermia and frostbite. Bring pets in from the cold or have dry, draft-free shelter for them with access to food and water. Below are Bo and Marbles who belong to two of our 911 dispatchers. They are both warm and cozy today with their families!
In 1974, President Ford authorized EMS Week to celebrate EMS providers & the important work they do in our communities. We want to recognize and give a shout out to our very own 8 HC Paramedics as well as all EMS responders! Thanks for all you do and be safe! Happy EMS Week!
A Winter Storm Watch has been issued from late Tues thru Wed pm.
There is potential for significant snow, sleet or ice accumulations that may impact travel. Continue to monitor your local forecast.Prepare now in case of power outage or inability to travel due to road conditions.
Harford's public works highways crews worked through the night to reopen as many county roads as possible. Some remain closed. For a current list of county road closures, visit .
So what has Eddie the Elf been up to this week you ask? He overslept for work and missed his shift and then got caught trying to get into the jar of candy for our Candy Guessing Contest!!
Snow is currently falling in Forest Hill and the roads are snow covered in areas. If you have to be on the roads, allow extra travel time and braking distance. It is a wet and heavy snow so be careful shoveling. Take frequent breaks and avoid overexertion. Thanks and be safe.
County Executive Bob Cassilly and Director of Emergency Services, Rick Ayers, toured the Harford County Emergency Operations Center to meet with our dedicated team of 911 emergency dispatchers and technical staff that the public and our first responders rely on.
What a difference a day makes! Thankful for our dedicated staff and local partners that worked together yesterday during the storm to keep watch over the county and handle the storm related call volume.
Brian Reid has been with us for almost eight years. "This is why I do what I do. Having the chance to be a part of a team that can potentially save someone's life." 2 years ago this little one & her family was able to come in and thank Brian for his help. Thanks Brian!
#NPSTW
Congratulations to the students that graduated from the Harford County Fire-EMS Cadet Program! These students completed Fire Fighter I, EMT, & Hazmat Operations certification classes. DES employees Rhonda Hinch & Steve Townsend helped coordinate the program with Chief Steve Cox.
To help assist with those that have been stuck in traffic, the widespread power outages, and temperatures dropping tonight, the Darlington Volunteer Fire Co. located at 2600 Castleton Rd in Darlington is now open as a warming center. This is a warming center only.Thanks & Be Safe
Congrats to Tamara Haney for being awarded the 2018 Maryland Mid-Eastern APCO Telecommunicator of the Year! She is a dedicated member of our Public Education Team, often leads efforts to help with employee morale & always strives for perfection in her everyday duties. Way to go!
Thank you to County Council President Pat Vincenti and Councilman Joe Woods for stopping by with a Proclamation to recognize our call takers and dispatchers.
They also treated us to cookies, pastries, fruit and cheese trays. Thank you for your visit and continued support!
Water levels continue to rise quickly and special operations teams are responding to multiple calls for vehicles stuck in water. If you must be out, avoid standing water - it only takes a few inches of water to sweep a person off their feet or wash away a car.
We were honored to attend the HDG Ambulance Corps Annual Awards Banquet on Saturday. Branch Manager Tami Wiggins was there on behalf Director Hopkins to acknowledge those receiving awards and to thank everyone for their service to the citizens of Havre de Grace & Harford County.
Harford County DES and the Harford County Sheriff’s Office partnered with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and hosted an Active Shooter Preparedness Workshop at our facility. It is important to be prepared and know how to work together when every second counts.
Getting ready for snow ...
#Harford
County's two salt brine equipped trucks are hitting main county roads and emergency routes in preparation for the anticipated slippery conditions. Please be safe and drive carefully!
The 911 dispatch center is receiving reports of flooded roadways, tree limbs & trees down, wires down, & power outages. If you come to an intersection with flashing lights or traffic lights that are out, treat it as a four way stop. Stay safe and stay off the roads.
June is National
#PetPreparedness
Month. Keep your pets safe too! Here are Bo, Lou and Tikki ready for a day out on the boat. Lou even has his pet sunscreen on (made for dogs and safe for dogs). Don't forget they need shade and water too.
Major General Randy S. Taylor, Commanding General US Army Comm. & Electronic Command & Senior Commander, APG visited today. This helps us create a continued public safety partnership that benefits & contributes to the overall safety & well-being of APG and county residents alike.
#Harford
County government offices will be closed on New Year's Day. Please be safe as you celebrate; we wish you peace and happiness in 2018.
(Photo courtesy of Frank Marsden, nature photographer extraordinaire.)
We are hiring! Join our 911 Team and become a Public Safety Dispatcher.
Please visit the Human Resources employment website to view the full job vacancy announcement and apply for the position.
April 12-18, 2020 is National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week. Thank you 911 dispatchers for all the work you do to keep our community safe!
#NPSTW
NJ Wildfire - We currently have an odor of smoke and haze of smoke in Harford County due to a wildfire in Camden County, NJ. We are receiving a high number of 911 calls in reference to it at this time and are continuously assessing the situation.Thanks & be safe.
Harford County has deactivated the Emergency Operations Center. More severe weather is possible this evening. Temps are forecast in the 90s today with heat indices over 100. Libraries will serve as cooling centers until 5 p.m.; Aberdeen and Abingdon will be open until 8 p.m.
Since the NEXT GEN Responder student loan repayment assistance program began, Harford County has helped pay down student loans for 76 volunteer
EMTs and firefighters. Find qualifications and the application online at .
@HarfordExec
Barry Glassman
What a "sweet" surprise this morning. Your friends at 911 want to give a shout out to Caroline and say Thank You!!! Donuts and coffee = happy dispatchers!
To prepare for a storm, secure outside furniture & objects, charge cell phones, & make sure animals have safe shelter. To stay safe, stay indoors, avoid running water & landline phones, avoid flooded roadways & downed power lines. Thanks and be safe.
#WhenThunderRoarsGoIndoors
For a BGE power outage/downed wire, call 1-877-778-2222. For outages only call 877-778-2222, text "OUT" to MYBGE (69243) or report on Facebook
@myBGE
For a Delmarva downed power line/outage, call 1-800-898-8042. Call 9-1-1 to report wires arcing, sparking, on fire, or a hazard.