History of the Cobb Island Volunteer Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services (CIVFD)

The Cobb Island Volunteer Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services (CIVFD) has a long and proud history of service to the community. Established in 1946, the department was originally known as the 5th District Fire Department and was created in response to the need for a local fire service. At the time, the nearest fire department was too far away to provide timely assistance to the residents of Cobb Island and the surrounding areas, leading members of the Fifth District Veterans Club to organize a local fire company.

Founding and Early Years

The department’s first fire truck was a war surplus Seagrave, purchased in 1946 for $500 after members stood in line all night at a disposal sale in Washington, D.C. Unfortunately, the engine failed on the way home, requiring an immediate $700 repair. The truck was initially housed in a garage owned by Agnes Hill, as the department did not yet have a firehouse. Emergency calls were received at the home of Mary and Jack Sims, who would then round up volunteers to respond to fires and other emergencies.

To establish a permanent home for the department, land was donated by John E. Simms, and by 1948, a firehouse was constructed on Cobb Island. That same year, the department acquired a 1935 Chevrolet fire truck from the La Plata Volunteer Fire Department. In 1951, the department purchased its first new fire engine, a 1951 American Dodge chassis pumper. This marked a significant milestone in improving the department’s firefighting capabilities.

Expansion of Services: EMS and Rescue Squad

As the community’s needs grew, it became clear that fire suppression alone was not enough. In 1953, the Rescue Squad was established with the purchase of a 1950 Buick ambulance from District Heights Fire Department. This allowed the department to provide emergency medical services (EMS), significantly enhancing its ability to protect and serve the residents of Cobb Island.

The department officially incorporated as the Fifth District Volunteer Fire Department in 1954, further solidifying its role in public safety. Additional funding became available through changes in county tax laws, which helped support the purchase of new equipment, including a 1957 Buick ambulance. By the 1960s, the department had outgrown its original station and expanded its facilities to accommodate its growing fleet and membership.

Key Milestones in CIVFD’s Growth

• 1957 – Tax law changes provided additional funding for EMS, leading to the purchase of a 1957 Buick ambulance.

• 1963 – CIVFD became a founding member of the Charles County Association of Emergency Medical Services.

• 1965 – Acquisition of a fully equipped 1965 Cadillac ambulance for $10,300.

• 1977 – CIVFD helped establish Charles County’s first all-volunteer 24-hour Advanced Life Support (ALS) Unit, providing paramedic-level care to the community.

• 1982 – A new fire station was dedicated, providing modernized facilities for the department’s growing needs.

• 2009 – The current fire station was built and placed into service, providing enhanced space and modern resources for improved emergency response.

• 2024 – The launch of Surface Water Rescue 6, expanding the department’s capabilities in marine and water-based rescue operations.

Notable Calls and Community Impact

Over the decades, the department has responded to a wide variety of emergency situations. Some of the most significant incidents include:

• Major Fires – One of the department’s biggest challenges was the 1959 Oyster House fire at Rock Point, which required extensive firefighting efforts.

• Natural Disasters – CIVFD has been actively involved in hurricane response and flood rescue operations.

• Rescue Operations – The department has conducted numerous water rescues, particularly after the expansion of its marine rescue capabilities.

• Community Support – CIVFD has organized major fundraising events, including Field Days, Oyster Roasts, and Bingo Nights, which have been instrumental in raising money for new equipment and training initiatives.

Modernization and Historical Medical Services

As the needs of Cobb Island and the surrounding communities evolved, so did the department. CIVFD continuously modernized its fleet, upgraded its firefighting equipment, and expanded its training programs. In the past, the department provided Advanced Life Support (ALS) services, utilizing LifePak defibrillators and advanced pre-hospital care. However, ALS services are no longer provided at the department, and EMS operations now focus on Basic Life Support (BLS) emergency response.

Today, the department is equipped with state-of-the-art firefighting apparatus, including:

• Advanced fire engines with modern pumping systems.

• Rescue vehicles designed for technical extrications and medical emergencies.

• Specialized marine rescue boats for rapid deployment in water emergencies.

The introduction of Surface Water Rescue 6 in 2024 marked another major advancement in CIVFD’s capabilities, allowing for swift water rescue operations in the Potomac River and surrounding waterways.

Legacy of Dedication and Service

CIVFD’s success over the years is a testament to the dedication of its volunteer members and the unwavering support of the Cobb Island community. The department has maintained strong partnerships with neighboring fire and EMS agencies, ensuring a coordinated response to emergencies across Charles County.

Many past and present members of CIVFD have also played active roles in countywide and regional fire service organizations, holding leadership positions in the Charles County Volunteer Firemen’s Association and the Charles County Association of Emergency Medical Services.