Clarksburg, Laytonsville firefighters redeployed to other fire stations due to Covid-19 case surge

The omicron Covid-19 case surge has put additional strain on Montgomery County Fire and Rescue resources. 110 career and 23 volunteer firefighters are unable to report to work due to coronavirus protocols. 75 others are out for other reasons. This totals 9% of the firefighter pool, forcing Montgomery County to take several steps to staff fire stations countywide.

Among the actions taken was the reassignment of some staff from Clarksburg's Aerial Tower ladder truck, and from the Laytonsville Rescue Squad heavy rescue unit, to other stations around the county. The reason given was that these stations receive fewer service calls. "I want to thank MCFRS for these prudent decisions, wish all sick and isolating employees a speedy recovery, and recognize the hard work of all our firefighters and paramedics during these challenging times," County Executive Marc Elrich said in a statement. "I also encourage all residents to be aware of these staffing shortages and remember to only call or use 9-1-1 services in emergency situations.”