Illegal Fireworks Believed to Cause OC Dune Fire

Image Courtesy of Jennifer White

OCEAN CITY, Md. – The Ocean City Fire Department (OCFD) and Office of the Fire Marshal are requesting the public’s assistance after a dune fire caused significant damage to native grasses over the weekend.

The fire, which occurred Saturday, Jun. 20, just before 9:30 p.m., burned a significant area of dune grass along the beach in the area of 116th and 117th Street. Authorities say their preliminary findings indicate the fire may have been caused by the illegal use of fireworks.

Damage to the dune grass has negative consequences for both the beach and the creatures that inhabit it, as it plays a critical role in protecting the coastline from erosion and storm impacts.

Worcester County has had a burn ban in effect since May 4 due to ongoing drought conditions impacting the Delmarva peninsula. The ban prohibits all outdoor burning activities, including yard debris burning, land-clearing burns, open burning, and the burning of leaves and brush. Authorities urge residents to exercise caution with any ignition source and to avoid activities that could create sparks or open flames.