WFD Banquet – Citizens Citation Award Presented to Phil Thomas

At the 2025 WFD Banquet held on March 22, 2025, a Citizens Citation Award was presented to Phil Thomas. He is not just a supporter of this department—he is a guardian of its past, ensuring that our story is told, remembered, and cherished.

Through his tireless efforts in photographing the department’s events, apparatus, and personnel, Phil has captured moments that might have otherwise faded into memory. But he didn’t stop there. He generously provided these images to the Historical Museum of the Westminster Fire Department, helping to build an invaluable visual record of our proud tradition of service. His work allows us to reflect on where we’ve been, honor those who came before us, and inspire those who will follow in our footsteps.

Phil’s contributions extend beyond photography; they represent a deep appreciation for the sacrifices, dedication, and camaraderie that define the Westminster Fire Department. Because of his work, future generations will not only know our history but will see it—through his lens, through his passion, and through his commitment to preserving our legacy. Phil is also the son of life member George Thomas.

The Backup Firefighter

Thursday evening Westminster hosted a presentation from our very own Matt Stansbury. Matt regularly teaches fire ground tactics and techniques to firefighters in Frederick. He is going to be a guest lecturer in Frederick’s upcoming  “Key City Conference” where firefighters from all over the state come to Frederick to learn fire department skills. Matt took time out of his busy schedule to teach his principles to members of Westminster, Reese, Manchester, and CC DFEMS personnel. Everyone left tonight with a better understanding of the roles and responsibilities while operating on a fire ground incident. Thank you Matt for making us all better!

Ventus Pro 5 Meter Training

On February 13th, Westminster VFD hosted a training on the newly acquired Ventus Pro 5 and Tango CO gas monitors. It was taught by our area representative for the meters, Jeremy Gray. Mr. Gray taught all attendees the usage, care, and maintenance of these important devices. These meters will greatly enhance the departments ability to run natural gas, CO and other emergencies with in the community. They also provide the ability to monitor the air quality after a fire to protect firefighters from the deadly gases that occur after the fire is extinguished and let us know when it’s safe to remove our breathing apparatus. Westminster would like to thank Mr. Gray for his time teaching all who attended. 

Two Great ways to Support WFD with your family

Take your family out to dinner at Texas Roadhouse on Thursday, March 6 from 3PM – 10 PM. Texas Roadhouse will donate 10% of your food bill to our fund for the purchase of equipment. Be sure to click on the picture of the flyer from Texas Roadhouse to print the donation form to take with you to dinner.

Please join us for a Paint night at Flood Zone on April 3rd – 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM.

Members attend Federal Seminar

On January 29th and 30, multiple members of the Westminster Fire Department and Carroll County Department of Fire and EMS of Maryland personnel assigned to Westminster, took an in-person Federal class, preparing first responders responding to an incident involving a bomb. Personnel spent two days learning the lessons of past incidents and how to better prepare for future response. These are lessons we hope we never use, but these responders will be better prepared if we ever do.

Wreaths Across America

On December 14, our station and members were pleased to join Bikers for Cause MD Chapter and Babylon Vault to place wreaths on our veterans graves at Meadow Branch Cemetery.

Tickets now available for 2025 Big Money Raffle

Tickets for our May 31, 2025 Big Money Raffle are available now and make great Christmas Stocking Stuffers!. Please see any member, stop by the station or purchase online.

Westminster FD assists with EMS support on Bay Bridge Run

Several weeks ago Queen Anne’s County sent a state wide request for EMS assets to assist with the annual Bay Bridge Run. WFD Deployed ATV3 to asssit with standby along the race route. WFD Volunteers stood by on the bay bridge while over 19,000 race participants ran the course. ATV3 was demobilized just after noon and returned to Carroll County. We are happy to lend a hand to whatever county in Maryland may need it.

Simulated Mayday Firefighter Rescue

On October 28th Westminster VFD in conjunction with Carroll County Department of Fire and EMS of Maryland hosted another round of live Rapid Intervention Team training. This training gave participants the ability to train if one of our own were to get hurt or injured while fighting a fire. While we hope this skill is never used, it’s invaluable to be prepared if there is. Manchester Volunteer Fire Department participated during this round of evolutions.

Westminster Fire Department does not own the rights to the music and don’t intend to infringe on copyright.

https://fb.watch/vLRGDpOTUy/

Quick stop at our neighbor’s business

A quick stop at Mercer Floors prevented a potential major event. A member at our station immediately got employees out of the business and store front.

More photos at: https://members.westminstervfd.org/apps/public/gallery/?Gallery_ID=10