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Office of the State Fire Marshal

Deputy State Fire Marshal

Two Maryland State Fire Marshals walking in the remains of a fire

Deputy State Fire Marshals (DSFM) are sworn law enforcement officers who investigate the cause and origin of fires and explosives throughout Maryland for the Office of the State Fire Marshal (OFSM).

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Core Duties

The Deputy State Fire Marshal I responsibilities include

  • Investigate arson and malicious burning
  • Determine if a fire was set to defraud an insurance company
  • Investigate false alarms
  • Setting fire while perpetrating other crimes
  • Conduct fire investigations, including collecting, examining, and analyzing physical evidence to determine the cause and origin of a fire.
  • Conduct fire safety inspections of commercial, institutional, industrial, educational, medical and storage facilities.
  • Determine bum patterns and use specialized equipment that detects the presence of flammable materials.
  • Photograph and sketch the scene to record the condition of the site.
  • Question witnesses and suspects and conduct surveillance.
  • Obtain and execute search and seizure warrants and arrest warrants in arson cases
  • Coordinate related activities with local fire and police departments.
  • Prepare and maintain comprehensive files and records on investigations.

Requirements

  • Age and Residency: Applicants must be at least 21 years old and possess a valid Maryland driver's license.
  • Education: A minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent is required.
  • Police certification: Candidates must successfully complete the Entrance Level Police Training Course required by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission.
  • Firearms Proficiency: As sworn officers, DSFMs are required to bear firearms and demonstrate periodic proficiency.

Application process

The hiring process for Deputy State Fire Marshal Candidates is structured, rigorous and detailed. It is designed to help select those applicants who are most qualified. Below you will find an overview of the process. You must successfully complete each step to move on in the process.

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