Ocean City's former public safety building at 835 Central Ave. is now being used by the fire department for emergency training.
The Ocean City Fire Department is utilizing the old public safety building for emergency training, including the use of theatrical smoke to simulate real fires.
The city issued a statement assuring the public that there are no real fires or emergencies inside the vacant three-story building at 835 Central Ave.
The fire department said it is aware of recent social media reports claiming that there have been fires at the building.
“We would like to clarify that there have been no fires or emergency incidents at this location,” the statement said.
Training activities are expected to continue over the coming weeks until the building is scheduled for demolition. During this time, residents may also observe additional outside emergency agencies participating in training exercises at the site.
“We appreciate the community’s understanding and continued support as we conduct these important preparedness activities,” the fire department said.
The training exercises are designed to enhance critical operational skills and strengthen overall emergency response readiness.
“As part of these training scenarios, theatrical smoke is being used inside of the structure to simulate realistic fire conditions and visibility challenges,” the statement said.
The public safety building dates to the late 1800s. It was originally a school before being converted into the headquarters for the police department decades ago.
The police department moved out of the building on March 6 while plans are being made to demolish the red-brick structure. The city will use the site to build a new public safety building for the police department and municipal court.
In the meantime, the department is using the city’s newly opened $6.1 million police substation at Eighth Street and the Boardwalk as its temporary headquarters.
