Anney Smith grew up with family in the fire department. She became a volunteer firefighter in Howard County, Md. when she was 16 and then started to pursue her first degree in Fire Service Administration. 

“I became interested in the fire marshal side of things after taking investigations and inspections courses during my associate’s  degree in Fire Service Administration,” says Smith. “I enjoyed learning about the science behind the fires.”

After earning her associate’s degree, Smith traveled to Eastern Kentucky University (EKU), where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Fire, Arson, and Explosion Investigation. “During my time at EKU, I knew that I wanted to pursue a career as a fire marshal.”

Since joining the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) Office of the Fire Marshal this year, Smith says she has enjoyed interacting with students and employees at outreach events and trainings. “There are so many interesting places to visit on campus,” she says. “Take some extra time to explore the buildings around you.”

While exploring UMB buildings, students and employees also should take some time to identify life safety equipment such as AEDs and Stop the Bleed kits, find emergency exits, and keep an eye out for any fire safety concerns. 

“We do our best to make sure students and employees are aware of fire-related hazards and fire safety tips, but sometimes there is still the mindset that ‘it’ll never happen to me’ when it comes to fires or other emergencies,” says Smith. “For us, the biggest hurdle is explaining why we check for certain fire hazards or why we enforce fire and life safety codes.” (Learn more about fire safety and training opportunities.)

Smith is now pursuing a master’s degree in Homeland Security Management. Outside of work, she likes to spend time doing outdoor activities, such as kayaking and camping. She also enjoys spending time with her dog, Gracie, “who surprisingly would much rather sleep in the house than outside camping.”

October is Fire Safety Month. Follow along for resources, tips, and more. 

The UMB Office of the Fire Marshal is a division of UMB Police and Public Safety.