Early Tuesday morning, an accidental fire on Leesburg’s Catoctin Circle left nine residents displaced and one person injured. Firefighters responded promptly to the call, battling flames that spread through a duplex and caused extensive damage.
Loudoun County’s Fire Marshal is urging residents to be cautious when using outdoor fireplaces and fire pits, as improper usage of these appliances can lead to dangerous outcomes.
Quick Response Prevents Further Damage
Shortly after midnight, multiple calls reported a house fire in the 100 block of Catoctin Circle. Fire units from Leesburg, Lansdowne, Hamilton, and Ashburn, along with Leesburg Police, swiftly arrived at the scene.
Upon arrival, firefighters found smoke and flames emanating from the duplex’s rear. Thanks to preemptive evacuations, both units were cleared before first responders began their work.
The firefighting crew used hoselines to combat the flames outside while others entered the home to locate and extinguish any interior fires. Crews remained on-site for several hours to overhaul and assist Loudoun County Fire and Rescue Fire Marshal’s Office (LCFR-FMO) with securing the structure.
Nine Residents Impacted and Community Support Steps In
The fire left nine residents homeless, including four adults and five children. The American Red Cross provided support, ensuring affected families had access to shelter and essential services.
While one resident received medical attention at the scene and was transported to a local hospital for further evaluation, unfortunately, one pet cat was found deceased, and another remains missing.
Fire Investigation and Damage Assessment
Following a thorough investigation, the LCFR-FMO confirmed that the fire was accidental, originating on the duplex’s deck due to a heat source igniting nearby materials.
Damages are estimated to total approximately $182,000, with the majority affecting the unit where the fire started and $32,000 worth of damages extending to the neighboring unit.
Outdoor Fire Safety Tips for Leesburg Residents
Given the incident, Loudoun County’s Fire Marshal emphasizes the importance of safe practices when using outdoor appliances like fire pits, chimeneas, and fireplaces. By following a few simple guidelines, residents can help prevent fires and ensure their families and homes remain safe.
Safety Tips |
Description |
|---|---|
| Keep a Safe Distance | Place fire appliances at least 15 feet from any structures, including homes and buildings, to reduce the risk of accidental ignition. |
| Choose a Non-Combustible Surface | Set appliances on stone, brick, or concrete, avoiding grass or wood decking; place a fire-resistant pad under the appliance if needed. |
| Attend the Fire at All Times | Always have an adult present with means of extinguishment nearby. An unattended fire can quickly become hazardous. |
| Mind the Wind | Check wind conditions before lighting. Flames and smoke should be directed away from buildings and flammable materials. |
| Dispose of Ashes Properly | Soak ashes with water and dispose of them in a closed metal container far from any structure. This step minimizes the risk of embers igniting flammable surfaces. |
These guidelines are crucial in reducing the chances of fire hazards and ensuring that outdoor appliances are used responsibly. The Fire Marshal’s Office regularly promotes these safety measures to reduce incidents, especially as outdoor fire devices grow in popularity.
Broader Fire Safety Context for Loudoun Residents
The National Fire Protection Association reports an outdoor fire occurs every 46 seconds across the U.S., underscoring the need for caution when using fire appliances.
Recent mulch-related fires in Loudoun County also highlight the potential hazards of improperly discarded smoking materials near buildings, particularly during dry conditions.
Loudoun’s Fire Marshal is proactive in reminding residents of these safety practices, noting that additional regulations may be enforced during periods of heightened fire risk or following resident complaints.
The Bottom Line
Leesburg residents are encouraged to follow these precautions diligently, as they are essential to protecting lives and homes.
By adopting safer habits and staying informed, the community can help prevent incidents like the one on Catoctin Circle and enjoy outdoor appliances responsibly.
Sources: THX News & Loudoun Country Fire and Rescue.
