Provided by Prince William Fire & Rescue
On Tuesday, August 30, at 7:11 p. m., fire and rescue units were dispatched to a townhouse fire located in the 3500 block of Buffalo Court in Dale City.
Upon arrival, fire and rescue crews observed smoke showing from the front of the townhome. As firefighters made entry, they discovered a microwave on fire in a hallway that had extended throughout the first floor. The fire was quickly extinguished. Several pets were found to have died in the fire.
Red Cross was called to assist one adult displaced by the fire.
A Building Official was on scene and has posted the home unsafe.
According to the Fire Marshal’s Office, preliminary damages are estimated at $70,000.
The cause of the fire was unattended cooking and has been determined to be accidental.
Prince William County Fire & Rescue Chief Kevin McGee would like to remind residents that cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home fire injuries. These fires are preventable by simply being more attentive when using cooking materials and equipment.
Look When You Cook:
- Stay in the area of the cooking equipment when you are frying, grilling, broiling, boiling or microwaving food.
- If you must leave the area, turn off the equipment.
- When simmering, baking or roasting, check it frequently and use a timer as a reminder.
- Keep cooking areas clean and clear of any and all combustibles (e.g., potholders, towels, rags, and food packaging)
