Electrical Fires Cause Extensive Damage to Homes
June 15, 2024 Townhome Fire
On the evening of June 15th, units were dispatched to the 16300 blk of Taconic Circle (Dumfries) for a townhouse fire. A passerby called 9-1-1 after seeing the home on fire. Crews arrived on the scene to find heavy fire at the rear of the home. A second alarm was requested due to the fire spreading rapidly to the attic and to adjoining residences. Crews worked quickly to bring the fire under control and extinguish it. The townhome where the fire started sustained extensive damage. A total of four (4) units were damaged in varying degrees. Three (3) of the townhomes were determined to be unsafe to occupy by the Building Official which displaced 6 adults and 2 children. No injuries were reported. The PWC Fire Marshal’s office reported the cause to be an accidental electrical fire.
June 17, 2024 Townhome Fire
Shortly before 11:00 p.m. on June 17, units were dispatched to the 14600 blk of Earlham Ct.(Dale City) for a reported townhouse fire. Crews arrived to find fire showing from the second floor. All occupants were safely evacuated. The crews quick action brought the fire under control and prevented it from spreading to adjoining units. No injuries were reported. The home sustained extensive damage. The Red Cross was called to assist 4 adults and 4 children that were displaced by the fire. The PWC Fire Marshal’s Office determined the fire was ignited by either an unattended candle or a electrical device.
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, there are approximately 47,000 home electrical fires each year. Half of all home
electrical fires involve home wiring or lighting equipment.
To help avoid electrical accidents, take a few moments to look around your home for hazards and correct them. Practicing electrical safety is a straightforward way to prevent electrical fires. For example:
- Keep furniture from pinching cords
- Don’t run electrical cords under rugs
- Don’t connect extension cords to power strips or overload circuits
- Use correct wattage light bulbs
- Don’t place laptops or phones on beds or sofas while charging
Hire a licensed electrician who knows the code to do electrical work. Call a professional electrician soon if you have any of these warning signs:
- Frequently blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers
- Dim or flickering lights, bulbs that wear out too fast
- Overheated plugs, cords, or switches
- Shock or mild tingle – more than ordinary static electricity
- Loose outlets or unusually warm or faulty outlets or switches
Know the warning signs. Call 9-1-1 immediately if you have warning signs such as arcs, sparks, or short circuits. Other warning signs include hearing a buzzing or sizzling sound or smelling a faint burning odor.