Fireworks Spark House Fire In Stafford County On July 4: Authorities

STAFFORD COUNTY, VA — Used fireworks sparked a fire that damaged three homes in Stafford County on July 4, fire department officials said.

No injuries were reported in the blaze, which damaged three homes on Tuesday night, according to a news release from Stafford County Fire and Rescue. The fire displaced seven people, authorities said.

The fire began around 10:15 p.m. on Tuesday in the 00 block Smelters Trace Road in Stafford County. Multiple people called 911 to report the fire, authorities said.

See also: $600K In Illegal Fireworks Seized In Stafford County: Authorities

When firefighters arrived, they found fire showing from the roof and side of the house, according to the report. The fire had already spread to a neighboring house, first responders said. The people in the affected homes had already evacuated.

"Crews switched to defensive firefighting tactics due to the structure being unstable, and a second alarm was struck bringing additional resources to the scene," fire and rescue officials said. "The fire was brought under control in approximately 20 minutes."

The American Red Cross is helping the seven residents who were displaced by the fire.

The fire marshal's office said the fire was caused by improperly discarded spent fireworks. Authorities recommend that residents always soak used fireworks after using them to prevent fires.