Groveton Area Home Fire Displaces Family of Four

Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department units responded to a house fire Thursday at approximately 7:10 p.m., in the Alexandria area of Fairfax County. The single-family home is located at 6012 Pike Branch Road.

The area is near the intersection of Telegraph and Wilton roads.

Firefighters encountered heavy smoke coming from the basement and first floor of the two-story home upon arrival. Firefighters were challenged in locating the seat of the fire because the fire was hidden inside a wall and void spaces. It took firefighters approximately 15 minutes to extinguish the fire.

Firefighters conducted extensive overhaul and salvage operations to ensure all the fire had been extinguished. The occupants were not at home when the fire broke out.

Two adults and two children have been displaced. Red Cross support was declined by the occupants. Smoke alarms were present and activated. There were no injuries.

Damage is estimated at $65,000.

According to fire investigators, the fire was accidental. Fireplace ashes too close to combustibles caused the fire.

Fireplace Safety Tips

• Ensure that your chimney is cleaned and inspected by a licensed professional once a year.
• A spark arrestor across the top of a chimney will prevent sparks from igniting your roof.
• Use the proper fuel (seasoned hardwood, pellets, and gas/propane) for your type of system. Never use gasoline, kerosene, or other flammable liquids to start a fire.
• Fireplaces should have a sturdy screen across the front to prevent embers from flying or logs from rolling out.
• When clearing ashes from the fireplace, be sure to put them into a metal container with a lid—never into a cardboard box or paper bag.
• Follow manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Many “non-masonry” fireplace/chimney units have limitations on the amount of heat they can safely withstand.