Loudoun Barn Fires Kill Livestock, Cause Nearly $700K In Damage

LOUDOUN COUNTY, VA — The Loudoun County fire marshal issued a warning Monday about using heating equipment in barns after three recent fires caused $684,000 in damage and killed several animals.

The first fire occurred in a barn on May 1 in Purcellville, followed by another in Middleburg on May 3, and a third fire in a barn Sunday morning in Round Hill. The three fires were attributed to the use of heating equipment, the Loudoun County Fire Marshal’s Office said.

“In just the past several days, these three fires have damaged over a half million dollars in property and resulted in the unfortunate loss of pets and livestock,” Loudoun County Fire System Chief Keith Johnson said in a statement.

The fires were preventable by following "simple safety tips you can reduce the hazards posed by these heating appliances to your family, pets and livestock," Johnson said.

In the barn fire in Purcellville, 10 to 15 chickens died. In Round Hill, 12 chickens, five pullets and one turkey died in the barn fire on Sunday.

The Loudoun County Fire Marshal’s Office encouraged residents to follow these safety precautions:

• Use only certified heat lamps and follow manufacturer’s instructions.
• Ensure heat producing appliances, such as heat lamps, are installed at least three feet away from anything that can burn.
• Check regularly that the appliance installation is secure and ensure heating appliances cannot be accidentally knocked over by animals or people.
• Run cords in locations where animals cannot reach them and/or install additional outlets.
• Ensure electrical circuits are not overloaded. Heat lamps use more amperage than regular lights.
• Schedule regular inspections of your barn and outbuildings for fire hazards.

For additional fire and life safety information, visit the Loudoun County Fire Marshal’s Office website at Loudoun.gov/fireprevention.