Charcoal Ashes Cause Massive House Fire in Dale City

DALE CITY, VA — Seven residents were displaced early Tuesday morning by a house fire caused by improper disposal of ashes from a charcoal grill, according to the Prince William County Fire Marshall's Office.

The occupants of the single-family home included five adults and two children, none of whom were injured.

Firefighters responded to the fire in the 14800 block of Danville Road shortly before 2 a.m. and saw blazes from the rear of the two-story home. They extinguished the fire, which had spread into the home and through the roof.

The fire was discovered by one of the residents about an hour after placing the ashes into a recycling bin behind the home. The resident alerted the other occupants, and everyone was able to escape safely, including a dog.

A Prince William County building official declared the home unsafe, and preliminary damages are estimated at $200,ooo. Red Cross was called to assist the displaced occupants.

The area of origin was the home’s exterior; the cause was placing ashes from a charcoal grill in a combustible recycling container and has been determined accidental.

To prevent fires and grill-related injuries, Prince William County Fire & Rescue Chief Kevin McGee advises residents to follow these simple safety tips:

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills must only be used outdoors.
• Position the grill well away from siding, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Periodically remove grease or fat buildup in trays below the grill so it cannot be ignited by a hot grill.
• Place coals in a metal can with a lid, once they have cooled, then store several feet away from the house and other combustibles.

Image via Shutterstock