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A Springfield house fire that caused an estimated $90,611 in damage began with improperly discarded smoking materials outside the home, investigators determined.
Fairfax County Fire and Rescue crews responded to the 7900 block of Hill Stream Court at about 3:30 p.m. Sunday, March 30. Firefighters from Prince William County and the City of Alexandria also joined the response.
Crews arrived to find heavy flames and smoke coming from a two-story, single-family house as the fire spread rapidly. A second alarm was called, and firefighters worked extensively to bring the blaze under control while confirming everyone had escaped.
Two occupants were home when a neighbor alerted them to the fire. They evacuated and called 911. The house had smoke alarms, which activated.
One civilian was taken to a hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening. No firefighters were injured. The occupants accepted assistance from the Red Cross.
Investigators concluded that the fire was accidental and started on the home’s exterior. The preliminary cause was the improper disposal of smoking materials.
Cigarette butts should never be discarded in potted planting soil, which can become highly flammable when dry. Outdoor smoking areas should have a fireproof ashtray, bucket or other appropriate container. Butts and ashes should also be thoroughly soaked with water before disposal because they can continue smoldering and ignite a fire.