Burke Family Displaced by Townhome Fire

units responded to a townhouse fire at about 10:10 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 10, at 4804 Nash Drive in Burke.

Upon arrival, firefighters encountered smoke coming from the second floor of a middle townhouse. They conducted an aggressive fire attack in a second floor bedroom, bringing the fire under control in approximately 10 minutes.

Smoke alarms provided early warning for the four residents. Two adults and two youth have been displaced. Red Cross is assisting the family. There were no injuries.

Damage is estimated at $50,000.

According to fire investigators, the fire was accidental, caused by an unattended candle and incense in the second floor bedroom.

Fairfax County Fire and Rescue provided these candle safety tips:

• Do not place candles near combustible materials.
• Place candles in glass or ceramic containers.
• Place candles on a flat, sturdy surface.
• Never leave children unattended in a room with an open flame candle.
• Do not place candles on window ledges or near entryways. The potential air draft can “fan” the flame, catching curtains or other materials on fire.
• Do keep burning candles within sight at all times. Candles can present fire hazards outdoors on decks and patios as well as inside your home.
• Always extinguish candles before leaving the home.
• Place all candles on a protected, heat resistant, dry surface away from anything that can catch fire and out of the reach of children and pets.