The nine members of the Leesburg family were lucky to escape with no injuries from an electrical fire that occurred last night. However, significant damage has forced them out of their home.
Loudoun County Fire and Rescue units were dispatched just before 6:15 p.m., on Friday, February 14, 2025. The fire was reported in a single family residence located in the 800 Block of Wage Drive. On arrival, firefighters found heavy smoke and fire coming from the home’s first floor. Residents met the firefighters when they arrived and informed them that everyone had safely left the house.
Two hoselines were immediately deployed to fight the fire that was on the first-floor and had spread to the attic. The crews extinguished it quickly, then spent a lot of time on salvage and overhaul to remove and protect possessions as well as locate and extinguish hot spots.
A firefighter was taken to hospital with a minor wound and released later. However, no civilians were injured. Loudoun County Animal Services was called to the scene in order to help the family retrieve a cat and a reptile that had died during the fire. American Red Cross has responded to the scene and is currently helping the family.
The Loudoun County Fire and Rescue Fire Marshal’s Office conducted a fire inspection and determined that the fire was accidental. It was caused by an unknown electrical event within a power strip supplying electricity to a device for a reptile aquarium. The home had smoke alarms that worked as intended. The estimated damage to the house is $480,000. $300,000 of that for the structure and another $180,000 for contents.
There are many simple things you can do to protect your family from electrical fires.
- Check that each appliance is using the correct type of wall outlet. All major appliances, such as dryers and washers, refrigerators, stoves and air conditioners should be directly plugged into a wall outlet.
- Extension cords and power strips are not intended to replace permanent wiring. They are designed for temporary use only. Regularly inspect cords and unplug any that are damaged or frayed.
- Make sure that all electrical work is performed and inspected by an electrician who has been certified according to the local permit requirements.
- If you notice any of these symptoms, call an electrician immediately.
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- Fuse blowing or circuit breakers tripping frequently
- Feel a tingling sensation when you touch an electric appliance
- Sparks or discolored wall outlets
- The appliance emits a burning or rubbery odor
Complete the National Fire Protection Associations’ Electrical Safety Checklist in order to protect your home from electrical fires. To obtain additional information on fire prevention and life safety, please visit Loudoun.gov/FireMarshal or contact Public Education Manager Lisa Montalvo at 571-258-3222.
