Candle said to have started townhouse fire

A reported townhouse fire in Dumfries sent Prince William County Fire and Rescue units to 17000 block of Denali Place (Dumfries)  at 5:06 PM on Wednesday, Feb, 7, 2024,.

Fire Marshal Matt Smolsky said “cCrews arrived on the scene with smoke showing from the front of the home. Rapid deployment of hose lines, to the lower level of the home, helped to quickly extinguish the blaze.”

The Fire Marshal’s Office determined the fire was ignited by a burning candle near combustibles and a fire official; said the fire could have been prevented.

One adult occupant was at home and safely evacuated after discovering the fire. No injuries were reported. The structure sustained moderate damage.  The American Red Cross assisted the 2 adults and 3 children displaced by Building Official’s determination the townhouse was unsafe to occupy. 

This fire could have been prevented. The Fire Marsha said he does not recommend the use of candles. If they are used, they should never be left unattended, used near combustibles, or placed in a location where children or pets could be injured or accidentally tip the candle over.

Smolsky said the home that caught fire was equipped with smoke detectors Smoke detectors, according to the fire marshal, “give you sufficient time to safety evacuate the area. It is critical that all homes have working smoke detectors. Make sure you have them installed in your home. Test them on a regular basis. When the alarm sounds safely evacuate and call 9-1-1.”


Matt Smolsky
Assistant Chief – Fire Marshal
T: 703.792.6800| M: 571.238.1213
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