Firepit aftermath: Fire destroys Manassas home

On Friday, Dec. 26, 2014 eight people safely evacuated a home that was on fire on Brackets Ford Circle near Sorrell Drive in Manassas, according to Patty Prince. public affairs specialist.

The morning after enjoying a fire in the fire pit, ashes left over from fire were placed in a five gallon bucket and set in the garage. 

More than 12 hours later, the embers were still able to ignite the garage and destroy the house. 

More than $500,000 in damages were assessed by the Fire Marshal.  Red Cross is assisting the family.

City of Manassas Fire and Rescue would like to remind residents of the following safety tips when enjoying an outdoor fire.  Never place a fire pit closer than 10 feet from anything flammable; only use the fuel the pit is built for; keep water and a fire extinguisher close at hand; don’t leave a fire unattended and always make sure all embers are out before leaving the area.  Never store ashes close to flammable materials.  Dousing the embers with water is the safest way of ensuring all embers are out.