Ten people displaced, three homes burn after used fireworks tossed

Prince William County Fire Marshal’s Office has determined the cause of a July 5, 2024 fire in Woodbridge to be the improper disposal of fireworks in a combustible trash receptacle stored Inside a storage shed, said Matt Smolsky, Fire Marshal. Ten people lost their homes when a total of three townhouses were deemed unsafe to occupy.

The FMO advises spent fireworks should never be discarded in a combustible container without first ensuring they are completely extinguished.

Here is the technique recommended by the Fire Marshal: All used fireworks should be extinguished by hosing them down or submerging them in a bucket of water. Then, If possible, allow the used fireworks to set for 24 hours before disposing of them in a non-combustible container.  Never place spent fireworks in a trash container inside or next to your home or other structure.

The fires displaced ten people—seven children and three adult—-on Saturday, on July 5 at 12:40 p.m., after Prince William County Fire & Rescue units were dispatched to the 14400 block of Brentwood Ct.when a caller reported a townhouse on fire. Crews arrived with fire showing in the front of one home and extending into an adjoining unit. 

All people were safely evacuated prior to arrival of the fire & rescue emergency equipment, said Matt Smolsky, assistant fire chief and fire marshal. Crews were able to quickly extinguish the blaze and confront the extension in the adjoining units.  No injuries were reported. The Red Cross is assisting those displaced.