Stafford, VA – Stafford County Fire and Rescue Department units responded to a house fire at approximately 1 p.m. on Monday, February 16, 2009 in the Potomac Hills area of the county. The two-story townhouse is located at 307 Wind Ridge Drive.

First arriving personnel from Company 10 reported smoke visible from the front of the structure, located the fire and began immediate extinguishment and protection of exposed homes. The fire was brought under control in approximately 20 minutes.

One firefighter received a minor injury at the incident and was transported to a medical facility for assessment and treatment. There were no civilian injuries reported.

Significant fire and smoke damage occurred to 307 Wind Ridge Drive, as well as damage to the adjoining town home located at 309 Wind Ridge Drive. The lone adult occupants of each damaged property have been displaced. No Red Cross assistance was requested.

Stafford County Fire Marshals determined the cause to be accidental, improper disposal of fireplace ashes.

Firefighters remind the community that fireplace/woodstove ashes can remain hot for several days. Proper disposal methods include:

• Use a metal bucket with a lid. Never place ashes in plastic, paper or cardboard vessels.
• Ensure ashes are cooled before disposing. Wetting the ashes will ensure that all embers are extinguished.
• Place the disposed ashes on a hard surface area (concrete, dirt) safely away from the home and combustible materials such as shrubbery and wood fencing.