Improperly discarded smoking materials cause Ashburn garage fire

The Loudoun County Fire and Rescue Fire Marshal’s Office investigation determined yesterday’s fire, on April 3, on Awbrey Place was accidental, due to improperly disposed smoking materials in the garage. Damages are estimated at $800,000.

The LCFR-FMO reminds community members about the importance of properly discarding all smoking materials and urges residents to exercise caution when discarding these items. These materials can cause devastating fires if disposed of improperly. These fires are preventable by following a few simple tips:

• If you smoke, do so outside.
• Ensure cigarettes are fully extinguished, every time.
• Ensure smoking materials are discarded in appropriate containers and clean them often. Never use plastic, potted plants, mulch, grass, leaves, or anything that can burn to extinguish smoking materials. Remember that mulch, potting soil, etc. is combustible and will burn quickly when exposed to heat.
• Soak cigarette butts and ashes in water before throwing them away. Hot ashes can smolder for days.
• Use a deep, sturdy ashtray and be sure it is placed on a surface where it will not tip over.
• Place containers away from any structure. Never place containers on front porches, decks, or just outside the door.

Additional fire prevention and life safety information can be found at www.loudoun.gov/fireprevention or by contacting  Public Education Manager Lisa Montalvo at Lisa.Montalvo@loudoun.gov or 571-258-3111.