Sterling House Fire Involving Lithium-Ion Battery Displaces Five

Investigators from the Loudoun County Fire and Rescue Fire Marshal’s Office have determined Saturday afternoon’s house fire in Sterling was accidental, caused by an unspecified electrical event involving a lithium-ion battery that was being charged in a second-floor room.

Damages are estimated at $320,000. Five occupants and one dog were displaced and are being assisted by the American Red Cross. Fortunately, no civilian or firefighter injuries were reported.

At approximately 2:20 p.m. on Saturday, April 4, the Loudoun County Emergency Communications Center received multiple 9-1-1 calls for a reported structure fire in the 46700 block of Fairgrove Square in Sterling. LCFR units from Sterling Park, Sterling – Cascades, and Kincora, as well as Fairfax County and multiple command officers, responded to the scene.

Upon arrival, crews reported smoke coming from the rear of a two-story townhome, and the Rapid Intervention Team task force was requested to bring additional firefighting resources to the scene.

Crews quickly deployed an initial hoseline to the room of origin and brought the fire under control, while additional firefighters conducted primary and secondary searches of the home and confirmed no additional occupants were inside.

The damage was contained to the house of origin and did not extend to any adjacent homes. Working smoke alarms alerted the occupants to the fire, allowing them and their family dog to exit the home safely.

The LCFR-FMO reminds community members about the importance of using lithium-ion batteries properly. These batteries supply power to many kinds of devices and if damaged, can catch fire or explode.

Make sure to only use the battery that is designed for the device and never allow the battery to charge while unattended, or near anything that can catch fire. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for charging lithium-ion batteries and be sure to use the proper cords that came with the device.

Stop using or charging batteries immediately if you notice an odor, too much heat, a change in color, or odd noises. Learn more about safe disposal of batteries on our website.