STERLING, Va. — Crews say unattended candles are to blame for a house fire that injured two people, killed a cat, and caused other pets to go missing in Sterling early Monday morning.
Loudoun County Emergency Communications Center received a call about a house on fire on North Fillmore Avenue just before 2 a.m.
Loudoun County Fire and Rescue (LCFR) units from Sterling Park, Cascades, Kincora, and Fairfax County were sent to extinguish the flames. When they arrived, they found the single-family home actively on fire with flames and smoke visible from the back of the house.
More units were called to help including a Rapid Intervention Task Force, the LCFR Rehabilitation Unit and the Mobile Air Unit.
Everyone inside the home was able to get out and crews worked quickly to extinguish the fire, while others helped search for the family's missing pets. One cat was found dead and two others are still missing. A dog is currently receiving help from Loudoun County Animal Services.
Two people who were home when the fire began were taken to an area hospital for help with burns and are expected to survive. A firefighter was also evaluated.
The house fire has left three people displaced. That family is currently receiving help from the American Red Cross.
The LCFR Fire Marshal's Office determined the fire to be an accident caused by unattended candles resulting in an estimated $498,168 worth of damages.
Fire officials are reminding residents to always be vigilant and use candles in a safe manner. Candles require constant supervision by an adult, and you must ensure that candles are completely extinguished before leaving the area. A safer alternative is using flameless candles that still look and smell like real candles.
