WOODBRIDGE, Va. — A GoFundMe has been started for a Woodbridge family who lost everything but their lives in a house fire Friday afternoon.
So far, $2,918 has been raised out of a $10,000 goal.
On Friday afternoon, firefighters were dispatched to a home in the 6100 block of Oust Lane in Woodbridge for a reported house fire. At the scene, crews arrived to find the occupants outside the home and the fire coming from a second-floor bedroom. The fire was quickly extinguished, but not before causing damage to the home. No injuries were reported.
The Building Official has declared the home unsafe to occupy at this time.
The Red Cross responded to help the displaced family of 20. According to the GoFundMe, the house was occupied by 3 adults and 17 children, all of whom are now displaced.
The Fire Marshal’s Office determined the fire was caused by a candle igniting bedding material.
Officials remind residents that allowing an open flame near any combustible material is dangerous.
The Fire Marshal’s Office warns against the use of candles. If candles are used special precautions should be taken:
- Never leave a burning candle unattended.
- Never positioned a candle where it can be easily disturbed or knocked over.
- Keep the candle at least 3’ from any combustible material.
- Ensure the candle is secured in a sturdy holder where the flame is contained and protected.
- Children and pets should always be monitored in the vicinity of a burning candle.
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