Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department
4100 Chain Bridge Rd, Fairfax, Virginia 22030
Phone: 703-246-3801, TTY: 711 and Fax:703-385-1687
Duty PIO (Weekends/After-hours): 703-280-0694
Media Information Line: 703-324-3000
Email: fire-rescue.Pa-LSE@fairfaxcounty.gov
Website: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/fire

News Release 09-06
Date: January 21, 2009

Accidental Two-Alarm Burke House Fire

Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department units responded to a house fire at approximately 10 a.m., Monday, January 19, 2009, in the Burke area. The single-family home is located at 5123 Gainsborough Drive.

Firefighters encountered fire and smoke coming from the rear of the two-story home upon arrival. The fire originated in the basement and extended throughout, including the garage. A second alarm was struck, bringing over 60 firefighters to the scene. The fire was brought under control in approximately 20 minutes. One firefighter was transported to Inova Fairfax Hospital for non-life threatening injuries. All eight occupants escaped unharmed. Five adults and three children have been displaced. Red Cross is assisting the family.

Damage is estimated at $350,000.

According to fire investigators, the fire was accidental. Combustibles too close to the hot water heater caused the fire.

Combustibles Too Close To a Heating Source Safety Tips

• Keep at least three feet of clearance between your alternate heating source and anything combustible.
• Do not store combustible materials in closed areas or near a heat source.

For more information, call Daniel L. Schmidt or Lieutenant Raúl G. Castillo, Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department, 703-246-3801 and TTY: 711. Fairfax County is committed to nondiscrimination on the basis of disability in all county programs, services and activities. Reasonable accommodations will be provided upon request.