Fire units from James City County responded to a house fire on Old Field Road in The Meadows subdivision on Wednesday November 9th, 2016. At about 6:45 pm 911 was called after the resident attempted to move an operating kerosene heater inside his home. In the process furnishings in the home were ignited, and the residents and their pets fled to escape flames. Fire units from James City assisted by the City of Williamsburg quickly extinguished the fire, but not before an estimated $20,000 in damage had occurred, including extensive smoke damage. The home is not habitable and the residents will be staying with friends for the night. Fortunately there were no injuries. Fire marshal's determined the fire to be accidental.
As the weather turns cooler, many homes begin using various forms of supplemental heating. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), supplemental heating equipment such as kerosene heaters are the leading cause of home fires during the months of December, January and February. Never attempt to move a lighted kerosene heater. Extinguish the flame and allow the heater to cool before moving.
Media Contact: Alton F. Catlett, Battalion Chief
(757) 378-8009 Al.Catlett@jamescitycountyva.gov