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Fatal fire underscores the need for smoke detectors

By Steven T. McFarland
Warrenton Fire Chief

Tuesday morning, Feb. 2, The Warrenton Volunteer Fire Co. responded to a reported house fire in the Midland area.

Upon arrival, firefighters found the home fully involved with flames and a partial collapse of the roof. A bystander reported to firefighters that possibly someone was still inside the structure. Firefighters were unable to enter the house due to engulfing fire conditions throughout the home. Tragically, they were unable to reach the resident.

Efforts to extinguish the fire continued for several hours with assistance from the New Baltimore Volunteer Fire Co., Remington Volunteer Fire Co., Lois Volunteer Fire Co., Catlett Volunteer Fire Co. and the Fauquier County Department of Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Management.

Investigation as to the cause of the fire is being conducted by the Fauquier County Sheriff’s Office and the DFREM Fire Marshal’s Office. It has not been determined if a working smoke detector was in the home.

The Warrenton Volunteer Fire Co. would like to take this opportunity to remind the citizens of the Town of Warrenton and Fauquier County that smoke detectors save lives.

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Please, take a moment to check your smoke detectors to ensure they properly and contain fresh batteries. If you do not have detectors, please consider installing them. These small smoke detectors may very well save you and your family!

The WVFC will gladly assist any citizen that contacts our department who may need help with smoke alarm installations.