Ashburn Volunteer Fire Rescue Department - AVFRD

On May 25th 2008, fire and rescue personnel from Loudoun County responded to a structure fire at 43238 Meadowood Court in Leesburg, VA. Crews from Company 6 arrived on the scene to find heavy fire coming from a two-story single-family home. Four firefighters quickly searched the home for occupants and initiated a fire attack while the two apparatus operators conducted exterior tasks. A rapid and catastrophic change of fire and smoke conditions occurred in the interior of the house. Four personnel from Engine 6 and Tower 6 became trapped on the second floor due to the intense fire, heat, and smoke conditions. A Mayday transmission was made, and the 4 firefighters were forced to self-rescue from the structure.During the course of the incident, seven responders were injured. Of those injured, four firefighters received significant burn injuries, two firefighters sustained orthopedic injuries, and one EMS provider was treated for minor respiratory distress. One firefighter, Lt. John Earley, was medically retired due to his burn injuries.

Hear from AVFRD's SGT Bosserman, one of our awesome paramedics, about what motivates him to serve you as a volunteer!

Despite today’s cool temperatures, units have already responded to multiple mulch fires in the County. With local schools and community groups delivering mulch to you, and spring gardening season getting into full swing, knowing how to prevent mulch fires is key to protecting your property.

Organic mulch can decompose and generate heat, potentially leading to ignition if the heat cannot dissipate. Mulch fires can also be started by discarded ci******es, matches, or embers from grills or fire pits. Mulch that is close to the home carries the risk of igniting siding or other building materials, allowing the fire to spread up and into your home.

To reduce the risk of mulch fires at your home or business, please consider the following:

- Maintain Adequate Distance: Keep mulch away from buildings, decks, grills, and other structures. A minimum distance of 18 inches is recommended.
- Use Non-Combustible Mulch Near Structures: Consider using rocks, gravel, or sand within a 5-foot zone around structures.
- Avoid Thick Layers: Apply mulch in a thin layer (2-4 inches) to prevent heat buildup. Mulch piled too deeply (more than 6 inches) can trap heat, increasing the risk of spontaneous combustion.
- Fine or Shredded Mulch: Finely textured mulch can pack together, reducing airflow and potentially raising the heating potential.
- Keep Mulch Moist: Regularly water mulch, especially during dry periods. Dry mulch is more flammable and prone to ignition.
- Remove Debris: Regularly remove dead plants, leaves, and other debris from mulch beds.
- Be Careful with Fire: Never discard ci******es or other burning materials in mulch.