York County Department of Fire and Life Safety

For Immediate Release - York County Fire Department Responds to Apartment Fire in Yorktown Area

At approximately 5:08 p.m. today, personnel from the York County Fire Department (YCFD) were dispatched to a reported apartment fire in the 400 block of Arcadia Loop in the Yorktown area, the location of the Clairmont Apartment complex.

Upon arrival, crews encountered smoke coming from a third-floor apartment but no visible flames. Firefighters determined the fire originated in the kitchen and self-extinguished prior to their arrival. Damage was limited to the kitchen area, including the microwave, stove, and cabinets. Crews ventilated the apartment and confirmed it was safe for the residents to return.

Before firefighters arrived, the apartment’s fire alarm system alerted building residents, prompting many to evacuate. York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office Deputies conducted door-to-door notifications to ensure all occupants in the building evacuated safely.

No injuries were reported. The fire was contained to the apartment of origin. Mutual aid assistance was provided by the Newport News Fire Department. York-Poquoson Sheriff's Office

Many of us use candles in our homes. They create a special ambiance and smell nice, but they are one of the top causes of home fires. A candle is an open flame and will ignite anything that can burn. Flameless candles are always the safer option; however, if you use real candles in your home, blow them out when you leave the room. Don't use them in a location where you may fall asleep. Keep candles at least a foot from anything that can burn, and use them on safe surfaces. Here are some helpful tips. York County, Virginia York-Poquoson Sheriff's Office York County School Division

Candle Safety Tips Remember the BIG 3 when using candles and enjoy them with peace of mind.

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Congratulations to Captain Justin E. Callahan on his completion of the Paramedic operational release program. Captain J. Callahan (left) is pictured receiving his Paramedic pin from the department’s Operational Medical Director, Dr. Cara Marie Jackson, D.O. (right). Captain J. Callahan is assigned to Fire Administration assisting with logistics activities (facilities/apparatus/materials/supplies). Well done, Captain J. Callahan!

Congratulations to Lieutenant Jacob Dowling on his recent promotion. Lt. J. Dowling was recently presented with his Lieutenant helmet by Fire Chief Allen W. Baldwin (left) with his proud parents present to help celebrate the promotion: dad, Ryan (second from left), and mom, Sheilane (right). Lt. J. Dowling is currently assigned to Fire Station #5 (Lightfoot/Skimino) on "B" shift. Effective Tuesday, May 26, he will be assigned to Fire Administration as part of the pharmacy team. Well done!

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Guide Your Children to Safe Waters - Docks The Virginia Department of Social Services reports that a lack of p...

Senior Firefighter/EMT Ashley D. Rowe (left) was recently presented with his 20-year service pin by Board of Supervisors Chairman Douglas R. Holroyd (right). SFF A. Rowe is currently assigned to Fire Station #6 (Seaford) on “B” shift and is a long-standing member of the Maritime Incident Response Team (MIRT). He is also one of our senior vessel operators and a licensed captain. In addition, SFF A. Rowe has been involved in delivering program at the Steven Todd Dooley Search and Rescue Forum, the Robert Rumens Marine Firefighting School, and the Hampton Roads Maritime Incident Command Course. Congratulations SFF A. Rowe and thank you for your 20 years of dedicated service to the community!