Cat Dies in Fire at Mount Vernon Home; Two Adults and a Baby Displaced

A fire reported at a Mount Vernon home Friday caused an estimated $200,00 worth of damage, according to the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department. 

The fire was reported at about 8:40 a.m. at a home on 7922 Grimsley Street. Firefighters who responded to the incident saw smoke and fire when they first arrived, but they were able to get it under control in 15 minutes, according to the fire department. 

An audible smoke alarm alerted those inside the home to the fire and they were able to get out in time. Two adults and an infant were displaced from the home and are getting help from the Red Cross, officials said. 

A cat, however, died in the fire. There were no other injuries, according to fire officials. 

Fire officials said that the fire was accidental. A portable heater placed too close to a chair caused the fire, officials said. 

The fire department offers the following tips on portable heaters: 

• Keep at least three feet of clearance between your alternate heat source and anything combustible.
• Do not keep or store combustible materials in closed areas or near a heat source.
• Never leave a heater on when you are not in the room or when you go to sleep, and never leave children or pets unattended near heating sources.
• If you use an electric heater, be careful not to overload the electrical circuit.
• Avoid using electrical heaters in bathrooms as they may come in contact with water.
• Only use heaters that have been tested to the latest safety standards and certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL). These heaters will have the most up-to-date safety features, such as automatic shut-offs. It is important to install and use heaters according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Do not use a range or oven as an alternate heating source. This is a safety hazard and may be a source of toxic fumes.
• Do not use fuel burning appliances without the proper room ventilation.
• Never fill a kerosene heater while it is in operation or hot. Avoid overfilling.