08/18/2026
Multiple Homes Damaged During Early Morning House Fire in South Riding
Three homes sustained damages early this morning after a house fire on Fortitude Terrace in South Riding, that resulted in $1,094,312 in total estimated losses. The Loudoun County Fire and Rescue Fire Marshal’s Office investigation determined the fire was accidental in nature, beginning in the garage of the house of origin, near a chest freezer. One adult occupant was evaluated on scene for a minor injury but declined transport to the hospital. A total of 14 occupants, from the house of origin and a neighboring home, were displaced, with assistance from the American Red Cross offered.
At approximately 12:46 a.m., the Loudoun County Emergency Communications Center received multiple 911 calls for a reported house fire in the 25100 block of Fortitude Terrace. LCFR units from Dulles South, Arcola, Kirkpatrick Farms, and Aldie, as well as Fairfax County and multiple command and safety officers, responded to the scene. Based on information from the initial 911 calls, a Rapid Intervention Team Task Force was requested to bring additional firefighting resources to the scene.
Upon arrival, units encountered a two-story, single-family home with significant smoke and fire coming from the garage and exterior of the home. The fire quickly extended into the roof and attic space of the house of origin. Due to the extent of the fire, personnel deployed an aerial master stream to contain and reduce the fire involving the roof and attic. Once the stability of the structure was assessed, crews transitioned to an interior fire attack, advancing hoselines into the structure to extinguish the remaining fire within. After approximately 30 minutes of firefighting, the bulk of the fire had been extinguished and crews transitioned to salvage and overhaul operations.
Unfortunately, accidental electrical fires do occur and following these fire prevention tips can keep you and your family safe:
• Electrical work should be done by a qualified electrician and meet local permitting requirements. Immediately call a qualified electrician if you have frequent issues with blowing or tripping circuit breakers, observe sparks, discoloration, or a burning smell near outlets, or feel a tingling sensation when touching an electrical appliance.
• Ensure all appliances are using the proper type of wall receptacle outlet.
• Do not use extension cords and power strips in place of permanent wiring.
• Inspect cords regularly and immediately unplug and replace those with any damage or fraying.
• Take a moment to complete the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Electrical Safety Checklist to ensure that your home is protected against electrical fires. nfpa.org/downloadable-resources/checklists/electrical-safety-checklist
• Ensure your home is equipped with working smoke alarms and test them regularly. LCFR offers free smoke alarm assessments to Loudoun County residents to ensure all homes in the community have these life-saving devices. Visit loudoun.gov/smokealarms to learn more and schedule your free assessment.
For additional fire prevention and life safety information, visit www.loudoun.gov/fire
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