Dryer vent fire displaces 10 in Dumfries, damages home

Dumfries home heavily damaged after dryer vent ignites clothing
Dryer vent fire displaces 10 in Dumfries, damages home

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, VA — A fire sparked by a dryer vent hose left seven children and three adults without a home Monday afternoon in Dumfries, according to fire officials.

Firefighters were called to the 17000 block of Washington Street around 3:30 p.m. on April 21 after reports of a house fire. Crews arrived to find smoke and flames coming from the structure.

Fire crews managed to bring the blaze under control quickly. No injuries were reported.

Despite the swift response, the home suffered significant damage, the Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue said.

Cause traced to dryer vent ignition

An investigation determined the fire began in the home’s dryer vent hose and spread to nearby clothing, igniting the blaze.

The American Red Cross is assisting the displaced family with temporary housing and support services.


Key Points

  • Fire broke out Monday afternoon in the 17000 block of Washington Street, Dumfries
  • Seven children and three adults displaced; no injuries reported
  • Fire caused by dryer vent igniting nearby clothes