Suitland Family Escapes Home Fire After Smoke Alarm Sounds

MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930

Conditions upon arrival of Silver Hill Engine 829.  Photo is courtesy of a member of the community.

A Suitland family was alerted to a fire on the second floor of their home on Wednesday evening.  At about 6:45 pm Fire/EMS units were alerted to a fire on the second floor of a 2-story duplex in the 2200 block of Houston Street.  The engine from the Silver Hill Fire/EMS Station was the first to arrive and encountered smoke and fire showing.

The family was at home when a smoke alarm sounded on the 2nd floor.  Family members went to investigate the alarm and found a fire in one of the bedrooms.  As occupants were evacuating the structure, a fire extinguisher was dispensed on the fire but had no effect on putting it out.  All occupants then safely escaped.

Upon arrival firefighters entered the home and conducted a search for any remaining occupants and stretched a hose line to the second floor and knocked down the fire.  There were no reported injuries.  Fire Investigators believe the fire was accidental and started by an electrical malfunction.  Fire loss is estimated at $40,000.

The family of 4 adults and 1 child will be making their own arrangements for temporary shelter.