Volunteer Firefighters Quickly Contain Electrical Fire in White Plains Home

Volunteer firefighters acted quickly Thursday evening to keep a residential fire from spreading after crews responded to reports of smoke inside a home in the White Plains area.

Around 5:00 p.m., Westlake Volunteers and nearby departments were dispatched to a reported house fire. Initial reports suggested that someone may have been trapped inside the residence.

When firefighters arrived, they observed light smoke coming from the home and confirmed that all occupants had safely evacuated. Crews quickly located the fire in the garage, where flames had spread into the room above.

Firefighters initiated an interior attack to control the fire while also checking the basement, second floor, attic, and hidden spaces to ensure the fire had not extended further.

Both primary and secondary searches confirmed that no one remained inside. The fire was brought under control within minutes, and utility power to the residence was shut off.

The cause of the fire was determined to be electrical. No injuries were reported.

Our volunteer fire/EMS departments remind residents that electrical fires can often be prevented by having home electrical systems inspected, avoiding overloaded outlets, replacing damaged electrical cords, and ensuring electrical work is performed by qualified professionals.

The Charles County Volunteer Fire & EMS Association recognizes all 43 responding personnel for their prompt and coordinated efforts, which limited damage and ensured the safety of the home's occupants.