The Alexandria Fire Department responded to a fire at 3202 Garnett Street early on December 7, 2024. The call came in at approximately 4:39 AM, and the first unit arrived within four minutes of the alarm. Three engine companies, a ladder company, a medical unit, one district chief's unit, and a fire investigator were dispatched to the scene.
The fire was attributed to an unattended candle. As a result of the incident, two people and three dogs were displaced.
In light of this event, the department emphasized the importance of candle safety to prevent fires, property damage, and personal injury. They provided several guidelines for safe candle use:
1. "Always place candles away from curtains, bedding, paper, books, and any other materials that can catch fire easily."
2. "Always extinguish candles when you leave a room or before going to sleep."
3. "Place candles at least 3 inches apart from each other to prevent them from melting one another and to reduce the risk of fire spreading."
4. "Always place candles on a heat-resistant surface that can catch any dripping wax."
5. "Ensure candles are out of reach from children and pets who might knock them over or get burned."
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