At approximately 2:41 p.m. on Thursday, March 14, 2024, the Loudoun County Emergency Communications Center (ECC) began receiving calls reporting smoke in the area of Browns Farm Lane in Lucketts. Loudoun County Fire and Rescue (LCFR) units from Lucketts were dispatched to the scene and upon arrival, observed a fire in the woods, threatening a nearby structure. Based on their observations, additional units were requested from Leesburg, Hamilton, Lovettsville, and Purcellville, as well as Frederick County, Maryland, along with numerous command and safety officers.
During the course of the incident, no structures were found to be involved, however the initial report was up to 100 acres were involved and other residences in the area could be threatened. As a result, a Brush Task Force was requested to bring additional Loudoun County units, as well as mutual aid units from Frederick County, Maryland and Montgomery County, Maryland. Fire and rescue crews completed a line around the fire, which was approximately 75 acres, declaring it contained shortly after 5:00 p.m. Crews remained on scene conducting overhaul and eliminating hotspots.
Due to the large number of fire and rescue units committed to this incident, the ECC coordinated the backfill of stations with units from Fairfax County, Clarke County, Virginia, and Mount Weather. Additionally, volunteer system members staffed multiple units at their stations.
The LCFR Fire Marshal’s Office investigation classified the fire as accidental, resulting from an unspecified electrical event originating from inside a camping trailer on the property. No structure was involved in the incident and damages to the property are estimated at $25,000. No civilian or firefighter injuries were reported, and no occupants were displaced. Community members are encouraged to have their electrical systems regularly serviced and if a problem is noted, to have a certified electrician inspect and make any necessary repairs.
As we enter the spring and summer months, there is an increased risk of brush fires, with contributing factors such as warmer weather, dry environments, and wind. The Virginia Department of Forestry identifies the spring fire season as February 15 to April 30, with wildfires and brush fires more likely to occur due to weather conditions, fuel loads, and human actions. For more information about wildland and prescribed fires, visit the Virginia Department of Forestry’s website. For information about Open Burning in Loudoun County, visit our website.
###