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Spencerville Home Fire Linked to Backyard Chickens

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/1 .. ville-home-fire-linked-to-backyard-chickens.html
  Published in House and Home on Sunday, January 11th 2026 at 20:17 GMT by NBC Washington

SPENCERVILLE, Md. - A single-family home in Spencerville narrowly avoided a complete loss Saturday morning following a fire that broke out, prompting a swift response from Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services (MCFRS). While no injuries were reported, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential fire hazards associated with increasingly popular backyard poultry keeping.

The fire, reported around 8:30 a.m. in the 1800 block of Brookeville Road, quickly drew the attention of local firefighters who were able to contain the blaze and prevent its spread to adjacent properties. MCFRS spokesman Mark Wolfson described the scene upon arrival as a single-family dwelling with visible flames originating from the rear of the structure.

Fortunately, the occupants of the home were safely evacuated prior to the arrival of emergency responders. The State Fire Marshal's Office is currently leading an investigation into the fire's cause, and preliminary findings point to equipment within a backyard chicken coop as the likely origin. Specifically, investigators believe a heat lamp, a common fixture in chicken coops to provide warmth during colder months, was the source of the ignition.

The Growing Popularity of Backyard Chickens and Associated Risks

The rise in popularity of backyard chickens has been significant in recent years. Driven by a desire for fresh, locally sourced eggs, and a reconnection with food production, many families across the nation are embracing chicken ownership. However, this trend also brings with it potential hazards if precautions aren't taken. Heat lamps, while essential for the health and comfort of chickens, represent a significant fire risk. They are often placed near flammable materials like straw, wood shavings, and dry leaves - all common components of chicken coop bedding - creating an easily ignitable environment.

"We're seeing more and more incidents related to backyard poultry, and heat lamps are a common culprit," explains Sarah Miller, a spokesperson for the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA). "People are often unaware of the specific safety precautions needed when dealing with electrical equipment in potentially combustible environments."

Preventative Measures for Chicken Coop Safety

Following the Spencerville incident, experts are reinforcing the importance of preventative measures for chicken coop owners to minimize fire risk. These include:

• Heat Lamp Placement: Ensure heat lamps are mounted securely and at a safe distance (at least 18 inches) from any flammable materials. Use metal or fire-resistant mounting hardware.
• Regular Inspections: Periodically inspect heat lamps and cords for damage. Replace any damaged equipment immediately.
• Automatic Temperature Control: Consider using automatic thermostats or timers to regulate heat lamp usage, reducing the risk of overheating and prolonged exposure.
• Alternative Heating Options: Explore alternative heating methods, such as heated nesting boxes or insulated coops, which may be safer than heat lamps.
• Smoke Detectors: Install smoke detectors both inside the home and near the chicken coop to provide early warning of a potential fire.
• Fire Extinguisher: Keep a readily accessible fire extinguisher nearby, and ensure all household members know how to use it.

Looking Ahead: Community Education and Code Revisions?

The Spencerville fire is likely to spur further discussion about backyard poultry safety within the community. MCFRS is expected to release a public service announcement highlighting the dangers of heat lamps and promoting safe coop practices. It's also possible that local ordinances related to backyard poultry keeping will be reviewed, potentially incorporating stricter guidelines for equipment safety.

While the enjoyment of fresh eggs and the rewards of backyard chicken keeping are undeniable, it's crucial that owners prioritize safety and awareness to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The quick thinking of the residents and the rapid response of MCFRS prevented a tragedy, but vigilance is key to ensuring the safety of homes and families in the Spencerville community and beyond.