A Roman candle fired from the street ignited a blaze on the fifth-floor balcony of an apartment building on N. Capitol Street, Northwest on Tuesday.
Dozens of seniors living in the building were put at risk by the fire that started at around 6 pm and spread to the rest of the apartment, according to DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services (EMS).
Members of DC Fire responding to the location managed to bring the fire under control, while most residents were evacuated and two of them were taken to a nearby hospital for non-life threatening injuries.
Use of illegal fireworks put dozens of seniors at risk in yesterday’s fire on N. Capitol St. A Roman candle fired from the street ignited a 5th floor balcony. If it explodes or flies it is illegal in DC. For complaints or tips on illegal fireworks e-mail Fireworks.fems@dc.gov. pic.twitter.com/3xsBtL8SxS
— DC Fire and EMS (@dcfireems) June 2, 2021
Launching fireworks in the District is illegal.
Anyone found engaging in the use or possession of illegal fireworks in the city could face fines up to $1,000 and/or arrest.
Residents are asked to call the DC fire marshall at (202) 727-1600 or 911 if they notice someone using illegal fireworks. They can also submit their tips by emailing Fireworks.fems@dc.gov.