7 displaced after fire at apartment complex near UVa

An accidental kitchen fire at an apartment complex Wednesday night near the University of Virginia has displaced seven residents.

There were no injuries reported at the scene.

Career and volunteer crews with Albemarle County Fire Rescue were dispatche around 9:30 p.m. Wednesday to a reported fire in the University Heights apartment complex at 250 Colonnade Drive just west of Charlottesville city limits.

"The first fire suppression apparatus arrived on scene approximately nine minutes later to discover smoke showing from one of the apartment buildings," the fire department said in a statement. "Crews contained the fire at approximately 9:45 pm."

The fire reached two apartment units, leaving seven residents displaced. The American Red Cross is assisting those left homeless.

A fire marshal investigation determined the fire was an accidental cooking fire.

The fire department took the opportunity to remind the public of safety tips in the kitchen to avoid fires getting out of control:

Always wipe clean the stove, oven and exhaust fan to prevent grease buildup.Wear short or close-fitting sleeves when cooking.Turn pot or pan handles toward the back of the stove.Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling or broiling food. If you leave, turn off the stove.When heating food in the microwave, use microwave-safe cookware that allows steam to escape.When frying, use a pan lid or splash guard to prevent grease splatter.After cooking, check the kitchen to make sure all burners and other appliances are turned off.

Source: www.dailyprogress.com