Loudoun County: The value of having residential sprinklers was evident after an overnight fire started on a deck and was extinguished minutes later by an activated sprinkler. At approximately 2:31 a.m., emergency personnel were alerted of a possible structure fire at the Camden Silo Creek Apartments in Ashburn.  Fire-Rescue crews arrived at 21777 Omeara Terrace to find an activated sprinkler had extinguished a fire that originated in a planter box on the deck of the residence.  The planter box was being used by the occupants as an ashtray. Emergency crews were on scene for a short period of time and the building was placed on fire watch by the Emergency Communications Center for the remainder of the night. Damage was very minimal and no residents were displaced.  The Loudoun County Fire Marshal's Office attributes the minimal damage to the residential sprinkler.  Sprinklers, along with working smoke alarms, significantly reduce the chances of death, injury and property damage. Additionally, the Loudoun County Fire Marshal's Office urges residents to properly dispose of smoking materials in appropriate ashtrays or receptacles. Planter boxes do not suffice as a proper disposal receptacle because they can contain combustible materials. For more information on the value of residential sprinklers and how to help promote their adoption in Virginia, contact the Loudoun County Fire Marshal's Office at 703-737-8600.