A two-story home in Ellsworth, Maine, caught fire in the early morning of June 30 due to improperly disposed of oil-soaked rags, the Ellsworth Fire Department reported.
Seven local fire departments responded to the blaze. The first crews on the scene discovered the house fully engulfed in flames, the Ellsworth American reported.
The oil-soaked rags were being stored in a trash can when they caught on fire. The property was unoccupied and under renovation during the time of the fire.
A Lamoine firefighter assisting the Ellsworth Fire Department was treated for heat exhaustion at the scene of the fire, the Ellsworth American reported.
Oil-soaked rags can generate heat as the oil dries and oxidizes. If this heat cannot dissipate, it can quickly build to a point where the rag ignites on its own.
To prevent spontaneous combustion, you should:
- Soak the rags immediately: As soon as you are finished using an oil-soaked rag, completely submerge it in water. This will stop the oxidation process and prevent heat buildup.
- Seal in an airtight container: After soaking, place the water-soaked rags in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid. If possible, the container should be specifically designed for combustible materials.
- Store outdoors and away from structures: Store the sealed container outdoors, away from any buildings, combustible materials or heat sources.
Read more about how to prevent spontaneous combustion in WFB’s article Spontaneous Combustion: a Threat That Can Be Prevented.
