North Bay Fire and Emergency Services responded to a working structure fire at 290 Cartier St. early Friday morning, a semi-detached home that was vacant at the time of the fire as it was under renovations
Fire Chief Jason Whiteley says fire crews arrived at 12:58 a.m. and encountered an active fire in the basement, which they had under control at 1:19 a.m. The occupants of the neighbouring unit had already exited their home before the arrival of NBFES. Fire crews ensured that both units were clear of occupants and pets, and cleared smoke in the adjacent unit as well.
Whiteley says the fire started in a closet area in the basement and burned through the first floor. The fire has been deemed accidental and possibly started with the improper storage of painting materials. Damage is estimated at $30,000.
Spontaneous combustion occurs when a combustible material is heated to its ignition temperature by a chemical reaction involving the oxygen in the air around the material. This heating process is known as "self-heating." With oily rags involved, Whiteley explains, it’s a relatively simple process of oil oxidizing and generating heat, which if not dissipated, will build up until combustion occurs. Generally, this can happen when the materials are left in piles, which provide a source of insulation, trapping the generated heat.
Whiteley offers some practical steps can you take to protect yourself from a spontaneous fire:
- At home, never store oil-soaked or chemical-soaked rags in a pile. Spread out the rags outside securely on concrete until the oil evaporates. You’ll know the oil has evaporated once the rags become stiff. Don’t dry the rags in direct sunlight. After evaporation, you can wash the rags for reuse. You can also thoroughly dry the rags out. Then, place them in a metal container – like an old paint can. Fill the can with water and detergent designed to break down oils. Seal it and dispose of the rags at the hazardous waste depot.
- In a work setting, dispose of oily rags in an approved container and have an industrial cleaning company pick them up.
- Keep piles of compost, leaves, grass clippings, mulch, or manure away from structures like your home, garage, barn, or shed. Make sure the piles are small so that moving air can help dissipate heat. Also, turning your compost, mulch, or manure pile every two weeks can help prevent the heat from building up in the middle of the pile.
- Make sure hay is completely dry before you bale it and store it. Also, make sure your barn or storage facility is properly ventilated.
