The Strongsville Fire Department is reminding residents of the significant fire dangers associated with using propane weed torches following
two residential structure fires within the past two months where the use of a propane torch was determined to be the likely contributing factor.
In both incidents, homeowners reported using propane torches to eliminate weeds or vegetation around their homes prior to the fires. Although efforts were made to extinguish or wet down the area afterward, investigators determined that heat likely ignited combustible materials, resulting in fires that spread to the structures.
Propane weed torches can generate flame temperatures exceeding
2,000°F—more than enough to ignite dry vegetation, mulch, landscaping timbers, wood products, vinyl siding, fencing, and other common exterior building materials. In many cases, fires begin by smoldering beneath mulch, within root systems, or inside concealed wall spaces before becoming visible, allowing them to grow undetected.
The Strongsville Fire Department is not alone in responding to these incidents. Fire departments throughout Ohio and across the country have reported similar fires involving propane weed torches. Recently, the Mentor Fire Department issued a public warning after investigating a structure fire linked to the use of a weed-burning torch. Likewise, during recent winters, multiple Ohio fire departments have responded to residential fires started by propane torches used to melt snow and ice around homes.
Outdoor Fire Safety Tips
DO:
- Use mechanical or chemical methods for weed control whenever possible.
- Remove dead vegetation, mulch buildup, and combustible debris from around your home.
- If using any heat-producing equipment outdoors, keep a charged garden hose or fire extinguisher immediately available.
- Continuously monitor the area after any work involving heat or sparks.
- Call 911 immediately if a fire starts. Even a small fire can spread rapidly.
DON'T:
- Do not use propane torches or other open-flame devices to remove weeds or vegetation near homes, fences, decks, mulch, shrubs, landscaping, or other combustible materials.
- Do not assume watering the area afterward eliminates the danger. Heat can remain trapped in mulch, roots, wood chips, siding, or other hidden combustible materials for an extended period before igniting.
- Do not use open-flame devices during hot, dry, or windy conditions.
- Never leave a propane torch unattended, even for a moment.
A Message from the Strongsville Fire Department
What may seem like a quick and easy way to eliminate weeds can quickly become a devastating structure fire. Mulch, landscaping, siding, and concealed combustible materials can ignite or smolder long after the torch has been turned off. We strongly encourage residents to choose safer weed-control methods and avoid using open-flame torches around homes and other structures.
Additional Home Fire Safety Reminders
The Strongsville Fire Department also reminds residents to:
- Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, inside every sleeping room, and outside each sleeping area.
- Test smoke alarms monthly and replace batteries as needed.
- Replace smoke alarms that are 10 years old or older.
- Install carbon monoxide alarms outside sleeping areas and on every level of the home.
- Develop and practice a home fire escape plan with all family members.
Simple prevention measures can significantly reduce the risk of fire and protect lives and property. The Strongsville Fire Department encourages residents to exercise caution when performing outdoor landscaping and to choose safer alternatives that do not involve open flames.
For additional fire safety information, contact the
Strongsville Fire Department Fire Prevention Bureau at
(440) 580-3225 or visit the City's website
www.strongsville.org.