Friday morning just before 10:30 AM, the Dauphin Fire Department was dispatched to reports of smoke at a home on 3rd Avenue SW. After arriving on scene, RCMP forced the front door open to allow the Fire Department to enter the home.
The home, which was under renovation, had a fire on the main floor. Crews accessed the second floor through a window, because the main stairs had been removed for the renovations. After extinguishing the fire and ensuring no fire extension was possible, crews ventilated the building.
After investigation, the Dauphin Fire Department determined the fire to be accidental. For renovations, the owner of the home used an oil based stain on wood for flooring and trim. The rages used were discarded into a plastic pail after use. They spontaneously combusted, and spread fire to other nearby construction materials.
The Dauphin Fire Department says when oil based stains dry, they create heat. if the rags that were used are crumpled up, the heat gets trapped, and can build until the rags ignite.
The Dauphin Fire Department wants to remind residents that oily rags should always be treated with care. You should never toss them into a pile on the flood, throw them in a trash can, put them in a plastic bag, or leave them in your pocket. Always dispose of oily rags properly, or use water based stains.
