Fire Chief warns residents against improper storage of flammables in garages

Clarington January 6, 2020/- Clarington Emergency and Fire Services Chief sounds the alarm against the improper storage of flammable materials such as propane tanks and gas cans in home garages. Fire Chief Gord Weir is concerned after two back-to-back fires on Sunday. In one case, the resident had propane tanks and a gas can dangerously close to the flames.

“It is critical that residents always store propane tanks outside of their garages in well-ventilated areas. If you store a propane tank in your garage and there’s even a small leak, it would take the slightest spark to ignite it and start a massive fire,” said Chief Gord Weir. “In both of the weekend fires, the residents were lucky; the situation could have been much worse,” added Chief Weir.

On Sunday, fire crews responded to two fires within fifteen minutes of one another. The first call came in regarding a garage fire in Newcastle at 9 a.m. Seven trucks with 22 firefighters responded to extinguish the fire. Damage is estimated at around $350,000. Most of the damage incurred is to the garage as well as the façade of the house, and the two cars in the laneway. The cause of the fire is under investigation. The second fire call in Bowmanville came in at 9:15 a.m. with damage limited to the vehicle in the laneway, the garage door and framing. Neither fire is deemed suspicious. No injuries were sustained to residents or firefighters.

“Make a New Year resolution to store all flammable containers, including gas cans, outside away from your home. Keep your families safe and reduce the chance of sparking a fire,” said Chief Gord Weir.

-30-

Media Contact:
Leanne Walker
Communications Specialist
905-623-3379 ext. 2217