After Spate of Fires, West Metro Preaches Fire Safety

After recent rash of smoking-related fires, West Metro Deputy Fire Marshal Shelby Wolf says to use a glass or metal container as an ash tray, not a garbage can. She also says to regularly clear out garbage stored in your garage because it could become more fuel for an accidental fire.

Also, all flammable liquids should be put in a metal cabinet and kept away from other items. The same applies to heaters.

Be careful with cigarettes 

Another problem has been smoking-related fires, especially in apartments.

“Cigarettes can burn up to eight hours,” said Wolf. “The core of the cigarette can be over 1,000 degrees. If you put it in a garbage can or put it in a plastic container, within eight hours you could potentially have a fire.”

Cigarettes should be put out in a glass or metal container or an ash tray. Wolf also says not to toss butts in the soil, because it might contain flammable fertilizer.

For more fire safety tips contact the West Metro Fire-Rescue District in New Hope.

Crystal | New Hope