Family Fire Safety
Potting Soil Fires
In recent months potting soil fires have been occurring more often. There are debates over whether or not potting soil is actually causing fires. This message doesn’t support either side. It only stands to give advice to anyone reading it.
In the past year, the San Juan County Fire Department has investigated 4 fires that appeared to start in the immediate area of flower pots. In one fire, the pot was totally destroyed leaving behind no evidence that it was there. Property owners indicated it was there and that they continuously used it for an ashtray. Serious injuries were sustained in another fire that is believed to have been started by potting soil in a flower pot.
Does this mean that you’re in danger for keeping potting soil close to your house? No. According to research done by the fire department two key ingredients are needed for a fire to occur. Potting soil contained in a flower pot and cigarettes.
As potting soil breaks down, it releases heat. This heat alone usually is insufficient to cause any kind of fire even when contained in a flower pot. The simple introduction of a lit cigarette to the potting soil can increase the heat being released. Over time it can release the heat through natural means in a safe manner. If cigarettes are continuously added to the pot, the result can be damaging. This is because too much heat is being produced within and cannot be safely released before reaching an ignition temperature capable of sustaining flames.
It is not our intent to veer you from enjoying what nature has to offer. We only want everyone to be more cautious and observant of day to day actions. Ashtrays were created for a reason, use them. Potting soil was created for flowers and plants. Besides, plants don’t like smoke or nicotine.
Below are some links to web articles discussing this very issue.
If you have any questions related to this issue or anything else, give us call. We’re always happy to assist the public in fire prevention efforts.
