Picture this: You’re in your yard on a Friday, getting a jump start on the weekend’s chores so that you can enjoy your down time. You’ve even found a faster way to tackle your least favorite one and figured out that you can use a propane torch to deal with the weeds in your garden. But then the unthinkable happens, and your bright idea ignites your home instead, causing a massive fire.
A homeowner in Yarmouth, Maine, is dealing with that very scenario after local CBS News station WGME 13 says that the propane torch created hot embers that caught fire hours after the weeding was through.
Now, the State Fire Marshal’s Office is using the story as a cautionary tale for anyone who uses propane torches while doing yard work.
Not only that, but they are also reminding residents that local municipalities may have specific rules about open flames in the yard, including permit requirements and burn bans.
Firefighters Stop the Blaze from Damaging the Home
Fire crews were called to the Yarmouth house at 12:40 a.m., hours after the homeowner had stopped using a propane torch to burn the weeds in their driveway. The home was fortunately saved as firefighters brought the blaze under control, stopping it from spreading throughout the home.
The State Fire Marshal’s Office issued a statement about the incident after it was over, reminding the people of Maine of the dangers of using an open flame around the yard.
“Even after the flame has been extinguished, fires can continue to smolder before reigniting. Always have a garden hose or fire extinguisher readily available, thoroughly soak the area with water when finished, and continue to monitor the area to ensure the fire is completely out,” the agency said in a statement shared by WMTW.
Additionally, the agency reminded people to talk to their local fire department before using an open flame in their yard to find out if they are required to have a permit to do so.
Fire is a Popular Way to Deal with Weeds
Anyone who has ever done hours of backbreaking weeding knows that a good shortcut is worth its weight in gold when it comes to pulling unwanted plants out of the garden. Even Bob Vila’s blog suggests burning weeds as a great alternative to pulling them by hand, especially when they are growing in gravel driveways and paths.
Not only can it spare your back, but this method can also help you avoid using herbicides. However, the website notes that it should only be used when the weeds in question are growing up through a non-flammable substrate. Otherwise, you run the risk of finding yourself in the same situation as the Yarmouth homeowner whose home could’ve been destroyed by the garden chore.