Two separate porch fires have left Muscatine residents shaken, and the Muscatine Fire Department is urging residents to take proactive measures to prevent such incidents. The first porch fire occurred on Sunday afternoon in the 1900 block of Steward Road, while the second incident happened just hours later in the 1700 block of Foster Street.
First Porch Fire: A Quick Extinguishment
- The first porch fire was reported at around 2:46 p.m. on Sunday, and crews responded promptly to extinguish the flames.
- The fire was contained to just the front porch, and the home was unoccupied at the time of the incident.
- Investigations revealed a person of interest, who was subsequently arrested by Muscatine police for multiple violations, including trespassing.
Despite the swift response, the cause of the fire remains under investigation, with officials labeling it as suspicious.
Second Porch Fire: A Cautionary Tale of Propane Tank Safety
- The second porch fire occurred just after 5 p.m. on Sunday, when a caller reported a grill and the back porch were on fire at a home in the 1700 block of Foster Street.
- Firefighters determined that the fire was caused by a propane tank attached to the grill, which was discharging gas through its pressure release valve, leading to intense flames.
- While firefighters were able to relocate the propane tank to a safe area, one person was injured in the incident and taken to the hospital by private vehicle for treatment.
Unlike the first incident, the cause of this fire is not considered suspicious, and the investigation is ongoing.
Safety Tips: Preventing Porch Fires
| Tip | Prevention Measure |
|---|---|
| Check propane grill tanks for leaks before use | Before using a propane grill, check the gas tank for signs of leaks, such as hissing sounds or odors. |
| Keep your grill clean | Remove grease or fat buildup from the grill and in trays below the grill to prevent fires. |
| Place the grill well away from the home, deck railings, and overhanging branches | Avoid placing the grill in areas where it could ignite nearby flammable materials. |
| Always ensure the gas grill lid is open before lighting it | This helps prevent the buildup of flammable gases inside the grill. |
| Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grilling area | This helps prevent accidental injuries and reduces the risk of fires spreading to nearby objects. |
| Use charcoal starter fluid correctly | Only use charcoal starter fluid, and never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire. |
| Let coals cool completely before disposing in a metal container | This helps prevent fires from spreading to nearby objects. |
| Never leave your grill unattended when in use | This helps prevent fires from starting or spreading while you’re not present to monitor them. |
According to Muscatine Fire Department Battalion Chief Gary Ronzheimer, “Preventing porch fires requires a combination of common sense and caution. By following these simple safety tips, residents can significantly reduce the risk of a fire occurring in their home or neighborhood.”
“It’s always better to be safe than sorry,” said Ronzheimer. “Take the time to inspect your grill and surrounding areas, and make sure you’re following all safety guidelines. Your safety and the safety of those around you depend on it.”
By taking proactive measures to prevent porch fires, residents can enjoy the benefits of outdoor cooking while minimizing the risks.
