The Agawam Fire Chief says the fire which claimed the life of a teenager on Squire Lane Wednesday started when oil-stained rags caught fire in the home’s breezeway.
The State Fire Marshal Peter Ostroskey says however, things might have been different. There were no working fire or smoke detectors in the home.
“Our hearts go out to the family here in their time of terrible loss,” said Chief Sirois. “Many folks aren’t aware that the oils used in some paints and stains release heat as they dry. A pile of oily rags can trap that heat and ignite, causing a fire. If you’re using rags to clean up oil-based paints and stains, take them outside when you’re done. Let them hang dry or lay them flat on the ground, weighted down so they don’t blow away.”
Investigators recommend that If you are using oily rags you should first dry them out and then store them in a metal container. Chief Sirois offered additional advice:
“Cover the dry rags completely with a solution of water and an oil breakdown detergent, keep the container out of the sun, and dispose of it during a hazardous waste collection event. If you use them frequently or professionally, place dry rags in a listed oily waste container to be emptied by a private contractor.”
“We want to remind everyone in the community of how important working smoke alarms and a practiced home escape plan are,” said State Fire Marshal Ostroskey. “Working smoke alarms should be on every level of every home. They can help alert you to a fire in time to use your escape plan and get out safely. Remember: you have less than three minutes to escape the average house fire after the alarm activates, so every second counts.”
Officials say checking fire and smoke alarms this weekend when we move clocks forward an hour would be a grand time to make sure you are as safe as you can be in your home.
Meantime, the identity of the victim has yet to be released.