Propane Tank Explosion Archives

Propane Tank Explosion Incites Oak Forest, Illinois House Fire

On a serene Sunday afternoon, September 3, around 3:00 PM, the tranquility of Oak Forest, Illinois, was briefly disrupted when a propane tank exploded, leading to a house fire in the 15200 block of Lavergne. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and swift action by Oak Forest firefighters successfully contained and extinguished the blaze. On that… Continue reading Propane Tank Explosion Incites Oak Forest, Illinois House Fire

On that fateful Sunday, all members of the household were present when the propane tank explosion occurred in the backyard. Remarkably, no injuries were sustained by anyone. The incident transpired during a family grilling session, causing flames to momentarily engulf the adjacent house.

In response to the emergency call, Oak Forest’s dedicated firefighters promptly arrived on the scene. Their swift response was instrumental in mitigating the situation, ensuring that the fire did not escalate further. With their professionalism and expertise, they managed to bring the flames under control and subsequently extinguished the fire, averting further property damage.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of strictly adhering to propane safety measures. Propane is a versatile and commonly used fuel source, especially for outdoor grilling. However, its combustible nature demands cautious handling. To prevent such unfortunate events, following a few key safety guidelines is essential. They are:

Regular Inspection: Propane tanks and equipment should undergo regular inspections to detect any signs of damage or wear, ensuring their safe operation.

Proper Storage: When not in use, propane tanks must be stored in well-ventilated areas, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and combustible materials.

Handling with Care: Always use caution when handling propane, especially during grilling sessions. Ensure that connections are secure, and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for safe usage.

Emergency Preparedness: Familiarize yourself with emergency shut-off procedures and ensure that everyone in your household knows what to do in case of a propane-related emergency.

While the incident in Oak Forest ended without injury or significant damage, it serves as a sobering reminder of the potential risks associated with propane use. By adhering to safety precautions and maintaining vigilance, we can continue to enjoy the benefits of propane while minimizing the likelihood of accidents.

Explosion of Propane Tank Causes Damage to Garage and Deck in Waterloo, Iowa

In an incident that startled the neighborhood, a propane tank filled with liquid fuel unexpectedly exploded near a garage in Waterloo, Iowa. The explosion resulted in damage to the exterior of the garage as well as the adjacent deck, where a man had just begun the process of firing up a grill for some outdoor… Continue reading Explosion of Propane Tank Causes Damage to Garage and Deck in Waterloo, Iowa

The event took place on Wednesday, August 30, at 752 Wildwood Road in Waterloo. Swift action by the man near the grill prevented the situation from escalating further. He used a garden hose to control the flames until the local firefighters, the Waterloo Fire Rescue team, arrived at approximately 6:30 p.m. Waterloo Fire Rescue Battalion Chief, Ben Petersen, arrived at the scene and conducted an assessment, determining the explosion to be accidental in nature. Fortunately, the fire did not compromise the structural integrity of the garage or the home.

The man operating the grill wasn’t the only individual present; a woman was also in the vicinity at the time of the explosion. Thankfully, there were no reported injuries stemming from the event.

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safe handling and storage of propane tanks. The quick thinking and actions of the man involved helped mitigate what could have been a far more destructive situation.

Family Shares Cautionary Tale of Propane Fire Destruction in Douglas County, Colorado

A stark reminder of the perils posed by propane fires emerges from the experience of a Douglas County, Colorado, family as they earnestly call for increased vigilance. Flipping through pictures on his phone, Joel Boulder’s tone turns solemn as he points out images, saying, “That was our home once — the grill stood there, and… Continue reading Family Shares Cautionary Tale of Propane Fire Destruction in Douglas County, Colorado

Marking two years since the incident in July 2021, Boulder recollects firing up his grill for a T-bone steak. “I went through my usual motions — popped open the lid, pulled out the tray, the usual,” Boulder recounted. Freshly swapping his propane tank at a local Safeway, he ignited it. “Everything seemed normal, the flame ignited just as it should,” he remembered.

But then, in a matter of moments, everything changed dramatically. “Suddenly, whoosh! Flames burst out, the cabinet doors flew open,” Boulder vividly described. Escaping with his wife and dog in the nick of time, they watched in disbelief as their residence turned into an inferno. Boulder recounted, “Within five minutes, a massive explosion shook the area, the noise was deafening, and the roof on the east side of the house was obliterated; the sound of shattering glass was omnipresent.”

Lost were their belongings and a cherished home of over 30 years. “It felt like a nightmare, but it was starkly real,” Boulder acknowledged.

Subsequent investigations attributed the cause to a propane leak. Finding a fragment from the tank, Boulder noted the manufacturing date as August 2002. Protocol demanded re-certification within 12 years, followed by renewals every five years thereafter. Yet, Boulder discovered that his tank had only been recertified once, in 2016.

Presently residing in a nearby rental home, the Boulders are working towards rebuilding their lives. Their new home will be constructed using fire-resistant materials, and they commit to using only a natural gas grill. Despite the extensive losses, Boulder is thankful that no injuries occurred and the fire’s spread was contained. “The neighborhood was spared; it could have been far worse,” he expressed.

Boulder’s mission is to amplify awareness about the latent dangers of propane tanks. “I used to believe these things were secure,” he admitted. He stressed the importance of proper usage: “It’s more than just keeping your grill clean; it’s essential to check for leaks and ensure the tank you receive in exchange is in good condition.”

The manufacturing date is typically indicated on the top of most propane tanks. Responding to the incident at the Boulders’ home, West Metro Fire managed to extinguish the blaze. Over the past two years, they’ve addressed approximately six propane tank fires, predominantly arising from leaks around fittings or within appliances, rather than originating from the tanks themselves. Leaks often result from improperly attached hoses or damage.

Safety Guidelines from West Metro Fire Rescue:

• Refrain from storing propane tanks indoors, including in garages, sheds, or vehicles.
• Limit propane usage to outdoor settings.
• Always turn off the gas supply after usage.
• To detect leaks, create a mixture of liquid soap and water and apply it to hoses and fittings. Bubbles signal a leak.
• Place your grill on a level, open surface, away from structures with overhangs, outdoor furniture, or umbrellas.
• Regularly clean your grill and the tray beneath to prevent the buildup of grease and fat.

Van Fire Erupts at Mesa Gas Station During Fueling Incident

MESA, AZ, June 16, 2023 — A weekend camping trip turned into a nightmare for some travelers when their van caught fire while refueling at a Mesa Circle K on Friday morning. Emergency crews rushed to the scene at a Circle K near Ellsworth and Baseline roads following reports of a van engulfed in flames… Continue reading Van Fire Erupts at Mesa Gas Station During Fueling Incident

MESA, AZ, June 16, 2023 — A weekend camping trip turned into a nightmare for some travelers when their van caught fire while refueling at a Mesa Circle K on Friday morning.

Emergency crews rushed to the scene at a Circle K near Ellsworth and Baseline roads following reports of a van engulfed in flames near one of the fuel pumps. Firefighters promptly shut off the fuel supply and attacked the fire from multiple angles. According to Mesa Fire officials, the blaze was intensified by a propane tank, which the van owner had just filled up in preparation for their camping excursion.

Although firefighters swiftly extinguished the fire, the van suffered irreparable damage. The adjacent gas pump and pump station cover also sustained significant harm, necessitating the closure of Circle K for the remainder of the day.

Incidents like this are a stark reminder of the importance of safety measures when handling propane and fueling vehicles. To prevent such accidents, it is crucial to receive proper safety training and guidance. Propane companies must especially be at the top of their game when it comes to safety protocols. For comprehensive safety training and expert consulting, these companies can turn to PropaneSafetyPro.com. This reputable platform offers valuable resources to enhance safety practices, mitigate risks, and protect both employees and customers.

While incidents like the Mesa gas station fire are alarming, they also serve as a call to action to prioritize safety in order to avoid such accidents in the future. By investing in safety education and consulting, propane companies can create a safety culture for all those involved in the industry.

Propane Tank Explosion Causes Fire in Rural Kansas County

On Monday afternoon, June 12, several propane tanks exploded, sparking a sizable fire in a small metal building near Great Bend, Kansas. The incident occurred around 3:45 pm in the rural Barton County area’s 200 block of SE Road. The explosions caused significant damage to the 40-by-60-foot wood-frame metal building, exposing several additional propane tanks… Continue reading Propane Tank Explosion Causes Fire in Rural Kansas County

The Great Bend Fire Department arrived quickly and started fighting the fire from the outside. Due to the remote location, tankers had to transport water from Great Bend to extinguish the fire because there weren’t enough resources nearby. The Ellinwood Fire Department and a hazmat team from Barton County also helped deliver water to the scene to support the response.

Sadly, the structure and everything inside was deemed a total loss. Following an investigation, the Great Bend Fire Department concluded that the explosions and resulting fire were accidental.

Forklift Operator Injured in Propane Tank Explosion at Former OPS Building

A propane tank explosion at a former industrial building owned by the Omaha Public Schools (OPS) on Monday resulted in severe injuries to a forklift operator, which is a worrying incident. After the explosion happened at the former U.S. Mills Inc. complex at 4301 N. 30th St. just before noon, the burned OPS employee was… Continue reading Forklift Operator Injured in Propane Tank Explosion at Former OPS Building

A propane tank explosion at a former industrial building owned by the Omaha Public Schools (OPS) on Monday resulted in severe injuries to a forklift operator, which is a worrying incident.

After the explosion happened at the former U.S. Mills Inc. complex at 4301 N. 30th St. just before noon, the burned OPS employee was immediately taken to the Nebraska Medical Center.

At 11:59 a.m., the Omaha Fire Department received an automated fire detection alert, which later changed to an explosion as emergency personnel were en route.

The garage doors had been blown out, and the propane bottle was on fire when firefighters arrived at the scene at 12:03 p.m.

According to Assistant Fire Marshal Joseph Caniglia, the explosion occurred due to the forklift operator accidentally puncturing a propane bottle.

The injured person received aid from firefighters immediately, who also quickly put out the propane fire and took the bottle out of the structure. Fortunately, no one else was hurt in the incident; the injured man’s identity has been withheld.

OPS spokeswoman Bridget Blevins assured that the district has contacted the injured employee’s family, saying, “We care deeply about our staff and will continue to provide support as needed.”

Three large metal garage doors were destroyed, and four others had significant deformation due to the explosion’s extensive damage.

The building, formerly a factory for breakfast cereal, is owned by OPS, but Blevins emphasized that it is no longer used as a school. In its place, it functions as a warehouse for supplies like furniture, equipment, and curriculum materials.

According to Douglas County records, OPS paid $950,000 for the U.S. Mills building in 2000. Early in the new millennium, the district renovated the building to accommodate temporary school spaces, providing educational facilities for Rose Hill, Miller Park, and Castelar students. In contrast, their primary buildings underwent renovation or replacement.

Propane Safety Pro offers thorough training and consulting services at propanesafetypro.com for propane companies needing safety training or consulting.