ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Rags soaked in varnish are thought to have caused a fire in a downtown Ann Arbor building last week.
On March 18, firefighters responded to a second-floor fire in the back of the building at 311 S. Fifth Ave. that houses Earthen Jar restaurant.
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Ann Arbor Fire Department officials said the improperly disposed of rags were likely the cause of the fire.
How do rags start a fire?
Firefighters said oils in some oil-based paints and stains can release heat when drying. A build-up of heat, trapped in the rags, can cause a fire.
To avoid this, those using rags with oil-based paints and stains should take them outside as they dry. Drying rags should be spread out on the ground and weighed down, not thrown in a pile. Do not keep rags near buildings.
Once the rags are dry, put them in a metal bin or container with water and detergent, covered with a tight lid.
Oily rags should be kept away from heat and not in direct sunlight.
Learn more about fire safety at the city’s Fire Safety Resources website.