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Rags determined to be cause of downtown Ann Arbor fire

Ann Arbor Fire Department responded to a fire in the building at 311 S. 5th Ave. in downtown Ann Arbor on Monday, Dec. 13, 2022. (Ann Arbor Fire Department)

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.


About the Author
Sarah Parlette headshot

Sarah has worked for WDIV since June 2018. She covers community events, good eats and small businesses in Ann Arbor and has a Master's degree in Applied Linguistics from Grand Valley State University.

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