TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) – A 75-year-old in Fostoria suffered severe burns from an explosion at his home on Thursday.
The man was trapped in his garage for a period of time and suffered burns over 80-85% of his body. He died on Friday, Oct. 24, due to his injuries.
Fostoria Fire Department Chief Jason Root said the fire involved a wood burner. Local first responders are using this as a reminder to take proper precautions during the colder months.
“Make sure every year, before you start it up, you have somebody come in that’s licensed to do an inspection. Make sure it’s good, there is no cracks in the mortar, the flue is working properly, and you are getting proper draft through it,” Captain Nathan Espinoza with Bowling Green Fire Department said.
The captain told 13 Action News that these fires often occur due to the buildup of creosote, a flammable tar-like substance left in the chimney from burning certain materials.
“There is always an increased risk in fires this time of year as people start turning those on. Creosote builds up, they forget to open the flue, or just don’t remember the proper steps for getting it started during the season,” Captain Espinoza said.
13 Action News also spoke to the chief operating officer of Luce’s Chimney and Stove Shop in Swanton, a family business providing chimney services for almost 50 years. Austin Luce said they do hundreds of inspections each year and built-up creosote is something they see often.
Luce said you can avoid seeing more buildup by staying away from certain materials when burning, such as pine, which can burn too quickly.
“The biggest thing is making sure you are burning good seasoned wood, you are not burning 2x4s or pallet wood, anything that’s gonna burn at a hotter temperature. Make sure to always double-check the wood you are burning,” Luce said.
The National Fire Protection Association recommends you get a wood burner fire inspection done at least once a year, and if you use your burner daily, have at least two per year.
For the ink to our original story on the Fostoria garage explosion, click here.
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