Spontaneous Combustion
Self-ignition of combustible material through chemical action (such as oxidation) of its constituents. Called also spontaneous ignition.
How does spontaneous combustion occur?
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All fires, including those ignited spontaneously, require three elements. (Source: https://www.thespruce.com/preventing-home-and-workshop-fires-1398180)
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Fuel
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Oxygen
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Heat source (no flame causing the heat)
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Flammable finishes like linseed oil or tung oil combine with air and oxygen in a natural chemical reaction that creates heat. (Source: https://www.thespruce.com/preventing-home-and-workshop-fires-1398180)
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The most common type is caused by improperly disposing of oil-based paints, stains, tea, linseed oils, varnishes, polyurethane, and paint thinners. (Source: https://www.essexct.gov/fire-marshal/bulletins/rise-in-fires-due-to-improper-disposal-of-oily-rags)
What are examples of spontaneous combustion? (Source. https://www.nps.gov/articles/fire-prevention-52-spontaneous-combustion.htm)
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Rags and towels soaked with oils, including cooking oils.
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Hot laundry left in piles.
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Large piles of compost, mulch, manure, and leaf piles.
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Moist baled hay, in the right conditions.
What oils are most likely to spontaneous combust? (Source: https://www.firehouse.com/rescue/article/10528863/the-phenomenon-of-spontaneous-combustion)
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Linseed
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Cottonseed
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Castor
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Fish
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Lard
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Olive
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Peanut
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Soybean
What are the ingredients in the Blackstone Griddle Seasoning & Cast Iron Conditioner?
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Palm oil shortening
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Beeswax
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Palm oil
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Canola oil
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Soy oil
How do you properly dispose of rags/towels to reduce spontaneous combustion? (Source: https://www.thespruce.com/preventing-home-and-workshop-fires-1398180)
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Hang oil-soaked rags/towels up to dry, preferably outdoors.
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Isolate each rag/towel individually.
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Don’t pile rags/towels on top of each other.
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If rags/towels are hung up indoors, keep them away from heat sources, such as water heaters or furnaces.
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Once rags are dry, throw them away in a trash receptacle that is outside and away from any structures.