Utah Structure Fire Fueled by Propane, Gas Containers
Source Standard-Examiner, Ogden, Utah
Dec. 23--WEST HAVEN -- Propane tanks and gas cans in a garage are suspected of accelerating a fast- moving fire that destroyed a large home in West Haven late Friday night.
The blaze at 3697 W. 4150 South was reported around 9:25 p.m., said Ted Black, fire marshal for the Weber Fire District.
When firefighters arrived, the garage of the home was engulfed in flames. Fire had also spread to the interior of the dwelling.
The fire apparently started in the garage and was likely fueled by propane tanks and gas cans, Black said Saturday.
"Flammable liquids and gasses spread both the growth and intensity of the fire."
The cause of the fire had not been determined as of Saturday afternoon, but it does not appear suspicious, he said.
In addition to destroying the house, the blaze also demolished two automobiles and a trailer.
No one was home when the fire broke out, and there were no injuries, Black said.
Sandy Bryan, who lives next door, said she heard a loud boom and ran outside. She heard people screaming, then saw her neighbor's entire garage in flames.
Bryan said the owner of the house is Paul Cowley.
The sound heard by neighbors was likely several aerosol cans in the garage bursting, Black said.
The blaze was visible for several blocks. Neighbors stood along the street and watched as firefighters worked to knock down flames engulfing a car in the driveway and shooting high from the roof of the home into the frigid air.
Several onlookers covered themselves in blankets.
Black estimated damages to the home and its contents at $600,000.
About 25 firefighters from the Weber Fire District and the Ogden, Riverdale and Roy fire departments responded. There were two engines, two ladder trucks and a pair of ambulances at the scene.
Several police officers were also sent to the fire.
Copyright 2012 - Standard-Examiner, Ogden, Utah
