Spontaneous Combustion

1/3/2017 (Permalink)

Take the steps to protect you home and outbuildings from the hazards associated with spontaneous combustion.

Do you know what spontaneous combustion is? Spontaneous combustion is an exothermic reaction whereby a fuel source (oily rags, wet hay) undergoes self heating, resulting in a rapidly accelerated temperature increase and ignition.  Many a poor farmer has lost his barn after not allowing his hay to adequately dry before storing it in the barn.  Likewise, many a do it yourselfer has piled his oily rags in a corner in the garage.  If he is lucky he discovers them smoking and puts them out.  If he is not lucky he burns down his garage and possibly his home.  When storing oily rags do so in a fireproof airtight container.  If that is not possible place them in a bucket of water with a surfactant to break down the oily contaminants.  Do not pile up oily rags or steel wool that have been used to distribute solvent based material.  Farmers, make sure your hay has been adequately teddered and air dried prior to bailing to protect yourself from the hazards of spontaneous combustion.   Take these steps to protect your homes and out buildings from fire hazards.  Call SERVPRO of Davie and Yadkin Counties at 336 677 1415 if you have suffered the effects of fire damage to begin you mitigation and restoration immediately.