Chemicals In Garbage Canister Spontaneously Combust, Cause Fire

By Bay City News Service

Chemicals thrown into a garbage can appear to have spontaneously combusted this afternoon, causing a fire that threatened two Rohnert Park homes, officials said today.

The fire, which started in a side yard between 843 and 859 Bernice Avenue, was reported around 3:45 p.m., officials said.

Calls to 911 reported minor explosions coming from the area.

Firefighters found the fire had spread to 843 Bernice Ave. and was threatening the other home.

Residents of 843 had self-evacuated, but there was no answer at 859. Officers forced entry and found two dogs inside, who were removed without injury.

Firefighters were able to get the fire under control within 11 minutes, officials said.

Damage was estimated at around $15,000 to $25,000.

The fire is thought to have been caused by chemicals that were thrown into an outdoor garbage can.

Public safety officials are reminding residents to use caution when disposing of any chemicals, stains, paints and resins, because they can spontaneously combust with little warning.