FREDERICKSBURG, Va. — Improperly discarded rags containing linseed oil caused a fire at an occupied Fredericksburg residence Monday morning, city officials announced Tuesday.
The Fredericksburg Emergency Communications Center received the report at approximately 7:05 a.m. Aug. 31. Firefighters were dispatched to the 1200 block of Stafford Avenue and arrived shortly afterward.
Crews deployed multiple hose lines and brought the structure fire under control. Fredericksburg firefighters were assisted by units from Stafford and Spotsylvania counties.
No injuries were reported. Everyone inside the building evacuated without assistance before firefighters entered. Emergency personnel subsequently searched the residence and confirmed that no one remained inside.
The Fredericksburg Fire Marshal’s Office investigated the origin and determined that the fire started with rags previously used to apply linseed oil to a surface, according to the City of Fredericksburg.
Why oily rags can ignite
Linseed oil and several other finishing products generate heat as they dry. When oil-soaked rags are folded, piled together or placed in a container without proper ventilation, the heat may become trapped.
Under the right conditions, the temperature can rise enough for the material to ignite without contact with a flame or electrical spark. The process is commonly known as spontaneous combustion.
Fire officials advised residents to review the manufacturer’s disposal instructions for each product. Oily rags should never be left in a pile, placed inside an ordinary trash can or stored near combustible materials.
Approved disposal methods may include laying the rags flat outdoors to dry in a secure location or placing them in a properly designed metal container with a tight-fitting lid. Residents should follow local waste-disposal regulations.
Officials also encouraged the public to test smoke alarms regularly and ensure that working alarms are installed throughout every home.
The Fire Marshal’s Office is expected to complete its full report within several days.