Oil-Soaked Rags Prompt Thousands In Damages After Garage Fire

ANNAPOLIS, MD — A family is facing thousands in damages after a fire broke out overnight inside their home's garage.

Officials with the Annapolis Fire Department responded Thursday to the 400 block of Saddle Ridge Road at 4:45 a.m.

At the scene, authorities found that all of the home's occupants left without serious issue after being alerted by smoke alarms. Of the residents, one person was treated for a minor burn to their foot.

Firefighters brought the blaze under control within 10 minutes and later determined it originated in a trash can. Officials concluded the improper disposal of rags soaked with linseed oil caused the fire.

Early estimates put structural damages between $5,000 and $10,000.

Officials say that linseed oil generates heat as it dries, creating the potential for spontaneous combustion when not disposed of properly.

Authorities are reminding residents that any oil-soaked rags should be laid out flat to dry in a well-ventilated area away from combustibles.