Dumpster fire displaced family in Senita

Maricopa Fire and Medical Department today confirmed the Senita house fire Saturday night sparked in an outdoor trashcan and spread inside the home.

At least four fire engines, and police units, responded to the home on the 18000 block of North Toya Street around 8 p.m. after a trash can “up against the house” caught fire and spread to the house, according to public safety spokesperson Monica Williams.

Firefighters pulled the partially melted trash can, which contained used diapers, Ziploc bags and paper plates, from the backyard and doused it in the street. Other fire crews were seen entering the backyard and the home, where they ventured into the attic, with hoses and lights equipped.

“How it sparked is still unclear and remains under investigation,” Williams said.

There were no injuries, but the family was displaced due to the damage.

“We always encourage people to ensure flammable items are disposed of properly,” Williams said.

Williams gave a list of items that pose a fire risk when thrown away:

• Rechargeable batteries

• Flammable and combustible liquids like gasoline, kerosine or oil-based paints

• Household chemicals, including substances like bleach, ammonia and paint thinner, which can cause fires when they mix with other chemicals in the same bin

• Compressed gas cylinders — even the small camping stove ones

• 

  Ashes or coals. The best way to ensure they are truly cold is to leave them in the fire pit, grill or fireplace for a couple of days before disposing of them. If this isn’t possible, douse them thoroughly with water before placing them in your trash collection.

With fireworks season just over the horizon, Williams added residents should take care when disposing of their used explosives.

“Submerge them in a bucket of water or soak them with a hose for several minutes before tossing them out,” Williams said. “Always check with your trash service to see if they have alternative disposal options.”

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