A man in Milton, Massachusetts, caused a dangerous accident when he tried to remove thick layers of ice from his roof using a blowtorch. What started as an attempt to solve an issue became a fire. Fortunately, nobody was injured, but the incident proves how risky it can be to deal with ice on roofs without professional help. So, let’s find out more about his incident.
Using a blowtorch to remove ice
The man had ice stuck to his roof after days of brutal cold, so he decided to try an unusual solution: using a blowtorch while standing on a ladder to melt the ice above him. In just a few minutes, there were flames that reached the gutter and when the man realized the danger, he decided to call 911. By the time fire crews arrived, the fire had already engulfed the attic.
Firefighters worked for several hours to bring the blaze under control, Deputy Chief John Earner of the Milton Fire Department said:
“We pulled the gutter off that side of the building thinking it was going to be a light fire, and the whole attic was fully involved.”
This incident clearly shows that ice removal on roofs is not something to attempt with fire or extreme heat, as it can quickly lead to a life-threatening situation.
And the man’s home?
Neighbors watched in horror as the house became engulfed in flames since the fire started in the gutter and spread quickly into the attic. However, there were no injuries reported and the fire was limited to the single home.
Winter Storm Fern
This fire accident happened during Winter Storm Fern, which left a trail of extreme weather across the U.S. The storm caused:
- Sub-freezing temperatures in many regions.
- The deaths of 18 people across seven states.
- The tragic death of a 16-year-old girl in a sledding accident in Frisco, Texas.
- Over 830,000 people without power.
- More than 19,000 flights canceled.
- Warnings for drivers to stay off the roads.
This powerful storm made ice accumulation on roofs and sidewalks a serious hazard. So, trying to remove ice by yourself, especially with unsafe methods like a blowtorch, can easily turn into an emergency situation.
The proper way to handle ice
It is very common to see ice on roofs during winter storms, but it can be very dangerous if you don’t handle it properly. So, to avoid any issues, here you have some tips you should know that could be very helpful:
- Never use a blowtorch or any flame to remove ice. It can easily start a fire.
- Hire a professional company to safely remove ice from roofs.
- Always consider safety first, especially on slippery or elevated surfaces.
- Watch for warning signs like ice dams, which can damage gutters and roofs.
To sum up
If you ever find yourself dealing with heavy ice buildup on your roof after a winter storm, remember what happened to this homeowner in Milton, Massachusetts. This story shows how a simple decision can quickly become risky when ice and extreme cold are involved.
During events like Winter Storm Fern, conditions can be unpredictable and hazardous, making it harder to manage problems safely on your own. And even actions that seem practical can lead to serious consequences when dealing with frozen surfaces and dangerous tools.
So, do not rush when dealing with a situation like this man had to and call a professional when necessary because they know exactly what to do in these types of situations. Thankfully, no major damage or losses were reported in this case, but maybe next time it’s not the same.