Superior firefighters respond when shed burned incautiously
A shed was intentionally burned in a homeowners backyard in Superior last week. No injuries or damage to other structures was reported. The incident remains under investigation. (Photo courtesy of Superior Volunteer Fire Department).
Mineral Independent
An individual intentionally burned down a shed located in the backyard of a home located off of Diamond Match Road in Superior last Tuesday afternoon. The shingles on the roof caused a thick cloud of black smoke which alerted neighbors to the fires. They reported the blaze to the Superior Volunteer Fire Department around 12:30 p.m.
When fire crews arrived the homeowners had turned a garden hose on the blaze which was dangerously close to the house and an oil tank.
“It was a stupid move based on its location near a heating oil tank next to the house in the backyard,” said fire chief, Rob Torrey.
According to the homeowner the tank wasn’t very full, which made it even worse because there was no liquid inside to absorb the heat. As a result the metal takes all the heat and the paint was melted away a little. According to Torrey, “I didn’t see damage to the metal but I recommended that she have it inspected.”
The small shed was supposed to be torn down but instead gas was tossed inside and it was set on fire. No injuries were reported and no damage was done to the home or any other structures. However the shed was completely burned.
“Open burning ended on May 1 and permits are now required. However, burning a structure like this was not a legal act to begin with,” Torrey said. “They should have torn it down, and then burned the wood in a designated area. And the roof should have been removed.”
The incident is still under investigation. Sheriff Tom Bauer and Undersheriff Mike Boone were called to the scene but no tickets or charges have been filed at this time.
On May 1 fire season began and permits are required for all outdoor burning. They are available at the Superior Ranger District located at 209 West Riverside in Superior or call 822-4233. There is no charge for a permit and they can be mailed out. People should follow safety rules and only burn natural vegetation and woody materials. Do not burn painted wood, plastic, garbage, dead animals, tires, oil or any other toxic material.