Montgomery fire caused by stain-soiled rags: Fire Department

Investigators with the Saskatoon Fire Department have found a cause in one of Saskatoon’s largest house fires in recent memory.

Just two days after a massive blaze consumed three homes and multiple vehicles in the Montgomery neighbourhood, investigators determined soiled rags that were used for staining were the cause.

According to a release Tuesday from Saskatoon Fire, the used rags “self-heated and spontaneously combusted after being placed in an open container.”

Clean up is under way in Montgomery less than 24 hours after a blaze destroyed three homes. #yxe pic.twitter.com/Y5MeAh0Mh6

— Keenan Sorokan (@KeenanSorokan) July 23, 2018

The fire began in the attached garage of 1221 Crescent Boulevard. The house was one of two homes in its final stages of construction, just days away from completion.

On Sunday, Battalion Chief Michael Ralston said strong winds were a factor in attacking the flames, while eye witnesses said windows of the house were open, presumably to allow for ventilation.

Saskatoon Fire is recommending that “soiled rags be left outside, away from any combustible materials,” and to allow for drying time before disposing of any rags soiled in flammable materials.

Damage is estimated to exceed $2 million.

Three trailers, a convertible car, two pick-up trucks and a motor home were also either fully destroyed or damaged in the fire.