Real Incident, Real Risk: Oily Rags & Spontaneous Combustion

The Warrenville Fire Protection District recently extinguished a fire caused by the improper disposal of oily rags. Thankfully, it was caught in time—but it serves as a critical reminder about the hidden danger of spontaneous combustion.

What is Spontaneous Combustion?

Oily rags (used with products like linseed oil, stains, varnishes, or paints) can heat up and ignite on their own through a process called oxidation—no spark or flame required.

These fires are fast, hot, and often happen when no one is around.

Protect yourself:

Soak oily rags in water immediately after use

Store them in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid

Never pile them together, even if they seem dry

Read and follow safety instructions on all oil-based products

Don’t let a simple mistake spark disaster.

Be aware. Be safe. Be fire smart.