Fires caused by Spontaneous Combustion

At 1217 a.m. on Aprl 9th, Box 511 was transmitted for a 4-story, commercial building on Brattle St in Harvard Sq in Ladder 1's district. The cause was smoldering rags insdide the building.

At 0422 a.m. again on April 9th, Box 29 was transmitted for a 3-story, mixed commercial/residential building on Cambridge St in Engine 5's district. The cause was smoldering rags.

Both of these incidents could have resulted in devastating losses. Thankfully, alert people called 911 to report the burning odors, and fire companies quickly arrived on scene before open flaming occured.Both of these situations were resolved with minor damage.

Group 4 was on duty.

Remember that rags contaminated with natural oils, such as linseed oil, turpentine, etc. release heat as they dry, and in an area of poor ventilation, may begin to smolder and burn.