Shed and garage fires cost South Australian householders close to $7 million in damages over the 2021-2022 financial year, prompting a safety warning from the state’s fire services.

Metropolitan Fire Service (MFS) and SA Country Fire Service (CFS) firefighters have battled over 350 shed and garage fires across the state with a collective damage bill of over $19 million, over the past three financial years (2021-2022 inclusive).

MFS Community Engagement Officer Daniel Humeniuk says sheds and garages often contain a mixture of dangerous items that could lead to fires and he urges the community to do some spring cleaning to avoid an emergency situation.

“Sheds and garages are often stocked with LPG cylinders, rechargeable batteries on charge, paint thinners, solvents, fuel, butane cans, and pool and cleaning chemicals. 

“Sparks and electrical faults can easily ignite these items leading to a fire that can rapidly spread if other items are in close proximity.

“As the weather warms up, now is a good time to check your sheds and garages to ensure any flammable liquids are stored in suitable containers and are placed in a well-ventilated area, clear of electrical equipment and other potential heat and ignition sources.”

Ray Jackson, CFS State Duty Commander, says sheds are an important structure for those living in rural areas so it’s important the products and materials kept within them are maintained.

“Farmers and people with large properties will often use their sheds as a storage space for vehicles and vital farming equipment. Therefore, if a fire does impact the structure, it can have a catastrophic effect on their livelihoods.

“We ask that all South Australians, particularly those in bushfire risk areas, take simple steps to clean up in and around their sheds to ensure that their assets are protected year-round.”

Daniel Humeniuk warns that some items, such as oil-based paints and some timber stains and polishes, also run the risk of spontaneous combustion if not stored or disposed of correctly.

“Spontaneous combustion occurs due to a chemical reaction between a combustible material, such as drying oils, and oxygen in the air. This chemical reaction causes a build-up of heat which can reach ignition point if the material is bunched up or in a pile preventing the heat from releasing.

“If you are using rags with linseed oil or other drying materials they should be soaked in water and spread out flat in a safe place to dry, immediately after use.”