As we move into the warmer months we are starting to see an increasing number of mulch fires in our response area. Most of these fires occur as a result of mulch having dried out due to temperature conditions and little rainfall. Heat sources such as: improper cigarette disposal, covered lighting, and even internal decomposition can all play a factor in igniting mulch.

Often, burning mulch is up against the side of a residential or commercial structure and many times it goes unseen. This burning/smoldering mulch could ignite the underneath of the siding and spread into the building with the potential to cause major damage. If you see mulch burning against a building call 9-1-1 so that the fire department can be dispatched.

To reduce the potential for a fire in landscaping mulch, consider following these guidelines:

- Recognize that when the weather is hot and there has been little or no
rain for an extended time, mulch fires can start more readily.

- When entering a business, if you see anything smoldering in a landscaped
area, put it out if you can and report it to someone inside the building. If
the burning material is not thoroughly wetted down or removed, it may
reignite.

- Grounds maintenance crews should be aware of the conditions that are
favorable for mulch fires and increase surveillance of mulch beds in the
afternoon, when fires are more likely to occur.

- Provide approved receptacles for smoking materials at all entrances to
public buildings and in designated smoking areas. Do not use mulch in or
near these areas.

- Provide a minimum 18-inch clearance between landscaped mulch beds and
combustible building materials.

- Provide proper clearance for electric devices such as decorative lights by
following the manufacturer’s instructions.

- Keep landscaped mulch beds moist, if possible.

- Use noncombustible mulch such as rock or pea gravel around the gas
meter and next to the combustible portions of the structure.

- Use only the manufacturer’s recommended size/wattage for yard light
bulbs.

- Use only electrical devices and cords listed for outdoor use, and follow the
manufacturer’s specifications.

- Consider replacing landscaping mulch with decorative stone.

Do not hesitate to call 9-1-1 and summon the fire department. We would be happy to respond out and ensure that a mulch fire is extinguished and that there has been no additional fire spread.